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Re: Lightweight wheels...drive only?

To: autox@autox.team.net
Subject: Re: Lightweight wheels...drive only?
From: jim tattersall <tattersa@eng02.gdds.com>
Date: Mon, 31 Jul 2000 12:40:29 -0400 (EDT)
It takes the same amount of energy to accelerate the 
vehicle no matter which end you put the the light wheels 
on.  That isn't where the location of the light wheel 
makes a difference.

Reducing the rotating inertia on the drive wheels will 
give you added control if you break traction.  A heavier 
wheel will add to the flywheel effect on the spinning 
tire.  To regain traction, you first have to slow the 
spinning wheel/tire assy.  It will take longer to slow 
down the combo that has a higher rotating inertia.

If the car is under-powered and doesn't have a traction 
problem, the light wheels might be used to improve the 
brake bias.  Use them on the end that is being 
under-braked.

Admittedly the difference and ensuing advantage might be 
small.  But a few clock ticks can occasionally make a 
difference.  No?

jim tattersall

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