Response from a non-technical, non-engineering guy...
Smooth course, any suspension is ok. Rough course...the 4 link has a
potential disadvantage, especially if you are using belt drive. Since
the 4 link allows for variations in axle movement, on a rough surface
the belt tension will fluxuate significantly. If it fluctuates enough,
you'll snap a belt. I know first hand...it happened to me a couple of
years ago on the North course in Topeka. I switched to chain drive after
that season.
FWIW, originally my KBS Mk7 had the "factory" KBS drive system that
kept the belt tension consistent regardless of axle movement. This was
accomplished by using 2 CV joints on the jackshaft. If the belt tension
needed to be adjusted it was accomplished by sliding the carrier that
held the jackshaft forward or back. In effect, the jackshaft
would/could operate even if it wasn't parallel to the rear axle. It is
a pretty trick design. I switched to the QRE 4 link rear end about 3
years ago after I found out that my rear axle was bent. I decided to
take the recommendations of many folks to switch to 4 link. I can't say
I've noticed any improvement in handling but it did eliminate about
25-30lb (2 CV joints, sliding carriers, bolts, etc), and it's a whole
lot easier to change belts/chains.
-Jeff B.
Jan Schmidt wrote:
So, for autocross....smoothe course----any rear suspension should work
fine,
but rough course------really need the 4 link setup? Is this the general
philosophy?
Bill Schmidt 88 Red Devil Kawi
[EMAIL PROTECTED] 07/17/06 8:22 AM >>>
Mandatory? I don't know. I have gone fast without one and actually
like it better. I don't know if like equates to fast, though.
I don't know where you run, but I have a hard time finding anywhere to
autox that is even as smooth as Nelson Ledges (not smooth for those who
have not been there). Up to this year, Nationals at Forbes was brutally
rought with considerable ski-jump like air.
jim
----- Original Message ----
From: Jan Schmidt <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: [email protected]
Sent: Sunday, July 16, 2006 11:31:16 PM
Subject: RE: [F500] KBS MK THIS AND THAT
Obviously a 4 link is mandatory for going fast road racing, but
is it just as important in autocrossing? Remember, in autocrossing
we dont go as fast and are on a smoother surface. We dont have any
curbing to bounce over,if you cut the corner a little too early (just
cones)
Bill Schmidt 88 Red Devil Kawi
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