Chassis Tuning Explained

Chassis Tuning Explained

When tuning a car for improved performance many people simply concentrate on increased engine power, yet along with the vehicle's braking system, suspension is the most important aspect to speed over any road with corners - much more so than power.

Suspension consists of generally simple mechanical parts but the relationship between them and the car is very complex. How difficult this task is really depends on the use the vehicle is intended for. For example a road car that you are trying to increase handling ability on will require a very different approach to one used for Motorsport. It is the successful interaction of the components together that creates a car that not only handles and grips well but that is also informative and controllable near, or on the limit. This interaction is influenced by a number of variables such as weight transfer, centre-of-gravity, bump steer, roll steer, downforce and tyres.

The basic components of suspension for road or motorsport are relatively simple although a number of different layouts are employed. The majority of cars employ a coil spring, shock absorber (damper), wishbones and anti-roll bars. From the simple MacPherson strut set up to the more complicated double wishbone system the objectives are the same.

A fine handling car can be achieved in a number of ways dependent on budget and requirements from a simple JAMEX Sports Spring and Spacer set to a fully adjustable set up utilising JAMEX Xtreme coilivers, Whiteline camber kits and DNA Racing chassis components.