WINTER 2022 NEWSLETTER
1. Cooling is a major concern in any rally car. The radiator needs to be mounted on rubber or polyurethane bushes, enabling enough movement to avoid the radiator shaking itself apart. It also needs protection against clogging caused by simple, unexpected problems such as a swarm of butterflies, as well as damage from stones and mud.
2. Electrics need careful attention. Nothing is worse than trouble-shooting electrical problems in the dark. Waterproofing and sound connections are essential to ensure that you don’t end up with a tangle of loose cables around your feet. It’s also vital to keep out dust and grime.
3. Under-body protection is vital. Wings can be lined to protect bodywork, while all items that could snag on rocky ground (such as spring-hangers) need skid-plates. The sump guard and gearbox are areas that we plan carefully.
4. Gas tanks often need attention. A long-range tank might be beneficial, but will need careful planning. It’s important to consider the weight implications, and mounting needs care, so that nothing vibrates, comes loose and causes problems. Leaks on unions are not helpful.
5. Filters are vital. No rally car will venture far without substantial fuel filters to prevent water and muck entering the engine. Efficient air filters are also a key element.
6. Axles need the optimum ratio and the right bearings. The inside of an axle is rarely inspected, and crews often say: “It was ok on the last event”. But because an axle endures considerable pounding and punishment, it’s a regular culprit in sudden failures, and a very time-consuming repair during an event.
7. The steering and suspension need careful planning, with an uncompromisingly high-quality approach focused on durability and efficiency.
8. Brakes can often be upgraded and protected. But it’s important to ensure compliance with the event regulations regarding modifications. Normally, governing bodies such as the FIA and FIVA set these.
9. Ensuring that the car is comfortable, and efficient inside, can make a vast difference for the crew. Installing the most appropriate seating, navigation equipment, interior lighting and other refinements are added comforts for the trip.
10. The engine, transmission, and driveline are the heart of the car. Review all relevant matters with the competing crew, from small things like ensuring the exhaust system is flexible (so that nothing snap off on the first rocky section) to big things such as achieving the optimum blend of performance and reliability.