Anyway to improve steering response with a different gear in the column/shaft
09-22-2011, 05:37 PM
#32
Three Wheelin'
Don't overlook tires - sidewall/shoulder strength can have a huge impact.
When we switched from Pirelli's to Goodyear GS-D3's on our Boxster, there was an incredible difference. The Goodyear GS-D3's are incredible wet weather tires and don't give up much in the dry to make up for it, but the downside is that the sidewall is much softer and you lose a huge degree of steering response. I swear we had to turn the wheel 20-30 degrees more to get the same response (and tread pattern probably had a lot to do with that as well since the GS-D3's have a v-pattern).
Likewise when I put track tires (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup on 18's) on my 951 for the first time after driving around on Nitto high performance street tires (on 17's), the steering feel was totally different.
When we switched from Pirelli's to Goodyear GS-D3's on our Boxster, there was an incredible difference. The Goodyear GS-D3's are incredible wet weather tires and don't give up much in the dry to make up for it, but the downside is that the sidewall is much softer and you lose a huge degree of steering response. I swear we had to turn the wheel 20-30 degrees more to get the same response (and tread pattern probably had a lot to do with that as well since the GS-D3's have a v-pattern).
Likewise when I put track tires (Michelin Pilot Sport Cup on 18's) on my 951 for the first time after driving around on Nitto high performance street tires (on 17's), the steering feel was totally different.
So the 951 has the better tires but in transit response, still no contest the Tercel hands down!
PS the Falken's have proven them self to be uh tricky in temperatures below 60 degrees!
Xchop it seems like you know all the details on this. Ever looked to see what you could come with for us?
09-22-2011, 05:50 PM
#33
I've seen VW guys weld onto their spindles, but I wouln't weld cast steel personally. I would however re-drill an tap, then machine an adapter bracket. I wouldn't do this mod for anyone else though. The only 1-off spindles I've considered building is for the 86T and you're looking at $900/pr for 4340 steel repro's.
09-22-2011, 06:21 PM
#34
Three Wheelin'
A reduction in arm length will result in an increase in load for the steering; joints, rack and rack mounts. This is true not just for when changing direction, but also when holding a steady turn.
09-22-2011, 06:32 PM
#35
True. And I was thinking only 10-15% reduction for the manual rack. The Power rack is already quicker (less turn lock-to-lock). Or mod up another rack. I've already posted steering shaft dims, so that's not an issue.
