Fuel cell......
12-22-2010, 12:21 AM
#16
Race Car
In my BMW E36 racecar, the stock fuel tank was under the rear seat, ahead of the rear axle. Probably the best place for it from a safety and performance standpoint, so fuel cell was irrelevant as it was not required.
12-22-2010, 09:06 AM
#17
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I have one in my car. I like knowing I have that little extra safety regarding the fuel.
Mine has a sender unit to be able to use the fuel gauge. They make 2 sizes. Some organisations will not allow the over sized tank because of the competitive advantage in the pits.
I think it is required in HSR and perhaps other vintage racing organisations.
Mine has a sender unit to be able to use the fuel gauge. They make 2 sizes. Some organisations will not allow the over sized tank because of the competitive advantage in the pits.
I think it is required in HSR and perhaps other vintage racing organisations.
12-22-2010, 09:48 AM
#18
Race Director
IMHO, no better performance, and in the case of most cars (front engine) probably worse performance if the fuel cell is hung over the backend.
In my BMW E36 racecar, the stock fuel tank was under the rear seat, ahead of the rear axle. Probably the best place for it from a safety and performance standpoint, so fuel cell was irrelevant as it was not required.
In my BMW E36 racecar, the stock fuel tank was under the rear seat, ahead of the rear axle. Probably the best place for it from a safety and performance standpoint, so fuel cell was irrelevant as it was not required.
It depends on the car. Some cars are easy fuel cell installation and nice upgrade. Others are a nightmare and the stock tanks are in very safe locations.
The 944 for example has the fuel tank pretty well secured and a fuel cell is very difficult. I have seen two very hard rear impacts in 944's and in both cases the tank was still pristine and basic structured of car did the job.
12-22-2010, 11:22 AM
#19
Rennlist Member
This is not for or against.
One thing I've heard and maybe someone with more knowledge can answer.
Who spends more money and R&D time on preventing fuel fires, Porsche of the fuel cell makers.
I was told once that the only reason Porsche puts the cells in is because of various regs,. not because they are safer
One thing I've heard and maybe someone with more knowledge can answer.
Who spends more money and R&D time on preventing fuel fires, Porsche of the fuel cell makers.
I was told once that the only reason Porsche puts the cells in is because of various regs,. not because they are safer
12-22-2010, 12:45 PM
#21
Rennlist Member
I don't agree on stock tanks being good enough. I put a cell in my '73 as soon as I started racing it. Safety is FIRST, all else is optional (performance tweaks, etc).
You don't want to EVER be in a fire in your car, especially if you get knocked out.
You don't want to EVER be in a fire in your car, especially if you get knocked out.
12-22-2010, 12:57 PM
#22
Race Director
there is a difference between 60's design a more modern design. Again depend on the car.
12-22-2010, 01:25 PM
#23
Burning Brakes
But almost no one does, even without a fuel cell. I put one back in for safety and it is a good way and location to add 40 pounds of ballast.
12-22-2010, 01:43 PM
#24
Burning Brakes
Of course it is possible to get killed walking across the street. Does that mean the person should find an alternative route. I don't know of a single instance in PCA racing where someone got hurt because they did not have a fuel cell. Just my 02c. As others have said, spend your money elsewhere.
12-22-2010, 02:11 PM
#25
Mr. Excitement
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I have seen some cell installs that made me think the OEM tank was likely safer. In order to make use of the increased safety with a cell it and the system to and from it need to be well thought out and excuted. I have seen cells that would have broken loose in a good sized impact and some weedy looking plumbing.
12-22-2010, 02:22 PM
#26
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I have seen some cell installs that made me think the OEM tank was likely safer. In order to make use of the increased safety with a cell it and the system to and from it need to be well thought out and excuted. I have seen cells that would have broken loose in a good sized impact and some weedy looking plumbing.
I've seen more fuel coming out of a car after an accident in car's with fuel cells than those without.
All those nice AN fittings that people use stick up and are real easily knocked off in a shunt.
12-22-2010, 03:06 PM
#28
Burning Brakes
12-23-2010, 08:58 AM
#30
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Yes, I think it is worth the investment.
Pros: more weight out front and down low, safety, and the foam helps prevent a tank slapper.
Cons: more expensive, bladders and fittings and gaskets can develop leaks, most likely will lose fuel level guage
Pros: more weight out front and down low, safety, and the foam helps prevent a tank slapper.
Cons: more expensive, bladders and fittings and gaskets can develop leaks, most likely will lose fuel level guage