“Scaling the Car”

Use good quality scales when setting corner weights on the car. Accuracy here pays off! This is another area that requires a smooth, level surface. Mark the location of the scale pads on the floor so that you scale the car in the same place every time.

The car should have been “close” when you set the ride height. If not, you may have to go back and forth between ride height settings and scales to get the right combination. Some racers set the ride heights while the car is on the scales, adding the height of the scale pads to the ride height specification. If you choose to do this, make certain that your measurements are accurate.

Adjusting to the proper ride heights may drastically change the corner weights of the car. Remember that it’s better to move weight than it is to start jacking preload into the springs. Moving weight may change the ride height slightly, so you may have to check, adjust and recheck as you go. The goal is to get the ride heights and the corner weights where you want them without using the jacking plates.
If you must add diagonal weight, don't just jack on one corner. This will throw out the ride height. To add diagonal weight, put half a turn in the right front, half in the left rear, then take half out of the left front and half out of the right rear. Then recheck your weights and adjust. By making the adjustments through all four corners, you will not disturb the ride height.

It is a good idea to check the weight bias by turning the front wheels and seeing if there is a change in weight bias. The geometry in the front end may change the crossweight percentage.

Mike Loescher is the owner and chief instructor at FinishLine Racing School in Daytona Beach, Florida.  Mike holds Chassis Seminars throughout the year - all around the USA & Canada. View our class schedule or call 386-427-8522 to schedule a private setup date.

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