[DeTomaso] Tire and wheel sizes

[Kirby Schrader]

A suggestion....

Someone (no, not me. I've got enough going on...) might want to take
on doing a re-test with modern sticky tires and larger wheels.

I've heard this sway bar recommendation for years, followed the advice
early on and was happy. And, as long as the car is 'stock', OK.. it's
probably still relevant.

I personally upgraded and run 1" sway bars all around and went to this
after driving for years with the 7/8" rear and 3/4" front. I firmly
believe my handling improved substantially with the 1" bars, contrary
to other advice I received, and I like the way the car handles.
Instructors at the track have commented similarly. But I do run Avon
slicks on the track.

Now, if I could only get Dennis to finish it and get it out of the
paint shop.... I could hit the track again with a Pantera.

FWIW,
Kirby





On Tue, Feb 24, 2009 at 9:51 AM,  <mikeldrew at aol.com> wrote:
> Brent,
>
> You wrote:
>
> Ah, actually, funny that you mention that.  In fact, the Pantera is
> down at Performance Art in Gilroy right now getting corner balanced
> among other things, and i was about to post a question to the board re:
> the best source for a new sway bar.
>
> This is what i was considering going with:
>
> http://precisionproformance.com/sc1050.htm
>
> Question is, 1" vs 7/8" ?   Suggestions, recommendations?
>
>>>>When PCNC conducted a handling clinic/sway bar test many years ago,
> we instrumented a Pantera and then changed sway bars incrementally.  We
> expected to see continued improved cornering performance as the bars
> got bigger, and were surprised to learn that the optimal setup was 7/8"
> front and rear.  Cornering power actually went DOWN when we went to
> 1-inch bars, the theory being that the suspension was now too stiff and
> the car itself was flexing, acting as an undamped spring.
>
> Go for the 7/8" bar, you'll be quite happy with the result.  And if
> you're feeling spendy, go for the Spherebar swaybar mounts while you're
> at it. :>)
>
> Mike
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