To stagger or not to stagger!

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Mar 12, 2012 | 05:43 PM

#21

nissanfanatic

Registered User

Joined: Jul 2009

Posts: 1,024

Likes: 1

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoOn3

But lets look back at the original question.... This is a question of correct amount of tire(grip) vs too much tire (heavy). The argument was that a square set-up was reached in-part due to rules and in-part due to nonavailability of tire sizes above 255 in 17's(with exception of course). Do we all agree that that different ends of the car require different size tires? What I am trying to get out of you guys is that it is a matter of function; use a square set-up and tune out the too much front grip in relation to the rear due to the above constraints or run a correct staggered set-up. Does this sound right?

If so and there were no rules and you were after your "perfect" set-up (and you were in my boots with about 400whp) would you stagger your tires to control the extra power?

The required amount of tire on either end could only logically be linked to where the center of gravity is. For example, most Porsches run a much larger rear tire because of their 6x% rear weight bias. My S2000 was slightly rear heavy when I weighed it when it was stock. So, yes a larger tire would be desirable in the rear, but only slightly. It is so slight that I think it is beneficial to just rotate tires IE non staggered setup and just spring the front a little higher via coils or larger ARB.

Mar 12, 2012 | 09:46 PM

#22

Croc

Registered User

Joined: Mar 2009

Posts: 3,026

Likes: 10

From: Israel

OMO this one summarizes cons/pros pretty good:

http://racings2000.blogspot.com/2011_04_01_archive.html

Mar 13, 2012 | 05:15 AM

#23

robrob

Former Moderator

Joined: Jul 2005

Posts: 4,634

Likes: 28

From: West Virginia

Quote:

So, you are saying that you would still stay square and tune out the front grip deviation? I think the biggest i could go up front would be a 255 or maybe a 265 max.I But lets assume i did run a 255 square set-up. I would need a significant front sway bar, yes? or would your recommend running a 265 or 275 out back to help and still run a whiteline or saner bar up front and a stock rear?

Since you have forced induction you'd probably benefit from 275s in the rear. Try that out and then determine if you need to alter your anti-roll bars.

Quote:

Do we all agree that that different ends of the car require different size tires?

Honda Racing just went to a square setup on their prototype car. They hailed the "discovery" as revolutionary. Remember the old Elf Formula 1 car with 4 front tires? The front tires aren't propelling the car but they're doing a lot of work steering the car.

Quote:

The required amount of tire on either end could only logically be linked to where the center of gravity is.

I think horsepower to handling ratio is more important than CG. If your lap times are dependent upon squirting from corner to corner more tire to handle the acceleration is beneficial.

Mar 13, 2012 | 08:29 AM

#24

Billj747

Joined: Nov 2007

Posts: 1,683

Likes: 25

From: SoFlo

There are 400whp s2ks running square 275 setup due to tire size, price, availability, ability to rotate etc... all make it the most financially best decision. Adjusting ride rates, roll stiffness, etc... to balace the car is requored anyway. Sure a slight stagger could work too so if you have an unlimited budget then go for it. Typically tire sizes reflect weight distribution or slighty wider rear. For the op go non staggered and call it a day.