Throttle steer (of any kind) at 35 mph is itself a clue. Throttle steer at such slow speeds (at least passive throttle steer anyway) shouldn't occur in any measurable way. These kinds of things are primarily high-speed factors, not low speed factors.

At 68 degrees, I don't think temp is much of a reason. The tire pressure is not perfect but not unsafe and likely provides more grip at that speed.

The posted speed, I'm guessing, was a warning sign, not a limit sign? What was the road limit? Do you know about how long the road has been there in it's current paving configuration. This will give us some clue as to how relevant the posted limits were.

At this early stage, I'm guessing road contamination. You could have even picked up something prior to the corner. Any chance fallen leaves played a role?

Tire sizes? 225 or 245? (although at 35, again this shouldn't have mattered.)

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Tedster
[B]Besides the obvious issue of throttle lift during the turn, there's another factor that hasn't been mentioned: contact patch ratio front:rear.

Lawdog, I'm guessing that you were on stock wheels, with SO-2 Pole Positions, is that right? What sizes front and rear?

 

I'm confused. The first post says it was 40 degrees outside and now we have an ambient temperature of 68. Maybe I'm confused as to what ambient temperature is compared with outside temperature. Someone please explain.

 

Ignore my last post since Lawdog explained as I was typing the post . I don't think that saying the car was being pushed is an exaggeration. The conditions must be taken into account when determining what is an appropriate speed. It is well documented that the S02's need to be warmed up before they have good traction. Add to that the fact that it was 40 degrees outside and you've got a situation requiring extreme caution.

 

Now I understand 40 in the S, 68 in the Benz.

40 is a potential factor with the OEM tires. I haven't heard temperature-related compliants about regular S-02s though. Anyone else have any information about this?

Also, the question has to be asked (sorry), were you imbibing in any way?

 

Lawdog has conceded he lifted off suddenly, why look any further for an explanation. Jim, I don't think you can say the car shouldn't spin at 35mph during turning with a sudden , complete lift off. We have a logical explanation, why look for contamination, leaves or any other reason.

 

There is a huge difference in traction with most tires and especially the S02's between cold and warm. We don't need an 'expert', we have been experiencing this starting with the introduction in '99. In fact I posted very early (probably on H-A.net) about how slick the cold tires are after an experience during Thanksgiving '99.

The cold tire warning is repeated at every track event and has been posted here many times.

 

Fair question. We were at the party for 2 hours, I had 2 mixed drinks but did not finish the second one. Ate a sandwich, shrimp and some dips. But I had dinner before we went to the party. I don't think alcohol was a factor but you have to make up your own mind about that. I can tell you that my wife is most sensitive to driving under the influence and she had no compunctions about allowing me behind the wheel.

 

Lawdog:

I think you've volunteered quite enough information to this inquisition! Glad you're O.K.

 

You guys are applying racing principles to driving 35 mph on the street in what is arguably a 35 mph corner.
This is a low speed accident in street radius corner, not a track or autocross event. Braking is not a factor as it might be at an autocross. You might be right, but I think you are jumping a little too quickly.

Cedric: Forget your MG experience, cars are much better now.

Proposed Homework: I'd suggest everyone go to parking lot and (at 35) lift off as fast as you can. Then we can all collectively answer that question. Task: Determine the amount of steering this activity applies at this speed and report back. If anyone has another RWD car, do it in that car too. We don't really need a measurement unless you can, just "mild, moderate, or severe" Cornering during the test is not necessary. I'll also try it in the Z28 (with ratty shocks) for reference.

Later, maybe Lawdog can do this too to provide a more relevant data point.

Lawdog: Any bumps in the corner (in case Jason is listening)?

I don't think we need to close this case today or make it fit any of our prior views.