#Front Suspension Components

[strangeengineering]

Premium Shocks, Struts & Steering Parts by Strange Engineering

Strange Engineering offers top-quality shocks, struts, and steering components built for serious performance. Whether you're hitting the drag strip, cruising the street, or fine-tuning a custom build, these parts deliver the stability, strength, and precision you need to drive with confidence.

Key Features of the Product:

Lightweight Aluminum Construction

Adjustable Suspension Settings

Drag & Street-Ready

High-Temperature Resistance

Monotube Shock Design

Smooth Ride Control

Contact Information:         

For more details or to request a sample, visit Strange Engineering’s shocks, struts, and steering parts, or contact Strange Engineering directly:                

Phone: 800-646-6718                  

Visit: https://www.strangeengineering.net/   

Address: 8300 N. Austin Ave, Morton Grove, IL       

Stay in touch with the latest product developments and company news:                 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrangeEng                

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCheMfttsl3BZV1dyokhrpSA   

X: https://x.com/RaceStrange                

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racestrange/                  

[eirianerisdar]

We're so effed

[vidarr01]

Restore Your Ride: Front Lower Control Arms for CITROËN BERLINGO 1996–2011

If you own a CITROËN BERLINGO made between 1996 and 2011, one of the most effective upgrades you can make to improve your vehicle’s handling, stability, and overall ride comfort is replacing the front lower control arms. These critical components form the backbone of your suspension system, ensuring safe and responsive steering while minimizing road vibrations and tire wear.

Whether your vehicle is feeling a bit loose on the road, pulling to one side, or you’re noticing uneven tire wear, the control arms might be to blame. Fortunately, there’s an excellent, budget-friendly solution now available.

Upgrade With Confidence

Introducing the 2 x Front Lower Control Arm compatible with CITROËN BERLINGO 1996–2011 – a reliable replacement kit designed to meet or exceed OEM standards.

This set includes two front lower control arms, ensuring you replace both sides of the suspension simultaneously for balanced performance and safety.

What Does a Control Arm Do?

A control arm connects the suspension of the car to the vehicle’s chassis. It’s a hinged suspension link that helps maintain the position of the wheels and absorbs the shock of driving over uneven surfaces.

In the front suspension, the lower control arms are responsible for:

Maintaining wheel alignment

Supporting the ball joint

Allowing the steering knuckle to pivot when turning

Absorbing road vibrations and stress from braking and acceleration

Over time, control arms can become worn or damaged due to road salt, moisture, potholes, and general wear and tear. When this happens, the bushings or ball joints can fail, leading to a host of performance and safety issues.

Signs Your Control Arms Need Replacing

You may need to consider replacing your front lower control arms if you notice:

Clunking noises when going over bumps or turning

Steering wheel vibration while driving

Vehicle pulling to one side

Uneven tire wear

Poor handling or instability

These symptoms are especially common in older vehicles like the CITROËN BERLINGO, where suspension parts may be nearing the end of their service life.

Product Highlights

Here’s why the Front Lower Control Arm Set for CITROËN BERLINGO is a top-rated choice among car owners and mechanics:

Direct fit for 1996–2011 Berlingo models

Made from durable steel with corrosion-resistant coating

Includes ball joints and bushings for full installation

Helps restore steering responsiveness and driving stability

By replacing both arms together, you reduce uneven wear and ensure safer, more predictable suspension performance.

Easy DIY or Mechanic Installation

This control arm kit is ideal for both DIY car owners and professional workshops. You’ll need a few tools such as:

A jack and jack stands

Socket/ratchet set

Torque wrench

Penetrating oil (for rusty bolts)

Installation typically takes 1.5–3 hours. If you’re unsure about torque specs or alignment, it’s best to consult your vehicle service manual or seek professional assistance.

Why This Kit Makes Sense

Buying a 2 x Front Lower Control Arm kit is both practical and cost-effective. Here’s why:

Ensures both sides of the suspension are equally strong

Saves money compared to buying single units separately

Avoids frequent realignment and tire wear issues

Ideal for older, high-mileage Berlingo models with worn bushings and ball joints

Installing new control arms also improves braking stability and reduces stress on tie rods and shocks.

Post-Installation Tips

After installing the new front lower control arms, follow these best practices:

Get a wheel alignment to ensure even tire wear

Check your struts and sway bar links – if your control arms were worn, these might be next

Test drive carefully – listen for unusual noises and monitor handling

Tighten bolts to spec using a torque wrench for safety

A good installation can give your suspension a fresh, like-new feel.

Customer Feedback

Many drivers who have installed this Front Control Arm Set on their CITROËN BERLINGO report noticeable improvements:

Smoother rides over rough terrain

Less steering vibration at higher speeds

Better control when cornering or braking

Reduced noise from suspension components

It’s an especially popular fix among commercial Berlingo users who rack up high mileage and need affordable, reliable maintenance solutions.

Where to Buy

You can purchase the 2 x Front Lower Control Arm Compatible With CITROËN BERLINGO 1996–2011 ZWD/CT/163AB directly on Amazon UK. With fast shipping and secure checkout, it’s a great way to get your suspension sorted quickly.

Final Thoughts

Your suspension system is vital to your driving experience, especially in an older vehicle like the CITROËN BERLINGO. If your ride feels unstable, noisy, or simply off, don’t ignore the signs — replacing your front lower control arms can transform your driving experience.

This Front Control Arm Kit offers great value, long-lasting durability, and an exact fit for your vehicle. Invest in your safety and comfort today with this essential suspension upgrade.

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

1964 Chevrolet Cheetah

The 1964 Chevrolet Cheetah, also known as the Bill Thomas Cheetah, was an American sports car designed and built entirely with American components. Developed by Chevrolet performance tuner Bill Thomas between 1963 and 1966, the Cheetah was created to compete with Carroll Shelby's Cobra. It featured a front-mid engine layout and a chrome-moly tubular chassis, with independent suspension borrowed from the Corvette. The sleek fiberglass body included distinctive gull-wing doors and housed a 377 cubic inch small-block V8 engine that produced about 475 horsepower. The car’s lightweight design contributed to impressive acceleration and handling.

Despite its promising performance, the Cheetah faced challenges such as insufficient chassis rigidity for road racing, which led to handling issues, and cooling problems caused by inadequate ventilation that resulted in engine overheating. These problems were later addressed by owners through various modifications and improvements. Only a limited number of Cheetahs were produced, with different configurations and modifications over time. Some were converted into roadsters, while others competed in racing events, achieving notable successes. Today, the 1964 Chevrolet Cheetah remains a rare and highly regarded collector’s car, celebrated for its bold design and ambitious engineering.

[seat-safety-switch]

Sure, you can buy any number of "labour-saving" machines. You won't have to work as hard, the greed-heads selling them to you claim. When they break down, just buy another one. I feel that this mentality discards society's most useful members: weird idiots who really like fixing things.

Here's an example for you. Recently, I found a busted-ass old dishwasher in the alley. Do I already have a working dishwasher? Kind of. Did I think that it was a super tiny problem and I'd be able to get this second dishwasher banging away in no time, ready to do essential life-improving tasks like – uhhhhh – wash suspension components prior to painting? You bet.

Normally, I would just spritz this stuff with the garden hose, then leave it out in the backyard until I hyperfixated on "I gotta paint something real soon or I'll die." That sounded like a lot of work, and a dishwasher is meant to save that work, so I quickly set about spending several hours understanding the intricate mechanisms on view inside the mind of the fucking asshole who engineered this thing in the first place. Like, seriously bro? A filter this size? It won't trap 75W90, with or without friction modifier. You might as well just pull it out. No wonder the pump blew up trying to strain these mouldy old chunks of potato that got stuck in it.

Once I'd burned a couple evenings of intense labour on the dishwasher, I decided that it wasn't really worth the effort after all, and kicked it to the curb after salvaging what little scrap metal I could from the pile of junk that remained after I finished smashing it with the entire contents of my toolbox and jumping up and down on the front panel in a childlike rage. My suspension components remained unwashed – that's okay, I don't even need to paint them, they'll just rust – but I felt that I had productively spent my time and learned a lot about why I shouldn't try to fix dishwashers I find in the alley.

Just imagine all the projects I didn't start because I was busy doing this! That's almost an infinite amount of work saved, which means it was all worth it.

[race-week]

Essentially teams like Aston Martin, Alpine, Williams, etc aren’t happy that whilst they design and manufacture most of their parts in house, Haas just buys them from Ferrari (and VCARB are planning on doing this with Red Bull to a greater degree from 2026)

As a result the above mentioned teams are demanding that a greater proportion of Haas’ parts are manufactured in house (Haas should have to do it themselves rather than buying from Ferrari)

But as of right now they don’t have the means to implement this, so with this potential rule change, if Haas were to finish P5 in the constructors this year, within 3 years of that P5 finish, they would need to be making all TRCs (Transferable Components) on their own.

TRCs include things like:

Rear impact structure

Gearbox

Clutch

Front/Rear suspension

Steering assembly

Hydraulic system

[hold-fast-and-rise]

Understanding Your Jeep Wrangler's Suspension System

The suspension system is a crucial component of your Jeep Wrangler, responsible for providing a smooth ride, handling, and stability. It absorbs shocks and vibrations from the road, ensuring a comfortable driving experience.

Key Components:

* Shock Absorbers: Dampen the oscillations of the suspension system, preventing excessive bouncing.

* Springs: Store and release energy to absorb shocks.

* Control Arms: Connect the wheels to the chassis, providing lateral stability.

* Sway Bars: Reduce body roll during cornering.

* Tie Rods: Connect the steering wheel to the front wheels.

* Drag Link: Connects the steering gear to the tie rod.

* Pitman Arm: Connects the steering gear to the drag link.

* Track Bar: Helps maintain vehicle alignment and prevents excessive wheel movement.

How it Works:

When you drive over a bump, the suspension system absorbs the impact. The springs compress, storing energy, while the shock absorbers dampen the movement. The control arms and sway bars work together to maintain vehicle stability and prevent excessive body roll.

Importance of Maintenance:

Regular maintenance is essential for the proper functioning of your Jeep Wrangler's suspension system. This includes:

* Inspecting components: Check for signs of wear, damage, or leaks.

* Replacing worn parts: Replace parts as needed to ensure optimal performance.

* Wheel alignment: Maintain proper wheel alignment for better handling and tire life.

By understanding the components and functions of your Jeep Wrangler's suspension system, you can better appreciate its importance and take steps to ensure its proper maintenance.

[monkeyssalad-blog]

324 Morris Minor 4 door (Series V) (1968) TPG 156 F by Robert Knight Via Flickr: Morris Minor 1000 Series V (1962-72) Engine 1098cc S4 OHV Production 847,491 (Series III and Series V) Registration Number TPG 156 F (Surrey) MORRIS ALBUM www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157623690377489... Designed by Sir Alec Issigonis for William Morris's Nuffield Group the Morris Minor made its debut at the 1948 Earls Court Motorshow . The original Minor MM series was produced from 1948 until 1953, the range included a 2 door and 4 door four seater saloon, and a convertible An instant success and the baby car of its day, the new car featured rack and pinion steering, torsion bar independent front suspension and superb handling. Although the Minor was originally designed to accept a flat-4 engine, late in the development stage it was replaced by a 918 cc S4 side valve engine. The Series II was substantially re-engineered following the merger of the Nuffield Organisations merger with Austin (forming BMC), Cosmetically the car now had raised front lights in the wings, rather than at the sides of the grille. As part of a rationalisation programme to reduce the production of duplicate components for similar vehicles, the Minor drivetrain was completely replaced with an Austin-derived engine, gearbox, prop shaft, differential and axle casing. The more modern Austin-designed 803 cc (49.0 cu in) overhead valve A-series engine, designed for the Austin A30 which proved more lively than the 918cc SV it replaced. An estate version was introduced in 1952, known as the Traveller featuring an external structural ash (wood) frame for the rear bodywork, with two side-hinged rear doors. A horizontal slat grille was fitted from October 1954,[ as well as a new dashboard with a central speedometer 269,838 examples of the Series II had been built when production ended in 1956 In 1956, the Minor received a major programme of updates as the Series III Minor 1000. Now powered by a 948cc variant of the BMC A-Series engine, which increased fop speed from 63mph to 75mph. the engine was mated to a revised gearbox with longer ratios and a shorter gearchange. A series of changes to the body pressings allowed a wraparound rear windscreen and a curved front screen In 1961 the semaphore-style trafficators were replaced by flashing direction indicators In 1962 the final Series Minor 1000 (ADO 59) was launched the 'Series IV' designation having been assigned to the Morris Mini Minor. A new, larger 1098cc version of the BMC A Series engine with a Harry Weslake designed cylinder head Although fuel consumption suffered moderately at 38 mpg, the Minor's top speed increased to 77 mph and a significant increase in torque, this revised engine was mated to a new stronger gearbox and the size of the front drum brakes increased. The interior was refreshed, and revised again in 1964. Diolch am 92,828,339 o olygfeydd anhygoel, mae pob un yn cael ei werthfawrogi'n fawr. Thanks for 92,828,339 amazing views, every one is greatly appreciated. Shot 23.04.2022 at the Bicester Spring Scramble, Bicester, Oxfordshire 158-324

[tornadeoqueen]

you make my motor run - refs & research

Hello! My latest fic you make my motor run aka car show rivals au is about Bradley and his Bronco, Hangster flirting as enemies plot and every Dagger owning a vintage Ford. It's a lot about Jake being a little shit but it's also a lot about cars.

This fic, and cars, mean a lot to me! And as such a lot of research went into it. Like, so much research. And it made me very happy and I got very nerdy about it, although I realise and recognise not everyone who (hopefully) reads the fic would know as much about cars as I do, so I thought I would make this post explaining a lot of the details I included, as well as pictures of the cars I assigned each member of the squad.

So, if you're a slut for research like me or interested at all, see more below the cut!

Bradley's Bronco

"My my, a first gen Bronco"

I based the Bronco off a 1971 Ford Bronco, which makes it a First Generation Bronco, which were made between 1966 to 1977. The reason why I went with 1971 is because someone on the classic broncos forum tracked down the actual car used in TG:M on a website called Cinema Vehicles dot com and it's a 1971. A lot of what I describe is based off of this car, and other 1971's I could find.

"...he put in disc brakes, replaced the transmission and ordered in new parts for the engine."

A lot of what Bradley did to his car is based off of what Sydney Sweeney did to get her own Bronco running!

Disc brakes: Bronco's didn't get disc brakes until 1976/77, so Bradley would have had to add them in (replacing the drum brakes which were prone to overheating). They became standard for most cars in the late 70s, as they are more reliable.

Transmission: A car's transmission is also known as the gearbox! Most people will replace the transmission on vintage cars from manual to automatic (which Sydney did) but I wanted to write Bradley as a purist so he kept it a manual. He did replace the transmission though because it was old and rusty after not being used for so long.

"...replaced the suspension and the front and rear axles."

Suspension: This is the system that connects the wheels to the body of the car, and works to regulate shock absorption and the general handling and movement of the car. One of the main components is a big coil that stems from the tyres, if you've seen that before.

Front and Rear axles: shafts that connect the wheels and help with wheel movement.

TBH he probably should have done this before he went anywhere, but I didn't know what other changes to list as part of his "restoration journey" that even I could understand. Lol I'm a hack! Anyway!

What In The World Is Jake Talking About?

“Original paint, two-inch lift, coupla hood scoops, a nice shine on those stock hubcaps… original two-spoke steering wheel with a three on the tree manual transmission – you’re crazy for that, by the way.”

Original Paint: I found this really neat image of the original paint options for 1971 Ford Broncos, and did my best to colour match. There were six blue's and two aqua's available! I am pretty sure we could say Bradley's Bronco is Bahama Blue. I thought I would use this in the fic, but I didn't. Nonetheless, look at this cool graphic!!!

2-inch lift: refers to the lift of the suspension/tyres. Bronco's are built for off-roading so a lot of them have tyre lifts so you can have bigger tyres on them. The cinema vehicle has lifts!

Coupla Hood Scoops: "Coupla" is my way of saying "a couple of" btw. Hood Scoops are the raised portions on the hood of the car with holes in the front, as you can see here:

Hood scoops funnel fresher, cooler air to the engine which can increase power. Some people only have them for decoration. I'm pretty sure these are a modification added and not an original feature, which hurts my Bradley is a Purist head cannon, but I included them in the fic because they are in the movie! I like to think maybe they were added in because Jake kept making digs at the car's lack of power. Or Goose did it! Who knows!

Stock hubcaps: Refers to the original hubcaps that come with the car. I don't think the cinema vehicle has them, but I found another '71 Bronco that does and I just think they look nice! Who doesn't love a bit of chrome?

"...two-spoke steering wheel with a three on the tree manual transmission."

Original two-spoke steering wheel:

Three on the tree manual transmission: Ok I'm gonna be honest, I know I'm showing off when I say "three on the tree" because what the hell, but also, if car enthusiasts know what it is, Jake would say it! I found out about it while watching an episode of Jay Leno's Garage on YouTube (I watched a lot of these during my research) and they kept talking about the "three on the tree" in this '77 "original stock Bronco" and I was like wth is that? Googled it, and it refers to the 3-gear column shift! The column shift is the silver lever you see behind the wheel, which is the gear shift. Bradley keeps his car a manual so he, like the guy in the video who also keeps his original, would keep the three on the tree.

Jake say's he's crazy for it because automatic's are so much easier to drive, and also 3 gears is not a lot so I doubt it can go very fast.

For those interested, there are numerous YouTube videos about how to drive with the three on the tree (I watched at least two).

“Pristine white bucket seats..."

Bucket seats: are the style of seats used in the front seats that I guess have a bucket shape? Anyway he calls them "pristine" because you an imagine what a bitch it is to keep white vinyl looking nice.

Restoration vs Restomod:

I touch a little bit on this, but if you want to read more, Velocity Restorations have a good overview of the debate (Velocity build restomods for clients. If I ever win the lottery, there'd be signs... ect)

Bradley screams "car purist" to me, and I originally had a line about him having a Coyote V8 engine, which is a popular new-build engine used to update old Bronco's, but I cut it last minute because I don't think I could do that to him, haha. The man drives a Bronco, first of all, and the moustache and his Dad's glasses and the Great Balls of Fire of it all... a purist!

Jake, however, likes power, he likes technology and making the car the best it can be. I like to think he actually worked on the restomod himself (with the begrudging help of Bradley, I'm gonna be honest when I say I'm still working out what their origin story is) rather than buy it. But having the '68 Shelby, arguably one of the coolest cars on the market, and also kind of pushing it in terms of power and ability (and comfort and modern amenities) is like a cool project for him. He is very proud of his car but don't say he doesn't have any respect for vintage cars! This isn't just a status symbol (although he knows it's hot as hell) but constantly evolving project.

Jake's 1968 Ford Mustang

Jake has a 1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 fastback in all black. The Shelby used to be a race car but then people were like hey, I want one. 1968 was the first year the Shelby Mustang was actually built by the Ford Motor Company (instead of by Shelby). Fastback refers to the coupe type, indicated by the angle of the back window (as opposed to a convertible or sedan)

photos might not be exact same model/make (I think they are supposed to have GT stripes?) so don't come for me. But you get the vibe!

Javy's 1976 Bronco Explorer

I don't have any specific reason for the rest of the gang's cars, other than, I saw them and it felt right!

Bob's 1980s Fairmont Wagon

You either get it or you don't, but Bob get's it!

Nat's 1964 Ford Mustang Convertible

Candy Apple Red is an official and original Ford Mustang paint colour so that's important. Based her car off one I saw for sale. And yes! The Palomino interior makes me drool, look how nice that is!

Mickey's 1970 Ford Escort

Ok so, Ford Escorts were actually a Ford Europe/UK car until the 80s, so this would have to be an import. I really wanted to give him one, though, for some reason, and then when I realised the car from Fast 6 is a Ford Escort (and the colours match his Fanboy helmet!) I was like, sold! Fanboy always and forever.

Reuben's Car ????

I actually couldn't decide! He really stumped me! I'm thinking maybe an F-Series pick up? Other thoughts included Fairmont sedan, a Fairlane, a Torino or Thunderbird, but I think at least one of them needs a truck and the more I think about it, the more I like it for him. But I'm feeling very "Reuben Fitch... who is your hit man?" about it. If you have any thoughts, please let me know!

If you made it this far, congrats! I hope this was as fun and interesting for you as it was for me! And if you haven't yet, check out my hangster car fic you make my motor run on ao3 <3

And if you ever want to talk about cars, or want to write your own car fic, please please please please please please please please

[norriszn]

guysssss the race just dropped an interesting article on their site about mcl's revised front suspension and how it could help both drivers overcome that “numb” feeling in the car. worth a read if you're into tech upgrades and mid-season gains ! and if you're still curious but short on time (or not super into the technical terms i mean i hate to see a lot of terms too), i’ll be posting a quick summary highlighting how this could specifically help landinho.

i already talked a bit about the suspension design in another post & you can read it here <3

alright, no more dodging.

the suspension update involves a small change to the geometry, accompanied by an aerodynamic tweak to manage airflow around the new design.

a lot of yada yada bleh bleh so let's break that sentence down:

a "small change to the geometry" means mcl adjusted the shape or position of the front suspension components, not a total redesign, just a tweak in angles or layout.

aerodynamic tweak = a small change in the bodywork or surfaces to improve how air flows over the car.

pretty sure managing airflow means shaping bodywork or components (like little flaps or vanes) to make sure the air goes where it should go (like cleanly and efficiently)

in case y'all don't get what suspension really means, here's a quick breakdown: suspension keeps the tyres on the ground, which means grip, speed, and control. without it? the car gets bouncy, unstable, and hard to drive. so yeah — suspension = stability and speed over bumps and corners.

moving on....

stella explained that the current car lacks "cueing," meaning it doesn’t give drivers enough feedback to react instinctively, making it harder to drive consistently at the limit + the idea behind the suspension change is to help improve the predictability that they feel.

this issue has particularly affected landinho under braking.

-

(^ source)

"(...) have a different approach to things bc i'm being forced in a way, not being forced by anyone, but in order to perform better i'm being forced to drive in a different way and that i'm not used to and that isn't normal for me at all"

(^ source)

-

so how does this suspension update help lando specifically?

he has struggled more than his teammate under braking, where a numb front end makes the car feel vague and unpredictable. that's my lil guy bread and butter so taking away that strength has probably held him back a lot this season.

the revised suspension should give better feel and response, especially under braking and turning in, the areas where lando likes to push.

if the new geometry really does bring clearer feedback, it might let him trust the car more and commit harder, especially in qualifying where he's said to lose the most time.

^ a comparison bewteen the old design and the new one (ty the race)

^ mcl chase for a more consistent platform also includes a new front wing, set to be tested during practice here in canada

why now?

pretty sure this isn't just aero, it’s a mechanical change, which is more rare and harder to develop mid season.

if it works it could really unlock more consistency and confidence + it's not just for him, but mcl knows if he gets comfortable, he flies.

i needed to add how it went fp1 for future comparisons !

[boxboxblog]

How Do F1 Cars Work?: Setup pt 1

Alright, so I wanted to explore car setups and how they effect F1 cars. Enjoy!

So, setting up an F1 car is a very complex process, They have to balance numerous elements in the car to suit things like weather, track type, driving styles, etc. But what do they actually alter on the car? And how does it effect the driving?

Altered Components:

Aerodynamics - The easiest and most obvious adjustments are to the aerodynamics, like the rear wings or front wings. These are usually the ones chosen for change in aerodynamics, but they might also change the side pods or diffusers to effect the downforce of the car. They most often change aerodynamics for circuit styles. A tight street circuit will require higher downforce set up, as it gives them more control around the corners. A classic circuit will often switch to a low downforce set up, which gives them speed on the straights. Most teams try to have a good balance, however.

Suspension - Suspension settings control how the car responds to bumps and turns. Whenever they discuss a car porpoising too much, it is usually because the suspension set up is wrong. They change variables including ride height (distance between lowest point of car and track surface), camber (angle of wheels relative to the vertical axel from the front), toe (angle of front wheel when viewed from above), stiffness of springs, and anti-roll bars (parts that connect left and right suspension systems, which help control body roll). For example, cars can have negative or positive camber, which really effect things like grip, tire wear, etc. These aspects of setup are usually altered to suit a drivers style and preferences.

Tire Setup - This essentially envelopes tire pressure and starting temperature, which impact grip and wear rates. For example, lower tire pressure increases the grip, but leads to faster degradation. Higher does the opposite. This is usually altered depending on track temperature and style, or even ti make up for their weak areas. If they do not have good tire management, for example, they may alter the tire setup to degrade slower.

Differential - This controls the relative speed of the rear wheels, a big part of traction control. It is adjusted to either open or lock more. An open differential allows the rear wheels to rotate at different speeds, helping with corner entry but leading to oversteer a lot of the time. A locked differential keeps the wheels rotating together, offering stability on exits but leading to a lot of understeer. This is an aspect that is often changed to suit driver preference. Some can handle the oversteer very well, but other find understeer easier to deal with.

Brake Balance - This is the balance between the front and rear brakes, and is used to prevent lockup (when too much force is applied to the brakes, causing the disc to stop or rotate slower than the car's motion) and improve stability. This is altered by changing the bias, or distribution of braking force, and is often discussed in terms of percentages. More rear brake bias improves rotation in corners, but increases chance of rear lockup. More front brake bias stabilized braking, but can make turn-in more challenging.

Engine Mapping- This refers to the software settings in the car that controls how the engine delivers power. Things like throttle response, fuel injection, ignition timing, and turbo settings are all altered. All of it changes how a car accelerates, responds to stimuli, and consumes fuel. The different types of maps include qualifying maps (max power for short time), race maps (balanced and conservative), fuel-saving maps (usually end of race), and wet maps (softer throttle response, less sensitive car). ERS Deployment is a big part of this, and refers to the management of the kinetic and heat generators. They choose different ERS deployment depending on what they plan to do. For example, if they are planning on trying to overtake they will charge their battery and then use a lot of power to give the car a boost.

Gear Ratios - These ratios determine the relationship between the RPM (engine speed) and the speed of the wheels. There are eight forward gears in F1, and each one changes this ratio to some degree. The ratios dictate how much the engine must rev for the wheels to turn at a certain speed. The two major types of gear ratios are long ratios and short ratios. Long ratios reduce the torque but allow for higher top speeds, suited for tracks with long straights. Short ratios provide more torque which allows for faster acceleration, better for twisty tracks.

Setup Types:

While there are so many different aspects to set up, there are a few main types that most teams follow. Between them, a variety of factors change, but the core of them remains the same.

High-Downforce - One of the most basic set ups, it prioritizes grip on corners by increased downforce. Usually used for twisty, slow-medium circuits like Monaco or Singapore.

Low-Downforce - The other more basic setup, it lowers generated downforce to minimize drag and optimize for straight-line speed. It does sacrifice corner grip, so is best suited for classic circuits like Silverstone or Monza.

Wet - In wet races DRS is disabled, and drag is at an all time high. So teams usually focus on getting a huge amount of downforce, making car less sensitive, and making sure their tire set up is as grippy as possible. The differential is also changed, as drivers should be able to keep traction, ride height is raised, and suspension is softened. This is kind of a subsection of the high-downforce set up, though for different reasons.

High/Low Temp - Both hot and cold temperatures have massive impacts on F1 cars. So if they know they will have a race with an extreme on either side, the set up must be altered to reflect that. In hot Singapore, for example, they must lower tire pressure, change the camber, and boost the cooling systems to avoid overheating engine and degrading tires fast. In cold Montreal, tire pressures are raised, brakes are placed in different settings to keep warm, and the camber is also changed.

Alright, I will continue my discussion on setups in next post, as this one is getting quite long.

Cheers,

-B

[strangeengineering]

Strange Engineering Shocks, Struts, and Steering Parts: Built to Deliver High Stability

Experience superior handling and precision with Strange Engineering’s premium shocks, struts, and steering parts—engineered for racers, custom builders, and high-performance street applications. Built to perform on the track and the street.

Key Features of the Product:

Lightweight Aluminum Construction

Adjustable Suspension Settings

Drag & Street-Ready

High-Temperature Resistance

Monotube Shock Design

Smooth Ride Control

Contact Information:         

For more details or to request a sample, visit Strange Engineering’s shocks, struts, and steering parts, or contact Strange Engineering directly:                

Phone: 800-646-6718                  

Visit: https://www.strangeengineering.net/   

Address: 8300 N. Austin Ave, Morton Grove, IL       

Stay in touch with the latest product developments and company news:                 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrangeEng                

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCheMfttsl3BZV1dyokhrpSA 

X: https://x.com/RaceStrange                

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racestrange/                  

[whatevergreen]

Stop Arming Israel

Yesterday (December 16) UK MPs debated petitions signed by over 100,000 people, calling for the immediate revocation of all arms export licences to Israel and 283,000 calling for the recognition of a Palestinian state, which were delivered before the general election

Since last October, at least 45,000 in Gaza have been murdered by Israel, in which Britain has been complicit through supplying arms.

In September, the Labour government eventually banned 30 out of 361 licences in a move labelled “tokenistic” by campaigners.

During the debate, Labour MP John McDonnell said: “I think history will judge us all for not doing enough to stop this.”

The former shadow chancellor said that while he was pleased that the petition is taking place “there’s a level of frustration now I don’t think we can contain any more.”

He asked: “Why isn’t democracy being exercised here to stop this?”

Mr McDonnell concluded: “I've had enough of coming back here every week, as you can tell chair, we need action now from this government.”

Among the exports excluded from Labour’s ban are components for F-35 war planes, which have been used to drop 2,000lb bombs on civilians in Gaza and are linked to a global supply programme.

Business and trade select committee chair Liam Byrne said: “Last week in front of my committee, the Defence Minister said it was technically possible to track these parts, but it was contractually impossible.

“Indeed, Lockheed Martin supplied me with a letter to say that if I want to know anything about the parts, I need to address our queries to the Department of Defence in the United States.“

He noted that the government admitted in the High Court in November that it continued to export the parts despite knowing there was a “clear risk” that they could be used by Israel to violate international humanitarian law.

“We now have the ICJ advisory, we have the ICC arrest warrants. We have the government’s own assessment,” Mr Byrne said.

“I cannot now see how this government can legally defend a position to keep these arms export licences open.”

Ahead of the debate, a cross-party of MPs including Independent Jeremy Corbyn, the Green Party’s Carla Denya, and Labour’s Diane Abbott held a banner reading “Stop Arming Israel” outside Parliament to show their support for a full arms embargo.

Palestine Solidarity Campaign director Ben Jamal said: “Opinion polls have shown that a majority of the public support the suspension of UK arms sales to Israel, because it is using them in a barbaric, unending assault on Palestinians in Gaza.

“We call on all MPs to speak up and ensure the government fulfils its obligations under international law, starting with a full arms embargo on Israel.”

Campaign Against Arms Trade media co-ordinator Emily Apple said: “Labour’s tokenistic suspension of some arms exports doesn’t go nearly far enough — but in particular its refusal to suspend the open licence for F-35 combat jet components makes this government just as complicit in Israel’s horrific war crimes as the previous Conservative government.

“Successive governments have prioritised arms dealers’ profits over Palestinian lives.

“This has to stop. This petition is an attempt to ensure the government does what it should have done in the first place — suspend all arms exports to Israel and uphold international humanitarian law.”

A spokesperson for Stop the War said: “It’s welcome that this petition is finally being debated, having been conveniently buried by the parliamentary system earlier this year, but given that just a fortnight after Labour won the election senior ministers warned that a total ban on arms sales to Israel would undermine US ‘confidence’ in the UK, the outcome is fairly predictable.

“While public opinion is loud and clear, this immoral government remains seemingly determined to ignore it.” Elizabeth Short Adapted from: https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/time-to-listen-labour-stop-arming-israel

Arms for Israel secretly shipped through UK airspace Exclusive: Over 50 tonnes of munitions have been flown to Israel over Britain since Gaza bombing began:

https://www.declassifieduk.org/arms-for-israel-secretly-shipped-through-uk-airspace/

[vidarr01]

Restore Ride Quality with Front Lower Control Arms for MINI R50, R52, R53 (2001–2008)

If your MINI’s steering feels loose or you’re hearing clunking noises from the front suspension, it might be time to replace the control arms. Designed specifically for MINI Cooper models R50, R52, and R53 (2001–2008), this 2 x Front Lower Control Arm set offers a durable and cost-effective solution to restore safe, responsive handling.

Why Control Arms Matter

The control arm is a vital part of your suspension system. It connects the vehicle’s frame to the steering knuckles, allowing for up-and-down movement of the wheels while maintaining alignment. Worn or damaged control arms can result in:

Uneven tyre wear

Poor alignment and handling

Noises during driving

A decrease in overall ride comfort

Upgrading to a replacement MINI Cooper control arm set ensures stability, safety, and better driving performance.

Product Compatibility and Features

This front suspension arm kit for MINI R50/R52/R53 is engineered for:

MINI R50 Hatchback (2001–2006)

MINI R52 Convertible (2004–2008)

MINI R53 Cooper S (2002–2006)

Key features include:

High-strength construction for long-term reliability

Pre-assembled for easy installation

Perfect fit for OEM replacement

Ideal for both DIY projects and professional garages

Upgrade Without Compromise

Whether you're maintaining your vehicle for daily driving or prepping for a long road trip, the MINI R50/R52/R53 lower control arms deliver consistent performance and peace of mind.

[wheelsgoroundincircles]

The Forgotten Mach 2: Ford's 1967 Mid-Engined Mustang Prototype

The Forgotten Mach 2: Ford's 1967 Mid-Engined Mustang Prototype

In the Swinging Sixties, Ford's promotional photo featured a stylish couple beaming with joy as they prepared to take a ride in the Mach 2, essentially a mid-engined Mustang. This sleek, closed coupe boasted a 289 V8 engine, ZF 4-speed transaxle, and amenities like a radio and heater.

"Wait a minute", you may be thinking, if you're old enough to remember the Sixties, or if you've been reading this blog for awhile. "Wasn't there a mid-engined Mustang before there was any other kind?" Well, yeah, there was a drivable concept car based on the front-drive German Ford Taunus V4 powertrain, the Mustang 1*, but that was in 1962, and the roofless projectile seemed to be aimed mostly at SCCA racers ...

The Mach 2's story began in 1966, when Ford's Total Performance program aimed to infuse the GT40's mid-engined glamour into a production car. A Mustang convertible chassis was transformed into a concept chassis by Kar Kraft, incorporating Mustang front suspension, front disc brakes, and Galaxy rear drums. The independent rear suspension was borrowed from engineer Klaus Arning's patented multi-link design for Mustang 1.

Two running prototypes were built, with fiberglass bodies styled by Gene Bordinat's team. The first, a white car intended as an SCCA-ready weekend racer, suffered from chassis flex, while the second, a red example, had a reinforced chassis. The red Mach 2 was showcased at auto shows and featured in car magazines.

With a 107-inch wheelbase, similar to the new Corvette C8, and a weight of around 2,600 pounds, the Mach 2's performance was lively. Ford envisioned pricing it around $7,500, slightly above the Shelby AC 427 Cobra.

However, the Mach 2 program was ultimately scrapped. Ford's success with the Mustang and Shelby's modified versions meant that the Mach 2 was relegated to the sidelines. The white test car was crushed, and the red prototype was returned to Kar Kraft, disappearing from public view.

Rumors of the red Mach 2's fate have persisted, with some speculating that it may still be hidden away, waiting to be rediscovered. The possibility of finding this forgotten prototype has captivated car enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into an alternate history of American automotive innovation.

1967 Ford Mach 2

1967 Ford Mach 2

1967 Ford Mach 2

1967 Ford Mach 2

The 1967 Ford Mach 2 was a mid-engine sports car concept that was never mass produced. It was a two-seater with a GT style, low-sloping hood and front fenders, with a body made of fiberglass. Ford built the first one which was based on a shortened version of the 1966 Mustang convertible floor pan. Two more were built by Kar Kraft based on 1967 Mustangs and powered by a 289ci high performance engine mounted in the middle of the car. It had a five-speed manual transmission, independent rear suspension, and adjustable pedals derived from the 1962 Mustang-I.

Two fully functional prototypes were built:

• Red prototype: The production car candidate, with a revised engine cradle, adjustable Koni shocks, and a redesigned front end

•White prototype: A development mule for racing, with a modified 289, competition-spec components, and a lighter fiberglass body.

The Mach 2 was extensively tested, but the results were not encouraging. The road car handled well, but generated too much body roll at high speeds. The race car's chassis was not stiff enough, distorting under heavy loads. By the fall of 1967, Ford's designers had shifted their focus to the Mach 2A, and the three Mach 2 prototypes were left with Kar Kraft for disposal.

[umlewis]

lewis hamilton is interviewed on media day, singapore - september 19, 2024 (transcript under the cut)

Interviewer: "Lewis, Baku wasn't the first time that you've had a great Friday, things start off really well, and then it's taken a turn on that Friday night into Saturday. Can you pinpoint why that's happening, and how you stop that from happening?" Lewis: "There's loads of different reasons. In the past, or earlier in the year, it's been through making changes, like relatively big changes. So changing the mechanical balance between high- and low-speed, for example, by a good chunk, or you do big camber set-up changes, or you do just a ride… Like you change the rear suspension or the front suspension heave unit, for example. The last race, I loved the car. I was like, 'Don't change too much.' The really, really small changes that I made, but one of the components, as I said before, we did completely opposite what it was supposed to do and we didn't find out 'til the end of the day. So that day we're then trying to, like… I got in the car on Saturday morning and I was like, 'I've got massive understeer, this doesn't feel normal,' and they're like, 'Yeah, the car should be fine. We've set it up normally.' It's not 'til the end of the day you find out it's not the case." [time jump] Lewis: "I think these past couple of days, having to reflect on last weekend… 'Cause it started off so positive. I was at the factory and doing the sim, which I don't do a lot, preparing; arrived, and first lap I was on it from the moment, and then all of a sudden it just slipped through our fingers and it was miserable the rest of the weekend. And you can put it down to so many different things, I think, but we all care so much. Everyone's working so, so hard. So I think moreso is coming into this weekend and we're just gonna give it absolutely everything. Whether it goes well or not, it is what it is. We're in that period of time, I think, of the season where we've just gotta give absolutely everything, and if it doesn't go well, just… Not necessarily not giving a thing, but not letting it beat us down and just trying to stay positive. And we've got seven more shots at it, so we're gonna bowl our hardest."