To keep dirt out of the engine, use an inline fuel filter on the
fuel line running from the fuel tank to the carburetor. Dirt can
get caught in the needle seat and cause an inconsistent
running engine. If you suspect that some dirt has lodged
itself in the carb, remove the needles and clean the carb
with denatured alcohol or fuel. It can help to use compressed
air to blow out the fuel passages as well. Dirt can get into
your carburetor and engine through the air filter. Ensure that
your air cleaner has a good seal to the top of the carb.
Periodically wash the air cleaner foam element and re-oil
the filter. Any air cleaner that has a torn element or a bad
seal should be replaced immediately.
Overheating
One of the worst things you can do to your engine is
overheat it. The oils that lubricate the engine are carried in
the fuel. If your engine is set too lean, there will not be
enough oil in the engine to lubricate the internal parts. This
will cause premature wear in the engine and cause damage.
Toe-In/Toe-Out: This refers to the angle of the front tires
when viewed from above when the suspension arms are
level. If the fronts of the tires angle in, it is called “toe-in” and
if the fronts of the tires angle out, it is called “toe-out.” This
is adjusted by lengthening or shortening the steering rods -
the rods that run between the front hub and the servo saver.
Normally a small amount of toe-in is used to make the
touring car track straight at high speed. Too much toe-in will
make the touring car difficult to turn as well as reduce the
overall top speed because of tire scrub. Sometimes a small
amount of toe-out will be used to help the steering. As a
general rule use a small amount of toe-in, typically 1° – 2°.
Camber: Camber is the angle of the tops of the tires when
viewed from the front. Negative camber is when the tops of
the tires are angled towards the center of the touring car.
Positive camber is where the tops of the tires are angled away
from the center of the touring car. Positive camber is very
rarely used, if ever. A small amount of rear negative camber
is helpful to increase traction in the rear. Negative camber at
the front will increase stability. Camber adjustments can be
made on the Street Force GP2 by turning the “camber rods,”
which are the upper links on the suspension. Lengthening the
camber rod will add positive camber and shortening the
camber rod will add negative camber.
Shocks: Changes in shock oils, springs, and pre-load on the
springs can dramatically change the way the car handles. A
thicker shock oil will make the touring car turn faster but
reduces overall traction and handling over bumpy surfaces.
Thinner oil will increase traction at the expense of steering
response and the car will tend to roll more. You should
experiment some to see what oils work best for your track
and driving style. Shock springs affect the rate that the
suspension rebounds from a bump. Pre-load on the springs
means that the springs are already compressed some so
that the suspension will rebound faster. Sometimes you will
want to pre-load one side when the track has turns all or
mostly in one direction, for instance an oval track. It will also
increase the ride height.
Before Each Run
•
Check for loosened screws on the touring car. Engine
vibration will loosen some of the screws, particularly in
the engine mount area. Use thread lock on screws that
thread into metal parts or use a metal nut.
•
Inspect the air cleaner for a torn or damaged element.
Also look for dirt in the air cleaner element and wash it
if necessary.
•
Check the suspension and drive train for binding.
•
Inspect all of the wires for damage. Also check the
connectors to make sure all of them are tight and in the
proper place.
•
Check the fuel tank and fuel lines for leaks.
•
Before starting the engine, turn on the radio and make
sure the servos move easily and in the right direction.
•
Before running always check the condition of your radio
system batteries and replace/recharge if necessary.
After Each Run
•
Drain the fuel tank of any leftover fuel. DO NOT return it
to your fuel jug.
•
Put some after-run oil in the carb and turn the flywheel
several times to work the oil into the engine. This will
protect the engine from rusting, especially when stored
for a long period of time.
•
Check again for loosened screws.
•
CLEAN the touring car. Wipe off any oils that have
collected on the chassis, engine end exhaust. Oils will
attract dirt on the next run.
MAINTENANCE TIPS
PERFORMANCE TUNING
13
