Starting From
The Rules
A good way
to start your first race car is to build from a set of rules.
While the rules won't tell you the best supplier of a part, they will
simplify the variables of your design by specifying certain part models
be used. Where you find the parts is your business.
In sanctioned classes
where a great many properties of the car design are specified in the
rules, it is easier and cheaper to obtain parts because manufacturers
are usually specified in the rules. Looser rule books usually mean the
freedom to explore more exotic materials and systems, a more costly
proposition.
Incorporating Rules
Into The Design Process
Assuming you pick
the class which suits your ability, you will want to make sure your
design complies with the rules. For the rules-based designer, every
component or part must be checked for compliance. This is not as difficult
as it sounds (except in engine and drivetrain).
The first place
to start is by sketching out the approximate shape, in scale, of the
car you intend to build (and try to follow the lead of winners in your
intended class). Having diagrams of the engine and other components
you intend to use is also helpful. Once the sketch is satisfactory,
make copies of it so that you can annotate the (usually) many rules
on them. Attach to the annotated sketch, a list of any rules which may
be important but not visually drawn. All together, this will give you
a picture of what you can and can't do in particular areas.
As you design, refer
to the sketches and lists to guide decision making. When you have found
the right part, mark it, so that it is known that the rule has been
adheared to. And when re-selecting parts, always review the rules relating
to them. Annotate
any ideas which are grey areas. In the future it may be wise to get
them cleared with the sanctioning body.
One last comment,
is that you should verify the rules aren't going to change drastically,
before designing anything. There is no reason for not contacting the
sanctioning body before beginning work.
Move
on to "Starting From Scratch..." >>
