View Poll Results: What RPM's Do You Launch At?
3K to 3.5K
10
5.88%
3.5K to 4K
27
15.88%
4K to 4.5K
34
20.00%
4.5K to 5K
43
25.29%
5K to 6K
45
26.47%
6K to 7K
11
6.47%
Voters: 170. You may not vote on this poll
What RPM's Do You Launch At?
Evolving Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 200
Likes: 0
From: Chi-town burbs
Originally Posted by Warrtalon
Well, I've done a LOT of drag racing in my time, mostly with AWD turbos, so there is probably much I could say, but I think there is an underlying problem here that needs to be addressed: your MPH. In stock form, your car should get 101-103 mph. With those mods, good lord, you could do anywhere from 107-110. Yes, your 60' times are TERRIBLE, but the funny thing about 60' times is that they have a profound effect on your ET, but they barely affect your mph. You should still be hitting well over 100mph even with a terrible launch, and I would venture to say that even with a 2.1 60', you should still be getting 13s with no trouble. I see that you are dynoflashed, so all those mods should be tuned decently, but I'd be a bit concerned about how well that flash is working. If your clutch is "torched" and is slipping, then none of this really matters. If your clutch is grabbing fine in every gear through the 1/4, then I think you may need to get on a dyno and see what's up.
As for launching, I think the advice you got would have been fine, but you didn't execute. Don't worry about that, because it's VERY nerve-wracking when you're a newbie to the track, and it's even more difficult to launch an AWD car. Once you get more comfortable with both the 4-5k feathering technique and no longer get butterflies, I think you'll start to see that 60' time get down in the 1.8 range, which should be fine for you. With some skill and practice, you should get 1.7s consistently as long as your clutch/tires aren't worn.
As for launching, I think the advice you got would have been fine, but you didn't execute. Don't worry about that, because it's VERY nerve-wracking when you're a newbie to the track, and it's even more difficult to launch an AWD car. Once you get more comfortable with both the 4-5k feathering technique and no longer get butterflies, I think you'll start to see that 60' time get down in the 1.8 range, which should be fine for you. With some skill and practice, you should get 1.7s consistently as long as your clutch/tires aren't worn.
Last edited by Mr.MR; Apr 7, 2005 at 09:32 PM.
Evolving Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 200
Likes: 0
From: Chi-town burbs
Originally Posted by Warrtalon
Considering he said he spoke to a guy at the track who ran 13.6 in a stock EVO, I don't think altitude is the problem here.
The clutch is about a month and a half old and has about 1200 miles on it now. It's an ACT 2600 and it locks up very tight.
Could the car's weight have something to do with my slower times? I'm a svelt 270 lbs, so that's like adding 100 lbs to the car, no?
I bought the car about a month ago and the guy I got it from had just recently done the modifications. I have the receipts for most of the stuff, so I know it's a BR exhaust and ACT clutch. He told me he had Al dyno it recently when he was here in AZ a couple months ago, so I'm assuming everything is on the up and up, but I suppose I could get it up on the dyno to see what's going on.
I'll give it another go soon.
Could the car's weight have something to do with my slower times? I'm a svelt 270 lbs, so that's like adding 100 lbs to the car, no?
I bought the car about a month ago and the guy I got it from had just recently done the modifications. I have the receipts for most of the stuff, so I know it's a BR exhaust and ACT clutch. He told me he had Al dyno it recently when he was here in AZ a couple months ago, so I'm assuming everything is on the up and up, but I suppose I could get it up on the dyno to see what's going on.
I'll give it another go soon.
Evolving Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 200
Likes: 0
From: Chi-town burbs
Every 100lbs makes the car about a tenth slower and 1mph slower in the 1/4 mile. So I guess saying the average driver is 170lbs might explain 1/10 and 1mph. You should get it looked at to see what is going on in case the clutch is not set right and is not fully engaging or something.
Evolving Member
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
I would check with all to make sure it was tunned by him. Would be an easy part to "add" to a car you selling. "had tunned by dynoflash", to a normal dynoflash user its night and day, but to a new guy buying an evo its a selling point that might not be there. Not calling anyone out, but it never hurts to check.
Originally Posted by SP00LIN
The clutch is about a month and a half old and has about 1200 miles on it now. It's an ACT 2600 and it locks up very tight.
Could the car's weight have something to do with my slower times? I'm a svelt 270 lbs, so that's like adding 100 lbs to the car, no?
I bought the car about a month ago and the guy I got it from had just recently done the modifications. I have the receipts for most of the stuff, so I know it's a BR exhaust and ACT clutch. He told me he had Al dyno it recently when he was here in AZ a couple months ago, so I'm assuming everything is on the up and up, but I suppose I could get it up on the dyno to see what's going on.
I'll give it another go soon.
Could the car's weight have something to do with my slower times? I'm a svelt 270 lbs, so that's like adding 100 lbs to the car, no?
I bought the car about a month ago and the guy I got it from had just recently done the modifications. I have the receipts for most of the stuff, so I know it's a BR exhaust and ACT clutch. He told me he had Al dyno it recently when he was here in AZ a couple months ago, so I'm assuming everything is on the up and up, but I suppose I could get it up on the dyno to see what's going on.
I'll give it another go soon.
Then, you say you didn't install any of these mods, but bought it that way? Whoa nellie. I would DEFINITELY get it on a dyno or have someone look at it if you're near a speed shop or something. I don't know how to "test" or "check" a flash, but it sounds like something is majorly awry. I can't remember if someone asked about a boost leak, but it could be as simple as that, but overall it does sound like something is majorly hosed in the tuning department. I don't think your weight has anything to do with it. I'm 220-225, and I expect to hit 13-flat tomorrow in my first trip to the track (bone stock). If I am pulling 13.5s (slow) with good launches, then I'll let you know and recant my words.
Good luck Warrtalon. Let me know how you do.
I sent a PM to Al last night and asked if he keeps a record of the cars he tunes. I also provided the former owner's info and the old license plate.
I don't think there is any boost leakage. The gauge shows a strong 20 psi and it holds the pressure without fading.
Maybe everything is cool and I just haven't learned how to drive it effectively yet. I missed a shift on my first run, but I don't think it caused too much of a delay.
Here's a link to both of my runs and a couple pics of my car. Be patient, it takes a little while to load up.
http://www.bajarick.com/big10/copper...lbum=13&page=1
I sent a PM to Al last night and asked if he keeps a record of the cars he tunes. I also provided the former owner's info and the old license plate.
I don't think there is any boost leakage. The gauge shows a strong 20 psi and it holds the pressure without fading.
Maybe everything is cool and I just haven't learned how to drive it effectively yet. I missed a shift on my first run, but I don't think it caused too much of a delay.
Here's a link to both of my runs and a couple pics of my car. Be patient, it takes a little while to load up.
http://www.bajarick.com/big10/copper...lbum=13&page=1
Originally Posted by SP00LIN
Good luck Warrtalon. Let me know how you do.
Here's a link to both of my runs and a couple pics of my car. Be patient, it takes a little while to load up.
http://www.bajarick.com/big10/copper...lbum=13&page=1
Here's a link to both of my runs and a couple pics of my car. Be patient, it takes a little while to load up.
http://www.bajarick.com/big10/copper...lbum=13&page=1
As for the videos, what I see is 2 horrible launches (which you knew), and then I thikn I hear you having trouble with the 3-4. On the 14.07, it sounds like you miss 4th completely, but then get in gear on the 2nd try. In the 14.08 run, you hit 4th but it still sounded like it took a while as if you were doing it slowly. Interestingly, it looked like you lost to mustangs both times, but at least on the first one, you clipped the line almost immediately after he did despite the fact he was WAY ahead of you at the halfway mark. You basically should have not only gotten at least his time, but probably much better. Normally, we LOSE ground to RWD cars like that, but you made up ground on the top end, so I don't know what to say. You have some power there, but maybe it was just the driving. Go try again!
LOL - now you've got me all fired up to give it a go again tonight. You're right about the 3-4 shift on the first run. I just missed it, but quickly got it back into 4th. That first Mustang was a Cobra, but I don't know what year. He actually ran a 14.25 to my 14.07. His reaction time was .079 vs my .779 
- like I said, I need to work on the launching. Despite my slow run, I was still happy that I was able to run the Cobra down.
- like I said, I need to work on the launching. Despite my slow run, I was still happy that I was able to run the Cobra down.
Originally Posted by Warrtalon
In stock form, your car should get 101-103 mph. With those mods, good lord, you could do anywhere from 107-110. You should still be hitting well over 100mph even with a terrible launch, and I would venture to say that even with a 2.1 60', you should still be getting 13s with no trouble. Once you get more comfortable with both the 4-5k feathering technique and no longer get butterflies, I think you'll start to see that 60' time get down in the 1.8 range, which should be fine for you. With some skill and practice, you should get 1.7s consistently as long as your clutch/tires aren't worn.
Originally Posted by housedj
just for the record, my '03 ran 14.46 & 95 when i 1st ran the car & it was NOT my 1st time drag racing. Firebird's track really sucks & we also here in AZ are stuck with 91 octane so the cars here are pulling timing to adjust. Firebird's track is on average .5 seconds slower than any other track in a 500 mile radius from PHX, AZ. so in theory on any other track at the same speed he would be running 13.5's. on your side of the country, maybe even a lower 13 with the 93-94 octane you guys get & a track with better traction.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From: Your dreams...
I've had amazing results with my technique... seems a little wonky, but it works really well for me, and in my mind, it even makes sense... takes hella timing, but when you get it right.... big take-off, no bog, no burning clutch...
1.) Rev up to about 6k
2.) Wait until just before the green
3.) Let clutch out a little to put some load on the engine, brakes STILL COMPLETELY ON.
4.) See pretty green light just as you hear your turbo start to spool
5.) *Hit* gas and let clutch out quickly (not drop clutch, nor ease; just a fast let-go)
6.) Experience unique sensation of your cheeks touching your ears.
7.) Smirk in rear-view mirror.
Ok, maybe I'm having a little fun with the description, but you get the idea. Just don't overdo step #3 or you *will* smell burnt garbage.
1.) Rev up to about 6k
2.) Wait until just before the green
3.) Let clutch out a little to put some load on the engine, brakes STILL COMPLETELY ON.
4.) See pretty green light just as you hear your turbo start to spool
5.) *Hit* gas and let clutch out quickly (not drop clutch, nor ease; just a fast let-go)
6.) Experience unique sensation of your cheeks touching your ears.
7.) Smirk in rear-view mirror.
Ok, maybe I'm having a little fun with the description, but you get the idea. Just don't overdo step #3 or you *will* smell burnt garbage.
Originally Posted by Dutch
I've had amazing results with my technique... seems a little wonky, but it works really well for me, and in my mind, it even makes sense... takes hella timing, but when you get it right.... big take-off, no bog, no burning clutch...
1.) Rev up to about 6k
2.) Wait until just before the green
3.) Let clutch out a little to put some load on the engine, brakes STILL COMPLETELY ON.
4.) See pretty green light just as you hear your turbo start to spool
5.) *Hit* gas and let clutch out quickly (not drop clutch, nor ease; just a fast let-go)
6.) Experience unique sensation of your cheeks touching your ears.
7.) Smirk in rear-view mirror.
Ok, maybe I'm having a little fun with the description, but you get the idea. Just don't overdo step #3 or you *will* smell burnt garbage.
1.) Rev up to about 6k
2.) Wait until just before the green
3.) Let clutch out a little to put some load on the engine, brakes STILL COMPLETELY ON.
4.) See pretty green light just as you hear your turbo start to spool
5.) *Hit* gas and let clutch out quickly (not drop clutch, nor ease; just a fast let-go)
6.) Experience unique sensation of your cheeks touching your ears.
7.) Smirk in rear-view mirror.
Ok, maybe I'm having a little fun with the description, but you get the idea. Just don't overdo step #3 or you *will* smell burnt garbage.
The one thing I DON'T do is use my brakes. You said in #3 "brakes STILL COMPLETELY ON," but I can't say I've ever had to use my brakes while launching. You then never mentioned when to release the brake? I don't think I can brake while holding RPMs at 6k..
Originally Posted by Warrtalon
Sounds hard to believe, but you would definitely know better than I. I just have a hard time getting past the stock EVO that ran a 13.6 there as mentioned earlier in this thread...
as you see with all my mods on the '03 i could only muster a 13.09 @ 107.02. i feel that time sucks, but on a stock clutch & cams with 10500 miles it's decent i think. later that night my car stayed neck & neck with a new corvette C6 until about 125mph. there is always room for improvement OR winning lotto numbers to start our own drag teams...