Re: Autocrossing a 4000Q

[glen.powell@smc.com]

  I too found the stock 4000Q to feel like a heavy, ponderous,
  understeering pig on the autocross course. However, after much fiddling
  about with different 4000Q models, dampers, tires, tire pressures and
  differential-lock combinations, I've been able to dial-out that dreaded
  understeering behaviour and generally turn the pig into a very pleasant,
  fast, predictable, easy -to-toss-around, generally very forgiving and
  very highly competetive (in SCCA H Stock) autocrosser. It did take two
  4000Qs and several seasons to reach this high state of preparation and
  tune, but, it can be done and the results (a very long string of
  undefeated victories and the 1993 NER SCCA Championship) were very much
  worth the effort. However, I certainly can see how one might very well be
  discouraged with the 4000Q on the first go and/or without proper
  development and preparation.

  My present autocrosser, the '84 4000Q has no problem keeping up with
  ur-Qs on the race track at Lime Rock in CT. The ur-Qs will pull away
  quickly on the 1-mile straight, but by the time we all get back to the
  start of the straight through the twisties, the ol' 4000Q-from-hell was
  right back on their tails, big-as-life in ther rearviews! This is totally
  due to the fantastic handling that is possible when the 4000Qs are
  properly setup. Of course, these ur-Qs were not really prepared
  handling-wise or I'dah been dead meat. Another 4000Q that was there I was
  actually able to lap in less than 20 laps, also due to proper handling
  setup of the autocrossed-prepared car. (mebbe a little bit o' driving
  talent/insanity as well...... :)

  -glen


  -glen