>
>For what it is worth, DaimlerChrysler is experimenting on Forging Titanium
>Piston Rods vs Forged Steel for the Dodge Viper. They believe the weight
>saving will provide improved performance and a higher CAFE miles per gallon
>rating. Saving weight in a rotating object, reduces energy required to
>overcome the initial inertia. That is why lighter flywheels and wheels are
>desired.
I was talking to Lou Mondello about this, not long ago. He showed me a
flywheel from a 2000 he was re-building. He'd scooped out a substantial
amount of metal, to reduce weight. More than a kilogram IIRC. Also, he'd
subjected the crankshaft to a similar treatment on the lathe, taking about
the top third off those counterweights. Again, a substantial weight saving,
which not only makes the engine lighter, but allows it to spin quicker too.
Always nice to get to that HP quicker!
Steve
(68 2000 Solex)
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