Re: Junior Dragster questions

[RichSJ@aol.com]

Hi to all,

Bill Dube' wrote:

> There are several reasons why a high-quality controller makes the car more
> consistent than contactors or a cheesy controller. Typically, the
> components have a larger design margin so they run cooler and more
> consistently from run to run. A high-quality controller will allow you to
> accurately and repeatably set the input and output limits. Thus, you can
> dial in the car to the track conditions and the battery pack capabilities.
> A high-quality controller will allow a very consistent launch ramp-up. A
> cheesy controller will not have the features and firmware to allow you to
> win bracket races. 
>
> Contactors will put you out in the first round of eliminations. The car
> will go fast with contactors, but will be all over the map in terms of ET.

You're right in most of your approach and theory.  But, blanket statements 
like above always have exceptions in good engineering. I was most consistent 
racing the Dualin'7 when I used contactors only. 15.63 and 15.61 at 
Sacramento in October. I could do 15.6XX all day long on contactors ONLY!  
Here's why...direct drive, no shifting necessary, huge battery pack (too big 
for low ETs).  I will bracket race you anytime using contactors.  You might 
win, but only because of reaction time not because my ETs aren't consistent.

I think contactors for an all out, 1/8 mile machine will work great and keep 
costs down.  Yes, Bill, I'd rather have a 'Zilla for racing, but for a jr 
dragster I think I'd use contactors for the sake of cost and showing the 
gassers what can be done with little money.  Yes, I'd engineer it so I could 
beat the pants off them!

Rich Brown
San Jose
Dualin'7  NEDRA SC/D and SC/E class record holder