Chassis Progress 12/09

Since the last update, the chassis has been completed, with only small mounts left to be added. The finished chassis came together just after Christmas, then suspension and engine mounts were added. The complete frame weighed in at 30kg, with mounts, an decrease of 8kg over last year.
The process of welding the chassis continued, with a number of different jigs being used:

With the frame complete, the suspension mounts had to be added. These were set at angles specified by the suspension team and welded to the frame.

And then engine mounts.

The next stage for us is to paint the chassis once the final mounting points are on, and then assemble the car

Featured Image

Power Train

After the delays last year, caused by problems with the engine test bed set up and other problems, the powertrain team wanted to get underway as soon as possible.

The first task was to choose an engine for our formula student car. We had the options between an engine coming from the Yamaha R6 or a Honda CBR 600. We chose the Yamaha R6, mainly because the team last year used this, so we had experience to call upon if needed. They were also kind enough to leave a spare engine, so we would only have to buy one more. This also meant it was a far simpler task to connect everything on the test bed, with mounting plates etc, already being in position.

The Yamaha R6 engine is currently on the dynamometer, with fuel lines and electrics connected. Once the cooling system is linked up, we should be able to turn it over and start some initial testing.

Whilst this is underway, we are manufacturing the other engine parts, such as inlets and a plenum chamber. These are completely redesigned with the experience gained from last year’s team, and should help to increase performance even more.

Once these components are fitted, the real testing and mapping can begin, ready for a successful weekend at Silverstone in July.

Engine on the test bed