Jimmy Johnson's rear suspension design

[ccracin]

Hi Guys,
I am fairly new to the site, but I was hoping to throw in a few comments. A very similar configuration to this has been used in circle track racing for years. More specifically short tracks, dirt and asphalt. In the circle track configuration there is normaly only 1 leaf on each side that is cut off just behind the rearend housing perch. Then the upper links are mounted as shown above, only either a panhard bar or watts link is added. The main goal was to try and eliminate the shock to the tires when the throttle is hit coming out of the corners. This is accomplished by the axle wrap that the leaf spring allows. As the system of spring and rubber loaded third bars in a three link were developed these configurations started to disappear. On several asphalt tracks lately with rules that do not allow spring or sliding links this setup has been brought back. It works well although it takes some trial and error to get the correct spring rate. Oh and 1 last point most guys use spherical bushings in the front mount of the leaf to reduce roll bind. It works well considering dirt cars will sometimes have +- 5" of travel from side to side. Anyway just something I thought you all would be interested in.

Chad

[Payton King]

Car is gong to paint today and should be driveable by Jan. I guess we will find out how well it works