Computer Modeling

If someone is serious about building a drag racing car, we always ask if they are currently using any type of performance analysis software. One program that we have found to be beyond excellent is the DRAG Racing Analyzer V3.0 from Performance Trends Inc. (retail $79.95). By inputting the vehicle’s data, this program can accurately predict which changes will and which changes will not help you go quicker and faster in the quarter mile. The program will allow the user to input a 10- point power curve along with transmission, clutch, weight, driveline, wheel and driving technique data. If you already have dyno information on your engine, this program can help you get the gearing dead-on-right the first time. It can also help you to establish at exactly what rpm you should be shifting from each gear to maximize your vehicle’s performance. With our own Project GT-R at its current output, the Analyzer predicts that we’ll be two tenths (.2) seconds quicker with the OS Giken Type-G gear set and a swap to a 4.60- to-1 final drive ratio. The analyzer also predicts a 10.44 elapsed time for our combination if we can manage a 1.60-second 60-foot time.

So much to do, so little time

One plan that fell through for this installment was to put our GT-R back on the Dynojet and compare the power graphs from when we had the larger P18 turbine housings on the vehicle. However, breaking the transmission at Palmdale did not allow us to keep that on the schedule. Next installment, we plan to play a little catch up and complete that round of dyno testing for an apples-to- apples comparison. Stay tuned.