Springs and Multipliers 1

Posted - 6/30/2010 : 6:15:44 PM

I was able to sit down this evening and turn some laps with the newest HDV and suspension files. Initially, the car just didn't want to turn at all. After doing some troubleshooting, I got it running.

As stated in previous posts, in rFactor the pushrods act as both the spring and the shock. In the upgrades INI file, which basically overrides the HDV settings on a per track basis, the spring multipliers were set too high (varied from 1.05 to 1.85). Months ago I was doing previous experimentation to better match real spring settings which is why those numbers were there. By running a 1.0 spring multiplier (that is, spring physics effects are 1 to 1 to their real life counterparts), the springs now act as they should.

For the next version, ride heights will be incredibly important to watch. I intend to lower the front springs back down to better reflect reality, however....and this a big however.....you cannot ignore bump stops any more. They will be VERY important in determining your ride heights beyond actually just setting the Ride Height in the setup screen. For example:

At 400 lb front springs, our current base limit, I had to run AT LEAST 2 inch bump stops on the LF and RF while testing at Michigan.

Keep in mind that the undertray points still need to be fine tuned after suspension work is completed, but the above will still remain true.

Just something to keep in mind for the future!