The Car
The mini-sprint shares overall dimensions that are similar if not identical to a full-size midget. Mini-sprints have a wheelbase that is between 66 inches (1,700 mm) and 74 inches (1,900 mm). In fact many competitors are actually making use of old midget chassis. Mini-sprints are exclusively front-engined cars that have their engines located near the middle of the chassis. The maximum offset from the centerline of the chassis is 6 inches (150 mm). (this is opposed to modified midgets or super-lites that have their engine located radically offset to the left). Mini-sprints also share suspensions that are identical to sprints and midgets. The most popular chassis is the four bar. This is a suspension system that makes use of 4 torsion bars (2 front / 2 rear) that utilize torsion arms and shocks to regulate suspension travel.
However, there are a growing number of cars that utilize a torsion bar rear set-up with a coil-over front set-up. This means the rear of the car utilizes a torsion bar system that is identical to the 4 bar set-up, while the front-end uses shocks with coil springs. Mini-sprints utilize a solid, live rear axle that is positioned in the chassis by a Jacobs Ladder or panard bar. Unlike the midget or the sprint car, the final drive on a mini-sprint is a roller chain. This is one of the keys to keeping the cost of this form of racing down. A chain drive system might cost around $300, whereas a quick-change rear end like those used on sprints and midgets cost upwards of $2,000. Gearing on a mini-sprint is determined by changing either the front or rear sprocket or a combination of both. Mini-sprints make use of 13-inch wheels and tires that are identical to those found on midgets. Most mini-sprints make use of a steering box, however a few manufacturers are utilizing steering racks. Mini sprints carry their fuel in the rear of the car in tanks that vary from 5 to 19 US gallons. They have roll cages that are constructed of at least 1 1⁄4-inch, .095 wall Chromoly tubing. Many organizations are now requiring thicker tubing.
Read more about this topic: Mini Sprint
Famous quotes related to the car:
“Ah! on Thanksgiving day, when from East and from West,
From North and from South, come the pilgrim and guest,
When the gray-haired New Englander sees round his board
The old broken links of affection restored,
When the care-wearied man seeks his mother once more,
And the worn matron smiles where the girl smiled before.
What moistens the lip and what brightens the eye?
What calls back the past, like the rich Pumpkin pie?”
—John Greenleaf Whittier (1807–1892)