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 containing the word car:
“The reason American cars don’t sell anymore is that they have forgotten how to design the American Dream. What does it matter if you buy a car today or six months from now, because cars are not beautiful. That’s why the American auto industry is in trouble: no design, no desire.”
—Karl Lagerfeld (b. 1938)
“One way to do it might be by making the scenery penetrate the automobile. A polished black sedan was a good subject, especially if parked at the intersection of a tree-bordered street and one of those heavyish spring skies whose bloated gray clouds and amoeba-shaped blotches of blue seem more physical than the reticent elms and effusive pavement. Now break the body of the car into separate curves and panels; then put it together in terms of reflections.”
—Vladimir Nabokov (1899–1977)