Z - Link

[wally8]

OK, in the interest of adding some tech, here goes.



Is anyone familiar with a Z-link type rear suspension? Don't feel bad if you're not the fellas over at cc.com didn't know what it was either (except for one).

It's basically a Watts link type fore/aft location for the rear axle. There's a lower link that goes to the front of the car (usually on the bottom of the axle) and another link that goes to the rear of the car (from the top of the axle). They pivot on "birdcages" which are link mounts that pivot on the axle housing either by means of a bearing or just a bushing type fit. Here's a link: http://www.speedwaymotors.com/xq/asp...st_display.htm

What's the potential advantage? You can use short links for a packaging advantage and still get very good rear steer performance (better than anything else actually, it's a watts link remember).

A possible disadvantage is that you still need to control axle rotation either by using a top link (same one as you'd use for a 3 link. they're called pull bars in CT) or a torque arm (or lift bar as we call them in CT). A torque arm can be a good packaging solution with good performance.

Other problems: This can really only be used on a circle track style floater rearend. You must have a 3" axle tube and you have to be able to slide the birdcage onto the tube (no axle bearing retainers allowed). I don't see that as a down side since this would be the optimal rearend for a pro-touring app anyway and they're very competitive cost wise. You will take a bit of a weight penalty with the birdcages althought they are available in aluminum to save a little. The last possible disadvantage is that they aren't super cheap. However, it is still much cheaper than what I see other vendors' solutions going for.

If someone wants to volunteer their 1st gen I'd be glad to whip one up for you :-) Just drop it off in Iowa........

Let the discussion begin........


Wally