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 13 This is how the system...  13 This is how the system looks all bolted together. The CalTracs appear tough, and will definitely allow us to better tune the suspension of our Barracuda. As an added benefit, this system eliminates the need for a pinion snubber.  14 Using a digital angle...  14 Using a digital angle finder, we checked pinion angle and...  15 ...adjusted it to four...  15 ...adjusted it to four degrees using tapered shims under the rear end housing perches.  16 To set suspension preload,...  16 To set suspension preload, we lowered the car onto wheel scales with weight equivalent to the driver in the driver's seat. The force transfer links are then adjusted until the bushing touches the top of the spring, then preloaded ¼ turn based on Calvert's instructions.  17 After writing down the...  17 After writing down the scale numbers for future reference, we had the guys from Inline Performance Specialist check the front end alignment. For CalTracs to work properly, the front end needs at least 5 inches of travel, so it's very important that the front end stay properly aligned throughout that range.  18 At the track, we made...  18 At the track, we made a couple of easy passes to break in our fresh engine, then let the hammer drop. We could tell immediately that the car wanted to hook, but it went a little right and hazed the tires through the top end of the eighth mile to a 6.30 second elapsed time.  19 Since the car went right,...  19 Since the car went right, it means the right tire was spinning. By putting another quarter turn of preload in the force transfer link, the car launched hard and went straight, but still spun down-track.  20 By varying launch rpm...  20 By varying launch rpm and tire pressure, we achieved a best pass by leaving the starting line at a relatively low 3,000 rpm on the trans-brake, with rear tire pressure set at 10.5 psi.  21 While we're confident...  21 While we're confident new rear tires will improve our sixty foot and elapsed times, we were very happy with our performance on the first night out. The CalTracs helped us achieve our best sixty foot time of 1.37 seconds while running a 6.10 at over 116 mph in the eighth mile. To see video of us drag testing this suspension system, be sure to visit mopar musclemagazine.com.
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