Wednesday , 13 November 2024

RC Suspension Tuning Guide – Ackermann

RC Tuning - Ackermann

What is Ackermann?
Ackermann is the angle of the inside tire in relation to the outside tire when the wheels are turned completely to either the left or the right.

In a tight turn, where the wheels are turned to full ‘lock’ (either to the left or right), the inside wheel is turning at a sharper angle than the outside wheel, allowing the inside wheel to follow a smaller radius than the outside wheel. This is called the ‘Ackermann Effect’.

If both the wheels were turning the same amount, the inside wheel would scrub (effectively sliding sideways) and lessen the effectiveness of the steering. This tire scrubbing, which also creates unwanted heat and wear in the tire, can be eliminated by adding more Ackermann.

See also: Toe In/Toe Out

Tuning with Ackermann
Less Ackermann
• More aggressive steering
• More on-power steering
• More difficult to drive

More Ackermann
• Less aggressive steering
• More off-power steering
• Easier to drive

Back to the RC Suspension Tuning Guide.

About Tony Phalen

Tony Phalen - As an avid RC enthusiast, Tony has been building, bashing and racing RC Cars for over 30 years. He has participated in every kind of surface racing events - 1/18 scale trucks, 1/10 scale TC, Rock Racers, Rally - if it had wheels, he's raced it! He's also worked on both sides of the industry fence; collaborating with many major manufacturers (as well as being a sponsored driver) to working for a high-profile industry magazine. During this time he has learned many tricks, tips and techniques and is sharing that knowledge on CompetitionX - the most informative RC website on the internet!

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