Achieving a greater steering angle is crucial for mastering the art of drifting. The ability to turn the front wheels to a more extreme angle allows for more dramatic drifts, better control, and improved recovery from high-angle slides. This blog will delve into the various methods and modifications you can employ to increase the steering angle of your drift car, helping you elevate your drifting performance to new heights.
Understanding Steering Angle
Steering angle refers to the maximum angle at which the front wheels can turn. In drifting, a greater steering angle enables the car to maintain a controlled slide at higher angles, making it easier to manage and recover from extreme drifts. Stock steering setups typically offer limited angles, so modifications are necessary to achieve the desired performance for competitive drifting.
Key Modifications to Increase Steering Angle
1. Angle Kits
Angle kits are comprehensive solutions designed to significantly increase steering angle. These kits typically include modified knuckles, extended tie rods, and other components that enhance the car's steering geometry.
- E36 Angle Kit: For BMW E36 models, an angle kit can dramatically increase steering angle, allowing for deeper and more controlled drifts.
- E46 Angle Kit: Similar to the E36, the E46 angle kit is designed to improve steering response and angle, making it a popular choice among drifters.
- 350Z Angle Kit: Nissan 350Z owners can benefit from angle kits that provide increased steering angle and improved suspension geometry, crucial for maintaining control during high-angle drifts.
2. Modified Knuckles
Upgrading to performance knuckles, such as E36 knuckles or C6 drift knuckles, can significantly enhance steering angle. Modified knuckles change the pivot points and leverage, allowing for greater wheel articulation.
- Installation Tips: Ensure that the installation of modified knuckles is precise, as incorrect installation can lead to alignment issues and poor handling.
3. Extended Tie Rods
Extended tie rods are essential for accommodating the increased range of motion provided by angle kits and modified knuckles. These components ensure that the steering rack can fully utilize the increased angle without binding or overextending.
- Adjustability: Look for tie rods with adjustable lengths to fine-tune the steering response and ensure proper alignment.
4. Steering Rack Modifications
Altering the steering rack's position or replacing it with a quicker ratio rack can enhance steering response and angle. This modification is more complex and often requires professional installation.
- Quick Ratio Racks: A quicker ratio steering rack reduces the number of turns lock-to-lock, making steering inputs more responsive and direct.
5. Lower Control Arms
Upgraded lower control arms, such as BMW lower control arms, can provide additional clearance and adjustability, facilitating greater steering angles.
- E30 Control Arms: Reinforced and adjustable control arms for the BMW E30 can help achieve the desired alignment and steering angle.
6. Bushings and Bearings
High-quality bushings and bearings, like E46 subframe bushings and E36 subframe bushings, reduce flex and improve precision, allowing for more consistent and controlled steering.
- Subframe Bushings: Upgrading to stiffer subframe bushings enhances the stability of the rear suspension, which can indirectly affect the front steering precision.
Practical Considerations
1. Alignment
Proper alignment is crucial after making modifications to increase steering angle. Ensure that toe, camber, and caster settings are optimized for drifting to prevent uneven tire wear and maintain handling performance.
- Toe Settings: Adjust toe settings to balance initial turn-in response and stability during drifts. Toe-out on the front wheels can improve turn-in, while toe-in on the rear can enhance stability.
2. Suspension Setup
A well-tuned suspension setup complements the increased steering angle, improving overall handling and control.
- Camber Plates: Installing adjustable camber plates, like BMW camber plates, allows for precise camber adjustments to optimize tire contact and grip.
- Control Arms: Ensuring that all control arms are properly aligned and adjusted is essential for maintaining suspension geometry.
3. Practice and Adjustment
Maximizing the benefits of increased steering angle requires practice and fine-tuning. Spend time on the track experimenting with different settings to find the optimal configuration for your driving style.
- Incremental Adjustments: Make small, incremental adjustments to steering and suspension settings, and test each change to understand its impact on handling and drift performance.
Conclusion
Increasing the steering angle of your drift car is a multifaceted process involving various modifications and careful tuning. By upgrading to angle kits, modified knuckles, extended tie rods, and optimizing alignment and suspension settings, you can achieve greater steering angles and elevate your drifting capabilities. Remember, the key to mastering these modifications lies in continuous practice and fine-tuning, allowing you to harness the full potential of your drift car on the track.
