WIDE-5 Digit Rotary Cam & Bump Steer Gauge

Wide 5 Digital Spring Travel and Bump Steer Gauge

This precision measuring tool ensures the highest level of setup accuracy for fine-tuning the suspension of race cars. It is specifically designed for the digital, high-resolution measurement of critical parameters of the suspension geometry – ride height travel and bump steer. This tool is indispensable for every engineer and mechanic seeking maximum performance and predictability on the racetrack.

Compared to traditional, analog measuring tools, this digital system offers unparalleled accuracy and easy readability, minimizing the possibility of human error during adjustments.

Key Features and Advantages

This gauge combines the most modern technology with a robust, race-track compatible design.

• High Precision Digital Readout: The built-in digital display provides extremely accurate measurements, eliminating errors originating from optical reading.
• Diversified Operating Modes: Capable of measuring both spring travel variation and the bump steer phenomenon, allowing two critical suspension parameters to be checked with a single tool.
• Robust Construction: Designed to withstand harsh workshop environments and frequent transportation.
• Simple Operation: Intuitive interface that allows for quick and efficient adjustment in the tight schedule of race days.
• Compatibility: Wide compatibility with various suspension configurations, especially optimized for systems equipped with Wide 5 hubs (although the measurement principle can also be applied to other systems).

Technical Specifications

Precise technical data is essential for accurate measurement. The table below summarizes the most important parameters of the Wide 5 Digital Ride Height and Bump Steer Gauge:

The Significance of Bump Steer Measurement

Bump steer (or tie rod vertical deflection) is one of the most critical, yet often neglected, setup parameters in the chassis. When the wheel moves vertically (e.g., passing over a bump), the length of the tie rod and the motion of the control arm can cause the wheel to turn slightly inward or outward.

• Positive Bump Steer: The wheel turns outward during compression.
• Negative Bump Steer: The wheel turns inward during compression.

The goal is generally to zero bump steer achieve over the full travel range, or at least a very tightly controlled, small amount of change that suits the track's characteristics. This digital measuring tool allows installers to check the height and angle of the tie rod mounting points with millimeter precision as a function of the control arm's motion.

The Role of Ride Height Measurement

Ride height measurement is fundamentally important for optimizing spring preload and shock absorber adjustments. Precise travel data ensures that the vehicle remains at the designed height and within the optimal operating range of the shock absorber.

This digital device allows installers to:

1. Static Measurement: Precisely determine the vehicle height under different load conditions (e.g., empty, with fuel, with driver).
2. Dynamic Measurement: Monitor the vertical movement of the wheel during the compression and rebound phases of the shock absorber.

The digital readout guarantees that measurements are repeatable, which is essential for iteratively fine-tuning adjustments.

Application Areas

This measuring tool is an ideal choice for the following categories:

• Dirt Track Racing: Where precise adjustment of the suspension is essential due to varying traction and high-speed unevenness.
• Asphalt Race Cars: Any series where the suspension geometry is key to performance (e.g., NASCAR, Late Model, Sprint Car).
• Prototypes and Custom Builds: For vehicles where factory data is unavailable, and every adjustment must be determined from scratch.

The Wide 5 Digital Travel and Bump Steer Gauge is not just a measuring device; it is a precision instrument that provides absolute control over suspension parameters directly affecting race performance. Digital technology guarantees that adjustments meet the highest engineering standards.