20/11/2024
ISLAND MAGIC – TYRE ADVICE
Only a few days until 30 cars hit the circuit for the annual Island Magic. Competitors will be aware of some tyre issues at Phillip Island since it was resurfaced. These issues have affected all types of tyres. Our friends at Tyre & Suspension have some advice – particularly for the heavier and higher horsepower cars.
Setup Checklist:
1. Camber Settings:
o Target negative camber: 3 ¾ to 4 degrees.
o Maximum allowed camber: 4 ¼ degrees.
o This range should give you good contact patch optimization while minimising uneven wear during the bedding process.
2. Initial Tyre Pressure:
o Don't leave the pits with less than 23 psi cold.
o Expect tyre pressure to increase as the tires warm up, potentially rising by 5 to 8 psi during the bedding-in cycle. Monitor this closely after each session.
Bedding-in Procedure:
1. Warm-up Phase:
o First 1-3 laps (after out lap): Start with gentle acceleration and braking (straight line only). Progressively going quicker (70% -80%-90%). Focus on warming up the tyres without pushing them hard and leaning on them. The aim is to gradually bring the tyre temperature up to operating levels. After three laps back off and give the tyres a recovery lap. If you wish, do a couple more laps around 80 % and then back off and do another recovery lap.
o Check Temperatures: After initial warm-up, do a quick check of tyre surface temperatures to ensure even heat distribution.
2. Avoid sudden or aggressive inputs, especially hard braking or sharp steering, to prevent flat spots and premature wear.
3. Focus on smooth corner entries and exits to let the tyres naturally scuff off the release agent.
4. Temperature Checks: Ideally, use a tyre pyrometer to check temperatures across the tread width to ensure even heat distribution. Aim for a 10-15°c spread from inner to outer edge.
