Expert: Dan Liddy - 10/12/2007

Question
I have a 1996 dodge neon which races on a 1/8 mile paved oval. Many people i talk to say that the coil springs on the left side and RR should be softened by a torch so that the spring is almost compressed. They say that this stops the car for rolling in the corner. Is that the right thing to do. If not then what is. Also I recently installed a a front and rear sway bar, but i have yet to drive it since what should I expect, and what kind of changes should be made? THANKS

Answer
OK Read my first answer carefully, and do NOT take a torch to any springs. Eventually you may want to shorten them by cutting a coil or two off them (with a rotary cutting wheel NOT with a torch) .  Your anti roll bars (sway bars) will stop a lot of the roll.  To save weight you might try using one on the back only for a few laps, see what it feels like. That will leave the front soft enough to offer a bit more grip. Always take notes. Every time you change something , write down lap times, and driver comments before changing anything else.

Torching springs is caveman stuff, belongs in the 1950's .

Again, good luck

Dan Liddy