g-force chassis types

[jbanks]

hi,
just a quick question about the g-force cobra's. I have ordered the mk1 chassis and was wondering if anybody knows anything about them, or how they compare to the mk2. i understand the mk2 is designed to handle a bigger engine/torque etc. but was wondering what everybodies recommendations were.

I was intending to use a 6ltr ls2 engine and not intending to drive it too hard etc do anything, but dont want to purposefully limit myself at this stage if moving up to the next chassis version would have tangible benefits.

does anybody know the specfics of how these chassis are different? how heavy are they? (i assume the mk2 would be heavier, but that would be counterbalences by increased rigidity and strength)
are there things i should look out for?

thanks

[Aussie Mike]

Others may disagree with me but I'd go with the stiffer chassis. The LS motors are very light which will balance out any extra weight in the chassis.

You have to remember the performance potential of these motors compared to the older standard 5.0 falcon motors usually used in MK1s. A hot windsor 5.0 will probably be making around 160-170KW at the rear wheels where a stock L76 will probably be making 220KW at the wheels. Over 300KW at the wheels is possible with just a change of cam and a good tune. The LS series motors are making big block power levels and probably need the chassis to match.

[jbanks]

thats what i was thinking. according to the website the mk1 is designed for the engines up to 6 ltrs, and the mk2 is for the 'big blocks', but when modern technology gives that big block power but is still only a small block engine, what would it hurt!
And until you know the realworld experiences of cobra builders you never know whats the best course of action.

[stephen low]

Jbanks

The Mk1's run a lightish gauge all steel tunnel but the Mk 2's have a ladder space frame to achieve greater rigidity for the big block torque.

Behind the cockpit I believe the chassis are much the same, though I'd still expect a bit more steel for the extra power available through the tyres.

I've only seen Mk2's in pictures not in the flesh so to speak.

Talk some more with Rob Graves and others. I'm sure Rod would up the anty on the chassis but I assume they are more expensive too!

Cheers

[Andrew429]

Hi Jbanks,

I have one of the Mk 2 kits.
There are a couple of differences compared with the Mk 1.
The most obvious is the cage around the motor and crossbracing along the length of the driveline tunnel. This replaces the steel tunnel that stephen is running, and is designed to put up with more torque.
The footwell has a steel front (I don't think the Mk 1 has this).
The Mk2 chassis should be heavier (it certainly looks that way).
If you plan on working the motor / giving it some stick, I would have a think about getting the bigger chassis.

Cheers

Andrew

[BigBlockRob]

I am pretty sure you will experience chassis torque twist in the mark1 with any decent HP power plant. they are essentially designed for small , small blocks. but your best bet is to talk to Mr Graves. He's pretty good with all the techo stuff.

[jbanks]

looks like mk2 it is then.

so would there be much/any advantage to get the front and rear sway bars if i went with a mark 2 do you think?

As a general approximation, how much improvement (handling etc) do you get when adding sway bars to a cobra? and conversely, at what point does having sway bars come into play when driving? is it mainly under strenuous situations?
I know i dont intend to drive in an aggressive manner, but i would like the best possible effect from the vehicle without artificially limiting its performance any recomendations would be appreciated.

[BigBlockRob]

sway bars will always make a difference. Talk to Rob Graves.