TiDbiD #6
What is Skid Angle???
Skid angle is the angle of the suspension pin and how the pin inclines between the front and rear suspension blocks.
When the front and rear suspension block is the same height, there is no skid angle.
When the front suspension block is higher than rear, and the suspension pin inclines down towards the rear suspension block, is called "positive skid".
When the front suspension block is lower than the rear, and the suspension pin inclines up towards the rear suspension block, is called "negative skid".
So what does that mean???
Adjusting the skid angle can have significant effect on how the chassis handles, both in front and rear.
Applying "positive skid" in the FRONT suspension will reduce front grip and promote understeer. It is rare to set the front at "negative skid" in RWD RC Drifting.
Applying "negative skid" in the REAR suspension will promote more squat and forward push.
How do you adjust Skid Angle?
Each RC brand makes spacers to slide under the suspension blocks. These will allow you to adjust the skid angle without completely removing the suspension blocks. I actually use 3x8mm spacers as I had them on hand. Extreme setting is not very practical. I have seen some adding up to 5mm spacers in the RR suspension blocks. 1-3mm is probably a practical range. Note that raising the suspension blocks will change the roll center, and also how the lower arms sit, so will require overall alignment tuning depending on your setup.
Happy Drifting!
February 26, 2019
Charlotte NC