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The clutch paddles on F1 cars

Discussion in 'F1' started by zjpj, Jul 25, 2004.

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  1. zjpj

    zjpj F1 Veteran

    Nov 4, 2003
    6,124
    USA
    #1 zjpj, Jul 25, 2004
    This is a pretty basic question, but I am curious about the difference between these Formula 1 paddles and the "F1" transmission on road cars.

    Specifically, F1 steering wheels have up shift, down shift, AND clutch paddles. How do you use the clutch paddles?

    Also, (the German GP start begs the question for me), how do you stall an F1 car? Does it have something to do with the clutch paddles? I mean, I didn't think you could stall a 360 Modena with F1 trans - you just put it in gear and step on the gas.

    Thanks?
     
  2. ferrarifixer

    ferrarifixer F1 Veteran
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    Jul 22, 2003
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    Phil Hughes
    #2 ferrarifixer, Jul 25, 2004
    On the 1997 F310B that I am familiar with, the clutch paddles operate a potentiometer which in turn operates the clutch with direct link through hydraulics. There is no computer trickery involved on this car anyway.

    It's just like a motorbike really in the way it feels to operate.

    There are two paddles, one each side, purely for driver reach on full lock each way.

    Since '97 there have been many changes, and I'm not too sure how the launch and anti stall is operated exactly, I don't think anyone outside the team knows that kind of detail. Even the '97 car had dozens of functions removed for "customer" spec......
     
  3. Admiral Thrawn

    Admiral Thrawn F1 Rookie

    Jul 2, 2003
    3,932
    #3 Admiral Thrawn, Jul 25, 2004
    Really? I didn't know that. What kind of stuff?
     
  4. ferrarifixer

    ferrarifixer F1 Veteran
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    Jul 22, 2003
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    Phil Hughes
    #4 ferrarifixer, Jul 25, 2004
    Well it's hard to know...they weren't there!!

    But basically...most of the steering wheel functions were not used..things like diff, mapping, brakes, and whoever know what else.

    There were also literally scores of unused connectors around the car. Mostly data acquisition etc but electronic diff not there etc etc etc
     

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