Our Chassis Designs

We currently offer two chassis design from which to build your options from, differentiated mainly by rear end geomtery.

Concept C7 - Jacobs Ladder

Concept C6 - Panhard

Jacobs Ladder and Panhard designs are both components of the rear suspension that serve similar functions but differ in their designs and applications. Here are the key differences between the two:

Jacobs Ladder (Concept C7)

1. Function: The Jacobs Ladder, serves a similar purpose to the Panhard bar in terms of lateral location of the rear axle. It also controls side-to-side movement but operates through a different mechanism.
2. Design: Unlike the Panhard bar, which is a straight rod connecting a "slider" to the LR birdcage, the Jacobs Ladder is a triangular-shaped linkage that connects the rear axle housing to the chassis. It is mounted in a way that it allows for vertical movement of the axle while restricting lateral movement.
3. Adjustability: The angle and mounting points of the Jacobs Ladder can be adjusted to change the rear roll center and the dynamic handling characteristics of the car. This adjustability affects how the rear suspension behaves under acceleration, braking, and cornering.

Panhard Bar (Concept C6)

1. Function: The Panhard bar  is primarily used to laterally locate the rear axle. It controls side-to-side movement of the axle as the suspension travels through its range.
2. Design: It consists of a rod that is mounted on the right side of the chassis via a slider tube to the left side of the chassis via a mounting point on the left rear birdcage.  This creates a lateral link that restricts the axle's movement to a single plane, effectively preventing side-to-side shifting.
3. Adjustability: The angle of the Panhard bar can be adjusted via the slider tube, which allows fine-tuning the handling characteristics of the car. These adjustments alter the rear roll center, affecting how the car rolls through corners.

The choice between a Jacobs Ladder and a Panhard design often comes down to individual preference, and the track conditions they expect to encounter. Each component offers unique advantages in tuning the handling characteristics of the car for optimal performance on different types of tracks and in various racing conditions. Both C7 and C6 designs are proven race-winning designs. Give us a call to discuss your specific needs.