1. What is Spring Rate?

Spring rate (K) is a measure of how stiff a spring is. It represents the amount of force required to compress or extend a spring by a certain distance. In RC vehicles, spring rate affects handling, stability, and suspension performance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the spring rate formula:

Where:

• \( K \) — Spring rate (N/mm)
• \( Load \) — Applied force (N)
• \( Deflection \) — Spring compression/extension (mm)

Explanation: The spring rate is simply the ratio of force applied to the resulting displacement of the spring.

3. Importance of Spring Rate Calculation

Details: Proper spring rate selection is crucial for optimal RC vehicle performance. It affects how the vehicle handles bumps, corners, and weight transfer during acceleration and braking.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the load in Newtons and deflection in millimeters. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the spring rate in N/mm.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical spring rate range for RC cars?
A: Most 1/10 scale RC cars use springs between 2-10 N/mm, depending on vehicle weight and intended use.

Q2: How does spring rate affect handling?
A: Stiffer springs reduce body roll but may make the ride harsher. Softer springs improve bump absorption but can lead to excessive body movement.

Q3: Should front and rear springs be the same rate?
A: Usually not. Most setups use slightly stiffer rear springs to control weight transfer during acceleration.

Q4: How does preload affect spring rate?
A: Preload doesn't change the spring rate, but it does change the initial position where the spring begins to compress.

Q5: When should I change my springs?
A: Consider changing springs when modifying vehicle weight, riding on different surfaces, or when you want to adjust handling characteristics.