This is something which is probably of more interest to the dragracer, but, since Jaguar used this on their
early C-Types, I would urge those who are running a RWD beam axle car on road courses to consider this information.
This is an asymmetric trailing 3 link arrangement which, during forward acceleration, completely cancels
driveshaft torque, thereby providing equal rear tire loading for maximum acceleration. There are 2 symmetrically situated
links and a third "odd" link which is offset from the car's centerline (to the right).
While, with such an arrangement, it is not absolutely necessary to have 100% anti-squat, I have included
it in the derivation. I believe this is desirable to ensure equal tire loading. This is particularly important if space limitations
limit the link lengths.
Jaguar placed the odd link above the axle, but it can be either above or below. When placed below, the
situation becomes more favorable with a "tubbed" car. The drawback is that the single lower link is carrying a very large
compressive load. Care should be taken to use tubing with sufficient wall thickness and diameter for safety.
The rear axle assembly is assumed to weigh 250 pounds. While this might not be exactly correct for your
car, the error...in terms of geometry...is most likely negligible.[Modified June 9, 2006 to allow user to input rear axle
assembly weight.]
The symmetrical links can be either parallel to the long axis of the car or converging. If parallel to
the long axis of the car, they should be parallel to the road surface if roll steer and brake hop problems are to be minimized.
If they converge, the point of convergence should be at the same height as the height of the Panhard as it crosses the midpoint
of the car.
