What is Camber?
Camber refers to the angle of your wheels as viewed from the front of the car.
* Positive camber: The top of the wheel is tilted outwards (away from the car).
* Negative camber: The top of the wheel is tilted inwards (towards the car).
* Zero camber: The wheel is perfectly vertical.
Why Adjust Camber?
Adjusting camber can improve:
* Handling: Proper camber helps the tires grip the road better in corners, improving cornering stability and reducing understeer or oversteer.
* Tire wear: Optimal camber helps distribute tire wear evenly across the tread.
* Performance: It can enhance your car's overall performance on the track or in high-performance driving situations.
What is a Camber Plate?
A camber plate is a metal plate that replaces the stock top mount on a strut or coilover. It has adjustable mounting holes or slots that allow you to change the angle of the strut or coilover, thereby altering the camber angle of the wheel.
How Does it Work?
By loosening the bolts on the camber plate and repositioning the strut, you can change the camber angle. This allows for precise adjustments to suit your needs and driving style.
Benefits of Camber Plates:
* Adjustability: Provides fine-tuning of camber angles for optimal performance.
* Improved handling: Helps optimize tire contact patch and grip for better cornering.
* Enhanced performance: Contributes to better overall handling and driving dynamics.
* Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
When to Use Camber Plates:
* Track driving: Essential for achieving optimal cornering performance.
* High-performance driving: Can enhance handling and tire wear in aggressive driving situations.
* Lowered vehicles: Lowering the car often changes the camber angle, making camber plates necessary to regain optimal alignment.
Important Notes:
* Camber plates should be installed by a qualified mechanic.
* Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and adjustment.
* Excessive camber adjustments can negatively affect tire wear and handling.
In Summary: Camber plates offer a way to adjust your car's camber angle, improving handling, tire wear, and overall performance, especially for track driving and lowered vehicles.