Ameer Randolph
When it comes to drag racing, the placement of a fuel cell is a critical aspect that can impact both performance and safety. While some racers opt for mounting the fuel cell in the front of the car or under the hood, others prefer a rear-mounted setup. The choice of location depends on various factors, including the type of car, racing regulations, and personal preferences. In this discussion, we will delve into the considerations for fuel cell placement, exploring the advantages and challenges of different mounting locations, and providing insights into ensuring both optimal performance and safety on the drag strip.
Characteristics and Values Table
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel Cell Placement | Front of the car, under the hood, or rear |
| Fuel Cell Type | Small (2-3 gallon), large (10+ gallon), 5-gallon, 12-gallon, 16-gallon |
| Fuel Cell Material | Steel, aluminum, plastic |
| Mounting Requirements | Fuel cell straps, flat sheet metal floor, rear seat delete, firewall, sump, ground wire |
| Fuel Pump Placement | Passenger side, near the fuel cell, below the sump level |
| Fuel Pump Type | Electric, mechanical |
| Fuel Line Placement | Outside of the car, not inside the cockpit |
| Ventilation | Vent hole with rubber line and air filter |
| Safety | Fuel cell protection, fuel tank cap with pressure cap and vent, fuel spillage prevention |
| Installation | Pre-welded mounting tabs, fuel cell cage, cutting out spare tire well |
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What You'll Learn
Front-mounted fuel cells
When it comes to drag racing, the placement of a fuel cell is a highly debated topic. While some prefer a rear-mounted fuel cell, others opt for a front-mounted fuel cell. Here are some insights and considerations for choosing and installing a front-mounted fuel cell in a drag car:
Pros of Front-Mounted Fuel Cells:
- Cost-effectiveness: A front-mounted fuel cell can reduce the cost associated with braided lines, as you don't need as much line weight and length compared to a rear-mounted setup.
- Performance: With a front-mounted fuel cell, you eliminate the need to push the fuel against acceleration, which can enhance performance.
- Ease of Installation: Some front-mounted fuel cells come with optional pre-welded mounting tabs, making installation easier and more precise.
Cons of Front-Mounted Fuel Cells:
- Safety Concerns: One of the biggest concerns with front-mounted fuel cells is safety. In the event of a head-on collision, the fuel cell could be the first thing to hit the wall, potentially resulting in an instant fire.
- Accessibility: Accessing the fuel cell in the front of the car may require removing the front end, which can be inconvenient, especially during bracket racing.
Considerations for Installation:
- Mounting Location: When installing a front-mounted fuel cell, consider the location of the pump. For a belt-driven mechanical pump, a rear-mounted tank can cause fuel delivery issues. However, with an electric fuel pump, you have more flexibility in placement.
- Safety Features: Ensure that your front-mounted fuel cell complies with NHRA safety specifications. This includes having a sealed firewall to isolate the fuel tank from the driver's compartment and a pressure cap with an external vent.
- Mounting Tabs: Consider whether you want your fuel cell to come with pre-welded mounting tabs or if you prefer to have them included but not welded, allowing for custom fabrication during installation.
- Capacity: Choose a fuel cell with a capacity that suits your vehicle's needs. For example, the SpeedFactory Racing Front Mount Drag Race Fuel Cell offers a 2.2-gallon capacity, suitable for turbocharged cars on methanol.
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Rear-mounted fuel cells
One of the primary considerations for mounting a fuel cell in a drag car is safety. Some racers prefer rear-mounted fuel cells as they feel it is safer in the event of a head-on collision. In such an incident, a front-mounted fuel cell could be the first thing to hit the wall, potentially resulting in an instant fire. By contrast, a rear-mounted fuel cell is thought to provide some distance from the impact, reducing the immediate risk of fire. Additionally, a rear-mounted fuel cell can be designed to be easily accessed through a hatch in the deck lid, making it more convenient for fuelling between rounds.
Another factor to consider is the type of pump being used. For example, with a belt-driven mechanical pump, a rear-mounted fuel cell may present challenges with fuel delivery. Careful routing of the main line is necessary to avoid any rises that could impede the flow of fuel. In such cases, a cable-driven pump is recommended.
It is also important to note that fuel cells, regardless of placement, must comply with safety regulations. According to the NHRA rule book, fuel cells must be protected and enclosed in a steel tube frame constructed of specific materials. Additionally, they must be isolated from the driver's compartment by a firewall and have a pressure cap and external ventilation.
When deciding on a rear-mounted fuel cell, it is essential to consider the weight distribution of the car. The weight of the fuel cell, fuel, tubing, pumps, and regulators at the rear of the car can impact the overall weight bias, which may influence handling and performance.
In conclusion, while there are advantages to rear-mounted fuel cells in drag cars, there are also technical considerations and potential challenges to address. It is important to carefully evaluate the specific requirements and constraints of your vehicle to make an informed decision.
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Fuel cell protection
Fuel cells have greatly increased a driver's odds of survival in a crash. When it comes to fuel cell protection, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the type of fuel cell and its placement in the car. For example, if you have an aluminium fuel cell, some racers believe that additional protection is unnecessary. However, according to the NHRA rule book, any fuel cell must be protected. This can be achieved by using a steel tube frame constructed of a minimum of 1 1/4-inch o.d. X .o58 chromemoly or .118 mild steel tubing.
Fuel cells located outside the body and/or frame of the car must be enclosed in this steel tube frame. This is to ensure that the fuel tank is isolated from the driver's compartment by a firewall, completely sealing it off to prevent any fuel from entering in the event of a collision. Additionally, all fuel tanks are required to have a pressure cap and be vented outside of the body, with a positive locking screw on the fuel tank cap for open-bodied cars. Insulated fuel tanks are prohibited.
When placing a fuel cell in the back of a car, it is important to stabilise the fuel cell with good mounts. It is also recommended to run the fuel line outside the cockpit, alongside the frame rails, keeping it close to the underside of the car's carriage. Ventilation is also important, and a rubber line with an air filter can be connected to the tank's vent hole.
If you are looking for a fuel cell with maximum protection, consider purchasing a certified drag racing fuel cell. Companies like Fuel Safe offer SFI 28.1 and FIA-FT3 certified fuel cells that have undergone rigorous testing, including tensile strength, impact, hydrostatic leakage, and flange pull-out strength tests. These fuel cells are designed to provide unbeatable safety, performance, and durability on and off the racetrack.
Finally, when it comes to mounting a small fuel cell in a drag car, there are a few options. Some people choose to mount it in the front of the car, under the hood, or in the rear. The rear may be a more challenging option, but it ensures the fuel pump doesn't have to push the fuel all the way from the back, which could result in some psi and volume loss.
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Fuel cell installation
First, determine the location of the fuel cell. Some racers prefer to mount the fuel cell in the front of the car, under the hood, or in the rear. When installing a fuel cell in the front, consider using a left-side frame rail-mounted fuel cell with safety features such as an anodized billet screw-on fill cap and an integrated high-flow rollover vent valve. This prevents fuel spillage and ensures proper performance and safety.
If you opt for a rear-mounted fuel cell, cut out the spare tire well and mount the fuel cell underneath, ensuring it is securely strapped and vented out through the floor. This location is common for larger fuel cells, and it is crucial to create a firewall between the passenger compartment and the fuel cell.
Another option is to mount the fuel cell where the battery used to be, typically in front of the core support. This location keeps the fuel cell within the structure of the car, which is essential for safety.
Regardless of the location, ensure that the fuel cell is protected. According to NHRA rules, fuel cells located outside the body and/or frame must be enclosed in a steel tube frame. All fuel tanks must be isolated from the driver's compartment by a completely sealed firewall to prevent fuel from entering. Additionally, a pressure cap and venting outside of the body are mandatory.
When installing the fuel pump, it is recommended to mount it on the passenger side of the car, close to the fuel cell, and inside the trunk. This setup ensures that the fuel pump pulls fuel from the cell into the filter and then through the pump.
Finally, consider the fuel line. It is crucial to run the fuel line alongside the frame rails, tucking it close to the underside of the car carriage. Avoid running the fuel line inside the cockpit of the car.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and proper fuel cell installation in your drag car. Remember to refer to the specific rules and regulations provided by racing organizations to comply with safety standards.
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Fuel cell capacity
The capacity of a fuel cell for a drag car depends on several factors, including the type of racing, class specifications, and engine power requirements.
Racing fuel cells are designed to optimize fuel delivery and are available in various capacities, ranging from 3 to 32 gallons. The most common capacities offered by popular manufacturers like Summit Racing and Fuel Safe range from 5 to 25 gallons.
When choosing a fuel cell capacity, it's important to consider the engine's power requirements and the desired runtime. A higher-powered engine will consume more fuel, and a larger fuel cell will be needed to accommodate longer runtimes.
Additionally, racing regulations and class specifications play a crucial role in determining fuel cell capacity. Certain racing series or classes may have specific requirements regarding fuel cell size and placement. For example, the NHRA rule book mandates that fuel cells must be protected and isolated from the driver's compartment, which can impact the overall capacity and design of the fuel cell.
It's worth noting that the usable capacity of a fuel cell can vary depending on internal components, bladder type, and scavenge systems. Therefore, it's essential to refer to the specific product specifications and consult with experts or other racers to determine the most suitable fuel cell capacity for your drag car.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel cell can be mounted in the front or rear of the car. If you are mounting it in the rear, you may need to build a ["cage"] to support it above the floor. If you are mounting it in the front, ensure it is within the confines of the frame and/or steel body.
According to the NHRA rule book, any fuel cell must be protected and isolated from the driver's compartment by a firewall. The fuel cell must also have a pressure cap and be vented outside of the body.
It is recommended to use fuel cell straps to secure the fuel cell and to vent it out through the floor. Additionally, ensure that the fuel pump is mounted close to the fuel cell, preferably inside the trunk.
It is important to prioritize safety when installing a fuel cell. Ensure that the fuel cell is properly protected and secured to prevent any leaks or spills, especially in the event of an accident.
