DRP Frequently Asked Questions
General:
How many bearings does your syringe pack?
Our 50g syringe packs approximately 16 bearings.
How often should I repack my bearings?
Bearings should be repacked every 1,000-1,500 laps unless dirt, water, or other debris has gotten into the hub.
How full should I pack my bearings?
Bearings should be packed 50% full. Insert the grease between every other roller in the bearing. Make sure it fills the cavity all the way to the top. For more information, check out our video How to Pack Racing Wheel Bearings From DRP at DRPUniversity.
How do I install the spacers?
Step 1: With bearings clean and dry(no grease), adjust bearing spacers out to 3/4 of its maximum length.
Step 2: Install hub with bearing spacer between bearings. Completely tighten the spindle nut. Rock the hub back and forth to check for end play in the bearings. If no end play in noticed, adjust spacer out longer and repeat step 2 until end play exists.
Step 3" Remove spacer and adjust in(shorter) until end play is removed. To increase accuracy and performance use a dial caliper or micrometer and measure the spacer height and adjust in(shorter) .001"-.002" per try until proper end play is achieved. DRP Hub End Play gauges are available for most hub styles and speed this process up while achieving maximum accuracy. For more detailed instructions, check out our Spacer Installation Instructions (with a handy chart for proper end play or preload) available to download for free or check out our video Hub Bearing Spacers.
What are the benefits of running bearing spacers?
Bearing spacers make the most difference of any low drag hub part. Once properly installed, they provide an immediate difference in hub free spin that can be felt just by pushing the car. Our spacers increase wheel spin by over 1200%. Our spacers will also help your bearings to run cooler and lower your hub maintenance by decreasing how often bearings are packed. With the precision machined thread and set screw, once your bearing spacer is adjusted, it does not need to be set again, unless you replace the hub or bearings. See the evidence for yourself in our Low Drag Hub Example video!
What kind of grease do you carry?
DP is happy to offer Kluber Isoflex Topas NB52 in 390-gram cartridges(for our Precision Bearing Packers) or convenient 15-gram syringes. We found this high speed bearing grease to be the best-tested grease out of many popular greases. We worked closely with Kluber engineers to find the best grease for short track application and the test results don't lie.
What is the difference between the air gap seals and the low drag seals?
Both seals are created with a lightweight aluminum housing with as little drag as possible in mind. Our standard seals are full PTFE lip seals. Our air gap seals have no drag with small holes on the inward side of the seal that creates an air curtain or wall to prevent debris from getting into the hub while eliminating drag. Check out video, Air Gap Seal Technology, for more information.
Pull Down Fixtures:
Making a Purchase:
How long does it take to get a system?
Typically, DSS-1 systems ship within 1 week, DSS-2 and 3 systems ship within 2 weeks, and DSS-4 systems ship within 3 weeks. These lead times can vary due to order backlog.
What are my payment options?
We require a 30% deposit to place the order. The balance is due before shipment. Freight charges will be billed separately. We accept cash, check and all major credit cards.
How does the financing work?
You can choose to finance your system. We offer a variety of payment plans from 3 to 48 months. A 30% deposit is required. Payments are automatically billed to your credit or debit card (you may also send a check). We charge a standard rate of 11.99%. The equipment is our collateral. You can get out of your contract at any time simply by returning the equipment in good working order. See our Finance Information page for more information.
Can I finance other equipment purchases?
Yes. Financing purchases must be $2,000 or more and are eligible on any DRP equipment. Purchases may be combined as well to reach the $2,000 minimum.
Do you have used systems?
We do receive trade-in systems from time to time when customers upgrade (all DSS systems are upgradeable). We go through the system and bring it back to good as new condition. They also come with a 1-year warranty on electronics and fixtures. These systems typically sell quickly.
What information do I need to place my order?
We only need to know what type of vehicles you will be testing to include the correct chassis mounts and wheel fixtures. We will typically ask who built your chassis and what type of hubs you are using.
Do I need a data acquisition system to use the pull-down fixture?
No. We used pull-down fixtures effectively for years before we had data acquisition. Think of data acquisition as a turbo charger for your pull down fixture. It's not a necessity, but it does allow you to get more out of it.
Delivery:
How does it ship?
These systems ship via truck freight. Typically, 1-2 pallets and a bundle of tubes. Someone will be needed to receive and unload/sign for the shipment. Pick-up is also available at our facility.
How much is the freight charge?
Most freight charges are in the $150-$350 range.
How does installation and set-up work?
System set-up is easy. Basic instructions and an owner's manual are included. Allow 3-4 hours to set-up the first time, as some assembly and fitting of mounts is required. After that, allow 90 minutes to set-up the system and do a complete pull-down test including wheel loads and wheel positions. Systems with ramps and even quicker. All DSS-4 systems include installation from a DRP Technician.
Training:
Is training included?
Yes. All systems receive some type of training. DSS-1 and 2 systems include online video training. On-site training is available at an additional cost. DSS-3 systems include 1-day onsite training. (Travel expenses are billed separately.) DSS-4 systems include 1.5 days of on-site installation and training. (Travel expenses are billed separately.)
What does training cover?
Training covers proper hook-up and use of the system, including proper test procedures and how to read and utilize the measurements taken. We also explain how dynamic wheel loads work and can teach you how various systems and components on the car work (bump stops, acceleration forces, sway bars, jacking force, etc.)
How hard is it to use these systems?
It's very easy to use our systems. Like any new piece of equipment, there will be a learning curve but by the 3rd or 4th time using it, it will go fast and smooth. We receive very few tech calls after the 1st or 2nd use.
After Your Purchase:
What's the warranty?
DRP systems are warranted against manufacturers defects for 2 years on electronics and 5 years on fixtures for most systems. If for whatever reason you are not satisfied with your equipment, we will purchase it back from you at full cost within 30 days of purchase. Freight and training costs are not included.
How long do these systems last?
These systems are built to last for years of use. All DRP pull down systems are built with a modular design that allows them to be upgraded easily. Technology will always improve and your system can improve with it.
How often will I use this equipment?
Your pull down fixture will become your primary chassis set-up fixture. You will use it to scale your car, set ride heights, square your rear, set toe, caster, camber, wheelbase, etc. You will use it to test set-up ideas and troubleshoot problems. You will use this equipment in one way or another as often as you set-up your race car.
What support do I get after I buy?
We want you to get the most out of your investment. After training, you can contact us for system support during normal business hours at no charge. If you have a chassis or suspension questions, we charge $35 for every 15 minutes. We also offer data analysis service for our data acquisition systems and additional training days as needed.
Data Acquisition:
5 Channel Data Acquisition:
Can I download the software to multiple computers?
Yes. The software can be downloaded to an unlimited number of computers and it is free!
What type of computer do I need to run the system?
Any Windows-based laptop will work. We recommend getting one with a good processor so that the software doesn't slow the laptop's speed.
Will I be able to send my data files to my shock specialist for analysis?
Yes. Once the data has been downloaded to a laptop, the file can then be exported and emailed. DRP also offers analysis services to our customers.
If I buy a 5 channel system, can I add channels later?
Yes. The 5 channel system comes with the same mount that the 13 channel system comes with and is ready to accept any additional channel expansions.
Does the system require any programming once I receive it?
No. Everything on the system is preconfigured and is ready for use once you receive it. You will need to zero the sensors once they are on the car.
Why does the 5 channel system cost more than the data logger only?
The 5 channel system is shipped preconfigured and ready for you to bolt it on the car, zero the sensors, and hit the track. It comes with the EVO 4S data logger with mounting plate and roll bar mount, (4) shock sensors, (1) steering sensor, RPM cable, GPS antennae, sensor mounting kit, carrying case, quick start instructions, and the configuration file preinstalled. The data logger only is shipped straight off the shelf and does not get configured nor does it come with the sensors, case, or mounting plate/roll bar mount.
Does DRP offer trackside support?
Ues. Trackside support is offered but at an additional cost. We have many teams that use this service after purchasing the system to learn how to run it.
Is the software easy to use?
We have customers with little computer experience that hit the ground running with their system. Our quick start instructions lead you step by step from downloading your data to viewing it in the analysis software.
13 Channel Data Acquisition:
Can I download the software to multiple computers?
Yes. The software can be downloaded to an unlimited number of computers and it is free!
What type of computer do I need to run the system?
Any Windows-based laptop will work. We recommend getting one with a good processor so that the software doesn't slow the laptop's speed.
Will I be able to send my data files to my shock specialist for analysis?
Yes. Once the data has been downloaded to a laptop, the file can then be exported and emailed. DRP also offers analysis services to our customers.
What is the difference between the 5 channel and 13 channel system?
The 5 channel system includes an EVO4S data logger with mounting plate and roll bar mount, (4) shock sensors, (1) steering sensor, RPM cable, GPS antennae, sensor mounting kit, carrying case, quick start instructions, and the configuration preinstalled. The 13 channel system comes with everything listed above, plus an upgraded carrying case, a lithium-ion battery pack, memory key, (1) data hub, (2) channel expansions holding 4 channels each, and a half-day of training. Systems can be expanded beyond 13 channels.
Does the system require any programming once I receive it?
No. Everything on the system is preconfigured and is ready for use once you receive it. You will need to zero sensors once they are on the car.
What sensors are the systems configured for?
We customize the system based on your needs. If a system is bought but no additional sensors are purchased then we configure the system for (4) shocks, (1) steering, throttle, front, and rear brake, front and rear accelerometer, (2) bump stop load cells, and sway bar/5th coil/pull bar.
Does DRP offer trackside support?
Yes. Trackside support is offered but at an additional cost. We have many teams that use this service after purchasing the system to learn how to run it.
Is the software easy to use?
We have customers with little computer experience that hit the ground running with their system. Our quick start instructions lead you step by step from downloading your data to viewing it in the analysis software.
Data Acquisition Sensors:
Can I read my eye to eye measurements using the shock sensors?
Yes. When we send the systems out, we have them set-up to read compression/extension travel which is zeroed off the cars ride height. Upon request, we can set the data logger to read the shocks eye to eye measurement.
What is the difference between the 200mm and 250mm potentiometer (shock sensor)?
We carry a variety of shock sensors for different applications. The difference being the amount of shaft travel in the potentiometer. For most asphalt applications, we use 200mm potentiometers on all four corners of the car. For dirt applications, we use 200mm potentiometers on the LF, RF, and 5th coil. We use 250mm potentiometers on the LR and RR.
Do I need external accelerometers for my system?
No. The data logger has a three-axis accelerometer built into it. We recommend getting (2) external accelerometers if you are waiting to see the grip on the front tires vs the rear tires. The internal accelerometer will not give you the grip difference.
Do I need to use my RPM cable if I am using a throttle sensor?
We recommend that if you have both then to use both. Plotting throttle vs RPM can show wheel spin if wheel spin is present.
Do I need to zero my sensors every time I make an adjustment?
No. The only time you will need to zero the sensors is if you make a ride height adjustment. If you are using the eye to eye function then you will never have to zero your potentiometers as they will be reading true center to center measurements.
I cannot get my trailing arm (4 bar) load cells to zero.
The trailing arm load cells will not zero as they are reading true weight. The same goes for the bump stop load cells, sway bar load cells, droop limiter load cells, and spring load cells.
If I zero the sensors at the shop, do I need to leave the data logger on so that it will hold the zero?
No. Once the sensor shave been zeroed, the data system can be turned off until you are ready to hit the track. Note: if a ride height adjustment is made during that duration then the user will need to go back and zero the sensors again.