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LeGrand Mk 18 : Real Carbon-Based Fiber Splitter Nov 17, 2008

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A splitter is an aerodynamic device that extends horizontally from the leading bottom edge of a car. As its name implies, it cleanly splits the air traveling over or under the car, increasing front downforce or front grip at speed.

We made a splitter out of half-inch hardwood plywood and installed it on the nose of our LeGrand. Aside from the aerodynamic benefits, it also will strengthen the nose against pylon-inflicted bangs and bruises. Why plywood? Two reasons: It’s strong and it’s cheap. Besides, wood is a carbon-based fiber, so we’ve got that joke going for us.

Since the installation, we’ve run into one problem: The low and long nose is creating clearance problems when we try to load the car onto our new enclosed trailer. We bought a 7x14 tandem axle Pace Trailer from The Car Shop that is a good size for a sports racer like the LeGrand. We’re going to have to work out a setup that will block up the back of the door ramp. We’ll also need additional ramps to get the car safely into the trailer without damaging the splitter.

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Comments

Capt Slow:

Whats the car look like with the bodywork off?
Nov 17, 2008 12:08 p.m.

Per Schroeder:

It's an aluminum monocoque. Here's a guy that's restoring a LeGrand here in Florida. http://www.caseyhaddock.blogspot.com/
Nov 17, 2008 12:45 p.m.

turboswede:

Nice! Slather it in some resin and shoot it with some semi-gloss black and you'll be Mad Tyte YO! Personally, I would look at making the nose quick release and just pop it off before loading. Also, a Formula Ford buddy of mine had the same problem with his FF and vowed to never buy another trailer with a ramp tailgate. He said next time he'd build longer, collapsible ramps or have a liftgate (keep in mind the FF only weighs 1200lbs) Another thought was to put air shocks in the back of the tow vehicle and to raise the front of the trailer slightly.
Nov 17, 2008 3:26 p.m.

David_Chong:

For some reason, pics #3 and #4 no workie for me.
Nov 18, 2008 11:13 a.m.

chknhwk:

#3 and #4 no workie for me, either.
Nov 18, 2008 5:39 p.m.

Per Schroeder:

That's weird, workie here. Baxter?
Nov 18, 2008 5:43 p.m.

Gonzo_Bmod:

Per, You may want to look at either recessing those splitter bolts a bit or maybe using a carriage bolt. I took my old splitter off the Legrand and had to cut my bolts off as the heads were all worn beyond recognition or use. Price you pay for low cars…..
Nov 18, 2008 6:25 p.m.

Tim Baxter:

David, chicknhwk, what happens if you go straight to the image: http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/media/img/proj… what about here: http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/media/img/proj…
Nov 19, 2008 9:39 p.m.

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Why plywood? Two reasons: It’s strong and it’s cheap. Besides, wood is a carbon-based fiber, so we’ve got that joke going for us.