Quote:
Originally Posted by PeterMorley
Louis
If there is no commercial arrangement between the FIA and Dunlop why do the rules insist on Dunlop tyres?
If the FIA do not insist on Dunlop tyres perhaps they could make the race organisers aware of the situation which would allow people to look for alternatives.
There are some companies who would be prepared to offer tyres but there is no point going to the considerable expense that you know about if they can't be used (Blockley is an exception and has already made a considerable investment).
Also, many cars raced on road tyres in period (early Lotuses using Michelin X for example) but it does not seem possible to use such 'original' tyres these days.
Cheers
Peter
p.s. just looked at the Homologation forms and was amused to see that the two examples I picked showed different inlet manifolds on the engine photo to that of the inlet manifold. I assume scrutineers were not as rigorous in those days or were GT cars allowed more flexibility?
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Peter,
Dunlops into Appendix K should be read as pointed out below, fair and square.
As said, if an organizer wishes to run what he wants, that is his point through supplementary regulations and at National level, it is up to the relevant ASN to validate the ruling, FIA doesn't even look at it.
The Dunlop is in the FIA rules as well as Avons, Goodyears, etc. in the subsequent articles detailed under Article 8 of Appendix K as well as E or DOT tyres when relevant or authorized so it is more of a bad interpretation or let's say "legend" being circulated.
However and for particular Periods, if running strictly to FIA Appendix K - which is rarely the case these days - yes, the Dunlop is the reference tyre and this is due to the history of historic motor sport, mainly because Dunlop has been the relevant supplier for a very long time accross all categories. And no, we're not getting a penny on every tyre....
If organizers have a problem, the rules are available all around on internet, do they ask us the question, yes and we answer with what has just been pointed out or maybe, they simply do not care about rules or read but that is another problem.
E or DOT tyres are a given in hill climbs but again, an organizer can bring them in if he wishes to and if they comply with period dimensions. Something which can prove complicated these days. Look at the CR6 ZZ, nothing like a sixties' tyre in profile, compound or usage as it's a radial. Michelin, still do XAS, TB5 and TB15, etc.
If another fitment fits the criteria of a grid that is no longer supplied, then tell the organizer to write it down in its supplementary regulations.
I understand the issue of Dunlops but as said, the sport has grown in numbers and we're not talking of manufacturing t-shirts here, I would rather stick to Dunlops even if poor rather than bringing crazy setups and denaturing how old cars should behave, it should be all about powersliding!
PS - On Homologations, remember that for Period F, manufacturing of a 100 cars was required with standard specification, then, a manufacturer could homologate variants for engines, brakes, cooling, bodywork, etc.
8. TYRES
8.1 General
8.1.1 All cars taking part in Competitions on the International Sporting Calendar
must comply with the following tyre regulations unless the approved specific Competition or series regulations vary. Such variations may be approved by the FIA which will be the final arbiter in the event of any dispute.