Additional Powertrain Modifications
The additional power of the engine required improved cooling. To increase the cooling capacity, an aluminum radiator was installed. The thermal conductivity of aluminum is almost double that of brass, greatly increasing the ability of the radiator to reject heat. This is a direct replacement aluminum radiator, 100% TIG welded with multi-louvered fins and billet machined fittings. The aluminum radiator also saves 35 pounds due to the lightweight aluminum construction. To improve the responsiveness, the engine was also fitted with a custom lightweight aluminum flywheel mated to a modified Kevlar-lined clutch to take the extra power.
Suspension and Brake Modifications
The guiding design principle at CAROBU Engineering is to design modifications that keep with the original character and intent of the automobile and to make a “balanced” car. In keeping with this principle, CAROBU chooses to use high performance parts from Ferrari OE suppliers such as Koni and Brembo or from special suppliers such as Tubi that build special exhausts for Ferrari racing and special construction cars. To design a “balanced” car, CAROBU prefers to make improvements in the three aspects of performance - Engine, Handling and Braking.
The engine modifications have been discussed above. In order to address the handling of the C/4, CAROBU upgraded the shocks and wheel/tire combination. CAROBU Engineering in consultation with the owner chose to convert the OEM Koni shocks to height-adjustable shocks. This conversion allowed us to lower the ride height of the car and adjust the spring rates. The stock Konis have adjustable rebound settings allowing for suspension tuning. The conversion utilizes 2.5” diameter racing springs that are available in a variety of spring rates. By choosing the proper spring rate and shock-valving combination for the desired ride-height, the handling of the car could be optimized. Since this car was to be used primarily as a street car, moderate spring rates of 300 lb/in front and 200 lb/in rear rates were used. The car was lowered approximately 1” from stock. The stock shock-valving was retained.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
CAROBU Engineering LLC
130 Solomon Road North
Estancia, NM 87016
Phone
(949) 722-9307
FAX
(949) 722-9013
Email:
tate@carobu.com
