Suspension for AWD drag racing Options

[KOU In3]

I've been meaning to post this for some time but keep forgetting. I've done a lot of searching on DSMtalk and others but have been finding mainly info on FWD or autocross set-ups.

What the consensus on the best suspension settings for drag racing. Obviously maximizing contact patch as far as camber, etc. But what about stiffness? As stiff as possible all the way around? Or some slack up front to minimize rebound after the initial backwards weight transfer shifts forwards again?

I know the general comment is, "it's awd, it doesn't matter." But I'm not so sure there isn't a healthy amount of time to be shaved off from proper suspension work. It seems to pay dividends with the FWD and RWD guys, why not us?

[natedogg]

Its a good question, Travis. I experimented a little with my suspension on Sunday. Setting the rear to full stiff seems to work well at keeping the front tires on the ground, but according to some people in the audience I was lifting the driver side front tire off the ground about an inch. I attributed this to the fact that I had the front suspension set full stiff which causes the shock to take longer to expand when weight is taken off of it. But at the same time, keep in mind I had my best 60' time off this setup. I tried loosening the front suspension and was pulling slightly lower 60' times, but I actually attribute that to me launching the car at too high an RPM for this setup. I was used to launching it around 6500-7000 with everything at full stiff. I think with the the looser front I can launch her at a lower RPM. This is good because its easier on the drivetrain and helps 1st gear last a little longer.

I'd definitely like to do some more experimenting, because I haven't come to any conclusions yet. The data right now says I get my best 60' times at full stiff, but that may not be the best set up.