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Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 11:17 AM

This is a sneak peek of the new cable linkage system that we have been working to complete for quite a while now.. Available (SOON!) for carburetors or our "Extrudabody" EFI throttle bodies.



These pics are of the first fitment of the new arrangement onto a pair of EMPI HPMX carbs on our display fixture. There are several changes necessary, but for a first mock up and fitment the system worked better than we'd imagine. The final kit will have all anodized parts, full hardware and etc included along with an installation DVD produced by yours truly.

There have been efforts by others to complete a system like this,(some with great results) but to date nothing has been universally applicable or commercially available using this method of actuation and synchronization. There has also not been an attempt made to replace the OEM throttle cable all the way to the throttle pedal.

The difference in this system is that the permanently lubricated sheathed cables will replace the ENTIRE throttle cable arrangement all the way to the pedal. This will be accomplished with a system thats comprised of one primary cable from the pedal to an intermediate link housing that will tie both cables together. The high quality, multi-role intermediate link will also have the adjustment and return spring for the arrangement in a combined unit.

The intermediate link will reside above the transaxle and will triple as a quick disconnection point should the service of the engine/ carbs need to be carried out. This intermediate link is one bad ass, yet VERY SIMPLE part!

The secondary cable couples to the primary cable via the intermediate link then travels around a billet cam on the "lead" carburetor/ throttle body. This cable then continues through another sheathed cable to the "slave" throttle body/ Carburetor.

The benefits of the cable system are numerous.. I personally like the lightweight yet very robust construction coupled to the fact that it omits the factory throttle cable and replaces it all with new much stronger parts. It's also easy to custom tailor pedal feel and throttle actuation with adjustments made to the cams and cable tensions.

I have been "over" Hex bar linkage systems and their inherent issues for years.. Bellcrank systems have proven to be expensive and can be problematic with engines that have greater expansion levels as their synchronization is effected as the engine "grows". With this system is doesn't matter how much the engine expands the cables retain their tension.

This is the smoothest and most accurate means of carburetor actuation I have experienced to date.
Here are some features:
-Universally applicable for all Weber IDF/ EMPI HPMX and Dellorto DRLA applications for the Type 1, Type 4 or Porsche 356 engine!! The same kit can fit all these different engines! The same kit can also fir a Type 3 or Type 4 engine using these carburetors with the stock pancake cooling system.

-With very slight changes this same kit can actuate a set of 48 IDAs on any of the above engines as well.

-High quality billet throttle cams allow for easy adjustment of the system for various pedal arrangements

-The entire stock throttle cable is removed and replaced with the "accu-link" components

-The intermediate link allows for ease of adjustment, a quick disconnection point, coupling of the primary and secondary cables and a redundant throttle return spring all in one self contained, snap together housing.

- The sheathed cables are adjustable in 7 different locations for ease of tuning the system to the vehicle, driver and carburetors.

-Engine width and expansion will not alter carburetor/ throttle body actuation or synchronization at all.

- Very light carb return springs are able to be used due to the ease of actuation and the slippery sheathed cables. This allows for a nice pedal feel without giving up snappy throttle action

-Carburetor throttle shaft bearings/ bushings will see reduced loads and will live longer.

- No mechanical parts to wear out like ball sockets and heim joints/ spherical bearings. When the cables begin to stretch the adjustment can be made to them in 7 different places throught the arrangement. Spare cables can be sold for pennies to keep in the glove box..

- No heavy mechanical linkages to attach to the throttle shafts and transmit harmonics to the throttle shafts, thus chattering the accelerator pumps making them dribble fuel down the intakes.. This is a tuning issue that many people fight and do not even realize it.

- Its different! As different as a DTM cooling system or a big bore Type 4!

-Its also going to be very cost effective with all parts (except the throttle intermediate link) made in the USA including the cables, billet throttle cams and etc. The throttle intermediate link is made in Germany and has been proven in the 24 hours of Le Man as recently as this past June :-)

And as of today the Patent pending processes have been initiated!

Posted by: ghuff Oct 1 2009, 11:42 AM

That stainless braid looks so badass and gangster as well.

It screams business and function.


Wait the entire actual steel internal cable is coated with something as well?

So this pretty much beats a terry cable up as well. I was not terribly impressed with my terry cable, it actually is not as slippery as a gemo with lube was until I broke the gemo

My theory for that was the lack of plastic sheathing and the little bit of play in the cable allows it to touch the inside of the cable tube.

Posted by: FourBlades Oct 1 2009, 11:46 AM

I want one.

I am still puzzling over my hex bar set up.

John

Posted by: SUNAB914 Oct 1 2009, 11:47 AM

Any ideas on cost yet? I would seriously consider it, if its cost effective.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 11:48 AM

These are non compressable sheaths.. The cable is very slick and coated.

The throttle action is very smooth and light even with finger actuation..

I first was exposed to this set up with our Boxster throttle bodies and an adaptation to the aircooled set up was a natural evolution :-)
Cost?? Nope, no idea yet- I don't worry about cost until it works.

Believe it or not it'll be cost effective, especially because this same set up can be used for Type 1, Type 4 and 356 engines in any car as a single arrangement.. That means higher volumes and standardized parts.

Posted by: URY914 Oct 1 2009, 11:56 AM

Seems way too simple.

Posted by: ghuff Oct 1 2009, 11:58 AM

This totally rules.

Sounds like the carb guys have a solution that ends any linkage issues finally.

I am probably going to move to this once the time comes as well if I don't end up with some standalone e-gas solution.

Speaking of Jake, any word on your standalone e-gas drive by wire stuff for type IV's?

Megasquirt is only slightly better than l-jet or any other system.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 12:10 PM

The ECU is in my 912E now... I need to download a new software package before I test it further as now they've tweaked the adaptive resolution and have added the ability to tune via bluetooth.

I'll be using it along with this linkage and the extrudabody throttle bodies in our double cab..

Posted by: 9146986 Oct 1 2009, 01:22 PM

Great work Jake! This is long overdue.

Posted by: tat2dphreak Oct 1 2009, 01:44 PM

this looks great, Jake! be sure and let us know when they are available!

Posted by: jmill Oct 1 2009, 02:13 PM

I like it. Beats the heck out of anything I've seen. The only question I have is where is the idle stop?

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 02:17 PM

Throttle idle stop is on the opposite side of the carburetor....

Posted by: underthetire Oct 1 2009, 03:12 PM

looks like my dirtbike set-up ! cool !

Posted by: flipb Oct 1 2009, 03:14 PM

I might wait to convert my 2.0 from single Weber progressive until this kit is available.

Hear that, Jake? No pressure, but the sooner you get this kit available, the sooner another single-carb gets demolished.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 03:24 PM

Can **I** demolish the single carb??

LOL.. I got a new Saiga 12 and I am dying for a to end the life of a progressive!

Posted by: tomeric914 Oct 1 2009, 03:34 PM

Why must you continue to taunt me with products I need... err, want?

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 03:42 PM

To stimulate the economy!

Posted by: jhadler Oct 1 2009, 03:48 PM

Could this work on other throttle body setups as well? TWM for example?

-Josh2

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 03:52 PM

With mods I am sure it could...
The TWMs have really gone down hill lately though.

Posted by: BarberDave Oct 1 2009, 04:06 PM

Jake :

We expect nothing but the " Best" from you. And you have delivered

again. Next thing you will do is a billet type 4 ,that you personally will carve

out of a chunk of Alum. Just keep getting better. Dave

Posted by: jhadler Oct 1 2009, 04:09 PM

Nice to know. Mine are sitting in a box on a shelf, and have been there for quite a few years now (4? 5?). Hopefully in a few more they'll have aged enough to deserve being installed in the car...

-Josh2

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 04:21 PM

Nope.. No one would be able to afford it....

Its not just me, I have a group of other hard chargers that help me make all this happen!

Posted by: degreeoff Oct 1 2009, 04:42 PM

the only issue I see is where the main joins the carb (the one with two cables attached) it seems a s though there will be a wear problem as the cable rubs the end of the adjuster screw. Maybe a flared end or a way to rotate the assembly where it bolts to the carb.

My $.02 but it looks good! hell with the right fixture it may even work on a 6!

Josh

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 05:01 PM

Actually thats only ONE cable! It has a barrel nut that tightens to the cable and locks into the cam.

What you see here is one section of constant cable. This will connect from the intermediate coupling all the way to the termination point on the slave carburetor without interruption..

No splices anywhere except at the intermediate coupling, which is designed for that task..

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Oct 1 2009, 07:07 PM

Jake this is really cool. Now that I have seen it, I kind of can't believe that I have not seen it before. Inline and V engines with multiple carbs have been using cable systems for years.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 08:14 PM

Yep!!!
A few people have made their own system that functions similarly; with cables.. Their was done a tad different, but still worked well.

But this is the first commercially available arrangement :-)

Now I wonder how long it'll be before the Chinese copy it???

Posted by: scotty b Oct 1 2009, 08:22 PM

Long anough for oh.... say...... a bus with a 6 in it ?? Just thinking out loud

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 08:51 PM

This will fit a six also...

Posted by: jd74914 Oct 1 2009, 08:59 PM

So does this mean the Extrudabody ITBs are of good quality? I've been looking at some for another project (mainly because of price), but hadn't heard too many reviews.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 09:00 PM

We've been working on several projects with extrudabody...
I like them a lot.

Posted by: jd74914 Oct 1 2009, 09:01 PM

That's awesome! Thanks for the heads up.

Posted by: STP Oct 1 2009, 09:55 PM

This looks very cool.

I'm tired of my Hexbar.

The market needs a product like this. None of the linkages currently available come without compromises.

I hope you can make it work Jake. I'll sure as hell buy one.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 1 2009, 10:05 PM

it's already working.. Just gotta optimize it.

Posted by: RJMII Oct 1 2009, 10:12 PM

That is a slick looking setup! I've got a couple of dune buggy friends that I'm going to pass this info on to. They'll probably be quite interested.

Posted by: Sleepin Oct 1 2009, 10:53 PM

Wow! Everything seems so simple once you actually see it! It is being the first one to see it in your head that's the hard part!

Looks great!

Posted by: ghuff Oct 1 2009, 11:28 PM

They are already working on it.

The copies will be made of lead, and give you aids from using them so I would not worry too much. The chinese have the reverse midas touch when it comes to automotive.

I thought at one point i'd be safe with cast iron, no they fuck that up too. Lesson learned. I just dropped 1100$ on new turbo exhaust hardware because zang ghong foundry LTD uses recycled sewer caps or pig iron to pour into their crappy molds that are not even scaled right.

Posted by: Mark Henry Oct 2 2009, 03:58 AM

Maybe, but never under estimate the Chinese, 40years ago "made in Japan" meant crap cars....this is only the beginning.

Posted by: Rod Oct 2 2009, 05:36 AM

The best ideas are always the simplest. Go Jake. I love the idea of one cable, running to one, then across to the other - sooo little to go wrong. (on the rhs linkage, no need for the second cable attachment though? - to neaten it up even more?)

Posted by: 7275914911 Oct 2 2009, 06:37 AM

Jake,

Will this work on carbs that one pulls/pushes from front and the other pulls/pushes from the back?
I am using a bellcrank setup at the moment attached at middle case bolt.

Thanks for an answer
Ken

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 2 2009, 04:30 PM

For this to work both carbs will have to rotate in the same direction.. Thats pretty much the only requirement.

Posted by: RJMII Oct 2 2009, 04:51 PM

how simple would it be to make it so they didn't have to rotate the same direction?


Would something like what I have diagrammed out be possible?


Attached image(s)

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 2 2009, 05:01 PM

Anything is possible..A version like this would have to be created by the user, from the pieces we'd provide.

We might make up a DIY kit of just parts so people could make their own custom arrangement.

Look for some idea of pricing next week, then I'll need to hear from those wanting to buy one before we go further.. If it won't sell in good volumes there isn't any use to make mass runs of parts.

Posted by: HAM Inc Oct 2 2009, 05:23 PM

I freakin" can't wait to ditch the hex bar on our F-Prod car! We'll have to figure out a way to operate it with the Morse cable that we currently use to actuate the hex bar.
Nice work guys!

Posted by: McMark Oct 2 2009, 07:33 PM

This is similar to what I've been carrying around in my head for awhile. Glad to see a real live version.

I HATE CROSSBAR LINKAGES, and I'm ready for more people to use something else.

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 2 2009, 08:18 PM

I now have a tentative price... 159.00 per kit..
This is in high gear, I haven't had a response to something this positive in quite some time!

Posted by: flipb Oct 2 2009, 08:22 PM

Do you also anticipate selling carb kits that include this in place of a standard linkage? (Rather than buying a carb kit, discarding the linkage, and buying this in addition)

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 2 2009, 08:38 PM

This will be the only linkage we will be offering once it's perfected

Posted by: URY914 Oct 2 2009, 08:49 PM

Let me be the first to point out that this new system appears MUCH LIGHTER than the typical cross bar set up.

Posted by: tat2dphreak Oct 2 2009, 08:51 PM

I only wish I hadn't just bought a new linkage a couple months ago...

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 2 2009, 09:03 PM

It is light!!Very light!
Otherwise Len would never let me use it on the FP car. Hell he wouldn't let me put more than one coat of clear coat on the paint job! He said it would weigh too much!!
Even my video camera had to go on a diet to allow it to be installed into the car!

Posted by: ghuff Oct 2 2009, 11:32 PM

True, to an extent. Some things like Datsun 510's and etc were pretty good and even though they rot much faster and worse than a 914, they were pretty good designs IMHO.

They certainly have the resources people wise in numbers.

They can also own us both ways then. In debt and selling us things back for more devalued american $$$


Back on topic though, 150-160$ is a pretty damn good price point too for a setup. I'm willing to bet that if maintained and kept clean this cable system would be the last setup you would ever have to buy, excepting a new cable every x years, x being much longer than a Gemo/Terry cable would last anyways!

Posted by: brer Oct 2 2009, 11:53 PM

looking good.

Posted by: craig downs Oct 3 2009, 12:29 AM

I like it. I was thinking on making a cable linkage myself about a year ago. I ended up modifying a bellcrank linkage. It works ok but needs to be readjusted sometimes.
I like your design clean and simple and priced reasonable. When ever there ready for sale I'll buy one for sure.

Posted by: FourBlades Oct 3 2009, 08:00 AM

I am definitely in for 1 and maybe for 2 if they will work on 6s with webers.

I need one for the Rockin 914 with the Jake/McMark 2270 next month. I can
help with testing if you want. I want the other for the IMSA car, which will run
carbs on a 6.

Where do I send my money?

John

Posted by: ConeDodger Oct 3 2009, 10:08 AM

If you want to sell volume in this Jake, trademark it and sell some to CB Performance. The Type I guys would use this too...

Posted by: Jake Raby Oct 3 2009, 11:22 AM

Bugpack is my choice for the re-seller in the T1 world... They are the company that works closest with us and has the desire to bring more manufacturing back to the US..They are already onboard with this development, Rick Sadler, VP at Bugpack ran a similar set up in 1978 on his drag car.

Plus this'll be the only other patented linkage system, in direct competition with the CB hexbar set up...

I am already preparing for the negative reviews that the "opposition" will surely have when this puppy hits the market.

Posted by: biosurfer1 Jan 2 2010, 06:29 PM

Any update on this? I'm ready to "adjust" mine with a baseball bat, then melt it down and build something I can break again!

Posted by: McMark Jan 2 2010, 07:05 PM

Jake's gone til Monday, then he'll be catching up on the backlog.

"Spring" was the last reference I heard to a possible release date.

Posted by: turnaround89 Jan 2 2010, 11:04 PM

Spring would be perfect, i really want one of these

Posted by: ConeDodger Jan 3 2010, 12:33 AM

Killin' Wild Boars! Yee Haw! Bet he is cold too! I heard it got into the 20's in Florida today...

Posted by: bandjoey Jan 3 2010, 12:50 AM

With this low friction material and life turn it into a CLUTCH cable too!

Posted by: SGB Jan 3 2010, 01:03 AM

I'm ready too.

Did the roller cam setup ever get off the bench, Jake?

Posted by: DBCooper Jan 3 2010, 07:48 AM

That linkage is exactly what's been on the BMW R-series oilhead boxers since at least 1993, so that may be where Porsche got the idea. It's good, but don't get your hopes too high. The cables do stretch and wear in, especially in the beginning when they're new, so they aren't totally hands-off. They'd eliminate it if they could, but BMW keeps TB syncing in the maintenance schedules for the life of their bikes.

I used the older BMW R-series airhead cables on a dune buggy in the 70's, copying a setup I'd seen on a car at Pismo. Those are a little different, a "Y" cable with a length adjuster in one leg of the "Y" for sync. Cheap, simple and worked great, but again it wasn't perfect.

By the way, there's a sync tool the BMW motorcycle guys use that's really cool, a lot better than any of the Unisyn or snail type flow gauges. It's an electronic vacuum comparison gauge called the http://www.adventuremotogear.com/twinmax-p-28.html (link). Since it's electronic you can even dial the signal buffering up or down, to average and dampen the pulses and steady the needle. Quick, easy, and extremely accurate, kind of like electronic mercury sticks. More expensive than the Unisyn, but it really does the job.



For dual IDF"s or DRLA's or four-cylinder motorcycle engines they say you just sync any two barrels, then use one as the standard and sync the remaining two to the first. I haven't tried it that way, but it works so well on the boxer twins that I don't doubt it a bit.

Posted by: RobW Jan 3 2010, 08:15 AM

Super Cool!

Posted by: jmill Jan 3 2010, 07:31 PM

They do sell pre-stretched cable. They've been using it in the aircraft industry for years. It might be cost prohibitive. Heck what would we do if we didn't have to tweak stuff anyhow.

Posted by: scotty b Jan 3 2010, 07:53 PM

How much load do you guys plan on putting on this cable ? I really don't see where stretching is a concern. It's not operating anything with a significant amount of tension on it like a clutch. Am I missing something ?

Posted by: DBCooper Jan 3 2010, 10:46 PM

I don't know. They've been making BMW boxer motorcycles forever, always with cable linkage. They've improved over the years but they still sync TB's and carbs on a regular basis. I'm sure theres's a BMW shop in your neighborhood, so ask them. Or poke around on a boxer message board. I think you'll find that old BMW boxers are just like the VW community, where syncing carbs and TB's is something that the newbies have to learn.

Cable's big advantage is that it's not affected by the engine's change in width from heat expansion. It's good in a lot of ways, and probably better than crossbar linkage, but it's not perfect.

Posted by: turnaround89 Jan 4 2010, 01:02 AM

it may not be perfect, but i think it will work a lot better than hex bar linkages...plus they look freaking AWESOME Much cleaner look in the engine bay with this setup than a hex bar.

Posted by: Joe Ricard Jan 5 2010, 12:11 AM

Hex bar was designed by a retard.

Posted by: geniusanthony Jan 5 2010, 12:52 AM

Worse yet is the chinese company that "copied" the hexbar poorly and made a so-so solution worse.

Posted by: crash914 Jan 5 2010, 04:00 AM

hmmm.. got a 94 oil head. got a twin max. I KNOW it will work to sync the throttle bodies.

The BMW throttles do go out of adjustment. but very small amount will bring them back in sync. usually less than 1/2 of a turn of the nut. The bike is just VERY sensitive to the sync. It only has 2 cylinders....

Keep the connecting cable short and it will be better....

Posted by: Jake Raby Jan 5 2010, 10:07 AM

One of the biggest parts of this development has been the cable selection. Luckily the company we have paired with to make this happen has been using these same cables in a much more demanding throttle application (actuating 4 throttle bodies in a V8 app) since the late 1990s.

The cables are pre-stretched and I even have some kevlar woven cables that are not much more expensive and give the lightest throttle actuation. More than likely we'll have an upgrade to the Kevlar units from the standard cables for each kit.

Over time any cable will stretch a tad bit, BUT the beauty of the design I have came up with is the fact that one continous cable connects from an adjustable "union" box under the car all the way to the slave carburetor. What this means is you can make a single adjustment at the unon point and remove any slack in the cables.

I just returned from mky trip, I did pretty good bagging two hogs about 250 pounds each... I'll go back at the end of the month when the Moon isn't full and see what I can do.

Right now I am home sick with the flu trying to recover... The linkage should be fully tested by mid-spring 2010. I want to have all my personal cars swapped to it ASAP so we can continue evaluating it.

The first kit I will complete is the kit for the Type 1 application. There are 20X more of these vehicles on the road and we have the greatest demand for it at the present. After that the 914 kit will be completed. Since I am replacing the cable all the way to the pedal with my new arrangement all different vehicles will have a slightly altered kit.

Posted by: JmuRiz Jan 5 2010, 10:52 AM

Good question, I've been waiting to hear about the EFI RollerCam 2270 with this linkage setup...could be the hot ticket for a street 914.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jan 5 2010, 01:40 PM

Roller development is done for the 2270, I have been running a 2270 roller in my Wife's car for several months now with great success. It'll be getting this linkage very soon.

Posted by: JmuRiz Jan 5 2010, 02:38 PM

Excellent!
Does it still have the small carbs on it, or has it gotten the EFI treatment?

Posted by: Jake Raby Jan 5 2010, 07:00 PM

Just 40mm Dells.. Thats all it has needed and I know that EFI isn't as magical as most would like to believe :-)

Our new FI system will be installed this Spring. I have enjoyed keeping the car simple and I like carbs.

Posted by: turnaround89 Jan 5 2010, 07:41 PM

Glad to hear the testing is going well, can't wait till this goes on sale...I want one!!!!!

Posted by: Jake Raby Jan 5 2010, 07:49 PM

Based on all the initial interest we have had I expect this to be one hell of a hot seller.. Which means we need to ensure that right out of the gate ALL the kits are 100%.

I just need to get these two cars outfitted...

Posted by: r_towle Jan 5 2010, 08:00 PM

Consider making it totally hidden. That would certainly appeal to a select Type 1 crowd. Hidden being the main unit can be mounted out if sight and the individual cables can attach to the back of the carbs so none of the hardware is visible.

Cable adjustment at each carb with a simple lock nut is perfect for this setup...or some sort of adjustment that you can reach while syncing the carbs...

Rich

Posted by: eric914 Jan 6 2010, 03:22 PM

Good luck, these look cool and would solve many of the problems with existing cross bar style linkages.

Good luck with that patent though as similar designs have been published in the past. Anything in public use for over 12 months even if it is not a comercial product can no longer be patented as it is considered public knowledge, even if it is your own design. You may be able to approach the patent by going after one or more unique features of your design though.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jan 6 2010, 07:52 PM

In a TI, 356, 912 or Bus application if you want it hidden you simply mount the system on the back side of the carbs. Done

As for patents, I have that being taken care of. I am specifically directing the patent toward a single application that it has not been used in previouslyand isn't of any interest to an aircooled enthusiast.

Posted by: biosurfer1 Mar 22 2010, 11:12 AM

Well after working on my stupid crossbar linkage for several hours, getting nowhere and ready to convert the crossbar setup into some lawn art, thought I'd check the progress again.

I know Jake has been busy with inventory, but any chance there is a production date yet?

Just so damn frustrating spending time to get the carbs sync'd with it unhooked and having to hold my breath screwing down the nuts on the rods only to have it all get out of whack!

Posted by: HAM Inc Mar 22 2010, 11:17 AM

I found with one CB hex bar that I set-up that the ratio's were different from one arm to the other, meaning that one carb was getting more travel than the other. I had to drill a new hole for the drop link on one arm to reduce its ratio. Nothing else worked! Drilled the new hole and it worked fine. Both carbs synched up perfect.

Posted by: tat2dphreak Mar 22 2010, 11:33 AM

we did the same thing... redrilled the holes and re-tapped to match the travel, and geometry.

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 23 2010, 08:55 AM

I had an idea for making up a cable linkage (see drawing). Obvviously I have left off things like the mounting for cables at carb side and throttle pedal side, and the drawing is not to scale, but basically the idea is a slider arrangement that incorporates a one cable to two as the key. Seems like you could do all your linkage adjusting at the cable ends and have no effect from engine expansion as the cables to the carbs themselves are not effected.

Am I missing something fundamental here? Seems like it would be pretty simple.

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Mar 23 2010, 10:10 AM

Wish these were on the market now. I am redoing my carb sync, and if these were ready, I'd just buy one. Seems like the best option of all the options out there. It's just not out there yet!

Zach

Posted by: biosurfer1 Mar 23 2010, 11:44 AM

Me too Zach...I just hate screwing with the hex bars

Posted by: tat2dphreak Mar 23 2010, 11:49 AM

the CB performance setup is a comparable price, but an inferior product that has to be modified in order to truly work right, and then will need more adjustments later...

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 23 2010, 11:53 AM

I currently have a bell crank type set up that pivots on a vertical shaft. Some homebrew thing the PO installed. Its not that bad, all made out of stainless. Put many miles on the car in the late 80s through mid nineties and it never gave any troble. I will try to get some pics.

Posted by: biosurfer1 Mar 23 2010, 11:57 AM

I've looked at the bellcrank setup and it seems like a decent setup. If I knew it would be several more months I might try it out, but since it should be comparable in price to the cable system, I'm hoping to not spend money twice.

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 23 2010, 12:08 PM

Good point. Since I have a set up that I was perfectly happy with for years, think i will leave well enough alone. The temptation to "improve" everything, she is a strong one.

Posted by: Van Mar 23 2010, 12:26 PM

I think that'll work just fine. I recently made a setup like Jake's prototype for my engine, and it's really the cat's meow. Super smooth, easy to adjust and the exact sync as high as my syncrometer goes (up to about 3k RPM)

Posted by: Jake Raby Mar 23 2010, 01:13 PM

I had hoped to have this on the market now.. But the winter wasn't kind to us here and held up a lot of changes I made to the property. I ended up buying another building next door that had been out of my family for 25 years and my focus quickly changed to converting it into our own manufacturing facility.

The weather was so bad that testing of the linkage system in car would have been a real bitch.

This is a high priority for me but it'll have to wait until the property changes are made and the new facility is open..

Posted by: Cevan Mar 23 2010, 01:30 PM

While I'm waiting for engine parts for my build this winter, I made up my own cable linkage based on a split cable design. Here is a pic of it on a test stand. I fabricated a piece to connect the stock throttle cable to the two cables from the carbs. I fabricated a hand throttle for my engine test stand and the setup is extremely precise. Very easy to sync the carbs.

Posted by: Van Mar 23 2010, 02:38 PM

Chris, you seem to be a master mechanic and a master carpenter!

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 23 2010, 02:41 PM

Hey Van, Really appreciate all the work you have done posting your progress on your own site.

By the way, what shade of silver is your car?

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 23 2010, 02:52 PM

Here is a pic of the bellcrank. Sorry about the quality. Did not bother trying to get a shot of the rods running to the carbs, as I have them yanked off for more clearance when i slide it under. The arms run fairly straight to each carb when its all together, and i usually run a light return spring on the bell crank.

Posted by: Van Mar 23 2010, 03:39 PM

Just plain metallic silver - L96D. I have a tan interior, though, which is kind of unique.

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Mar 23 2010, 06:31 PM

Jake, if you need a test vehicle, my car is ready but for a carb sync. I can have 500 miles on it by Hershey Swap in april.

Just say'n.

Zach

Posted by: r_towle Mar 23 2010, 06:55 PM

Go to a motorcycle shop or a snow mobile shop.
Your design with the tube is industry standard...lots of options to buy off the shelf.
None that I found addressed the connection to the unique factory cable.


Jake,
You mentioned that you are replacing the cable all the way to the pedal...
Are you using one cable for the whole thing? (I ask because the long cable to the pedal will break...just part of the facts of life)

Also, when do you suspect you will have a weber solution?
I am close (a month away from install of my motor) and I would buy the parts kit and make up one....I already have one built, but I like your solution alot more...its elegant.

Got everything within .5 grams...good enough for a street car.

Rich

Posted by: Jake Raby Mar 23 2010, 07:44 PM

Its a full throttle linkage system... Meaning that it will replace everything all the way to the pedal.

I have 1/2 dozen test vehicles on site, but lack the time to devote to finish this. Now with the spring rush here I am busy just trying to meet deadlines imposed by procrastinators.. Its a never ending battle.

Posted by: jeffdon Mar 23 2010, 09:04 PM

Now THATS interesting.......pics please!

Posted by: Cevan Mar 23 2010, 09:50 PM

Thanks. I'll probably still go with Jake's linkage when it comes out because I know it will be bulletproof. I'm no mechanical engineer.

Posted by: DBCooper May 4 2010, 06:55 AM

If you don't want to wait you might contact the guy (Slowtwitch, last two pages) directly:

http://shoptalkforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=109159

This is his linkage:


Several other simple ideas in that thread too.

Posted by: Jake Raby May 4 2010, 08:32 AM

Pete and I talked last week... He and I have collaborated a bit about the system.
What he has been doing is totally separate from our efforts, but we have been helping each other. (Mostly him sharing with me)

I have been working on the insurance issues and may have a way around them. The big difference is my arrangement is a complete throttle assembly that will extend all the way to the pedal and in some applications will even include a pedal lever to replace the original, its not just a subs-system of the engine as most throttle assemblies are.. I am doing this to provide the best ratios for the size wheels that we have worked with, primarily because it is a possibility to have too light of a throttle action with these wheels and some throttle levers.

Lots of people want this and if at all possible I want to offer our version of it, which is quite a bit different than what Pete has done.. He has AWESOME ideas and excellent machine work, no doubt.

Posted by: flipb May 4 2010, 10:06 AM

Jake, your business decisions are not up to me, but I'll toss in my two cents:

I think you'd be doing a great service to the TIV community in producing the Accu-Link system. Perhaps it would resolve some of your support & insurance concerns if you only sell them through "certified" resellers who provide some level of Tier 1 support.

I know I'd screw something up myself, but if I had the chance to buy an Accu-Link system, it would be my pro wrench (big Pcar guy) who would install it. I wouldn't even attempt it. And a lot of the guys on this board are capable of both installing it themselves and providing some level of community support to others.

Take that for what you will... just thought I'd offer my encouragement. Like I told you before, every month that the future of Accu-Link is uncertain is another month that I'm driving around with a Weber Progressive...

Posted by: Jake Raby May 4 2010, 11:52 AM

As always, there are tons of variables that no one except the man in charge will understand..


I concur.


Actually, that would breed problems.. Because those resellers are generally like all other re-sellers in the fact that they don't use the system enough to thoroughly understand it. That means the support they give is marginal at best, or would be worse than no support because it would be the WRONG advice.

This is one of my biggest gripes with most companies that re-sell components is that generally they have less than adequate experience. We pride ourselves in knowing more about what we sell than anyone else.


Thats just part of life and part of selling things. All we can do is make it perfectly clear that the system has a difficulty level that isn't for everyone.



Lots of people share your feelings. Linkage has been the achilles heel of Carburetors for decades and I'd like to be able to change that.. I don't want to risk my business to do that, however. Doing business today is difficult if you cover your ass and do whats right and fair.

There are complications that go much further than installation or manufacturing... Let someone have a sticky throttle and hit a brick wall at 80 MPH and thats when the shit hits the fan.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 21 2010, 05:52 PM

Coming Soon!

I re-designed the system and it is too damn good not to sell!

Posted by: Vacca Rabite Jun 21 2010, 06:16 PM

Dude, this is GREAT news.

Zach

Posted by: lotus_65 Jun 21 2010, 07:00 PM

lookin' good jake---
except for the
i mean dang, dude.

Posted by: bugsy0 Jun 21 2010, 09:40 PM

I'm interested!

Posted by: swood Jun 21 2010, 10:21 PM

Do tell...pics and $

Posted by: kharma Jun 22 2010, 09:02 AM

Awesome!!!

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 22 2010, 10:09 AM

The system is on the dyno today being evaluated... I will continue this for another couple of weeks doing back to back testing with Hex Bar to better understand the benefits of the system. I am re-configuring my data logging system to allow for throttle position logging so we can plot the absolute position of each carb/ throttle body throughout the range of motion.

One of the issues this system solves is the mechanical differential of carburetor position and cylinder offsets. I want to log this to substantiate these claims.

What I have come up with for this final design is universally applicable to any common carbs used on these engines, you can swap between Weber, Dellorto, EMPI and Solex carbs with the same linkage system!

I will offer three different ratios for movement so you can easily "tune" the pedal feel and travel for your driving style or application.

I am holding pics of this final arrangement from the public as I work to enhance the aesthetics a bit with some new pieces that will be in place for testing when I return from Vacation on 5 July. The system is nothing like what I originally posted here, the re-design pretty much impacted every part in some way.

Posted by: jeffdon Jun 22 2010, 10:14 AM

Eagerly awaiting details!

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 22 2010, 07:23 PM

Had a very successful day on the dyno today! The actuation is so smooth and throttle position changes are so positive.

The engine just plain runs better, adding the acculink cleared up an off idle rich spot that the engine had with hex bar.
The data logger is being reconfigured especially for this evaluation to include a method of measuring engine harmonics.

Posted by: Silverstreak Jun 22 2010, 07:45 PM

Smashing! Can't wait!

Posted by: RiqueMar Jun 22 2010, 08:10 PM

Just tell me what numbers to put on the check....

Posted by: dinomium Jun 29 2010, 04:30 PM

the waiting! I HATE the waiting! I could throw you a rope if you like?

Posted by: ripper911 Jun 29 2010, 07:59 PM

I have only recently switched to dual carbs, and I now understand why this is such an issue... I will be buying this setup when it is available.

Posted by: tornik550 Jun 29 2010, 08:08 PM

I desperately want this setup. I have a hexbar and it sucks. I also have a bellcrank link and it also sucks. This new setup looks great. I hope the price stays around the planned $159 (mentioned earlier) range.

Posted by: biosurfer1 Jun 29 2010, 10:03 PM

That surprises me tornik, I too had the hexbar and completely agree its a POS, however I got the bellcrank when it was unclear if Jake would produce the cable system and I have been very happy with it. Haven't touched it since I set everything and so far not a peep.

What problems do you have with yours?

Posted by: McMark Jun 29 2010, 10:07 PM

And just as importantly, who made your bellcrank linkage? The http://www.csp-shop.de/cgi-bin/cshop2/front/shop_main.cgi?func=detail&artnr=18236b is pretty outstanding. I was really impressed with the construction quality.

Posted by: ottox914 Jun 30 2010, 06:23 AM

Thats the one I'm using on the turbo 914, and it has been great. Only one problem that I've had, is that for the manifolds and TB's I've got, the threaded rods were just barely long enough, and I had one work loose from its lock nut and end fitting and BOOM, you loose 2 cyls. Not so much fun going up hill. The fix was easy enough, put it back together, but as it loosened the threads got buggered up. I got it back together, got home, but one bank was opening a little sooner than the other as I had to tighten it up more than the other side (shorten the rod effective length) to get to good thread. Solution: ugly but effective, I welded a short extension in the middle of each rod. Clamped the rod in some angle iron to keep it straight, a couple of quick sparks from the welder, a little time on the grinder and some silver paint, and you can hardly notice it. If the rods were long enough the first time, it'd be a perfect set up, but I guess this one is on me as they didn't list "mutant turbo 914" on the list of cars the linkage would fit.

Posted by: jeffdon Jun 30 2010, 08:58 AM

This is the bellcrank my dad made for me over 20 yrs ago. Mostly stainless construction, with some delrin bushings. Its worked fine for a long time. That said, Jake has said his set up is a complete pedal-to-carb solution, and its the "too the pedal" improvement i am most curious about.

Posted by: 7275914911 Jun 30 2010, 09:25 AM

How bout an update, Jake.....

Inquiring minds want to know??

Posted by: tornik550 Jun 30 2010, 09:55 AM

I should clarify my earlier statement about the bellcrank. I have a CSP style and it is considerably better than the crossbar. It has been a bit of a pain syncing the carbs because of the expanding engine issue. I should also clarify that I am having other carb issues thatcould also be my problem so I should not blame the ink for all.

I do think that the new link looks better than any current.

Posted by: URY914 Jun 30 2010, 10:03 AM

I think Jake is on vacation for a few weeks.

Posted by: JmuRiz Jun 30 2010, 10:28 AM

Yeah, I think he's out till the 5th at the earliest

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 30 2010, 07:09 PM

Yes... I am away and closed the facility until the 5th..
But Len is installing my latest version of the accu-link on our FP 914 right now, the system will be race proven i'm just a few days.

My newest changes further simplify the arrangement and make it simpler to manufacture as well as synchronize. It also removes the "wheels" from the arrangement altogether and also makes the same kit fit 6 different carb/ throttle body arangement as a one size fits all..

When I return we are gathering the remainder of dyno and field test data..

Posted by: dinomium Jul 6 2010, 10:47 PM

how about a progressive carb trade in? for smashing of course!

Posted by: jeffdon Jul 6 2010, 10:52 PM

Jake, you are killing me. Get this mofo on the market.

Posted by: flipb Jul 7 2010, 08:14 AM

for Target Practice!

Posted by: JmuRiz Jul 7 2010, 09:54 AM

you'll shoot your eye out kid

Posted by: markb Jul 7 2010, 11:11 AM

Posted by: Jake Raby Jul 7 2010, 03:51 PM

I've shot a progressive with a 45-70 and have unloaded many magazine of 7.62X39 from one of my AK 47s into one.. I want to get several together in a pile, load up the 20 round drum on my Saiga-12 gauge with 00 Buck and blast them to infinity on video.

Posted by: charliew Jul 7 2010, 03:56 PM

You might want to try a limbsaver on the shotgun or reduced loads (managed recoil as they are called) but they do cost more.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jul 7 2010, 04:28 PM

None necessary.. it's a folder with pistol grips... Just shoot from the hip and move the destruction over the intended target :-)

Posted by: charliew Jul 7 2010, 05:10 PM

Oh yeah I forgot. My 11-87 nine shot special purpose is pretty normal, no folding stock for me as I can shoot better holding the normal stock and just watch the little blinking green light. My left hand has poor grip so the leverage of the stock helps me control it. My short high capacity toy is a heavily modded mini 14 bullpup with a masen muzzle brake with a shroud.

If you don't get your carb cables on the market I guess I will have to make my own but your's will surely be better than mine. I want to try this for a vw project.

Posted by: bandjoey Jul 7 2010, 09:12 PM

PULL BOOMBOOM!

Posted by: dinomium Aug 5 2010, 11:35 PM

where did all the excitement for this idea go?

Posted by: Jake Raby Aug 5 2010, 11:58 PM

Into application. You'll see something soon.

Posted by: dinomium Aug 6 2010, 12:00 AM

my wife's checkbook is standing by!

Posted by: SGB Aug 6 2010, 07:31 AM

His wife's checkbook is standing by... I'm in!

Bring it on, Jake! There is a market need for this product.

Posted by: Jake Raby Aug 6 2010, 05:20 PM

Received some parts from the waterjet cutter today. Should make good progress by months end.

Posted by: charliew Aug 9 2010, 07:19 PM

Posted by: jeffdon Aug 27 2010, 08:54 AM

BUMP

Any news on this?

Posted by: Dr Evil Aug 28 2010, 08:55 PM

Posted by: Jake Raby Aug 29 2010, 06:41 AM

We are outfitting our first turnkey engine for a customer with the system now.. A couple of hurdles still to overcome but they are small..

Posted by: NC_Colfax Aug 29 2010, 07:35 AM

I need this also

My linkage setup on my webbers is hard to push. A better setup would really make the drive better.

Seems like a very good product

Posted by: dinomium Aug 29 2010, 10:44 AM

Posted by: dinomium Sep 6 2010, 11:08 AM

+1

Posted by: Jake Raby Sep 6 2010, 04:01 PM

This is my primary development at the present... I do have more comparatives to gather before any sales can occur.
I explained the system in detail on my latest Aircooled Technology Radio show that we uploaded last week that's awaiting iTunes verification.. It will answer lots of questions that you may have.

Posted by: flipb Nov 3 2010, 09:51 AM

for the "official" thread on the topic...

Posted by: Jake Raby Nov 3 2010, 07:26 PM

I made a specific post about this on my forums last week.
Long story short its not working as well as I require and we don't have the time to re-invent the wheel right now.
I am working with Pete, who developed "sync-link" linkage as a possible short term solution. We'll re-visit the accu-link when we aren't so busy, we are slammed!

Posted by: SGB Nov 4 2010, 02:56 PM

Dang, I need this, Those cross-bar setups get so sloppy with wear...

Posted by: jeffdon Nov 4 2010, 03:29 PM

Yeah, and my 30 yr old homebrew bellcrank set up is giving me fits!

Posted by: codemasterlax Dec 2 2010, 12:19 AM

i am definetly interested im 16 and i just got done putting in dual weber 40s in my 74 2.0 and i already cant stand the hex bar

Posted by: SGB Dec 2 2010, 07:55 AM

Welcome to the shop, Codemaster.

Posted by: Jake Raby Dec 2 2010, 09:10 AM

The Accu-Link isn't happening right now, for several reasons, but mainly because I am not happy enough with any of the variations of it to market it, or even use it on our engines. It needs to be completely re-engineered and has proven to be something that has too many negatives.

Between major engine development with two different engine foundations, we just don't have time to dedicate to it. Because of this I have began testing the "Sync-Link" system thats being offered by one of our customers. I am evaluating it now and its come a long way since last year when we first saw it. The pieces and design are nice.

Posted by: charliew Dec 2 2010, 09:39 AM

Jake thanks for the update, I know you want to keep your ideas but I have two son's with engineering degrees. elect and mech. I don't plan on selling your ideas but I would think a motorcycle type cable setup could be adapted easily, but really haven't got the time either. I could also use one or two of these on my simple stuff. You know you could post the desirable attributes and the good and bad and other eyes might come up with easy mods to your design to improve production and operation and installation.

Posted by: Jake Raby Dec 2 2010, 10:19 AM

My arrangement is very similar to a motorcycle arrangement, but the engine has a few more challenges.
Its not as easy as one thinks. It doesn't take an Engineering degree to do it, just common sense, experience with the most common issues and practical application testing.

What I have works great on paper.

Posted by: flipb Jun 3 2011, 12:45 PM

I don't mean to on this as I know there's been a lot of poo-slinging about cable linkage systems, but...

I keep seeing this banner ad for Aircooledtechnology:


And yet, when I click the ad to Raby's site, I can find nothing about it.


What's the deal? Is it on the market? Is it coming to market? For 914 application?

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 3 2011, 05:26 PM

250 units are being produced right now. We do not have them in our store as of yet.

We have perfected a 914 specific arrangement along with Pete. You will like it, it will be cost effective.

The ad is more of a reflection of the equipment on our turnkey engines, where we have been using the system exclusively for the last 8 months or so. I just finished my 2.8 liter in the double cab and it uses the system with IR EFI and it works awesome!

When it hits the store, you'll know it.. I have a full page color ad already designed for Excellence and it has been submitted!

Posted by: charliew Jun 6 2011, 04:41 PM

Interesting that it wasn't mentioned dec 2nd on your last post. Sync-link must have been pretty close.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 6 2011, 06:25 PM

Sync Link works better than my arrangement in Pete's final version..
Pete attended the RAT Reunion this weekend and we got on the same page with our battleplans. He is a super nice guy and I am very happy to be working with him.

A 914 specific system was more difficult to do with my design than Pete's.. His only challenge was not having a 914 to fit the system to.. Blake and I took care of that and made the necessary changes, now the 914 system uses one longer cable and integrates into the stock pedal assembly with ease. It eliminates the use of the OEM cable in it's entirety, I prefer omitting OEM parts whenever possible.

Systems with a complete step by step install DVD are just around the corner.

Posted by: sixnotfour Jun 6 2011, 07:31 PM

I believe that is called single source or sole source

Posted by: jeffdon Jun 6 2011, 10:36 PM

Keep cracking on this. I, for one, am really interested.

Posted by: charliew Jun 7 2011, 02:20 PM

Me too. Except for a T1

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 7 2011, 06:21 PM

The T1 system is done.. Has been done for a while. I have 3 Dellorto kits in stock, Pete delivered them to me at the aircooled assult.. Many more on the way.

Posted by: porsche4me Jun 11 2011, 08:43 AM

Hello - All
Could I please get a little more definition of this comment -

"You will like it, it will be cost effective."

Jeff (from AutoHaus) and I , here in Savannah area, would like to put one on my 914 Chumpcar -

thank you

always looking for drivers for tight budget endurance in a 914..... mostly Southeast USA

http://www.facebook.com/?sk=messages#!/pages/Yellow-Submarine-Racing-YSR/199854186711341?sk=wall


www.chumpcar.com

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 11 2011, 08:45 AM

Jeff saw the system on many engines at my shop last weekend at the Aircooled Assault.

Posted by: charliew Jun 13 2011, 11:40 AM

Pictures of the system? Or do you need a sign on at aircooled heaven to see whats what?

Posted by: Jake Raby Jun 13 2011, 05:24 PM

I haven't had time to post them... I am working very hard on a huge project that will save the lives of Boxster and 996 engines and trying to get it to market..
Will try to put some time into getting some high quality pics this week.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jul 17 2011, 02:35 PM

Finally the time has come...
After 3 sets of samples and revisions from the factory we have produced a perfect mass produced version of Pete's Sync-Link throttle actuation system.

In the past month we have taken the initiative to meet the desires of the 914 following by finishing an application specific sync-link variant that Pete started a while back, but wanted us to finish. The system replaces the entire stick arrangement all the way to the throttle pedal using the same high quality, low friction cable and sheathing.
Sync-link pre-sales begin Monday July 18 at The Type 4 Store... Probably in late afternoon..
Thanks for the patience, when Pete and I teamed up things went much faster and smoother with final development and production.
Pics of the system installed into a 914 tomorrow.. :-)

Posted by: craig downs Jul 17 2011, 04:33 PM

Awesome I can't wait to purchase one

Posted by: Jake Raby Jul 18 2011, 08:57 AM

Lets hope the others that wanted one are in the same boat.. I hope this experience doesn't remind me of previous developments, where when the wallet had to open people changed this minds.

Posted by: mrbubblehead Jul 18 2011, 10:34 AM

jake, will you post up a link for the new linkage when put it on your website?

Posted by: Jake Raby Jul 18 2011, 10:54 AM

I'll post the links on my forum.. I don't want to do such shameless plugs here.. Others do them enough..

I am working on the descriptions and other text now, the items are already in the store but disabled until I finish the text.

Posted by: Jake Raby Jul 18 2011, 10:54 AM

I'll post the links on my forum.. I don't want to do such shameless plugs here.. Others do them enough..

I am working on the descriptions and other text now, the items are already in the store but disabled until I finish the text.

Posted by: bugsy0 Sep 20 2012, 11:57 PM

Hey Jake, any news on this?
Tom

Posted by: monkeyboy Sep 21 2012, 12:15 PM

He doesn't post here anymore... There were a few sets released, and I did get one. Never installed it, and may put it up for sale soon.

Posted by: 7275914911 Sep 21 2012, 01:01 PM

Another Vender has a similiar linkage. It works great and is available...
If you have Dual Carbs this IS the way to go IMHO...
http://tangerineracing.com/whats_new.htm

Posted by: jwhcars Sep 21 2012, 06:58 PM

I helped a friend install new webers and Tangerine racing's pulley set up.
It is a very nice system but you do have to drill a few holes.