New Carb linkage for /4 engines- RAT "Accu-Link", Another approach for the solution of a long time issue. Options

[Jake Raby]

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!




This post has been edited by Jake Raby: Oct 1 2009, 11:19 AM