I was hoping to get an idea of just what it feels like to have assistance and not have assistance from the EPS system as that will give me an idea of what they might have done with the NSX's also......... I know it's not perfect, but maybe it will give me an idea.
As a matter of preference, I intentionally retained the factory EPS in my race car. I am familiar with the feel both with the system engaged and dis-engaged. I've also driven my share of manual racks. The only notable difference for the driver on session is the degree of physical effort required by the driver to physically turn the wheel.
As to the argument that the system is dis-engaged at speed and only intended for parking, that is false. The motor has three operating modes- normal control, return control, and damper control. You can read the service manual for a full description of how the system actually operates and what the design goals were.
As to the familiar argument that the steering feel is some-how better with a manual over an electric... my best guess is that many people are picking up on other setup differences because cars. The EPS rack is really just a direct connected manual rack (tie rods, pinion, etc...) except with the additional steering sensor/motor/ecu to provide the power assist thrust. The ratio specification is 20.8 (18.2-20.8) (Manual variable) and 18.6 (Power steering) so everything else being equal it's minimal. My opinion is that if you want it, it is actually a very well designed system- and you probably couldn't add a nicer one aftermarket for less than the cost of the car.
Thanks, I think I'll take yours and other peoples advice and stick with non EPS. I didn't really want to add it anyhow as money will be better spent elsewhere, but just wanted to be sure it was the right way to go before getting too deep into it.
If you already had it, and had already reached minimum weight, then I would suggest you consider retaining it. If you don't I certainly wouldn't pay nor take-on the complexity to add it back-in.
The reality is that their are advantages/disadvantages to both and it's not a black and white discussion. The manual rack is simpler with less to break. It's certainly a lot cheaper. It weighs less which would be an advantage in qualifying trim or where you don't have a class minimum weight. On the other hand, in most classes the NSX easily achieves minimum weight in most cases. The more front tire, the longer the stint, the greater the value with the electric rack. It can arguably lead to more consistent results for drivers over a long period such as in an Enduro context. Remember, anything you can do to aid driver is always more important than some infinitesimal weight improvement in many instances.
Most of the cars events will be short club level events, but then also booked into do this event in 2011 so might feel it then as it's 5 days..... but will just have to bulk up
Sounds like you have plenty of time then. I heard a tale that the pro guys apparently pick-up a pair of 5 lb weights and sit around and pretend to steer all day? :biggrin:
