Optimizing Your Ford Focus ST: Effective Strategies to Eliminate Wheel Hop
The Ford Focus ST is a high-performance compact car prized by enthusiasts for its handling and speed. However, one common issue many owners face is wheel hop, a phenomenon that can severely impact the driving experience. In this guide, we will explore the best methods to minimize or eliminate wheel hop on your Ford Focus ST.
Understanding Wheel Hop
Wheel hop, or wheel spin, is a condition where the wheels of a vehicle bounce off the road during acceleration, typically caused by wheelspin. This can be particularly problematic in sporty cars like the Ford Focus ST, which demand high levels of traction from the tires and suspension system.
How to Identify Wheel Hop on Your Ford Focus ST
The signs of wheel hop are clear and can be easily noticed during spirited driving, such as when you engage the torque convertor on an automatic transmission or take off with a high-performance manual shift. Listen for unusual noises or banging sounds during acceleration. If the car feels bouncy or if it feels like it's skipping off the road, these could be indications of wheel hop.
1. Upgrade Your Tires
One of the most effective ways to combat wheel hop is by upgrading your tires. Tires play a crucial role in the handling and traction of your car. Here are a few tire options to consider:
Performance Tires: Look for tires with good tread patterns, wide contact patches, and high-quality rubber compounds. These features help distribute the weight of the car more evenly, reducing the risk of wheel hop. Street-Track Tires: For those who engage in more spirited driving, street-track tires offer a balance of grip and durability. Brands such as Michelin and Pirelli offer excellent options. V-Rated Tires: For a bit more performance, V-rated tires are designed to handle higher speeds and provide better lateral stability.When choosing a tire, consult with a professional at a reputable tire shop. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific needs and driving style.
2. Stiffen Your Front Struts
Another effective method to reduce wheel hop is by stiffening the front struts. The struts are responsible for dampening the shock and maintaining the car's stability during acceleration. Consider upgrading to Performance Struts, which are designed to handle more aggressive driving conditions:
Performance Struts: These struts offer higher spring rates and stiffer dampers than standard models. They help keep the wheelbase stable under acceleration, which can significantly reduce wheel hop. Action Struts: Action Struts are known for their durable construction and improved handling characteristics, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts.3. Suspension Tunning
To further enhance the performance of your Ford Focus ST and minimize wheel hop, consider performing a suspension tune. This involves adjusting various components of your car's suspension to achieve the desired balance of ride quality and handling:
Anti-Roll Bar: Adding a stiffer anti-roll bar improves the car's ability to resist body roll, which can help prevent wheel hop. Shocks and Struts: Upgrading to performance shocks and struts can provide better control and smoother ride quality, reducing the risk of wheel hop. Control Arms: High-quality control arms can improve the alignment of the wheels, contributing to more stable handling and performance.Additional Tips for Minimizing Wheel Hop
While upgrading your tires and stiffening your struts are key steps, there are additional measures you can take to minimize wheel hop:
Proper Alignment: Regularly checking your tire alignment ensures that the wheels are perfectly aligned, which can help prevent wheel hop. Limited Slip Differentials: Installing limited slip differentials (LSDs) can also help prevent either wheel from spinning, even under particularly aggressive driving conditions. Torque Convertor Efficiencies: If your car has an automatic transmission, consider using a transmission with a stronger torque converter.Conclusion
The Ford Focus ST is a wonderful car that requires well-tuned handling to achieve its full potential. By addressing the common issue of wheel hop, you can experience a more stable and enjoyable driving experience. Whether through tire upgrades, stiffening your struts, or suspension tuning, these steps can significantly reduce or eliminate wheel hop, enhancing your overall performance driving on your Ford Focus ST.