SPS

By far, the most frequently asked question that we are asked at SPS is "what modification should I make to my Saturn?" Too often, this question is asked without an understanding of the basic framework of logic that should be employed before asking such a question. And too often, the enthusiast asking the question is ready to spend money on the "miracle part" that will turn a Saturn into a Porsche.

Gary Lippert wins ITA races all over the U.S. in his modified 92 SC.

But before you buy anything, please try to understand the framework within which wise purchase decisions are made. And remember three key points:

1. Car parts must work together to create a system.
2. Always strive to strengthen the weakest link in the chain.
3. Changing a portion of a system will usually result in a tradeoff of benefits.

Understanding the Car as a "System"

Unfortunately, the performance aftermarket is generally guilty of focusing great attention upon individual components. In the process, the role of those components within the larger system in which they work is often overlooked. This can lead to exaggerated claims of performance improvements. In extreme cases, it can actually result in a decrease in performance, damage to the vehicle, or even compromise matters of safety. And it often causes many beginners to embark upon the disappointing quest for a "miracle part."

Webster’s defines a system as, "a set or arrangement of things so related or connected as to form a unity or organic whole". Within each Saturn vehicle, there are over 7,000 parts that work together to form a system that we identify as a "car". And within the large system are many smaller subsystems such as the powertrain, suspension, and braking systems (and many, many more.) Often, components may even be shared among subsystems. (Can you imagine a braking system trying to stop the car without the help of the wheels and tires?)

Each subsystem is composed of individual parts that work together to achieve the specific goals of the subsystem. (For example, the rotors, calipers, pads, lines, brake fluid, master cylinder, vacuum booster, and brake pedal of the braking system work together to turn kinetic energy into heat. And the pistons, rings, crankshaft, injectors, head, spark plugs, etc. within the motor work together to turn molecular bonding energy into kinetic energy.) As a result, the ability of any part to affect the performance output of the vehicle depends not just on the characteristics of the single part, but instead upon the ability of that part to enhance the operation of the larger system in order to create the desired results. If a new bigger and better part is introduced within the system that, for whatever reason, fails to enhance the operation of the rest of the system, then a net improvement cannot be realized.

In non-mechanical terms, this is often expressed as "teamwork" or "synergy." A team of skilled athletes does not guarantee victory unless those athletes are able to work together to accomplish shared goals. When one or more members of the team pursues goals that are not inline with the rest of the team, then the entire team becomes dysfunctional.

Once you understand the concept of the system, then it should come as no surprise that the key to enhanced performance is not hidden within just one part. In most cases, the key to enhanced performance ultimately requires evaluating the entire subsystem and the larger system of which it is a part.

Weakest Link in the Chain

Once you understand that many parts of a car work together within a system, then it should become clear in what order to pursue modifications: Always strengthen the weakest link in the chain.

The weakest link of the chain theory simply suggests that the performance limits of any system may be defined by the limits of one or two components within the system. If this is so, then it only makes sense to improve those weakest components first. If not, then the changes made to other components fail to result in an expanded threshold of performance since the limits continue to be defined by the weaknesses of the weakest members.

Suppose that you were the coach of a professional football team whose special teams unit had been repeatedly unable to kick the conventional extra point. Upon evaluating the problem, you determine that the cause is the ball-holder’s recurring inability to accept the snap and quickly settle the ball into the proper position. The weakest link in the chain theory would suggest replacing the ball-holder with a more skilled player. (You may be surprised, however, by the large number of automotive performance enthusiasts who would instead choose to continually replace the kicker!)

Accepting Tradeoffs in Exchange for Performance

Have you ever wondered – even for just a moment – why Saturn Corporation does not design all of their cars to be sports cars? Why not give every car wide sticky tires, stiff suspensions, open exhausts, and high-compression pistons?

The obvious answer, of course, is because of the tradeoffs. All such features result in higher costs, harsher ride qualities, increased noise levels, and shorter average lifespans. And if built into every unit, they could potentially result in a car that would seem unattractive to the bulk of Saturn’s target market.

But as performance enthusiasts, we crave more from our cars than does the average Saturn owner. We want more power, better handling, and more fun-to-drive athleticism than what comes with the stock Saturn vehicle. In order to achieve these enhanced performance characteristics, we are willing to accept certain tradeoffs – including additional costs, increased noise levels, firmer rides, and greater levels of wear and tear. But there are obvious limits to our willingness and ability to accept these tradeoffs. (These limits are what keep us from buying a Porsche in the first place!)

As you begin and continue to modify your car, you experience a tradeoff of benefits. When you add performance tires to gain more grip and better handling, you will forego the soft, isolated ride quality and inexpensive replacement costs of the stock tires. When you replace your exhaust with a free-flowing unit in order to gain more horsepower, you will forego the quiet noise levels of the stock system. When you add stiffer lowering springs toimprove handling, you will lose the soft ride and idiot-proof ground clearance of the stock springs. The list goes on.

But the existence of these tradeoffs should not deter you from enhancing the performance capabilities of your Saturn. They should, however, force you to analyze and accept the tradeoffs before you act upon a purchase. And you should take responsibility for the consequences of the decision to modify your vehicle. Motorsports is a fun hobby, but it is a hobby best suited for responsible adults.

Monthly Technical Articles

As a result of our intense involvement with the scR and Thundersport race teams and over three years of service to the Saturn performance aftermarket, the small crew at SPS has developed a unique degree of Saturn-specific expertise that is simply unmatched by any other aftermarket distributor. Throughout 1999, we hope to share some of our knowledge through a series of "technical" (or in some cases, not-so-technical) articles that will help Saturn enthusiasts understand their cars and the modifications that can be made to them.

Understanding the systematic relationship between parts, the reasoning behind the weakest link in the chain theory, and the inherent tradeoffs behind altering systems toward greater specialized performance will be an important part of understanding many of the upcoming articles.

Please visit the SPS site often to see the latest information!