MK: We look at histograms of shock velocity over time to determine how well the shocks work. We also look at heat maps of suspension travel to track location to see where the car dwells in the suspension stroke. We also look at wheel speed to actual speed and calculated wheel speed to determine if the gearing is correct for the course. We monitor lateral and longitudinal G forces so we can see if our suspension changes are going in the right direction and are actually making the car hook up better. In addition to chassis parameters, we are tracking engine stuff like coolant temperature, oil temperature, oil pressure, air-fuel ratio, fuel pressure and rpm. This is so we can keep track of engine health. If there is a problem we look at all sensor inputs and ECU outputs to aid in troubleshooting.
What specific data (such as entry or zone speeds) do you rely on to provide guidance to the driver?
MK: For objective stuff we talk about overall speed and segment speed compared to the competition. The Sorensen cars are always among the fastest through the course. We also talk to the drivers about the cars driveability. As we add more and more grip to the chassis, the cars get harder to drive and there is always a balance between grip and how easy it is to drive the car. This is really critical in tandem, especially when following.
Judging drifting sometimes seems a bit subjective. When contact happens, the judges decide if the lead car didn’t maintain forward momentum outside a decel zone or place importance on proximity vs better angle for a chase run. What are your thoughts on the judging this year?
MK: For political reasons, I am not going to comment on this!
This is the second year you’ve been supporting Sorensen Motorsport. How have you seen this team evolve?
MK: The teams keeps getting better and better. The crew clicks better and is better organized. We got on the podium in Pro 1 for the first time and Amanda was the first female to podium in FD history. Branden and Amanda keep getting better and better as drivers. Cameren, the youngest Sorensen is going to be joining the team in Pro Spec as well and he is going to be the youngest driver in FD history. I really feel that 2025 is going to be our year.
