What are the two rails for going along either side of the roof on the race cars?

Question

are those rails for aerodynamic purposes. and if so what force does it put on the car?

Answer 1

The rails were added in the early 90's to help disturb the air going over the cars, when the cars were sideways, and keep the cars from flipping over at high speeds....such as those as Daytona and Talladega. They were also designed, in part, to help keep the car going in a straight line (going around the corners counts as going straight.....straight meaning not going sideways).

Several years later, the current roof flaps were added, and almost eliminated the cars getting airborne enough to flip, although some cars did, and still do get airborne.

Answer 2

They are aero like has been stated, but they serve another purpose as well. By rolling the crimp in the sheetmetal it helps strengthen the roof panels and keeps the roof from flopping and losing it's shape at 180mph like you see the hood do on the in-car cams. If the roof gave any at all it would allow more air on the rear spoiler (now wing) and would give the car more rear downforce, thus an unfair advantage. That's why NASCAR doesn't allow the drivers to stand on the roof when celebrating because they like to check the lines of the roof after the race.

Answer 3

They are called Roof Rails and yes they are for aerodynamic purposes. They help somewhat on downforce!!!!

Answer 4

I assume u are talking NASCAR, and JGR has it goin' on. Cup and Busch have slightly different rails on their cars. but for the most part JG pretty much sums it up.

Answer 5

thats a good answer JG RACE u explained it to a T

Answer 6

Yea, what "JG Race 1194" said.

Answer 7

Well what kind of racecar are you talking about?? A sprint car, stock car...??

Answer 8

listen to JGR guy on here he has it right one, explains it to the point...