crank

A tool that estimates the horsepower delivered to a vehicle’s wheels based on the horsepower measured at the engine’s crankshaft. This calculation typically factors in drivetrain losses, which occur as power is transferred through the transmission, differential, and axles. For example, an engine producing 300 horsepower at the crank might only deliver 250 horsepower to the wheels due to these frictional losses.

Understanding the difference between these two horsepower figures is crucial for performance analysis and tuning. Crank horsepower represents the engine’s raw power output, while wheel horsepower reflects the actual power available to propel the vehicle. Knowledge of these figures enables more accurate performance comparisons between vehicles, informed decisions on modifications, and a clearer picture of drivetrain efficiency. The concept has evolved alongside automotive technology, becoming increasingly relevant as vehicles become more complex and tunability increases.

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This tool provides an estimated conversion between horsepower measured at the engine’s crankshaft and horsepower measured at the vehicle’s wheels. Crankshaft horsepower represents the total power generated by the engine before drivetrain losses, while wheel horsepower reflects the actual power delivered to the road after accounting for friction and inefficiencies within the transmission, differential, and other drivetrain components. For example, an engine might produce 300 horsepower at the crank, but only deliver 250 horsepower to the wheels due to these losses.

Understanding the distinction between these two power measurements is crucial for accurately assessing vehicle performance and making informed modification decisions. While crankshaft horsepower figures are often used for marketing purposes, wheel horsepower offers a more realistic representation of a vehicle’s usable power. These calculation aids gained prominence alongside the rise of aftermarket performance upgrades, allowing enthusiasts to better quantify the impact of modifications and compare the effectiveness of different drivetrain configurations.

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