1. What is a Crank to Wheel Horsepower Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts crankshaft horsepower (engine horsepower) to wheel horsepower by accounting for drivetrain losses.

Purpose: It helps automotive enthusiasts and professionals estimate the actual power delivered to the wheels after drivetrain losses.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( WHP \) — Wheel horsepower (power at the wheels)
• \( HP \) — Engine (crank) horsepower
• \( DTL \) — Drivetrain loss factor (typically 0.10-0.25)

Explanation: The engine horsepower is reduced by the percentage lost in the drivetrain to calculate the actual power reaching the wheels.

3. Importance of Wheel Horsepower Calculation

Details: Wheel horsepower represents the actual power available to move the vehicle, which is crucial for performance tuning and comparisons.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the engine horsepower and drivetrain loss factor (default 0.15 for 15% loss). The factor must be between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical drivetrain loss factor?
A: Front-wheel drive: 10-15%, Rear-wheel drive: 15-20%, All-wheel drive: 20-25%.

Q2: Why is wheel horsepower lower than crank horsepower?
A: Power is lost through friction in the transmission, differential, axles, and other drivetrain components.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate, but actual dyno testing is needed for precise measurements.

Q4: Can I use this for electric vehicles?
A: No, EVs typically have much lower drivetrain losses (often under 5%).

Q5: Where can I find my car's crank horsepower?
A: Check manufacturer specifications or dyno test results with drivetrain loss calculations.