Quote:
Originally Posted by mad_sb
No but they do reduce rotational mass resulting in more power at the contact patch and better acceleration. Dynodynamics can actually measure the power gain from lighter wheels and tires, saw it many times when i used to tune on one.
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That is about the only one that will really be felt as well. Removing unsprung weight is great, and lighter wheels/tires will allow you to accelerate faster and brake shorter.
But you're STILL not really making more power, it's just not as much drivetrain loss.
Crank pulley: As already stated, not a great idea, plus it's a very minor weight loss close to the axis of rotation.
Driveshaft: Same as crank pulley as it's all close to the axis of rotation. Also, I have yet to see a lightweight 2 piece driveshaft (yes they can be made). Keep in mind that a single piece would be far cheaper for them to make, and in a car with very little sound insulation, NVH is not the driving force behind their decision to use a 2-piece. The other obvious reason is driveshaft critical speed...
Flywheel: Now we're talking. Lots of weight and it's far away from the axis of rotation. Downside is that it's harder to replace, makes the car a bit of a pain to daily, and if the car is drag raced, the clutch can weld itself to the steel inserts (on an aluminum flywheel, this is not so much an issue on lightweight steel or cromoly flywheels).