6 replies to this topic

[funformula]

I recently came across this picture at EBAY

http://www.ebay.de/i...0EAAOSwZ8ZW8VwZ

 

Although the description tells that it is a helmet prototype of Nigel Mansell, it clearly shows Rupert Keegan in the 1982 Rothmans-March.

But what is the story behind the strange helmet support? I never seen a picture of it before, maybe Keegans neck wasnt strong enough to cope with the G-forces?

[Michael Ferner]

In 1982 drivers sought all sorts of help in battling the centrifugal forces; this one looks like a brain vibrator, though. Some methods were more ingenious than others, I recall Gilles Villeneuve attaching a sling that went through his armpits. Mansell, I'd think, was one of the few drivers who didn't need neck support.

[Catalina Park]

I thought it was Keegan's March chassis that couldn't cope with the G forces?

[Michael Ferner]

Ah, so they used Rupert's head to make the car more stable in the corners!?! Very clever.

[Catalina Park]

Just tilt your head this way to push the sidepod down...

[Charlieman]

Just tilt your head this way to push the sidepod down...

Sadly, I reckon that trick worked in recent F1 years.

[GMACKIE]

 Mansell, I'd think, was one of the few drivers who didn't need neck support.

Maybe he  did, before his neck muscles were up to 'full strength' ?