RPM Formula:
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The RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) calculation estimates engine speed based on vehicle speed, transmission gear ratio, final drive ratio, and tire diameter. This helps in understanding engine performance at different speeds and gear combinations.
The calculator uses the RPM formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for how the combination of gear ratios and tire size affects engine speed at a given vehicle speed.
Details: Knowing your engine RPM at different speeds helps with gear selection, fuel efficiency optimization, and understanding your vehicle's performance characteristics.
Tips: Enter speed in mph, gear ratios as dimensionless numbers (e.g., 3.73), and tire diameter in inches. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why is 336 used in the formula?
A: The constant 336 combines unit conversions (miles to inches and hours to minutes) to give the correct RPM result.
Q2: What are typical RPM ranges for cars?
A: Most cars cruise at 1500-3000 RPM, with redlines typically between 5000-8000 RPM depending on the engine.
Q3: How do I measure my tire diameter?
A: You can calculate it from tire size markings (e.g., 225/45R17) or measure the actual loaded diameter with the weight of the vehicle on the tires.
Q4: Does this work for automatic transmissions?
A: Yes, but only for the current gear ratio. Automatic transmissions may shift gears at different RPMs depending on load and throttle position.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's quite accurate for theoretical calculations, but actual RPM may vary slightly due to tire wear, inflation, and transmission slip.