Drifting Automatic Cars: Techniques & Control

Drifting an automatic car presents unique challenges compared to manual transmission vehicles; the automatic transmission often interferes with the driver’s ability to control wheel speed and power delivery, complicating the process of initiating and sustaining a controlled slide. However, drivers can use techniques such as weight transfer, combined with precise throttle control, to induce oversteer in certain automatic cars, allowing them to experience the thrill of drifting while mitigating the limitations of the transmission system. The result of drifting an automatic car can be extremely satisfying if the driver has practiced enough.

Drifting! The mere whisper of the word conjures images of smoking tires, roaring engines, and cars sliding gracefully around corners. It’s a ballet of controlled chaos, a symphony of skill and machine, and something many assume is strictly the domain of manual transmission vehicles.

But what if I told you that wasn’t entirely true? What if I said you could experience the thrill of drifting, the rush of adrenaline, the pure joy of controlled slides… in an automatic car? I know, I know – it sounds like mixing oil and water, like putting pineapple on pizza (controversial, I get it!). But believe me, it’s possible!

Let’s be honest, the world of drifting seems tailor-made for manuals with drivers clutching, shifting, and rev-matching their way to sideways glory. But don’t count the automatics out just yet! Drifting an automatic presents a unique challenge, a different set of rules to play by, and honestly, a whole lot of fun. There is a unique appeal of drifting an automatic car.

So, buckle up buttercups! This article is your guide to unlocking the secrets of automatic drifting. We’ll break down the techniques, explore the essential components, and delve into the skills you’ll need to transform your trusty automatic into a sideways sensation.

Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Drifting can be dangerous, so never attempt it on public roads. Always practice in a safe, controlled environment, like a racetrack or designated drifting area. Safety first, friends!

Automatic Transmissions: More Than Just Point and Go

Understanding the Automatic Dance

Okay, so you might think an automatic transmission is just point and shoot– put it in ‘D’ and forget about it, right? Well, hold on to your hats! There’s actually a whole lot of mechanical ballet going on inside that gearbox. At its heart, an automatic transmission is all about using planetary gearsets and hydraulic pressure to automatically shift between different gear ratios. Unlike a manual, you aren’t directly selecting gears with a stick and clutch. Instead, the transmission is sensing your speed, engine load, and throttle position, and then it magically decides which gear is best. This whole process of shifting is controlled by a complex network of valves, solenoids, and fluid passages within the transmission. Think of it as a mini-brain inside your car deciding when to upshift or downshift for you.

The Torque Converter: The Unsung Hero (or Villain?) of Drifting

Now, let’s talk about the torque converter. This little guy is the key player when it comes to drifting an automatic. It sits between the engine and the transmission, acting as a fluid coupling. Instead of a direct mechanical connection like a clutch in a manual, the torque converter uses fluid to transfer power. Picture two fans facing each other: one powered by the engine (the impeller), blowing air (fluid) to spin the other (the turbine), which is connected to the transmission.

Here’s the kicker: the torque converter can actually multiply torque, especially at lower engine speeds. This means you can get a surge of power when you stomp on the gas, which can be super helpful for breaking traction and initiating a drift. However, it’s a double-edged sword. That fluid coupling also creates slippage, which can feel like a delay in power delivery. In the drifting world, where instantaneous response is king, this can be a challenge.

The Automatic Advantage (and Disadvantage)

So, what are the pros and cons of drifting with an automatic? The biggest challenge is that slower response we just talked about. It can be tough to get that instant wheelspin you need to kick things sideways. Plus, you don’t have that direct control over gear selection that you get with a manual. However, automatics also have some hidden advantages. The torque converter can actually make transitions smoother and more forgiving, especially when you’re linking drifts together. And, let’s be honest, not having to worry about clutching can free up your attention to focus on steering and throttle control, which are crucial for maintaining a sweet drift. It’s a different beast, for sure, but with the right techniques and a little finesse, you can definitely tame the automatic beast and get it sliding.

Mastering the Techniques: Taming the Automatic Beast

Okay, so you’re ready to wrangle that automatic and make it dance? Forget everything you think you know about drifting, because we’re about to enter a world where smooth is fast, and finesse is your best friend. It’s all about feeling the car, understanding how that automatic transmission really works when pushed to its limits, and developing a Zen-like connection with the throttle. Buckle up, buttercup, because things are about to get sideways – in a controlled, skillful, totally-on-purpose kind of way.

Throttle Control: Your Right Foot is the Conductor

Forget about just mashing the gas pedal. With an automatic, throttle control is everything. It’s like learning to play the violin – you need a delicate touch to coax the right sounds (or in this case, the right amount of wheelspin) out of it. Think of your right foot as a volume knob for the rear wheels. Too much, and you’ll spin out; too little, and you’ll lose the drift.

• Gentle Inputs: Avoid jerky, abrupt movements. Smooth and gradual is the name of the game.
• Anticipation: Feel the car’s response and adjust accordingly. Is it starting to bog down? Add a touch more throttle. Is it getting too wild? Ease off slightly.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Find an open, safe space (legally, of course!), and experiment with different throttle positions to see how your car reacts.

Power Over: Controlled Chaos

Power Over is pretty self-explanatory: using the engine’s power to overcome the rear tires’ grip and initiate a slide. But with an automatic, it’s not just about brute force.

• Find the Sweet Spot: Get the car into a lower gear (if possible) or use the gear selector (if your car has manual shift mode) to keep the RPMs up. This helps the engine stay in its power band.
• Aggressive, but Smooth: Plant your right foot firmly, but avoid flooring it all at once. A smooth, progressive increase in throttle will help you break traction without sending the car into an uncontrollable spin.
• Listen to Your Car: Every car is different. Pay attention to the engine’s sound and feel the car’s response to find the right amount of power for a controlled slide.

Feint Drift (Kansei Drift) and Scandinavian Flick: Momentum is Your Ally

These techniques rely on using weight transfer to initiate a drift. The basic idea is to briefly steer in the opposite direction of the intended turn, which shifts the car’s weight and then you abruptly steer back to the original direction.

• Feint Drift (Kansei Drift): A subtle flick of the steering wheel to unsettle the rear end before initiating the turn. It’s a gentle push before the slide.
• Scandinavian Flick: A more aggressive version of the feint drift, involving a larger steering input and a more pronounced weight transfer. It’s like giving the car a hard shove to get it sideways.
• Automatic Adaptation: The key with an automatic is timing and throttle control. Since you don’t have a clutch to help initiate the slide, you’ll need to rely more on weight transfer and throttle to keep the momentum going.

Pendulum Turn: Swinging the Beast

Pendulum Turn, is like the Feint and Scandinavian Flick, but it focuses on control during the drift. It’s about using small steering adjustments to maintain the drift angle and keep the car balanced. Think of it as fine-tuning the drift to keep it smooth and controlled.

• Subtle Adjustments: Small steering inputs are key. Avoid overcorrecting.
• Anticipate and React: Pay attention to the car’s balance and be ready to make small corrections to maintain the desired drift angle.

Counter-steering: The Art of Correction

Counter-steering is the act of steering in the opposite direction of the turn to prevent the car from spinning out. It’s a fundamental drifting technique.

• Instinct is Key: Practice until counter-steering becomes second nature.
• Smooth and Progressive: Avoid jerky movements.
• Look Where You Want to Go: It sounds cheesy, but it works. Focus your gaze on the direction you want the car to travel, and your hands will naturally follow.

Weight Transfer: Shifting the Balance

Weight Transfer is at the heart of almost every drifting technique. By shifting the car’s weight, you can influence the amount of grip available at each wheel.

• Braking: Lightly tap the brakes before entering a turn to shift weight forward, reducing grip at the rear.
• Throttle: Applying or releasing the throttle shifts weight backwards or forwards, respectively.
• Steering: Quick steering inputs transfer weight from side to side.

Alright, budding drift masters, go out there (safely and responsibly!) and practice these techniques. Remember, patience, precision, and practice are your allies. Before you know it, you’ll be taming that automatic beast and leaving a trail of tire smoke in your wake (metaphorically speaking, of course… unless you’re on a track).

The Arsenal: Critical Car Components for Automatic Drifting

Alright, future drift kings and queens! Let’s talk about the gear you’ll need to turn your automatic ride into a sideways-sliding machine. While skill is key, having the right tools definitely helps. Think of it like this: you can’t paint a masterpiece with a dried-up brush, right? Same goes for drifting.

Differential: Laying Down the Power

• Why It Matters: Ever notice how sometimes one wheel spins like crazy while the other just sits there doing nothing? That’s your differential at work (or, rather, not at work). A standard open differential sends power to the wheel with the least resistance – not ideal when you want both wheels spinning in glorious, synchronized harmony.

• Enter the LSD: A Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) changes the game. It limits the amount of difference in wheel speed, forcing both wheels to share the power. This is especially crucial with an automatic because you don’t have the clutch to help you initiate and control wheelspin. An LSD helps you put the power down and get those tires spinning predictably. Think of it as the secret sauce for making your automatic drifter actually drift.

Tires: Where the Rubber Meets the Road (Sideways)

• Choosing Your Weapon: Tires are everything in drifting. They’re the direct link between your car and the asphalt – or whatever surface you’re shredding. You’ve got options: Performance tires offer good grip, great for learning and maintaining control. Drift tires, on the other hand, are designed to break traction more easily, allowing for more dramatic slides. But remember, more slide isn’t always better, especially when you’re starting out.

• Pressure Points: Tire pressure is another critical factor. Lowering the pressure increases the contact patch, which gives you more grip. But go too low, and you risk rolling the tire off the rim or overheating them. Experiment to find the sweet spot for your tires and your car.

Suspension: Setting the Stance

• Handling the Curves: Your suspension is what keeps your car from turning into a bouncy castle. Upgrading to coilovers gives you adjustable ride height and damping, allowing you to fine-tune your car’s handling. Sway bars reduce body roll, keeping the car flatter and more stable during transitions.

• Automatic Optimization: With an automatic, you’ll want a setup that encourages predictability and control. A slightly stiffer rear suspension can help initiate oversteer (that’s drift-speak for the rear end sliding out), while a softer front suspension provides better grip.

Brakes: Control and Style

• Stopping Power: Never underestimate the importance of well-maintained brakes. Not just for stopping, but for controlled weight transfer and precise corrections during a drift.

• The E-Brake Tango: The parking brake (or e-brake) can be used to initiate drifts, but use it with caution. Abusing it can quickly wear out the rear brake pads. It’s a tool of last resort, not your primary drift initiation method.

Steering System: Point and Shoot (Sideways)

• Responsiveness is Key: A responsive steering system allows for quick and precise corrections, essential for controlling a drift. Look for reduced steering play and good feedback.

• Angle of Attack: Many drifters install modified steering knuckles or angle kits to increase the maximum steering angle. This allows for more extreme slides and easier recovery from over-rotation.

Engine: Heart of the Beast

• Power and Torque: You need enough power to break the tires loose and keep them spinning. Torque is equally important, especially with an automatic transmission. Torque gets you moving, and keeps you moving.

• Engine Options: Engines that respond well to throttle inputs are ideal. Turbocharged engines can provide a surge of power, while naturally aspirated engines often offer more linear power delivery.

ECU (Engine Control Unit): The Brains of the Operation

• Tuning for Slides: The ECU controls pretty much everything in your engine, so optimizing its settings can significantly improve performance. A custom ECU map can improve throttle response, increase power output, and even adjust the rev limiter for drifting.

• Throttle Response is King: A sharp throttle response is vital for controlling wheelspin with an automatic. A good ECU tune can make the difference between a smooth drift and a jerky mess.

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): Friend or Foe?

• Interference Alert: ABS is designed to prevent wheel lockup, which can interfere with drifting by preventing you from initiating a slide.

• Deactivation (Use with Extreme Caution): Some drifters choose to disable ABS for drifting, but this significantly reduces braking performance in normal driving conditions. This is not recommended for street driving and should only be done by experienced drivers in controlled environments.

Traction Control/Stability Control: Party Poopers

• Anti-Fun Systems: Traction control and stability control are designed to prevent wheelspin and sliding, which is exactly what you’re trying to do when drifting.

• Disable for Drift: These systems typically need to be disabled before attempting to drift. Otherwise, they’ll kick in and kill your fun (and your drift).

Honing Your Skills: The Driver’s Role in Automatic Drifting

Alright, so you’ve got the car, maybe even some of those fancy upgrades we talked about. But let’s be real, all the gear in the world won’t make you a drift king (or queen) if you don’t have the skills to back it up. Drifting, especially with an automatic, is like a delicate dance between you and the machine. It’s not just about mashing the gas and hoping for the best; it’s about finesse, anticipation, and a whole lot of ‘feel’ for what the car is doing.

Car Control: The Maestro of Mayhem

Think of yourself as the conductor of a chaotic orchestra. You’ve got to orchestrate every input – throttle, steering, even a little weight shift – to create a symphony of sideways action. Smooth inputs are key here. Jerky movements will upset the car’s balance and send you spinning faster than a top at a kid’s birthday party. Learn to anticipate how the car will respond to your commands. It is crucial that you get accustomed to this level of car control, even before planning to go to the drift track.

Spatial Awareness: Knowing Where You Are (and Where You’re Going)

Drifting isn’t just about looking cool. It’s about knowing exactly where your car is in relation to everything around you. You need to be aware of the track boundaries, other cars (if any), and any potential hazards. It’s like playing a video game in real life – you’re constantly processing information and adjusting your driving accordingly. Anticipating changes in the environment is crucial. Is the track getting slicker? Is that cone getting dangerously close? Adjust your driving to stay in control.

Risk Assessment: Brain Before Brawn

Drifting can be dangerous, no sugarcoating it. That’s why risk assessment is so important. Before you even think about initiating a slide, you need to evaluate the potential hazards and consequences. Is the track clear? Are your tires in good condition? Do you have enough run-off space if things go wrong? Make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary risks. Remember, it’s better to back off and live to drift another day than to end up wrapped around a tire barrier.

Driving Physics: Understanding the Force

Alright, time for a mini-physics lesson! Drifting is all about manipulating the forces of grip, friction, and momentum. Grip is what keeps your tires planted on the ground. Friction is the resistance between your tires and the road surface. And momentum is the force that keeps you moving forward. By understanding how these forces interact, you can use them to your advantage to initiate and control a drift. For instance, understanding how weight transfer affects grip can help you to break traction at the rear wheels and start a slide. It might sound complicated, but with practice, it’ll become second nature.

The Right Setting: Environment and Safety First

Alright, so you’re pumped to try drifting your automatic? Awesome! But hold your horses (or should we say, horsepower?) for a sec. Before you even think about sliding sideways, we gotta talk about where you’re doing this and how to keep yourself in one piece. Trust us; a little planning goes a long way toward avoiding a world of pain, both for you and your ride. This chapter will guide you through selecting the right environment, ensuring that you have all the essential safety gear, conducting a thorough vehicle inspection and being aware of road conditions before you start drifting.

Track/Designated Drifting Area: Leave the Streets for Cruising, Not Crashing

Look, we get it. The image of drifting around a city corner in a movie looks incredibly cool, but reality is that doing so on public roads is a recipe for disaster. Not only are you risking serious injury or worse for yourself and others, but you’re also looking at hefty fines, a suspended license, or even a stay in the not-so-glamorous grey-bar hotel. Plus, there’s the whole karma thing – nobody likes a reckless driver.

Instead, find a designated drifting area. These tracks are specifically designed for this kind of fun and are equipped with safety measures like barriers, runoff areas, and trained personnel. Think of it as a playground for grownups who like to slide sideways. Your local search engines are your friend, to check if the facility has any instructional offerings and support.

Safety Gear: Dress for the Slide, Not Just the Ride

Alright, so you’ve found a safe place to drift. Now let’s talk about looking the part (and staying alive). Here’s the gear you’ll need:

• Helmet: This one’s a no-brainer (literally). Protect your precious noggin in case things go sideways – and they will.
• Racing Suit: Not just for looking pro, a racing suit provides crucial fire protection. Drifting can put a lot of stress on your car, and fires can happen.
• Gloves: Better grip on the wheel means better control. Plus, they’ll protect your hands from blisters.
• Appropriate Footwear: Ditch the flip-flops and lace up some driving shoes. You need to feel the pedals to make precise inputs.

The Gear protects you from the inevitable when Drifting.

Vehicle Inspection: Know Your Machine

Before you even start the engine, give your car a good once-over. This isn’t just a “kick the tires” kind of inspection; we’re talking about checking the following:

• Brakes: Make sure they’re working properly and have plenty of life left.
• Tires: Check for wear and tear. Drifting is hard on tires, so make sure they’re up to the task.
• Suspension: Look for any signs of damage or wear. A blown shock or broken spring can ruin your day.
• Fluids: Check your oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels.
• All other fluids: Make sure no leaks are detected.
• Any other Mechanical or structural faults: Make sure there’s not a big problem that could be unsafe to drive with.

Road Conditions: Adapt or Fail

Even on a track, road conditions can change. Be aware of the surface type (asphalt, concrete, etc.), grip levels (wet, dry, dusty), and any obstacles (cones, walls, other cars). Adjust your driving techniques accordingly. If it’s raining, for example, you’ll need to be extra cautious and use smaller, smoother inputs.

Remember, drifting is all about control. And control starts with being aware of your surroundings and taking the necessary precautions.

Upgrades and Modifications: Enhancing Automatic Drifting Performance

So, you’re serious about turning your automatic into a sideways samurai? Awesome! But let’s be real, stock automatics aren’t exactly born for the drift track. They’re built for grocery runs, not graceful slides. That’s where upgrades come in! Think of it like giving your trusty auto-drifter a serious power-up. We’re talking about modifications that not only boost performance but also keep things from going boom when you’re pushing it to the limit. Let’s dive into the must-have mods to make your automatic a drift-ready machine!

Transmission Cooler: Keeping Your Gears Chill

Ever tried running a marathon in a wool sweater? That’s what drifting without a transmission cooler feels like for your gearbox. Drifting generates a TON of heat, and automatics are particularly sensitive. Overheating can lead to major internal damage, leaving you stranded and seriously lighter in the wallet.

• Why it’s essential: A transmission cooler acts like a radiator for your transmission fluid, dissipating heat and keeping things at a safe operating temperature. Think of it as giving your transmission an ice bath after a hardcore workout.
• Types of coolers: You’ve got tube-and-fin coolers, which are generally affordable and effective for moderate drifting, and stacked-plate coolers, which offer superior cooling capacity for more intense use. Consider your driving style and budget when choosing.
• Choosing the right one: Look for a cooler with enough capacity to handle the heat load of drifting. A general rule of thumb is to choose a cooler that’s rated for at least 50% more cooling capacity than your vehicle’s stock cooler (if it even has one!). Consider a fan-assisted cooler for optimum cooling performance.

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): Spreading the Love (…and Power!)

Picture this: you’re trying to drift, but all you’re getting is one wheel spinning uselessly while the other sits there like a couch potato. That’s the reality with an open differential. An LSD changes everything.

• The LSD Difference: Unlike an open differential, which sends power to the wheel with the least resistance (usually the spinning one), an LSD actively distributes power to both rear wheels. This means more traction, more control, and a whole lot more sideways action.

• Types of LSDs:

  • Clutch-type LSDs: Offer aggressive lockup and are great for predictability, but can be noisy and require more maintenance.
  • Torsen (Helical) LSDs: Provide smooth and progressive lockup, making them a good choice for street and drift use. They’re generally quieter than clutch-type LSDs.
  • Viscous LSDs: Use a fluid coupling to transfer torque. They’re generally less aggressive than clutch or Torsen LSDs and are better suited for milder drifting.
• Choosing Your LSD: Consider your driving style, budget, and tolerance for noise and maintenance when selecting an LSD. For serious drifting, a clutch-type or Torsen LSD is usually the way to go.

Suspension Upgrades: Dialing in the Drift

Your suspension is the unsung hero of drifting. It’s what keeps your tires planted (or not, when you want them to slide) and your car under control. Upgrading your suspension can dramatically improve handling and stability during drifts.

• Coilovers: Replace your stock shocks and springs with adjustable coilovers. This allows you to fine-tune your ride height, damping (stiffness), and rebound (how quickly the suspension returns to its normal position). It’s like having a custom-tailored suit for your suspension!
• Sway Bars (Anti-Roll Bars): Connect the left and right wheels and reduce body roll during cornering. Stiffer sway bars can improve responsiveness and stability during drifts. Adjustable sway bars allow you to fine-tune the balance of your car.
• Other Suspension Goodies: Don’t forget about other components like adjustable control arms, which allow you to adjust camber and caster for optimal tire contact and handling.

Choosing Wisely

Selecting the right suspension parts can feel overwhelming, but it’s worth the effort. Consider your budget, driving style, and the type of drifting you’ll be doing. A good starting point is to talk to experienced drifters or suspension specialists. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Getting the right setup can make a huge difference in your car’s performance and your enjoyment on the track. So, get out there and get sliding… safely, of course!

Potential Pitfalls: Risks and Consequences of Automatic Drifting

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we’re about to dive headfirst into the not-so-glamorous side of automatic drifting. Picture this: you’re feeling like a drifting demi-god, the crowd is cheering, and then… BANG! Reality check time. Drifting, especially with an automatic, isn’t all smoky donuts and sideways smiles. It’s crucial to know the risks and consequences lurking beneath the surface before you start shredding those tires. Let’s break it down, shall we?

Transmission Damage: The Automatic’s Achilles Heel

Automatic transmissions, bless their smooth-shifting hearts, weren’t exactly designed for the kind of abuse drifting dishes out. All that rapid shifting, torque converter madness, and constant power demands? It can lead to overheating and premature component failure. Imagine frying your transmission like an egg on a hot summer day. Not pretty, right?

So, how do we keep our beloved automatics from turning into molten metal? Simple. Preventative measures are key. A transmission cooler is your best friend here, helping to dissipate heat and keep things running smoothly. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes, is also a must. Think of it as giving your transmission a spa day – it deserves it after all that hard work!

Tire Wear: Say Goodbye to Your Rubber Friends

Drifting is basically an Olympic sport for tires, and they’re guaranteed to lose… quickly. Prepare to watch your expensive rubber transform into a cloud of smoke in record time. And it’s not just fast wear; it’s uneven wear. You might end up with tires that look like they’ve been attacked by a cheese grater.

What’s a drifter to do? Choosing the right tires is crucial. Performance tires or specialized drift tires can handle the abuse better than your average all-seasons. And don’t forget about tire pressure! Experiment to find the sweet spot that balances grip and driftability. Also, rotating your tires regularly can help even out the wear (somewhat). Let’s be honest; you’re still going to be buying a lot of tires.

Loss of Control: When Drifting Goes Wrong

This is where things can get serious. Drifting is all about controlled chaos, but sometimes the chaos wins. Losing control can lead to accidents, injuries, and a whole lot of regret. Picture yourself spinning out, careening towards a wall, or worse… yikes!

The solution? Start slow and practice in a safe environment. Don’t try to be a hero on your first attempt. Gradual progression is key. As your skills improve, you can push the limits, but always be mindful of your surroundings and your abilities. Humility is a drifter’s best friend.

Mechanical Failure: When Parts Go Boom

Drifting puts immense stress on every part of your car, from the engine to the suspension. All that added stress can lead to mechanical failure, and nobody wants to be stranded on the side of the road with a broken car. Trust me.

Regular vehicle maintenance and inspection are non-negotiable. Check your brakes, suspension, steering, and all those other vital components. Address any issues before they become catastrophic. Treat your car with respect, and it will (hopefully) return the favor.

Legal Consequences: Keep It on the Track

This is a big one. Drifting on public roads is not only dangerous, but it’s also illegal. You could face hefty fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges. Let’s be real, is that really worth a few minutes of sideways action?

Drift only in designated areas, such as racetracks or sanctioned events. These environments are designed for drifting and offer the safety measures you need to push your limits without breaking the law (or your neck). Remember, the only good drift is a legal drift.

So, there you have it! Drifting an automatic might sound like a wild idea, but with a little practice and the right approach, you can totally make it happen. Just remember to stay safe, start slow, and have fun with it. Happy drifting!