restless wrote: ↑26 Oct 2018, 19:28
pretty weird... why they change the engine during FP1, not before or after !?
Engine is not designed for 1 race that has low air pressure.
As per different articles by Honda Gasly Spec 3b had different assembly compared to Hartley. Whilst Hartley is fine, Gasly version not so fine and sent back to Sakura.
A new spec 3b similar to Hartley assembly was installed to be added to pool and an installation lap was done and then changed for next race. Now Gasly on old Spec2.
Due to low air pressure chances spec 3b will not be able to produce enough torque as no adequate engine mapping will be there. If new spec 3b gets damaged they cannot differentiate if its a design issue or complication due to low air pressure.
Spec 2 is a known entity and they are able to tune it with more confidence which they have done well eith Hartley. Also note the aero upgrades Hartley has will be easier to compare with spec 2 rather than complication with spec 3 engine.