Renault Clio Rally 5

How to Prepare Your Renault Clio Rally5 for Rallying and Competition?

The Renault Clio Rally5 is a customer competition car developed by Renault Sport Racing based on the Clio V R.S. Line. Debuting in rally competition in 2020, it represents the entry level of Renault’s rally range and allows drivers to get started in competition with a car specifically designed for stopwatch events.

Equipped with a 1,330 cm³ 1.3 TCe turbocharged engine producing 180 ch and 300 Nm, the Clio Rally5 combines a 5-speed Sadev sequential shift mechanism, a ZF-type limited slip differential, a Sachs clutch, and Life Racing electronic management.

To prepare or maintain a Renault Clio Rally5, you must adhere to its homologated specifications and select parts suited for both asphalt and gravel rally configurations. Reliability, tracking the kilometers covered on special stages, and regulatory compliance take priority over the pursuit of additional power.

Renault Clio Rally5 Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Renault
• Development: Renault Sport Racing
• Base model: Renault Clio V R.S. Line
• Competition debut: 2020
• Category: FIA Rally5
• Approval: A-5779
• Layout: front-mounted transverse engine
• Drivetrain: front-wheel drive
• Engine: 1.3 TCe, 4-cylinder, 16 valves
• Cubic capacity: 1,330 cm³
• Supercharging: Garrett Turbocharger
• Fuelinjection: direct injection
• Power: 180 ch
• Torque: 300 Nm
• Maximum RPM: 6,500 rpm
• Electronic control unit: Life Racing
• Fuel: SP98 as originally specified
• Transmission: Sadev sequential shift mechanism, 5-speed plus reverse
• Differential: ZF-type limited slip differential
• Clutch: Sachs
• Front axle: pseudo-McPherson
• Rear axle: H-beam axle
• Shock absorbers: BOS; suspension not adjustable in the original configuration
• Handbrake: hydraulic
• Fueltank: FIA-approved FT3, 60 liters
• Claimed unloaded weight: 1,080 kg in the initial configuration
• Wheelbase: 2,579 mm
• Front track: 1,500 mm
• Rear track: 1,490 mm

Important: These specifications correspond to the Renault Sport Racing specification presented at launch. Authorized parts must be verified against the approval sheet, its updates, and the regulations of the event or the Clio Trophy.

FIA approval and Renault Sport Documentation

The Renault Clio Rally5 is a homologated car whose components must comply with applicable technical regulations. A part compatible with the production Clio V is not necessarily authorized for use in Rally5.

• FIA Approval A-5779: technical definition and applicable extensions.
• Renault Sport Racing documentation: specifications and maintenance instructions.
• Mounting manual: assembly of competition components.
• Parts catalog: exact part numbers for Rally5 components.
• Sadev documentation: sequential shift mechanism and service procedures.
• Life Racing documentation: ECU, wiring harness, and sensors.
• Championship Rules: Specific regulations for the Clio Trophy and other events.

Preparation of the 1.3 TCe turbo engine

The Renault 1.3 TCe engine, with a displacement of 1,330 cm³, features direct injection and a Garrett turbocharger. In its Rally5 specification, it produces 180 ch and 300 Nm.

Unlike an unrestricted engine setup, the goal is to maintain the performance specifications set by Renault Sport Racing and ensure reliability on special stages. Boost pressure, oiling, and temperatures must be monitored.

• Engine: gaskets, internal components, and homologated parts.
• Timing system: components and accessories from the 1.3 TCe.
• Turbo: Garrett turbocharger, gaskets, and connections.
• Fuelinjection: injection valves and direct injection components.
• Firing: spark plugs and ignition coils.
• Oiling: oil filter and system components.
• Cooling: radiator, fan, hoses, and accessories.
• Sensors: pressure and temperature sensors.

Garrett Turbocharger, Intake, and Filtration

The Garrett turbocharger on the Clio Rally5 requires regular inspection of its oil supply, connections, and the integrity of the induction system.

In gravel rallying, air filtration is particularly important to prevent dust from entering the turbocharger and the engine.

• Filtration: Air filter compliant with Rally5 specifications.
• Intake: ducts, sleeves, and clamps.
• Supercharging: turbo hoses and connections.
• Turbo oiling: oil supply, return line, and gaskets.
• EngineManagement: Life Racing-compatible pressure and temperature sensors.

Renault Clio Rally5 Exhaust

The Renault Clio Rally5 exhaust system is part of the technical specification for the turbocharged engine. Mounting must comply with Rally5 regulations and applicable noise limits.

Vibrations, debris, and contact with the ground require regular inspection of the mountings and heat protection.

• Turbo outlet: specific exhaust components.
• Exhaustline: pipes and components conforming to the homologated specification.
• Muffler: suitable competition muffler.
• Assembly: gaskets, flanges, clamps, and brackets.
• Protection: heat shields and thermal insulators.

Sadev 5-speed sequential shift mechanism and ZF limited-slip differential

The Sadev 5-speed sequential shift mechanism transfers power to the front wheels via a ZF-type limited slip differential.

The sequential shift mechanism is mounted on the floor. The operation of the transmission and the differential must be checked in accordance with maintenance recommendations and the number of kilometers driven on special stages.

• Sadev transmission: pinions, dog clutches, shift levers, shafts, and bearings.
• Shift mechanism: selector lever and associated components.
• Limited slip differential: ZF-type differential service parts.
• Clutch: Sachs clutch and control mechanism.
• Drivetrain: driveshafts, joints, and cardan shaft bellows.
• Seals: oil gaskets and transmission gaskets.
• Oiling: oil compliant with Sadev specifications.

Braking System of the Renault Clio Rally5

The braking system on the Clio Rally5 must correspond to the homologated mounting and the car’s configuration. The system also includes a hydraulic handbrake.

Before ordering racing brake pads, you must identify the brake calipers, the shape of the brake pads, and the sizes of the brake discs. This information is more reliable than simply relying on the stated compatibility with the Clio Rally5.

• Front: front disk, racing brake pads, and calipers.
• Rear: rear discs, pads, and caliper components.
• Hydraulics: master cylinders, brake hoses, fittings, and lines.
• Handbrake: hydraulic brake and master cylinder.
• Fluid: high-temperature brake fluid.
• Maintenance: gaskets, bleeders, and repair kits.

BOS suspensions and running gear for asphalt or dirt

The Renault Clio Rally5 uses a pseudo-McPherson front axle and an H-type rear axle. In its original configuration, it is equipped with non-adjustable BOS Suspension shock absorbers, in line with the category’s cost-control philosophy.

The asphalt and dirt configurations require adjustments and components adapted to the compression, ride heights, and demands of each surface.

• Front: BOS shock absorbers, springs, and pseudo-McPherson components.
• Rear: shock absorbers, springs, and H-link suspension components.
• Hinges: rod ends and control arms.
• Hubs: hubs, wheel bearings, and accessories.
• Steering: rack, steering tie rods, and steering joints.
• Alignment: adjustments permitted by the Rally5 specification.

Renault Clio Rally5 Rims and Tires

The original Renault Sport documentation specifies 6.5 x 16-inch rims for asphalt and 6 x 15-inch rims for gravel.

The choice of rims must take into account braking, center distance, rim offset, and caliper clearance. Permitted sizes may depend on the technical specifications and the event’s regulations.

• Pavement: 6.5 x 16" rims and pavement rally tires.
• Dirt: 6 x 15" reinforced rims and dirt rally tires.
• Mounting: competition wheel studs and nuts.
• Accessories: valves and mounting components.

Cockpit, seats, and rally equipment

The Clio Rally5’s cockpit is designed for the driver and co-driver, featuring a sequential shift mechanism, a hydraulic handbrake, and competition-grade instrumentation.

• Driver: seat, brackets, brackets, and harness.
• Co-driver: seat, harnesses, brackets, and footrests.
• Steering: racing steering wheel and hub.
• Controls: sequential gear selector and hydraulic handbrake.
• Communication: driver/co-driver intercom.
• Navigation: co-driver’s light and accessories for pace notes.
• Instrumentation: Life Racing display and controls.

Roll cage, FT3 fuel tank, and FIA safety features

The Renault Clio Rally5 features a welded steel monocoque with a roll cage. It also comes equipped with a 60-liter FIA-approved FT3 fuel tank as standard.

Safety equipment must comply with the standards and validity dates applicable to the championship.

• Structure: roll cage and regulatory protection components.
• Restraint: seats, harnesses, and mountings.
• Fire: fire suppression system and fire extinguisher as per regulations.
• Electrics: cut-out device.
• Crew: helmets, hans devices, racing suits, flame-retardant clothing, gloves, and boots.
• Fuel: FT3 fuel tank and fuel system components.

Bodywork and underbody protection

The Clio Rally5’s bodywork must protect mechanical components from impacts and flying debris encountered in rallying, particularly on gravel.

• Underbody: engine, transmission, and underbody protections.
• Bodywork: specific fenders, hood, and bumpers.
• Mounting hardware: fasteners and mounting components.
• Towing: regulation towing hooks and towing straps.
• Dirt: splash guards and protection against flying debris.
• Cooling: Grilles and heat exchanger protections.

Life Racing Electronics and Fuel System

The Life Racing electronic control unit manages the 1.3 TCe turbo engine and processes data from various sensors.

Diagnostics must be based on the wiring harness and Renault Sport part numbers rather than on the components of a stock Clio V.

• ECU: Life Racing ECU.
• Wiringharness: competition-spec engine and cockpit wiring.
• Sensors: pressure, temperature, and RPM.
• Instrumentation: display and warning lights.
• Electrical system: battery, relays, fuses, and connectors.
• Fuel: FT3 fuel tank, pump, filter, hoses, and fittings.
• Rally: Additional lighting as needed.

Maintenance and Rally Support: What Parts Should You Bring?

The Clio Rally5 is designed to keep operating costs down, but its mechanical components are still subject to the stresses of rallying.

Keeping track of the kilometers driven on special stages is essential for scheduling maintenance on the engine, turbo, Sadev transmission, differential, drivetrain, and suspension.

• Engine: engine oil, filters, spark plugs, and ignition coils.
• Turbocharger: hoses, clamps, and fittings.
• Gearbox: oil and service components.
• Drivetrain: driveshafts, joints, and cardan shaft bellows.
• Brakes: brake pads, rotors, and high-temperature fluid.
• Cooling system: hoses and cooling fluid.
• Suspension: rod ends, control arms, hubs, and wheel bearings.
• Rims: studs, lug nuts, and valves.
• Electrics system: relays, fuses, and sensors.

How do you choose the right parts for a Renault Clio Rally5?

When selecting parts for a Renault Clio Rally5, you must base your choice on the competition specifications rather than solely on the part numbers for the street-legal Clio V.

Be sure to checkfor A-5779 approval, the 1.3 TCe engine, the Garrett turbocharger, the Sadev transmission, the ZF differential, the Sachs clutch, the brake calipers, the BOS shock absorbers, the rims, and the Life Racing electronics.

This approach allows you to prepare the car for asphalt or gravel rallying, service the mechanical components, and build up a stock of parts for roadside assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Renault Clio Rally5

What engine does the Renault Clio Rally5 have?

It uses a 1,330 cm³ 1.3 TCe turbocharged four-cylinder engine with direct injection.

How much power does the Clio Rally5 produce?

The original Renault Sport Racing specification lists 180 ch and 300 Nm.

What transmission does the Renault Clio Rally5 have?

A 5-speed Sadev sequential shift mechanism, paired with a ZF-type limited slip differential.

What rims should be used on a Clio Rally5?

The initial specification calls for 6.5 x 16-inch rims on asphalt and 6 x 15-inch rims on dirt, subject to applicable regulations.

What clutch is used in the Clio Rally5?

The original technical documentation specifies a Sachs clutch.

What is the fuel capacity?

The Clio Rally5 is equipped with a 60-liter FIA-approved FT3 fuel tank.

What is the difference between the Clio Rally5 and the Clio Rally4?

The Clio Rally4 is a higher-performance specification. Renault has introduced an upgrade that allows a Rally5 to be converted into a Rally4, featuring different components and technical specifications.