Hydraulic Adjustable Rear Spoiler (Daytona Decklid)

What happens here

The mechanic details the engineering of an adjustable rear spoiler, cleverly integrated into a 'Daytona decklid' (trunk lid), used on tracks like Daytona and Talladega. This modification involved a hidden hydraulic cylinder, often a modified clutch slave cylinder, mounted secretly beneath the car's dashboard. Hydraulic lines were discreetly run from this cylinder to the trunk, connecting to a mechanism that allowed the spoiler to pivot. A hidden T-handle within the cockpit allowed the driver to control the hydraulic pressure, pushing the spoiler back by approximately 20 degrees. This reduced aerodynamic downforce, resulting in higher top speeds on straightaways. To pass pre-race inspections, springs were incorporated to hold the spoiler firmly in its legal, upright position. Additionally, silicone sealant was used to fill the gaps created by the movable spoiler, making it appear fixed and compliant during visual inspection. This sealant would then be cut after inspection to allow the spoiler's full range of motion. The mechanic indicates that later designs sometimes incorporated two such hydraulic cylinders for improved control and stability.

Goal: Dynamically adjust rear spoiler angle for aerodynamic advantage during a race.