1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Theme Parks

Kingda Huh? The Hydraulics Room that Powers Kingda Ka.

By , About.com Guide

1 of 3

Making Kingda Ka's Energy

Six Flags 2005. Used with permission.
On the bottom is a reservoir filled with hydraulic fluid. In the middle are a few of the eight 500 hp hydraulic motors through which the fluid is forced to generate energy. On either side are the accumulators that store the produced energy. At a precise moment, the accumulators release the energy to the winch on top. The launch cable, which is connected to Kingda Ka's train, is wound around the winch. This 20,800-peak-horsepower system is capable of repeatedly launching Kingda Ka from 0 to 128 mph in 3.5 seconds.
Explore Theme Parks
About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Vacations Made Easy

Find travel inspiration and get the best tips and reviews for your next getaway. More >

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. Theme Parks
  4. Roller Coasters
  5. Photo and Video Gallery
  6. SF Great Adventure Coasters
  7. How Kingda Ka works photos- Pictures of the hydraulics that power Kingda Ka roller coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure, New Jersey>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.