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Now that you've signed up for Run and Gun, you need to prepare your car. The first course of action is to review the "Tech Inspection" form to gain a clear understanding of what our inspectors will be reviewing to make sure you car is fit for the track.
The technical inspections are common sense reviews to assure us, the other drivers and yourself that your car is in proper working condition. In the event you are unsure of your car's condition, any good repair facility can help you determine if any work is necessary before a track event.
There are only four small patches of rubber in actual contact with the track surface. Doesn't it make good sense to have the best possible rubber on the road? Your tires should be in good condition with no cords or belts showing. The treads, assuming you use street tires, should not be down to the wear indicators. Track tires or slicks too should be in good shape. If you've had a flat repaired with a plug or patch, I'd suggest you consider replacing the tire as these can fail under the loading and heat of a tack day. Wheel covers, beauty rings and center caps should be removed.
The steering should turn easily with no binding as you turn from lock to lock. There should be no excessive play in the shock or strut mounts, trailing arms, roll bars or other suspension pieces. Grab each wheel with the car elevated to make sure the wheels don't move from to side indicating a loose wheel bearing. If you have loose suspension pick up points, worn suspension bushings or bad bearings, you car will not handle and drive properly.
There should be no leaks from the engine (or any other part of the car for that matter) allowing liquids to fall onto the track surface, endangering yourself and fellow drivers. Please make sure you car is not leaking. Make sure your battery is properly secured with a strap or harness and make sure the battery posts are covered. Not only will this prevent a battery from arching should it roll over and touch a metal surface, but a flying battery can be deadly. Keep in mind how much a battery weighs.
Most non-car people ask "How fast does your (FILL IN CAR NAME) go?" My concern is often how fast it can stop. Your brake system should be in good working order with no leaks. Brake lines are often made of rubber and rubber degrades over time. Make sure your lines have no cracks. A good set of DOT approved braided steel brake lines go a long way to improve pedal feel. Fluid should be new throughout the brake system. I've seen clean brake fluid in the reservoir only to help owners bleed the old fluid from the lines. A brake fluid flush is inexpensive and can save your life. Brake pads need to be at least 50%. Like the tires, these are the only things truly stopping your car. Track specification pads are not necessary but recommended. Talk to others with similar cars and track experience to determine what may work for your car. Brake lights need to be properly functioning as well.
How much is your head worth? A good helmet is an absolute must whether you intend to do just one track day or many. The minimum helmet requirements are an SA2000 helmet. An SA rated helmet is Nomex lined to keep you head from catching on fire if the car should go up in flames. Yes, an SA helmet is more expensive then an "M" helmet but it offers the added fire protection. Do not show up with an older SA (pre-2000) or M helmet expecting to drive. You will not be allowed on track with a helmet not meeting these minimums. A fire resistant racing suit is not necessary but recommended. You must have long pants and long sleeve cotton clothing on while on track. This offers limited protection in the event of a car fire. Like an SA2000 or newer helmet, the investment in a racing suit is initially a little high, but amortized over several years and track events becomes trivial. Closed toe shoes are necessary as well. Those with a rubber sole are a good choice to keep one's feet from slipping off pedals. Of course good racing shoes are acceptable as well.
When it comes to safety at a track event, the more the merrier. Make sure all loose objects like floor mats, jacks, garage door openers, CDs, cassette tapes, etc. are removed from your car. A gym bag makes a nice addition to hold all this while you are on track.
Thoroughly clean your windows as the sun can be blinding and I'd prefer you not run into any other drivers including your's truly. Clean windows allow you to see your turn in points better as well.
Check tire pressures before, during and after a track day. Most cars will need higher tire pressures then when driving on the street. Check you owner's manual for any references to pressures and speak with other owners of similar cars with track experience. You can tweak there tire pressures throughout the event.
After you come off the track from a session, let your car idle for a few minutes, possibly with the hood up, allowing the car to cool. Do not use your parking brake as the heat from the pads/rotors may warp your brake rotors.
The Technical Inspection process we use is designed to assist you prior to Run and Gun, and to ensure that all vehicles that enter the track have no obvious mechanical problems. The steps are as follows:
Participants 'Self Inspect' their vehicles prior to each event. Use this form or have a full vehicle inspection performed by a qualified vehicle repair facility.
Participants confirm that the 'Self Inspection' has been conducted when they sign the event waiver and turn in the Tech Inspection Form during check-in the morning of the event. The link below will provide the Tech Inspection form.
The Tech Inspection form below is designed to serve as a guide for you. Use the form to make sure your car is ready to go. You will be required to submit the Tech Inspection form at registration. It is highly recommended that you fill out your form prior to the event so the overall check-in process moves faster and gets you on track sooner.
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