Brakes :: When I used to take my car to HPDEs I noticed I didn't go through brakes as much as others. This is very dependent on driving style, track and some other variables. One thing to take into mind is with a car like ours you will be on the brakes HARD at the last minute and off earlier than some so you can carry momentum.
Engine cooling: The fan clutch and aux fan only aid a lot in slow traffic. For on the fly cooling, radiator flush, water wetter (not really necessary @ this time of the year for some areas) and you should be good to go. A bad radiator will not cool as well when put to the task. When was the last time your thermostat was changed? How about your accessory belts?
Engine lubrication: Fresh engine oil change with good oil prior to event. Slight overfill of about a quart. Your car will probably be put through it's most intensive test ever. Check oil level religiously, look in the mirror every now and then to see if your car is smoking or ask those who were behind you to see if you were smoking while accelerating or decelerating.
Other fluids: You seem to have that in line. Check, top-off as needed for trans fluid, diff fluid and brake fluid. Tighten these drain bolts to spec. If you bleed brakes make sure bleed screws are tightened and not over tightened.
Suspension: Tighten every bolt and nut that connect brakes, springs, shocks, steering, control arms, tie rods and wheels to spec with a torque wrench. Don't go over board with tightening as that can do more harm than good. If you recently did suspension work, check your strut collar nuts as well.
Tires: Make sure they are in good condition. Air them up nicely and if you're not used to the art of pressure being related to performance, speak with your instructor.
If you have never driven your car @ redline through 1-2-3. Now is the time to try it before you hit the track. Make sure you're familiar with the noises and vibrations that the car exhibits.
When in doubt - pull in to the pits. Most instructors will most likely advise you to pit or pull over the moment something very awkward rears it's head.
On the track: Pay attention listen to instructor and most important of all RELAX and have fun. Set a pace and plan for progression. Talk with instructor. Talk with instructor, talk with instructor, talk with instructor. See if you're confident to admit the areas you want to work on after a few laps. Listen to him. Put ego in container and leave at home too
As you start to get faster, be prepared for longer braking distances depending on the style of driving and the nature of the track. Always make sure you check your braking ability gradually prior to going in for the late brake move during the last session when your pads are all but done hehe :rolleyes:
Sorry for the long winded answer. :eek:
Topic: prepping for track day (Read 3311 times)