Nice track tips for a beginniner from an IWSTi member

Alex · Jan 31, 2007

This is an extremely well written set of tips for beginners considering tracking their vehicles.

boataholic said:

1. Don't be rushed. This isn't a race if you're group goes out before you because you needed to adjust your seat or put some fuel then go ahead and take care of your car first then you can join a little late. Take the time to check your lug nuts, tire pressures and adjust your mirrors and seats. Be comfortable in your seat. I know this will be hard but don't drive in the rear view mirror. Just because the Z06 pulled behind you doing 150mph don't pick up your speed. Keep your line and wait to point him by.

2. Warm your car up. Your car will love you if you just spend the first 2 laps warming the engine, tires and brakes up. Watch your gauges. You should know when your engine is up to temp. If you go out and try to time attack the first lap you're going to spin out and possibly end your track day early.

3. Cool your car down. The checkered flag isn't so you can beat the guy in front of you to get to winners circle. Take the car at a reasonable pace that allows you to NOT BRAKE HARD. This is crucial because if you come in with your brakes hot and shut down the car you will warp your rotors, boil your brake fluid or worse. Cooling down doesn't stop at the cool down lap. When you park DO NOT APPLY YOUR PARKING BRAKE. The heat in the pads will have no where to go. I suggest you allow your turbo about 30-60 seconds to cool down then you shut the car off. Put the car in gear and open the hood to cool off the engine.

4. Make friends, Leave your ego at home. You're going to pass cars and get passed by cars. If you get a pumped up ego in front of you that won't let you pass in the straight because he has 100000hp come into the pits and ask for space. You want to be as far away from everybody as possible. Why you ask? If you spin out do you want another beginner on your tail? Every time I go out I always make a point to compliment the other cars (even evos). Ask if you have a quesiton. Most of the good drivers would love to ride along with you or even drive your car to show you what it's capable of doing. All you have to do is ask. Remember Mario Andretti wasn't born driving a racecar.

5. Have fun,
Don't stress out too much just enjoy. Remember that the more fun you're having and the more relaxed you are the faster you will be. Some of the greatest drivers in the world are relaxed while they drive.

6. The line...
The line is a difficult concept to grab your first time at the track. Take a look at the map before you go and try to strategize how you think the best way to take a turn is. Remember the less you do with the car the faster the car will be. As a noob I sometimes do the entire course in 4th gear. Why you ask? Because if I'm not concentrating on shifting I'm concentrating on the throttle, brake and steering wheel. Remember your car is your dance partner. You want to listen to her and keep all the motions slow and controlled. Remember the throttle and brake are not on off switches. Lightly apply and lightly release both. Finesse builds confidence and confidence builds speed.

Last but not least always remember
The only way you win is to drive your car home at the end of the day!
Click to expand...

calmnothing · Feb 11, 2007

Good tips. I"ll remember that for my first track event.

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Nice track tips for a beginniner from an IWSTi member

Alex Community Founder Staff Member

calmnothing Shlimp Flied Lice Supporting Member

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Nice track tips for a beginniner from an IWSTi member

Alex Community Founder Staff Member

calmnothing Shlimp Flied Lice Supporting Member

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