My first real track experience was with NASA years ago. I got to take an instructor as a ridealong at first, and while he quickly released me to go out on my own, I am so glad that I didn't have to go out solo. He provided all the basics on what to do and what to watch for. Mostly, he calmed me down, stopped me from speed-shifting, and got me to focus on what was important for a first-timer. If you can have an instructor for the first time, I highly recommend it.
My first experience with the SCCA TNIA was 100% positive. I paid as much for track insurance as I did for the event, but that allowed me to go out in my Fiesta without worrying about getting bumped or suffering a trip into the grass. Neither of these were even remotely an issue for me, but the peace-of-mind was worth every penny. I went out in the middle group, having been on the track before. I learned one thing that wasn't covered in class, I was moving off the race line to let much faster cars pass with a point-by. Some really nice guys in Corvettes grabbed me in the pits and told me that, while a nice thought, it made me unpredictable and to please hold the line and they will go around me.
I also learned that there were two flag stations waving the checkered flag. I missed the second one. I also missed one yellow flag and almost passed a full-race Miata under caution. (luckily I knew it was faster than me and that was a clue) I learned that I was getting tunnel-vision and not looking at the flag stations. The officials had a friendly, but stern, talk with me and the problem was solved.
I can't wait to get on track again, I keep threatening to sell the FiST and pick up a track rat.
Olemiss540 said:
the BMWCCA is NOT convertible friendly....
They just require minimal roll-over protection (a bolt-in Hard Dog bar will do) and arm restraints. Wouldn't you want that stuff anyway?
Cactus
Reader
1/8/20 6:50 a.m.
In reply to LanEvo :
Most groups I've run with don't require the arm restraints, just the roll bar. A few didn't even use the broomstick test. I think I'd want it in a Miata, I don't really fit to begin with.
LanEvo said:
Olemiss540 said:
the BMWCCA is NOT convertible friendly....
They just require minimal roll-over protection (a bolt-in Hard Dog bar will do) and arm restraints. Wouldn't you want that stuff anyway?
The local BMWCCA's tech sheet says "NO" convertibles or T-Tops or Targa Tops..
LanEvo said:
Olemiss540 said:
the BMWCCA is NOT convertible friendly....
They just require minimal roll-over protection (a bolt-in Hard Dog bar will do) and arm restraints. Wouldn't you want that stuff anyway?
Every BMWCCA HPDE event I have participated in (midwest) has denied participation to convertibles.
Didnt see much about car prep.
Brakes
Cooling
Brakes
Battery hold down
Brakes
And minimal to no leaking fluids
Track days:
I did my first HDPE event last year at Laguna Seca in a 2011 GTI. The group I went with (SpeedSF) had a tech checklist for your car. I did an oil change, DSG (trans) fluid change, checked the brake pads, tires, etc. One thing I would highly recommend is changing out your brake fluid for something with a higher boiling range. I used Castrol SRF.
If you've never driven on a track you will be required to join the novice group and attend the driving school. Most organizations have a classroom and then a couple lead/follow sessions. After that they will ask if you feel comfortable driving on your own. Go easy and get a feel for your and your car's limits.
AutoX:
I also attended a couple autoX events. They are fun, but it's hard to get up to speed over 4 runs. The local SCCA group has fun runs after everyone is done. I stuck around for those and got another 4-5 runs in. The SCCA group also had a test and tune day at the end of the season. That was better for a novice IMHO. I must have got 15-20 runs that day. There are usually advanced drivers that will ride along and help you out.
I doubt any group will let you sign up for racing unless you have prior track experience.
Good luck,
Chris
In reply to Olemiss540 :
Looks like you guys are right: they're requiring compliance with "broomstick rule" now. That means a simple rollbar won't work unless it's super high. A full cage is ok.
I've been focused in racing these last 5-6 years and I guess I'm out of the loop for HPDE. Sorry for putting out bad information!
