5 THINGS TO PREP YOUR CAR FOR A TRACK DAY
5 THINGS TO PREP YOUR CAR FOR A TRACK DAY
Let’s talk performance pressure. Your beautiful Mx5 gets you to and from the seaside every Sunday. No problem. But this weekend you’ve decided to pump the adrenaline and take it onto the track. Chances are, you’ll get a few warm up laps in and then BAM your Mx5 caves to the performance pressure. Engine lights are on and your track day ends very abruptly with the arrival of the tow truck.
On the track you get to drive faster and harder, putting stress and pressure on your vehicle. It is worth taking the time to prepare it correctly before taking it onto the track. This will ensure it copes with the performance pressure that comes with modified racing conditions.
Here are 5 simple things you can do to your car to prepare it for a track day!
1.WHEEL ALIGNMENT >>
Your steering technique depends on the feel of the vehicle and how you are going to hit those corners. Doing this without the old "oh it pulls to the left" is going to give you the best practice on the track. Some sports vehicles will also allow you to play with the camber to increase the handling under modified race conditions.
2. WASH WINDOWS + MIRRORS >>
Under modified racing conditions it is SUPER important to be able to see what's going on around you. There may be a nervous driver on the track or soft corner you need to miss. Ticking this simple one off the list will save you time on the day, make your track time safer and it'll look good in the photos.
TIP: If you have trouble with your windows fogging try a glass treatment such as Rain-X or a can of Coke
3. OIL CHANGE >>
The purpose of engine oil is to lubricate the engine and absorb heat. Engine oil breaks down over time and needs to be changed in order to maintain effectiveness.
Performing an oil change will not only replace the old engine oil but will also flush any sludge or particles out of your engine keeping it in tip top shape.
4. REPLACE BRAKE PADS >>
Brake pads help you stop. By clamping down on the rotor the pressure brings your wheels to a stop. Doing this over time wears down your brake pads and can cause a whole host of problems. Taking your car from the road to the track means that your brake pads are subject to heavier use under modified racing conditions. Let's just say you want plenty of brake pads to go around to ensure your safety at high speeds.
5. TYRES >>
Your vehicle is manufactured for comfort (I mean.... we hope it is) therefore your tyres are set to reduce road noise and bumps when travelling from A to B. When you're hitting the track we recommend adding 4 PSI from your manufacturers placard. Doing this will ensure the side walls of your tyre (google: tyre anatomy) don't collapse when you're cornering hard and at speed.
