track event virgin

[Burl Vibert]

Chris Dyer wrote:

> Hoping to do my first track event in Las Vegas in March. Car is a daily
> driven '87 5kcstq w/much fixed/replaced since my ownership. Track event is
> simply driving w/a pro, learning you & your car's limits on the track. I
> hope to do this every other month. Keep in mind this isn't "racing", but is
> driving to the "limits" over a 1 or 2 day period. (I sometimes feel that
> driving in L.A. is already over the limit...)

Cool, careful, you may get seriously hooked.  While I haven't really tracked my
'87 5kcstq, well, except that one time when the "bomb" puked and I lost most of
my brakes going into the first corner,  I have run other cars so I'll offer
some generic advice.


>
>
> Looking to you racers/autoxers for advice:
>
> 1. pre-"race" I plan on brake inspection & bleed w/pentosin dot 4. I have
> powerdisk fr. & stock rr disks, oem pads. I was thinking of trying a
> different pads. Keep in mind this is also my daily driver.
> Suggestions/avoidances/BTDT's on non-oem pads for combined use.

Stock pads may not take the heat very well.  If the pad overheats you end up
with a hard pedal but not much braking power.  If your fluid overheats you end
up with the pedal hitting the floor and very little braking power.  If you
notice your pedal getting lower it's starting.
I've used PBR/Axxis/Repco metalmasters and feel they work fairly well for the
price. Not the best but better than most metallic or semi-metallic. Oh yeah,
because it's a 2 day event, bring a spare set of pads unless the ones you have
are thick. You can also bring along more brake fluid, you may need it.
Funny thing is that I find many people, myself included, have less overheated
brake problems as we get more experienced and faster.  You just end up using
your brakes less, they only slow you down don't cha know.

>
>
> 2. Helmets. I don't need a pretty one, just a good, inexpensive one that'll
> protect my noggin. Suggestions on brands and outlets would be great.
>

Probably lots of deals online, but you should really test fit and get a snug
and comfortable one.  Even if not needed for your lapping weekends you should
make sure it is either Snell M95 or M00 approved.  The best would be one with a
Snell SA95 or SA00, SA means they are mean't to be used in auto-racing as
opposed to the M which means motorcycle, but is still accepted in many driving
events.


>
> 3. I use Mobil 1 10w-30 & oem filter. Good nuff? I was thinking of pre-race
> going to either higher ??w-50 or Redline.
>
> 4. Tranny & diff lubes: I have synth in there now (castrol I think), good
> nuff?
>

I don't forsee any problems with these fluids

>
> That's it (for now). Any of you autoxers/racers out there have car prep
> advice, by all means bring it on.

What tires are you going to use? Size? How worn?


Burl Vibert
1987 Audi 5000CSTQ
1983 Audi Coupe
Kingston, Ontario