First Autocross
Racer
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 449
Likes: 0
From: Killeen TX
Forget the insurance company...if you're only competing against the clock, they have to pay in the rare ocasion you might damage something. Watch out for the cones, I've seen them break body panels if hit hard enough at speed. If it's a Corvette event, watch to see who's fast and ask them about proper lines, tire pressures, etc. If it's not just Vettes, you can still ask about proper lines, etc. The best place to make time is in the corners, so try to maintain as much momentum through the corners as possible. I'm sure there are other more experienced drivers that will have tips for you.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 18,682
Likes: 4
St. Jude Donor '05-'06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12
This thread should provide you with everything you need to know about autocrossing. Autocrossing is a lot of fun. Just make sure you read the thread first 
Goodluck and have fun
Goodluck and have fun
Pro
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 511
Likes: 17
From: Coralville Ia
it is a heck of a lot of fun. Make sure to increase the tire pressures or you might have problems. Also you should have an almost full or empty tank (stay with full for now) to avoid sloshing of gas. Read the sticky... tons of useful information!
Administrator
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 368,616
Likes: 24,867
From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
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Don't know much about autocrossing, but hope you have a great time. Let us know how it turns out. 
Racer
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 279
Likes: 0
From: Fairport Harbor OH
I have been autocrossing for about a year now.
In addition to the advice others have given, make sure to take
advantage of the "Novice Walk" if they offer one. I still go on them and
I learn something every time.
Oh yeah, HAVE FUN !!!
In addition to the advice others have given, make sure to take
advantage of the "Novice Walk" if they offer one. I still go on them and
I learn something every time.
Oh yeah, HAVE FUN !!!
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Drifting
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 1,889
Likes: 230
From: Livingston County, Michigan
Make sure that you bring whatever info is needed (driver's license, registration, etc.).
Get there early and walk the course.
If a friend goes, ask him/her to observe you so if you have any off-courses you know where.
Make sure that your oil level is full. Have your air pressure at least at the GM recommended setting - better yet if you are about 3 to 5 psi over.
The link that was mentioned is great in listing what to bring to make it an enjoyable day.
Ask lots of questions - folks are always happy to help.
Get there early and walk the course.
If a friend goes, ask him/her to observe you so if you have any off-courses you know where.
Make sure that your oil level is full. Have your air pressure at least at the GM recommended setting - better yet if you are about 3 to 5 psi over.
The link that was mentioned is great in listing what to bring to make it an enjoyable day.
Ask lots of questions - folks are always happy to help.
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 230
Likes: 6
From: Washington DC
I had my first autocross last week in Baltimore MD. Best advice that I got was to walk the course and take your time on the first lap so that you learn course. With each lap that I ran my times got faster because I was no longer trying to find my way.
Have fun
Have fun
Race Director
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 11,308
Likes: 1
From: The Beautiful Greater Bay Area California
Have an enjoyable and educational time at the track. The link posted above offers convenient and informative background info for any one interested in auto crossing. Enjoy and be safe. 
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 1,016
Likes: 364
From: Dardenne Prairie Missouri
Originally Posted by acrace
Make sure that you bring whatever info is needed (driver's license, registration, etc.).
Get there early and walk the course.
If a friend goes, ask him/her to observe you so if you have any off-courses you know where.
Make sure that your oil level is full. Have your air pressure at least at the GM recommended setting - better yet if you are about 3 to 5 psi over.
The link that was mentioned is great in listing what to bring to make it an enjoyable day.
Ask lots of questions - folks are always happy to help.
Get there early and walk the course.
If a friend goes, ask him/her to observe you so if you have any off-courses you know where.
Make sure that your oil level is full. Have your air pressure at least at the GM recommended setting - better yet if you are about 3 to 5 psi over.
The link that was mentioned is great in listing what to bring to make it an enjoyable day.
Ask lots of questions - folks are always happy to help.
Definitely air up the tires above GM specs, I usually air mine up about 5 PSI more than spec. Of course remember to lower the pressure back down afterwards so you don't wear the tires uneven on regular driving. Enjoy the experience!!
Pro
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 511
Likes: 17
From: Coralville Ia
Originally Posted by B R
Don't hit the cones 
. They will add more time than you can make up for, & they might scratch your paint 
.
. They will add more time than you can make up for, & they might scratch your paint .