I'm going to take my daily driver out to the track in a few weeks. It's a 2000 coupe w/ Z51, Corsas, and a blackwing intake. She's been around the block @ 102K miles...

I've never driven any car on a track. This is a first.

Brakes are GM Ceramic w/ Chinese rotors.5K miles. They work great for the street - but I have no interest in changing those out for a single day. (I honestly thought about changing the pads for 2002 and newer - less fade, but that's easily $200 in parts)

Brake fluid is probably original (going to replace). Shocks are original too - but with the tight suspension - it doesn't appear to be a big deal. (way different than a pal's FE1.)

Everything works fine (except for the oil pressure gauge - but I have a new sending unit on the desk.)

Tires: 1/2 worn Firestone wide ovals (Z06 sizes on aftermarket Z06 rims)

I need a helmet. I might be able to borrow one from a friend - but I don't want to spend a ton of cash on this since I have no idea whether or not it's something I want to do... Motorcycle helmets don't work - so what is the current approved standard?

I don't have a camera mount for the car.

What am I missing?

 

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/showthread.php?t=673766

 

Check out the AutoX section, tons of good info.

 

Let's get you straight on terminology. "Track time" USUALLY refers to multiple laps on a real race track. If you are going to your first Autocross that's a "whole different country". If it will be an SCCA Solo ll event, they should have a few helmets to loan. You won't need to do any race type prep for these low speed events. As a minimum, tire pressures set about 30# all around to start. Less will give sloppy handling. Much over 35# and you will start to reduce the tread contact patch. You don't need to buy tires until you wear out what you've got, as the car will be faster than you can handle it in the beginning anyway. Make sure the wheel lug nuts are at the proper torque. Don't fill up the gas tank. Weight takes horsepower to move. Be light! Remove anything loose in the car. Remove your floor mat on the drivers side. It could tangle your foot or bunch up. Tighten your seat belt TIGHT! Sit up as straight as you are comfortable with. Don't reach for the wheel. ALWAYS keep BOTH hands on the outside of the steering wheel. Approximately 10 to 2 down to 9 to 3. Go SLOW on your first couple of runs and FIND THE COURSE! You will have not have competive times with the regulars. Don't worry about that! Do WATCH the regulars on the course. You will be required to work the event, so try to find a good corner to work and watch the technique of the regulars. Don't be afraid to ask for tips, no one will give you any "secrets" but they all will help you if you ask. If a passanger ride is allowed, ask for a ride from another entrant. Many will not want the extra weight, but you might get lucky. Many events have "fun runs" at the end, USE THEM! Don't get discouraged at first, it will all come in time. And above all HAVE FUN!! You may need some Botox on your grin muscles though!

 

Learn something new every day. It's a track event (untimed) at Thunderhill Raceway in California.

Thanks for the thoughts.

 

You're going to love Thunderhill. This was my home track when I was racing a Formula Ford in Vintage. One of my favorite parts of the course is the cork screw turn at the top of the hill. Just watch the off camber turns, they can put you in the weeds!