I’m going to the Texas Mile for the first time. I have some questions for those who have participated.

• What is tech like? What do they go over? How long does it take?
• What’s the best tire pressure? I think I recall reading that running a higher pressure is better, due to less rolling resistance, but I know leaving a margin in for heat would be necessary.
• How long do you wait in line between runs?
• As this is my first time, I’ll be in Class C (up to 165 mph). As I understand the rules, I can request to be moved to Class B (up to 199 mph) after successful run(s). Does it take more than one run to petition to move a Class up?
• My ’07 Z06 is making just a bit over 500 rwph, what do you think it will do in the mile?

Also, tell me about your overall experience (grounds, people, food, etc.). Did it live up to your expectations?

 

The 2 times I've run, tech has been really thorough. Just go through the rule book and make sure everything in there is covered and you should be good. Basics like brake pads with over 50% remaining, everything bolted down tight under the hood and under the car, no leaks or evidence of leaks, etc. Have your helmet, gloves, and suit if you're wearing one with you for inspection too.

I researched this a ton and never came up with a definitive answer past manufacturers recommendations. So I bump mine up to about 35 cold and go.

It really depends. Friday and sunday there are fewer racers so you can get more runs in. Saturday is rough. I've had 3 runs on each of my saturdays. If they add night racing again this time, I was able to get 2 night runs in at the last event but suspect that number will go down as more people do it. Typically though, you can plan on a couple of hours between runs on saturday and maybe closer to an hour between on friday and sunday. As people leave on sunday, you may be able to lap quicker, but I've never stayed long enough to see how many I can get.

If there's a wreck or fluid on the track, they do a great job of cleaning up quickly but it can extend the wait time quite a bit.

You can't really request to move up. If you make a clean, controlled pass within your tech speed, they can move you up to a higher class. They did it for me automatically after my first run without me even asking. Just happened at the timing trailer.

Too many variables to even hazard a guess. But it will be fun no matter what!

 

Thanks 98Pace. I really appreciate the great feedback.

My Z is in great shape, with 50K miles, but it is 9 years old now. The only thing to resolve is a very minor oil drain plug leak. Just need to order a new one and that should resolve it.

I'm really looking forward to it.

 

Share vids when you have the chance. Good luck and have fun.

 

I'm running an 08 base with Z51 and it handles it great, so I'm sure your Z will do awesome as well. There are always plenty of cars far older than ours.

I'd suggest you plan to arrive mid day on thursday so you can get tech'ed and attend the first drivers meeting (mandatory before you can run, make sure you get the sticker). That way, you can hit the ground running on friday morning and maximize your runs.

When it comes to actually running, the only advice I received before my first run was to not hesitate to back out if I wasn't feeling comfortable for any reason. I have done enough drag racing that the first quarter and even half mile was no biggie, but once I passed the 3/4 mark it really felt like I shouldn't still be full throttle. Once I got that first run out of the way, it felt more natural and I was able to improve my speeds quite a bit by focusing on shifting the car at the right points (basically 100-200 RPM before redline for me, not sure on an LS7 but I'd guess the same).

The people there running have all been very friendly and willing to offer advice. I'm planning on being there again in April, so if you have questions look for a silver base and it'll likely be me. Feel free to ask anything you want.

 

That's on my list of things I'd like to do.

 

I wasn't even aware I could tech on Thursday. Great advice!

Yeah, I typically shift at 100-200 before redline as well.

I'll keep an eye out for you.

 

I plan on getting a GoPro. I'm looking forward to capturing the memories.

 

 

Seems they normally start letting vendors and sponsors in about noon on Thursday and racers a couple of hours after. There will be a line for check in, usually a long line. But they start tech at the same time as registration, so once you are checked in you can go straight to tech. The course drive through/drivers meeting is about 6:00 that evening. After that, you're done until they open grid on friday morning.

Just make sure you get at least 2 stickers, one at tech and one at the drivers meeting. Since this is your first event, they should put one on your helmet as well. I also think there's a specific sticker for over 200 mph, but I haven't had that problem.... yet!

Once you register, they'll email most of this out to you. It's really pretty easy to figure out and if you need help there are plenty of folks to ask. It's a very well run event with a bunch of just good people.

There's an event in Arkansas this year as well. Might be closer for you.

 

I noticed you were in Mckinney. Im located in Frisco and plan on attending for the first time as well.

What tires do you guys recommend? Currently on DRs and I found out last week those will not fly.

 

I'm using Firehawk runflats in stock size. They've been fine as i don't launch hard. Moving forward, I'll probably look at the Toyo R888.

 

Thanks for the info, I just created a profile. https://www.usmileracing.com/
I will do this!

 

putting down 700+ to the wheels so runflats wont fly. I want to go with the r888 but they dont make any big enough. I run 18's on all 4 and the largest 18" they have puts me at the same diameter as the fronts I have which I heard is a no no

 

Looks like there be a few of us, from the metroplex, making a first appearance. A buddy of mine is taking his C7; we installed a supercharger on it a few months ago. At 680 rwhp, we're really curious what it will run as well.

I'm on Nitto Invos.