Another great DE (More Pics Added)
01-02-2012, 01:26 PM
#16
Rennlist Member
Ok folks, you've really peaked my interest in getting back into racing. Way back in the early '90s I did hold an SCCA regional competition license racing a Formula Ford at Summit Point and Pocono. (Still have the car)
My '85 is just stock. What would I need to do to this car to get it to pass tech for DE?
What would I need to do to it to make it drive better on track, without spending a ton on it? Separated into must do's and should do's.
Thanks in advance.
My '85 is just stock. What would I need to do to this car to get it to pass tech for DE?
What would I need to do to it to make it drive better on track, without spending a ton on it? Separated into must do's and should do's.
Thanks in advance.
01-02-2012, 02:10 PM
#17
Rennlist Member
Bob,
Every PCA region has their own rules about exactly what inspection is needed. Even though you did SCCA stuff, you'll most likely start in a green group and - because of your track experience (riding a bicycle kinda' stuff!!), you should progress fairly quickly through the yellow and maybe blue groups into white. The groups below white all start with an instructor in the right seat, and being signed off with that region and track to drive solo, then to advance to the next group.
For all groups below white, the stock 3 point harness, seats, even street tires are fine. As you get a bit of seat time, you may want to add a few things (seat time is THE most important). Don't worry about the engine, you've got plenty of torque and hp to have fun for a long time. Seats that locate you better, a better suspension, and perhaps high performance street tires come along next.
Go to the Region's tab at www.pca.org and check out the web pages of the region you might drive with - Potomac, Niagara, etc. Their Drivers Ed section will have a tech inspection page - that will tell you what the mechanic is going to check so you'll be accepted when you arrive at the track.
Watkins Glen is a GREAT track for 928's. Hope to see you there with some region in 2012.
Gary Knox
Every PCA region has their own rules about exactly what inspection is needed. Even though you did SCCA stuff, you'll most likely start in a green group and - because of your track experience (riding a bicycle kinda' stuff!!), you should progress fairly quickly through the yellow and maybe blue groups into white. The groups below white all start with an instructor in the right seat, and being signed off with that region and track to drive solo, then to advance to the next group.
For all groups below white, the stock 3 point harness, seats, even street tires are fine. As you get a bit of seat time, you may want to add a few things (seat time is THE most important). Don't worry about the engine, you've got plenty of torque and hp to have fun for a long time. Seats that locate you better, a better suspension, and perhaps high performance street tires come along next.
Go to the Region's tab at www.pca.org and check out the web pages of the region you might drive with - Potomac, Niagara, etc. Their Drivers Ed section will have a tech inspection page - that will tell you what the mechanic is going to check so you'll be accepted when you arrive at the track.
Watkins Glen is a GREAT track for 928's. Hope to see you there with some region in 2012.
Gary Knox
01-02-2012, 02:23 PM
#18
Drifting
Thread Starter
Safety is our #1 concern. Your car needs to pass a tech inspection (form below) within 30 days of the event. This can be done by a dealership or independent. The biggest things are fluid changes, brakes pads, rotors, loose wiring, leaks, light, etc....
Driving better on track starts at the driver, then add in safety stuff, brakes, tires, suspension, roll bar, big fancy wing, bigger wheels/tires, better pads, fancier brake fluid, then horsepower. Horseposer is great, but, PLEASE, make sure you can out drive the car before it outdrives you. Many of the new cars nanny you into thinking you are better than you are. Automatic transmission cars are a great learning experience (one les thing to pay attention to) as is riding with a good instructor.
Certainly feel free to PM with any questions, I've been DE'ing since 2002 and now being on this side the last few years is a great learning experience and let me help you learn to go fast and not get a ticket for speeding.......
Our main DE Page: http://www.niagarapca.org/pages/7
Specific Tech Form: http://cdn.niagarapca.org/page_asset...doc?1322714178
Driving better on track starts at the driver, then add in safety stuff, brakes, tires, suspension, roll bar, big fancy wing, bigger wheels/tires, better pads, fancier brake fluid, then horsepower. Horseposer is great, but, PLEASE, make sure you can out drive the car before it outdrives you. Many of the new cars nanny you into thinking you are better than you are. Automatic transmission cars are a great learning experience (one les thing to pay attention to) as is riding with a good instructor.
Certainly feel free to PM with any questions, I've been DE'ing since 2002 and now being on this side the last few years is a great learning experience and let me help you learn to go fast and not get a ticket for speeding.......
Our main DE Page: http://www.niagarapca.org/pages/7
Specific Tech Form: http://cdn.niagarapca.org/page_asset...doc?1322714178
01-02-2012, 03:32 PM
#19
Rennlist Member
Many thanks guys for the great information and advice.
Most recent work on the car has been complete brake overhaul, slotted/drilled rotors and flushed plus complete top end overhaul, new fuel lines, top end rubber, water pump, Gates racing timing belt, new oil pump and cooling system flush.
The car runs very well and is very reliable, however, I will probably need to do the MM/OPG job as it is leaking oil (drips, not puddles) and maybe a new P/S pump and rebuilt steering rack just to make sure that everything is in top shape before I start stressing it. Tires are not new, but have plenty of tread.
I can probably have Gennady Soykher (http://www.gtperformanceinc.com/) do the tech as he is local, has done some work on my car, has a 928 and professionally races a GT3 and does PCA DE Tech.
Hopefully you'll see me at the May DE at Watkins Glen, but it not that one then definitely the October one.
Thanks again.
Most recent work on the car has been complete brake overhaul, slotted/drilled rotors and flushed plus complete top end overhaul, new fuel lines, top end rubber, water pump, Gates racing timing belt, new oil pump and cooling system flush.
The car runs very well and is very reliable, however, I will probably need to do the MM/OPG job as it is leaking oil (drips, not puddles) and maybe a new P/S pump and rebuilt steering rack just to make sure that everything is in top shape before I start stressing it. Tires are not new, but have plenty of tread.
I can probably have Gennady Soykher (http://www.gtperformanceinc.com/) do the tech as he is local, has done some work on my car, has a 928 and professionally races a GT3 and does PCA DE Tech.
Hopefully you'll see me at the May DE at Watkins Glen, but it not that one then definitely the October one.
Thanks again.
01-02-2012, 04:05 PM
#20
Rennlist Member
Ok, just read through the Tech Form. I have some work to do.
Fire Extinguisher: Has been on my TODO list for a while. Now it will get done.
Helmet: Guess my Snell 1985 won't pass tech.
Fluid Leaks: MM/OPG here we come!
I know there are a number of "fire extinguisher" threads here, but what would you recommend for racing? I have a halon system in my formula ford with a cockpit manual engagement ****. Should I look for the same type system for the 928? (obviously not halon!)
Thanks again.
Fire Extinguisher: Has been on my TODO list for a while. Now it will get done.
Helmet: Guess my Snell 1985 won't pass tech.
Fluid Leaks: MM/OPG here we come!
I know there are a number of "fire extinguisher" threads here, but what would you recommend for racing? I have a halon system in my formula ford with a cockpit manual engagement ****. Should I look for the same type system for the 928? (obviously not halon!)
Thanks again.
01-02-2012, 04:51 PM
#22
Drifting
Thread Starter
Extinguisher is a good idea to have (armrest mount is what I have, otherwise a floor mount) but it is not a requirement at the glen since our fee includes the track workers.
Motor mounts would be OK as they are not "usually" catastrophic more of a vibration of the car. Leaks are indiviual per car, since all those old 911 leak drops. We want you to be aware of it and and won't let you run with any major leaks. Drop a pan of oil on the track and you pay for the clean-up.
If there is stuff that will catch fire or smoke on track that is obviously a no-no. At this point we will leave it upto the inspector to insure the safety of the leak for our event. Catch cans can be used for overflows.
Motor mounts would be OK as they are not "usually" catastrophic more of a vibration of the car. Leaks are indiviual per car, since all those old 911 leak drops. We want you to be aware of it and and won't let you run with any major leaks. Drop a pan of oil on the track and you pay for the clean-up.
If there is stuff that will catch fire or smoke on track that is obviously a no-no. At this point we will leave it upto the inspector to insure the safety of the leak for our event. Catch cans can be used for overflows.
01-02-2012, 05:19 PM
#23
Rennlist Member
Just signed up for the October event! It's Columbus Day weekend, so I'll be spending the pre-race days with family in upstate NY. Can't make the May event, and the June event is not for novices. Psyched!
01-02-2012, 06:06 PM
#24
Been wanting to go to a PCA DE for several years now, always something comes up. My Fla. Crown Region PCA does three DE's a year at Roebling Road in Savannah. All is still a green light to finally be going in a few weeks! My son will be going with his Roush Mustang too.
01-02-2012, 06:18 PM
#25
Former Vendor
Just registered for the Memorial Day event. This will be great as I have always wanted to track there. Now the problem is which car to take. The 85 twin screw or the Hanson stroker? I guess which ever one is ready would be the first criteria
Hanson car needs more work but both need much dyno tuning. Looking forward to this.
Ed
Hanson car needs more work but both need much dyno tuning. Looking forward to this. Ed
01-02-2012, 11:47 PM
#27
Rennlist Member
Bob U., Courtshark, and Ed S.,
Just remember - by attending one track driving event, you are likely to contact a serious virus for which there is no known cure. I picked it up at about age 64, and 10 years later my physician hasn't no clue regarding how to cure it!!!! (but as long as I can drive safely on the track, I'm not sure I want it cured!).
I agree with Curt about the big smiles. I was observing drivers at the checkered flag at Virginia Int'l Raceway when my run group was idle a couple of years back , and just after one of the drivers got the checker coming around that rather slow corner and completing his run, he let out about three or four very loud "YAAAHOOOO" s. That's almost always the feeling, whether you voice it or not.
I plan to be at the October Niagara event. Also, at the June event for white, black, and red drivers only. See you there, I hope.
Gary
PS: Several regions, including North Country have nice writeups about what to expect at a Drivers Ed event.
Just remember - by attending one track driving event, you are likely to contact a serious virus for which there is no known cure. I picked it up at about age 64, and 10 years later my physician hasn't no clue regarding how to cure it!!!! (but as long as I can drive safely on the track, I'm not sure I want it cured!).
I agree with Curt about the big smiles. I was observing drivers at the checkered flag at Virginia Int'l Raceway when my run group was idle a couple of years back , and just after one of the drivers got the checker coming around that rather slow corner and completing his run, he let out about three or four very loud "YAAAHOOOO" s. That's almost always the feeling, whether you voice it or not.
I plan to be at the October Niagara event. Also, at the June event for white, black, and red drivers only. See you there, I hope.
Gary
PS: Several regions, including North Country have nice writeups about what to expect at a Drivers Ed event.
01-06-2012, 01:33 PM
#28
Former Vendor
[QUOTE=Gary Knox;9150087]Bob U., Courtshark, and Ed S.,
" Just remember - by attending one track driving event, you are likely to contact a serious virus for which there is no known cure. "
Truer words have never been spoken Gary. I have 5 DE's at Lime Rock and I can't get enough. I think I will sign up for the October event also as it seems more 928's are going to be there.
Curt, Any chance you may be able to post a link to your events on the OC website forum to drum up some more interest. I don't know much about event planning but would love to be involved in a large 928 GTG track event.
" Just remember - by attending one track driving event, you are likely to contact a serious virus for which there is no known cure. "
Truer words have never been spoken Gary. I have 5 DE's at Lime Rock and I can't get enough. I think I will sign up for the October event also as it seems more 928's are going to be there.
Curt, Any chance you may be able to post a link to your events on the OC website forum to drum up some more interest. I don't know much about event planning but would love to be involved in a large 928 GTG track event.
01-06-2012, 02:00 PM
#29
Rennlist Member
Ed,
If you "liked" the DE's at Lime Rock, you are going to be ECSTATIC with driving your 928 (whichever one you bring) at the Glen. It, like Lime Rock is so historic for sports car racing, the area is so beautiful with the lakes, charming community, hiking from the top to the bottom of "the Glen", etc., and - the 928 is MADE for that type track - with some long stretches for keeping your right toes way down for quite a while!!
The Seneca Lodge is a fairly inexpensive place to stay (motel rooms are good, cabins are a 'bit' rustic. The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is first class, and some friends like The Falls Motel in Montour Falls. I've stayed at Longhouse Lodge and it's quite decent as well. There are also some B&B's in the area.
Breakfast at Savard's Restaurant is great (blue building along the N side of Franklin street in downtown). I highly recommend a dinner at the Glen Motor Inn's restaurant overlooking Lake Seneca, about 2 miles north on the west side of the lake. This is the motel (now pretty lousy) and restaurant/bar where the Formula 1 drivers hung out in the '70's. Lots of posters, etc. on the walls, and the Italian cuisine is excellent to my taste.
Hope to see you there in October.
Gary--
If you "liked" the DE's at Lime Rock, you are going to be ECSTATIC with driving your 928 (whichever one you bring) at the Glen. It, like Lime Rock is so historic for sports car racing, the area is so beautiful with the lakes, charming community, hiking from the top to the bottom of "the Glen", etc., and - the 928 is MADE for that type track - with some long stretches for keeping your right toes way down for quite a while!!
The Seneca Lodge is a fairly inexpensive place to stay (motel rooms are good, cabins are a 'bit' rustic. The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is first class, and some friends like The Falls Motel in Montour Falls. I've stayed at Longhouse Lodge and it's quite decent as well. There are also some B&B's in the area.
Breakfast at Savard's Restaurant is great (blue building along the N side of Franklin street in downtown). I highly recommend a dinner at the Glen Motor Inn's restaurant overlooking Lake Seneca, about 2 miles north on the west side of the lake. This is the motel (now pretty lousy) and restaurant/bar where the Formula 1 drivers hung out in the '70's. Lots of posters, etc. on the walls, and the Italian cuisine is excellent to my taste.
Hope to see you there in October.
Gary--
01-06-2012, 02:18 PM
#30
Rennlist Member
@ Gary & Ed S. Having this event 10 months away will really make me get my **** in gear to get a lot of projects done. Right now I have a clutch-slip issue, and my power steering isn't functional (despite a new/rebuilt rack and lines). I actually don't mind the lack of power steering, other than when trying to park, but hey, that's why I lift weights. I also have a small exhaust leak to address, probably with something fun like a rear-mounted turbo.