Well I've been talked into a track day with a prof. driver. I am slightly anxious BTW. So what safety items are must have, should have and like to have. I know I need a helmet so what are your recommendations (3/4, full...). Clothes shoes...you name it. Thanks folks.

 

wross, I am soooooo glad you have decided to do this it will be AWESOME!!!!! the answer to your question if only a DE and not sure if going to continue I would keep it simple. Full face snell SA '05 helmet, can usually rent. Get a foam neck collar very helpful. some tracks request you to wear full length cotton shirt and pants some dont. comfortable shoes I dont think you need "driving" shoes yet. but if you are going to learn to heel toe shift they help. Gloves also help alot.
drinks, chairs, fans nice to have at the track. Start there others will chime in, most important dont worry about going fast, learn the lines of the track and have fun!!!!!

let us know!!

tom

 

Tom, I was hoping you would chime in...That is exactly the kind of info. I was looking for. Thanks much bud.

 

Another person takes the first step down the slippery slope.....

Make sure whatever car you are taking/driving that a thorough DE pre tech inspection has been done.

Brake fluid last flushed?
Brake fluid bled.
Pads new or at least 3/4?
No plugs used on tires.

Your local PCA chapter can help you find a garage/mechanic to help with these things.

Here is a sample PCA DE Tech form..
http://www.porschenet.com/DE_PDF_WordFiles/TechForm.pdf

Also, you should reserve some time with a plastic surgeon.....the grin after your first track session can become permanent.

Good luck, be safe.

 

Ditto the above.

 

I have just had the car "inspected". Put red line brake fluid in (and bled), pads OK for now, changed plugs, new rubber MPSCs. Thanks much for the checklist...exactly the kind of things I was looking for.

 

A tire pressure gauge would come in handy as well as an extra can of oil just in case.

 

From my long experience with Porsches...I always carry extra oil and I always have a tire gauge, but good advice just the same.

 

If you are tracking your street car, I would also suggest some quick detail spray/microfiber towels (to remove dirt/dust prior to putting on the tape) and rolls of 3M blue painters tape.
Headlights, nose, behind wheels....you've probably seen the 'blue condom' street cars circulating around the track.

You may also want to bring some bug/tar/rubber remover (bugs and rubber marks are common) and also bring some glass cleaner/towels.

Be sure to cool down the brakes on the cool down lap (try to stay off of them) and remember to allow extra idle/cool down time in the paddock, especially if it's a Turbo.

 

On the blue 3M painters tape.........they make race tape in black (or most any color).....possibly better protection than masking tape.

 

Thanks...Itc. Gregg, where do you get the race tape? Again thanks all for the great advice.

 

Yes, definitely thicker than 3M blue painter's tape, but I would be a bit concerned given how well the adhesive does work, leaving residue, etc.
They don't call it 200mph tape for nothing.....also used on the leading edges of helicopter rotors..

 

You can get it from CDOC (rennlist sponsor IIRC):
http://www.cdoc.com/products.asp?str...Racer%27s+Tape

 

Ihave and used both. The racers tape is definately "stickier" and leaves stuff you have to polish off. Upside is the color match but that is it. Not problem with the blue stuff except ya look like a dork.

 

If you don't want to look like team masking tape at the track but want some type of protection you can always use the stuff that is used for shelf linings at you neighborhood Home depot. Comes in rolls and just use a squeegie to apply. I have used this along with the full 3M stongard protection. Holds great and wont peel up like masking tape. In the sun it's virtually unoticeable. Looks better too!

Removing is a breeze just peel off takes just a few minutes. The stuff is designed with low tack adhesive. Will not harm the paint.