This will be my first so looking for a few tips . . .

At the track on race days I see lots of guys with maxxed out cars stripped of any extra weight - finishes, passenger seat, etc. For DE, does anyone bother removing the spare tire in the frunk? (I would remove the passenger seat but doubt the instructor would appreciate it. lol)

With SA2015 helmets coming out later this year, I will rent one this time and get the track insurance to better enjoy the day.

 

leave the tire in. No matter what you will win your first DE.

 

Remove all loose items including floor mats then call it a day given this is your first DE. I am not sure what model you have but most spares are secure enough not to worry about removing and in older 911's is additional structure should you have a front impact.

As for a helmet, buy one as soon as possible if you are going to make this a regular occurence. You want to go try a few on and get one that fits properly versus renting.

 

We're all winners at DE.
Leave the tire in.
Good joke about passenger seats; you've been following us closely (or you are Gary in disguise).

 

It is a while before you would need to worry about weight affecting your performance. As others have said, concentrate on removing loose items and don't forget your garage door opener if it is hanging from your visor.

It is useful to watch some track videos so you can familiarize yourself with the track before you get there.

You can also search for the CVR region of PCA and find the first time at the track video. I think I know the guy who put it together! ;-)

 

If you're like me, losing 20 pounds of gut is cheaper and healthier with a regular diet.

 

Leave the passenger seat in, just like PCA Club Racing.

 

As others have said, remove all of the loose stuff, bring your tire pressure gauge and just learn and have fun. That video that Luigi is referring to is really great.

 

We're pulling your chain a bit... part of the deal.

Show up. Follow the rules. Get your car in order and do what your Instructor tells you, and you'll be OK.

 

Here is a good DE guide for helping to answer some basics.
http://www.cvrpca.org/docs/de/CVR_DE_GUIDE_2015.pdf

 

It looks like someone spent a lot of time updating and improving this document - very well done.

One thing that caught my eye is that fire extinguishers are required in white, black and red. I don't know if that is new or just has not been enforced. I wonder if people are aware of the requirement.

 

Great link - just what I was looking for

 

extinguishers have been required in white and up for at least the last season of two but I'm not sure anyone checks...it's on the tech inspection form (last item)

 

Friends don't let friends early apex.

 

This.

Apex early = no where to go

Of course later on there are turns that you might want to vary your point of apex but when you are just starting out apexing early is a bad idea.

If you come in first make sure to ask for your trophy!