Invited to a magazine performance test. Need advice.

[MattO]

So I got an email earlier today while polishing out Dad's El Camino and I got invited to a magazine performance test down in SoCal.

I've never done anything more than the occasional track day, and the last one I went to was some years ago. I was wondering what sort of advice you guys could give me as far as what to expect and what to bring with me.

[Spiffav8]

Matt I have no idea, but it sounds pretty cool. :lol:

[CarlC]

What type of testing do they want to do?

[MattO]

It's gonna be slalom, 1/4 mile, road course, autoX and 0-60-0 I think. Believe it's 10 trucks all together like in previous years.

[Flash68]

represent, don't lift until you see god

:lol: Awesome.

[Beegs]

represent, don't lift until you see god

Best line I have seen in a long time!

[mpozziCPL]

As someone that's been a hired Stigette for a day, I really appreciate it when the owners tell me little nuances or peculiarities about their cars as it helps me get familiar with each that much quicker. If the brakes are touchy, steering is 82 turns lock-to-lock, or the seat isn't adjustable (I've had to deal with all three and this last was the worst) ... tell me ahead of time.

And if there's anything mechanical or electrical that needs fixing beforehand, get it fixed. The magazine testing process is a place you want your car to shine and be raved about. I absolutely love it when companies bring customer cars or their own that are developed and solid with their job; they stop, turn, and are compliant. In return, I write really good stuff about them even though they may not be the fastest through the cones because they're confirmed and reflect positively the parts and systems they're equipped with.

Make sure all fluids are at safe operating levels, belts and hoses tight and secured, and the accelerator sees full throttle (yep, seen that and the owner fixed it). If the one testing the cars is good, they'll allow you to fix things if they come up to allow your truck a good test. Bring tools, too.

Enjoy the day and don't be afraid to ask questions. It's pretty fun ...

Mary Pozzi

[MattO]

Thanks Pozzi. Best advice I've heard yet.

Surprisingly, the truck is my daily driver. Can't believe they picked me. I'll be on point mechanically for sure and bring lots of tools and fluids, just in case. Should I run with a full tank in the morning, or fill between each test?

[mpozziCPL]

I'd start with a full tank. The testing process is pretty structured but if you don't have to refuel, it'll give you time to enjoy the cars and magazine peeps. We're a fun bunch ...

Mary

[SuperSport]

represent, don't lift until you see god

WINNER!

[MattO]

Thanks for the advice. So full tank, tools incase I break something, cheerleader (ie Dad) and my honey badger like courage...

[MattO]

Got my helmet today (dad said I should have been wearing one for years :P )

Really crazy the first one the guy took off the shelf was really comfortable and fit perfectly!

Now I just get to thrash to get everything ready! Truck is in the body shop getting chopped up and repainted :faint:

[dunnjun]

MATTO, Congratulations on the invite! Remember that we're all doing this because it's fun. No pressure. Relax and enjoy the moment. It's the spice of life. Good luck, have fun, and kick butt!:yes:

[MattO]

I think that's the attitude I'm more leaning towards. I was working my butt off trying to schedule a bunch of work to the truck to make it as best as I possibly could, but the more I think about it, the less work I want to do and the more time I'd rather spend enjoying it.

That and my credit card company gets mad when I go over the limit. They're also very insistent that they get paid each month...

[chr2002ca]

Best line I have seen in a long time!

Agreed. Got a good laugh out of that one. :lol:

[MattO]

re read my post three times every night before bedtime...starting one week before the event...we will ALL be watching

Yea, no pressure... :thumbsup:

[MattO]

Leaving on thursday around noon for LA. Event is on Friday. Still a bunch of stuff to get done and some stuff hasn't even shown up yet :willy: