First Timer's Guide to American Street Car Series

[BANKO]

Hey Guys, I don't think this currently exists, but thought it would be great to get some insight into what one should prepare for in anticipation of the event. Read the tech rules and got those items covered, but was thinking about fuel, replacement parts, tools, etc. Any feedback would be most welcome.

Thanks!

[67zo6Camaro]

Hey Guys, I don't think this currently exists, but thought it would be great to get some insight into what one should prepare for in anticipation of the event. Read the tech rules and got those items covered, but was thinking about fuel, replacement parts, tools, etc. Any feedback would be most welcome.

Thanks!

Lol, I may get some flack for this comment. But it is in good fun and humor. :_paranoid :yes: :rofl: :rofl:

1. Bring your own timing equipment, so you can see how you are doing.
2. Bring a lawn chair, so you can wait as the big dogs get more turns than you.
3. Bring a note book, so you can write down the new rules as they may change on Sat morning.
4. Bring an extra set of tires other than BFG's, so if the BFG reps aren't there you can actually run a tire you want.:rofl: :rofl:

I feel like I just did an Art Mann list for one of his party ventures. :woot:

[intocarss]

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/311591_10150988680628711_291726545_n.jpg

[Ron in SoCal]

Lol, I may get some flack for this comment. But it is in good fun and humor. :_paranoid :yes: :rofl: :rofl:

1. Bring your own timing equipment, so you can see how you are doing.
2. Bring a lawn chair, so you can wait as the big dogs get more turns than you.
3. Bring a note book, so you can write down the new rules as they may change on Sat morning.
4. Bring an extra set of tires other than BFG's, so if the BFG reps aren't there you can actually run a tire you want.:rofl: :rofl:

I feel like I just did an Art Mann list for one of his party ventures. :woot:

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[LM7_67]

Lol, I may get some flack for this comment. But it is in good fun and humor. :_paranoid :yes: :rofl: :rofl:

1. Bring your own timing equipment, so you can see how you are doing.
2. Bring a lawn chair, so you can wait as the big dogs get more turns than you.
3. Bring a note book, so you can write down the new rules as they may change on Sat morning.
4. Bring an extra set of tires other than BFG's, so if the BFG reps aren't there you can actually run a tire you want.:rofl: :rofl:

I feel like I just did an Art Mann list for one of his party ventures. :woot:

I wish this wasn't so accurate :_paranoid

[Vegas69]

Just show up and have a good time. Then rub it in when Brett is black flagged. :lol:

[Matt@BOS]

Don't bother running 200 plus tread wear BFGs or similar. Just go right for the "exhibition class" tires. Run groups aren't based on classes. You can still run alongside your friends, and you'll be faster. If you aren't faster, no big deal, you're running in exhibition, and your times won't be recorded so no one will be able to make fun of you after the fact because there won't be any proof.

Also if you're like me, you'll want a Mustang as a back up car for when the Chevy breaks. rent one if you have too :lol:

Matt

[67zo6Camaro]

You can still run alongside your friends. If you aren't faster, no big deal, you're running in exhibition, and your times won't be recorded so no one will be able to make fun of you after the fact because there won't be any proof.

Matt

Good point Matt, and I'm sure Todd understands this point very well. :rofl: :rofl:

[Matt@BOS]

Good point Matt, and I'm sure Todd understands this point very well. :rofl: :rofl:

Hey Brett, weren't you running on R888 tires too :_paranoid

[GregWeld]

#5 -- Make sure you don't piss off the starter....



:lol:

[67zo6Camaro]

Hey Brett, weren't you running on R888 tires too :_paranoid

nooooo. not that I remember. I think I was using a new KDW2 compound. Big hush hush around here. I had to use some water spray to keep them cool though.

That's all I remember and/or that Im allowed to talk about. :lol: :lol:

#5 -- Make sure you don't piss off the starter....


:lol:

I see how it is........................................What that hundie was not enough for you. What does a guy like me have to do to get you to like me? :rofl:

[GregWeld]

I was able to shave 10% off your times... did you want more? Time is money buddy!



:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[67zo6Camaro]

I was able to shave 10% off your times... did you want more? Time is money buddy!



:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

Shiat 10%.....? I didn't know. That's good stuff and that must have put me into Todds' ZL1 time bracket.


Thanks, I will have to pay more attention to the "Go! Go! Go!" next time.:wow: :wow: :rofl:

[Matt@BOS]

nooooo. not that I remember. I think I was using a new KDW2 compound. Big hush hush around here. I had to use some water spray to keep them cool though.

That's all I remember and/or that Im allowed to talk about. :lol: :lol:



I started typing out something about "special tires," then I thought better of it.

Let's just add that if someone is running faster than you with KDW2s then the best excuse is to claim that there is something weird going on, if you don't call out the tires themselves, then you have to say that they have some kind of magic spray that makes them stickier. Not water, definitely not water. Can't remember who I heard that one from :lol:

I found out water helps most street tires, as their performance starts dropping off pretty quickly once they get in the high 120s to 130s (I think)

Will I be bringing water to spray on my tires? Probably not. I think it is cheaper to pay Greg off than to buy a spray bottle, I'm only looking for half a second, which should only be a $20, right? :_paranoid

Matt

[67zo6Camaro]

I started typing out something about "special tires," then I thought better of it.

Let's just add that if someone is running faster than you with KDW2s then the best excuse is to claim that there is something weird going on, if you don't call out the tires themselves, then you have to say that they have some kind of magic spray that makes them stickier. Not water, definitely not water. Can't remember who I heard that one from :lol:

I found out water helps most street tires, as their performance starts dropping off pretty quickly once they get in the high 120s to 130s (I think)

Will I be bringing water to spray on my tires? Probably not. I think it is cheaper to pay Greg off than to buy a spray bottle, I'm only looking for half a second, which should only be a $20, right? :_paranoid

Matt

You kiss ars, you must be getting some BFGs in your future. :rofl: :rofl:

However, you are absulutely right about going down an ugly road with my tire comment. I should have never gone there.

So, with that Im out on this joking around and making fun of ASCS.

[67zo6Camaro]

Hey Guys, I don't think this currently exists, but thought it would be great to get some insight into what one should prepare for in anticipation of the event. Read the tech rules and got those items covered, but was thinking about fuel, replacement parts, tools, etc. Any feedback would be most welcome.

Thanks!

In all seriousness, ASCS is a fun event. You get a great experience with the ability to really test your driving skills and to test the performance of your car.

I was hoping someone would eventually chim in about what a first timer could bring or prepare, but my joking around took front stage.

As I give it some thought, here are some of my opinions about preparing for this type of an event.

Im not sure how freesh your car is but here are some pre-event stuff:
1. Make sure all you fluids are clean, full and new. Especially your brake fluid and power steering fluid.
2. Check all suspension bolts and key mounting bolts for tightness and condition. While you are at it do a visual inspection of all suspension parts for any strange issues, such as rubbing, cracking ect...
3. It goes without saying to do the same, as above, for your engine and drive line components.
4. Make sure all your interior components are secure, and not able to move around during hard braking and turning. Especially inspect your driver seat, seat belt, steering wheel and foot control pedals.
5. Fill up your tires to the street recommended pressure. That way you have enough to let some out at the track if needed.

Just my 2 more cents here for what to bring to the event:
1. Try to bring a little extra oil, power steering fluid, coolant, trans fluid and brake fluid. As the track seems to find a way to make these come out. :yes:
2. I always find it helpful to bring some type of cleaning supplies for windsheild, helmet ect... Also nice to have around if you have a problem and you need to clean your hands.
3. Some work rags and a towel or pad to lay on the ground if you have a problem.
4. A few basic tools that could be used on your most critical items. Don't try to over pack your tools unless you have the room. PITA to lug around and typically with such a great group of people someone may have what you need.
5. Bring a tire pressure guage so you can adjust tire pressure down to a reasonable amount based on your tire edge contact.

I know I could probably think of more, but this is actually my basic list I use for any event I attend.

Hopefully a few more will chim in.

:cheers: Brett

[SLO_Z28]

I found out water helps most street tires, as their performance starts dropping off pretty quickly once they get in the high 120s to 130s (I think)


Most street tires fall off hard around 160 or so, some lower. Watering down tires to cool them down on a hot day is a common practice.


I think Brett's comments are dead on and funny as heck, but in all seriousness there is a lot you should do before an event. I have to do some work and prep my car this weekend, I will try and take pictures and talk about what I do as a pre race inspection.

[Gandalf]

Don't bother running 200 plus tread wear BFGs or similar. Just go right for the "exhibition class" tires. Run groups aren't based on classes. You can still run alongside your friends, and you'll be faster. If you aren't faster, no big deal, you're running in exhibition, and your times won't be recorded so no one will be able to make fun of you after the fact because there won't be any proof.
Matt

<cough>....you were saying Matt?

I'll add one more to Brett's list....
#5 - Bring your own camera if you are not in the big dog run group.

Seriously though - I had a blast at the most recent RTTC event - the actual on-coarse experience with the 3 separate events was a blast and even better to be sharing that experience with friends from here. Really looking forward to October!

G.

[GregWeld]

I'll add one more post to this great question:




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Fun%20Fotos/311591_10150988680628711_291726545_n.jpg

[Flash68]

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/311591_10150988680628711_291726545_n.jpg


I'll add one more post to this great question:




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Fun%20Fotos/311591_10150988680628711_291726545_n.jpg

Welder -- what an original post! :lol:

[GregWeld]

Oh hell! I knew I'd seen that somewhere before!


LOL


I'm old --- I forgot.

[gerno]

Do most people run both days at these events or just one? How much actual time is there in the car vs waiting around? Finally, I know some will drive there but I'm not going to chance a 500mile trip there and back. Is there plenty of room to park trailers?

[Flash68]

Do most people run both days at these events or just one? How much actual time is there in the car vs waiting around? Finally, I know some will drive there but I'm not going to chance a 500mile trip there and back. Is there plenty of room to park trailers?

Steve, RTTC2 (2011) was a lot less track time (for me at least) than RTTC3 (2012). The organizers are getting better at figuring things out, timing, logistics, etc.

I would only go for both days if I was travel from Norcal like you. I would think anyone but local Socal guys would commit to both days, schedule and money permitting.

There is plenty of trailer room. Tons of trailers there. I'd guess 70-80% were trailered this year. Just the locals and a few die hards drove sans trailer.

I would definitely be in for both days if my car was running.

[gerno]

I really want to go try an event but I just ran the numbers through my head and starting to have doubts. It's going to cost $1K just for logistics and lodging there and back. Sucks I have to choose between inproving the car or using the car. I definately need to figure out how to make more money. I was also wanting to hit SEMA in late Oct as well.....decision, decisions....

Transport = 450 miles each way @ 10MPG and $4.5/gal = ~$400 (2x)
Hotel = $80/night = $240 (3x)
Registration = $360 both days

Total = ~$1000

How does one of these events compare to a normal track day? Does the format and overall group of attendees make it worth the cost and a must do?

[Flash68]

Yours number are right on.

It really is a decision/comparison of track time vs social time and some variety mixed in.

If you desire pure track time, an open track day with NCRC or one of those organizers at Thunderhill or Buttonwillow is most bang for buck by far.

But the RTTC is a huge social gathering that doesn't just begin and end with the time at the track. You def get something extra for that extra money.

[SLO_Z28]

The ASCS is one of the worst events in the cost per seat time, what your paying for is really the ambiance. There is a ton of events near you, id recommend heading over to : http://www.baautox.com/forum/index.php and looking around.

[Vegas69]

I was happy with the seat time this year. It sure beats an SCCA event where you are there for 8 hours, get 6-7 runs, and have to work half the day.

[Flash68]

The ASCS is one of the worst events in the cost per seat time, what your paying for is really the ambiance.

True. And many are willing to pay for said ambiance and comradery.

I was happy with the seat time this year. It sure beats an SCCA event where you are there for 8 hours, get 6-7 runs, and have to work half the day.

Yep. And the local AAS events I've been to I've gotten 3-6 runs for the whole day AND you have to work like you mention.

If you extrapolate to get a real Apples to Apples, you may actually get a better value at a Run to the X event actually.

Your basic open track day is the most bang for buck if you are valuing minutes or laps per dollar spent IMO.

[BANKO]

Thanks for the tips. What about fuel? How much do you guys go through? Do I need to bring my own shade?

[Vince@Meanstreets]

I really want to go try an event but I just ran the numbers through my head and starting to have doubts. It's going to cost $1K just for logistics and lodging there and back. Sucks I have to choose between inproving the car or using the car. I definately need to figure out how to make more money. I was also wanting to hit SEMA in late Oct as well.....decision, decisions....

Transport = 450 miles each way @ 10MPG and $4.5/gal = ~$400 (2x)
Hotel = $80/night = $240 (3x)
Registration = $360 both days

Total = ~$1000

How does one of these events compare to a normal track day? Does the format and overall group of attendees make it worth the cost and a must do?

A grand is average for auto events but it's the stuff you don't expect. Food, extra fuel spent sitting in traffic on the 405, break downs, speeding tickets, Dr visits, ambulance rides and hitch hikers.