Burning rubber, hot tracks, cool cars. As Bruce Springsteen says, when summer comes the time is right to compete. But you don't have to own a '69 Chevy with a Fuelie 396 cylinder head and a Hurst gearbox on the floor to get hooked on this great sport. Open drag racing competitions (i.e. two-car races) are drag races that take place on professional tracks and all types of drivers can participate. It can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but knowing how to compete properly will ensure you keep yourself and others safe and ensure you have more fun on the track. You will learn how to register in the class that suits you best, have your vehicle overhauled and negotiate the track to the best of your vehicle's capabilities. Read Step 1 for more information.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Choosing and Modifying a Race Car
Step 1. Choose between style and speed
When choosing a vehicle to race, there are many aspects to consider besides speed. You should consider the cost, your commitment to repair and rebuild the vehicle and the maximum ambitions you have for the car. Most drag racers want essentially the same thing: a beastly racing car with a nice paint job that looks as good parked in the middle of the heap as it looks glistening in the lane.
- Ideally, you want a machine that is likely to go through a lot of modifications. A good driver often owns a modified engine with automotive aftermarket cams, cylinder heads, and other components that maximize horsepower so that the car runs over 600 or 700 horsepower. If you have something like that, you have a monster full of muscle. However, for many drivers, anything over 500 horsepower is excessive. However, this is an extraordinary fast car.
- Many wannabe dragsters start with an idea of the shape or model of the car they have in mind for the look. A '57 Chevrolet Bel Air is a great candidate for the track, especially for classic car lovers; for others the heavy skeleton may carry more weight than style.
Step 2. Choose something you will enjoy working with
Looking for a sports car to take to the track is, above all, a great nostalgic project. Get the Corvette your dad always wanted when you were a kid, painted aqua green, a car he never got to drive. Or maybe you want a Mustang like the one Steve McQueen drives in some classic "Bullit" scenes. Maybe you want to go overboard and take an old 1940s Chevy Apache backbone and make it a ridiculous car to make the kids laugh out loud. There is no wrong choice if you like the vehicle.
Step 3. Start with a light frame with a lot of automotive aftermarket potential
Most cars that are successful on the track have a light body that is easy to work on. For this reason, you will often see many Fox-style Mustangs built in the late 70s and early 90s that are super light and can handle just about any engine you want to put into them. Hemi? Flathead V-8? You can get them to work in a Mustang.
As Mustangs are almost ubiquitous on American tracks, they lose some cache. They are great cars to work with, but do you really want to be another guy with the same car as everyone else? Trans-Ams, Z28s and Chargers all have similar features, with excellent factory specifications. The Charger that McQueen drove came, essentially, straight from the factory, with just a few minor changes to the suspension. If it was good enough for Bullit …
Step 4. Consider rebuilding the engine or installing a new one
How fast do you want your car to go? What kind of engine do you want to build? What kind of engine can withstand the oomph of your vehicle? Much of the work and fun you put into preparing a racing car design will come from making these decisions yourself.
- A good drag racing engine should optimize horsepower, probably using some aftermarket modification to optimize engine efficiency. Hydraulic rotating cams and aftermarket cylinder heads are a common modification in the dragster world. Depending on the engine, you should be able to use at least some of the factory components in the transmission to keep the design as economical as possible.
- Try to limit yourself. Sure, you can say you want a 1000 horsepower fire-breathing in that Trans-Am, but the cost of all the other necessary components? What upgrades needed for the chassis? If you can take a 500 horsepower to street level, you can't fail on the track. Never. Try to keep your ambitions pragmatic, Mr. Andretti.
Step 5. By increasing the engine power, the factory suspension will become obsolete
Suspension is one of the main changes you can make as a drag racer. Be sure to upgrade the suspension after increasing the engine horsepower to ensure that the new specs match the vehicle's new horsepower.
- If your dragster has leaf springs behind it, consider upgrading to CalTrac bars to increase stability and control. If your vehicle comes with coil spring suspension, using control arms is the best idea. You can also try to use a "no-hop" to change the geometric center of the suspension, thus giving you more momentum in the beginning.
- Some pilots disengage the sway bar and install coil springs. Racing stresses the axle, making problems common, so having bumpers designed to withstand this stress is a good idea.
Step 6. Install a power switch to be able to take the car to the road
After the "Fast & Furious" movie series, everyone would like to push the nitro button and wipe out the competition. Using a small nitrous system for racing will allow you to ride on the street and on the highway at normal speed without having too many problems. It can also keep your engine leaner, making it easier to drive in low compression ratios. Naturally aspirated engines will require larger cams and will need to process fuel at high octane levels if the compression ratio goes up.
Step 7. Be extremely careful of overheating modified racing cars
The more you tweak the factory components, the more problems you will have from these tweaks, especially if you are driving a rough dragster and stressing the throttle. Racing cars often have problems with overheating, making certain precautions necessary. You may not have a problem if you've made your changes right, but it's always a good idea to keep an eye on the problematic parts.
Install a larger radiator to protect the vehicle from overheating and check your fuel pump regularly. Running your car aggressively will ruin these components very soon. Make sure you have an accurate heat meter and keep a close eye on it as you drive
Part 2 of 4: Registration and Inspections Before Competitions
Step 1. Most professional drag vehicles are specifically designed for short distance racing, but hobbyists and weekend 'warriors' have their own categories as well
Vehicles are rated and classified based on various information, including the vehicle's factory weight, the type of fuel used, and the horsepower of the engine. The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) encompasses over 200 different vehicle categories, although the main categories at the bottom are only two:
- Cars Top Fuel they have a length - almost ridiculous - of 20-30 feet and go up to 7000 horsepower and run on nitromethane. These are the vehicles you will likely observe as a spectator at professional racing. Cars Top Alcohol they are similar to their cousins Top Fuel, they too run partially on methane.
- Cars Stock they are born as factory vehicles and are then modified in accordance with NHRA guidelines to increase horsepower and efficiency. On open track days, this is the typical vehicle you will encounter and probably the one you will race on if you are interested in racing. If you have a modified car, you can search for your model in the NHRA Classification Guide at website [1].
Step 2. Find a closed drag track in your area
If you want to do drag races, you have to do it on a track in proper conditions. Drag tracks are usually a quarter mile long, after which you have about 70 feet of track where your top speed will be measured. Many slopes will have open days that everyone can participate in by paying the registration fee. Likewise, time trials are often available on a regular basis if you want to hit the track and hit the gas a couple of times.
- When you arrive, you will probably have to pay a small entrance fee and, if you want to compete, a track fee. If you are racing, the cost will depend on the class of vehicle you are racing in, so it is a good idea to call and find out the costs before you introduce yourself.
- Go see some races and try to get a sense of dragster culture and the types of racing that take place on the track you want to race on. Talk to other riders and track officials for advice. If you drive a Honda Civic and want to do a drag race, you may be able to enter a Bracket-Style race with some handicaps, but you may also feel a little out of place. Before driving the entire track, take the time to follow a few races as a spectator. In addition to being a fun sport, it is a great community that you can take part in starting from the stands.
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'Race only on permitted tracks. Racing in perfectly professional conditions is already dangerous in itself, racing on the road is practically suicide. It is also illegal everywhere. Never run on the road.
1077068 10 Step 3. Register your vehicle in the correct category
Most organizations divide the camp into several sections, each specifically matched to a certain class of vehicle. After paying at the gate, you will need to fill in a race card, giving information about the class you intend to race in, your name and other specific information about your vehicle.
If you only have a factory, or minimally modified, vehicle and want to race, the class will still be calculated based on engine size and other specifications. Many tracks offer open days on a regular basis, where you can register your car and find out which class and category it belongs to - or what you need to do to tune your vehicle - and race if you want. This is the best way to learn more about your class if you are unsure
1077068 11 Step 4. Choose the appropriate race type for your car
Depending on the type of vehicle you own, your ambitions, and the particular track rules in your area, you will have many different racing options. You may want to participate in a pro knockout competition, which is probably the most common, or maybe you just want to burn some rubber on a time trial. If you own a vehicle that is powerful enough, you will surely be able to find something that satisfies you on any track.
- The Elimination matches they consist of basic elimination rounds, during which two cars of the same class compete head to head. The loser will be eliminated and the winner will move on to the next round, until there is only one car left. To sow the field, trial runs and time trials usually precede the actual race.
- The Bracket Races they are similar to knockout races, but with the inclusion of some handicaps to allow different vehicles to compete with each other, making these races a test of talent rather than power. Rather than starting with time trials, the cars complete a few laps called "Dial In", where the goal is to get as close as possible to the estimated speed (how long your car can make a single lap at maximum speed). The difference will be subtracted from each of the tests during the race.
- The Time Trials they are available for every class of vehicle that passes the safety inspection and pays the tax on the tarmac. Usually, if you are not planning to participate in the heats, you will only be allowed to run on specific days, during evenings usually called "test and tune". You can take a schedule with specific details on each of your runs and track your improvements over the long term. This is an excellent way to start and build your skills as a driver.
1077068 12 Step 5. Pass the inspection in the closed portion of the track
After paying at the gate and registering, you will drive your car to the inspection area where the track officials will quickly examine your car, checking fluid levels, weight and other specifications to make sure your vehicle is safe. If you pass the inspection, they usually stick a sticker on your windshield to show that you have passed the inspection and that you can then move on to the next stage.
Most tracks require a minimum weight for each vehicle with a driver inside. Many serious drivers seek the minimum weight for their class vehicle and try to keep it as low as possible to increase horsepower and engine efficiency
Part 3 of 4: Compete
1077068 13 Step 1. Complete the pre-race qualifying laps
Before you pull straight for the starting line and turn on the gas, you'll need to find out which part of the field you will be competing in and qualify for your starting position. Depending on the track rules and vehicle class there will be different standards, but you will start most elimination rounds by qualifying for your starting position with your best possible race. Several measurements are taken for each run, including your reaction time, total run time, and your speed.
- Your reaction time will be measured at the start of the run and should be as short as possible; this is measured in the time lapse between the green light and the vehicle's departure.
- The elapsed time will be measured from the moment you leave the starting line until the moment you finish the race.
- Your maximum speed will be measured as you pass the finish line, making final acceleration crucial for a good result. There should be ample room to slow down.
1077068 14 Step 2. Heat the tires in the water box
In the prep area behind the track, you should go through what is called a water box or bleach box, on many tracks, which is basically a pre-watered part of the track. This is where racers with track tires will overheat the vehicle to warm the tires and then "burn" accumulated sediment and dirt.
If you don't want to overheat the vehicle before the ride, that's fine. Simply drive around the water box and reach the starting line. Smooth racing tires always need to be warmed up, but road tires can be cleaned simply by peeling them
1077068 15 Step 3. Approach the starting line after leaving the preparation area
On professional tracks, it is difficult to find the starting line because it is not usually marked on the ground, but monitored with lasers. Be guided by the track officials, then look at the "Christmas tree" (the column of colored lights in the center of the track) to find out when you are in the right spot.
On most tracks, a yellow light will illuminate to indicate when you are close to the starting line and a second light will illuminate when you are on it. Watch the track official between the two lanes for more specific instructions
1077068 16 Step 4. Look at the Christmas tree to check the starting lights
Most trees have around 7 lights, including the aforementioned guide lights. Depending on your class and the type of race you are doing, the tree will send a different light signal to signal the start of the race. In some races, three huge amber lights will flash simultaneously, followed by the green light within 4/10 of a second. Be sure to watch the other drivers leave and find out what kind of light will be used before arriving at the starting line.
1077068 17 Step 5. Go broke
In general, if you see the green light, you probably left too late. It takes a bit of practice and skill to make a good start, as this is about anticipating the green and starting with it, rather than waiting to see it. Experienced pilots are often very good at starting, so don't get frustrated if you need several tests before learning.
Before starting, keep the rpm at optimum speed to jump to the gear you want right away (many dragster start in second gear, for example). Track the time changes of the lights, anticipate the green and turn on the throttle
1077068 18 Step 6. Power up to past the end
Competing in a drag race does not allow for moments of relaxation. It's time to see what your car is made of. If you have passed the inspection and know your vehicle through and through, you should know what it is capable of and you should use this opportunity to go full throttle. Push hard, shifting as you build power across the track, and accelerate at the end.
As you burn down the track, be very careful to stay in your lane. Don't look at the other cars, if you go head to head, keep an eye on your car and what you are doing yourself. Crossing the line in the center, as well as being extremely dangerous could make you disqualify
1077068 19 Step 7. Follow the right slowdown procedure
There are often particular rules for different tracks, regarding which lane has the right of way in head-to-head races. Often, however, mutual courtesy is to let the slower car start to slow down first, ending up in line with the faster car. Finally you will go in line, heading towards the booth where the times are measured.
1077068 20 Step 8. Get the slip of paper at your own pace
After running, you will pass by the designated booth, where you will receive a slip with your reaction time, the total duration of the ride and your maximum speed. In some tracks, this may be shown on a large scoreboard, but often these are located near the starting line for spectators to see.
Part 4 of 4: Winning the Race and Staying Safe
1077068 21 Step 1. Always put safety first
When you get trapped in the "grease" and machismo floating around the track, it can happen that you forget the fundamental part of drag racing: surviving. Make sure you pay attention to everyone on the track, but also to the people around them and stay focused to finish the race safely. If you are feeling insecure about the race, you are not confident in your vehicle or you are not comfortable with the track conditions, do not compete.
You must always have your vehicle inspected before races. A tire that explodes at 190 km / h is extremely dangerous, and recovering from a skid at these speeds can be deadly. Be extremely cautious
1077068 22 Step 2. Invest in a Snell certified helmet
The Snell Memorial Foundation was founded by William "Pete" Snell, an amateur pilot who died in an accident during a race in 1956. His helmet, considered in a workmanlike manner, failed to protect him and a large number of friends, colleagues and pilots teamed up to improve the helmet design along with their capabilities. They are now considered a standard in the field. If you are planning to take part in this type of racing, you will need one of these.
1077068 23 Step 3. Change at the right time
The ideal time to change is as the downward cornering power for the lowest gear crosses the upward cornering power for the highest gear. Most riders use a speedometer to carefully monitor the RPMs and sense the perfect moment to change, right before the RPM hits the red area of the meter.
- Many drivers use a lighter version of the speedometer, which has an intermittent light that indicates the right time to change. The great drivers, however, change perhaps 200 or 300 laps before the "ideal" moment, in order to make the passage smoother.
- There are also drag races for vehicles with automatic transmissions, but they are less common. The manual gearbox guarantees faster acceleration, if you learn the technique well. If you want to become a drag racing driver, practice shifting with a manual transmission vehicle.
1077068 24 Step 4. Use smooth racing tires, inflated to the right specifications
If you really want to feel the track, you need smooth racing tires for your vehicle. Without treads, driving smooth tires will allow you to feel the track better and increase engine efficiency.
Contrary to popular belief, keeping the tires a little low does not help you improve your times as was once believed; despite increasing the surface of the tires, keeping the tires too low can wrinkle the inner wall, resulting in an effect opposite to that desired. Keep your tires inflated
1077068 25 Step 5. Drive in the "rhythm" left by other riders' tire tracks
After a few laps on the track, you should start to notice the formation of dirt formed by the tires and exhaust of other vehicles. That's the perfect point. Bare asphalt does not have the same traction as this rubber coating.
Advice
- Also have common sense around the track and don't be afraid to ask the track officials questions if you are still inexperienced or have never competed on a particular track.
- The faint of heart should never try this sport.
- Use your time on the track to bond and build a social circle of racing friends. They may also surprise you with several tips and warnings for the next race.
Warnings
- Extreme injuries can occur when the car loses control or wreckage.
- It is well known that cars can explode in an accident.
