First Time Autocrossing

[Andrei_R]

Hi everyone,
I expect that I'll be running in the August autocross for the first time and I want to make sure I've got everything squared away beforehand.
-My car is an '00 Audi A4, but it has had modifications done to it that would bump it out of GS. Going on what I was told, the guy 'changed the suspension from stock A4 to stock S4', and changed the exhaust with a high-volume catalytic converter (and muffler, but I believe that doesn't effect class). I don't know what going from A4 -> S4 suspension entails, but it seems the exhaust would move me into GSP.
-Tires should be fine, Kumho Ecsta Supra 225/45ZR17 91W. The tread might be worn down a bit, but I don't know how I'd check it.
-I have to change the bumper covers. I might just get the A4 covers, but would S4 or RS4 bumper covers have an effect on car class?
-The oil, oil filter, and coolant were changed recently. Are there any other maintenance items I might want check out before taking this car autocrossing?
-I've read the sdr-solo.com FAQ and I went to watch the June autocross so I think I understand how it works, but if anyone's got other advice, I'm all ears.

[mpheinitz]

Welcome.

Don't worry about the car or change anything on it. Make sure the fluids are full and the battery is secure. Many novices run SU (street unlimited) until they can correctly classify their car. Many people will be available to help you or answer your questions. Come on down and have fun.

/Mike
435 STS2 Miata

[Andrew]

And check your tires' air pressure. Pump them up to the "heavy load" recommended pressures listed on the inside of the gas door (should be around 40 psi front/rear for your car). At the event, you can always bleed them down if the car's too squirrelly on course (a dial air pressure gauge with a bleeder valve is really nice for doing this.).

[woodrufj]

Thats a <2L turbo?

Aftermarket bolt on suspension and high flow cat (in approximately the same area as stock), on street tires with 8" or less width rims = STX. Not a bad class for that car.

Body change is going to bump you way up in class. I recommend holding off on the bumper thing.

Jay W
505/287 Dakota

[A12]

Here's something neat I found. It'll take a couple minutes of your time but it's well worth it for how informative it is.

http://www.wtfstables.com/rmsoloschool/

See yah around!
Andrew

p.s. You're going to love the sport and the people!

[Ryan_S2000]

I have a 2000 Honda S2000, and I would like to participate in the Open practice on August 18, 2007. My car is completely stock. Do I need a roll-bar?
Are there any loaner helmets available at the event? Can you sign up for a Solo Card at the event?

Thanks for your help!

[woodrufj]

I have a 2000 Honda S2000, and I would like to participate in the Open practice on August 18, 2007. My car is completely stock. Do I need a roll-bar?
Are there any loaner helmets available at the event? Can you sign up for a Solo Card at the event?Did you send in a check yet?
No roll bar.
Yes loaners, but getting your own is recommended. They are in limit supply and not new.
Contact "Nalbar" (Warren) to check on the solo card.

Jay W
505/287 Dakota

[Andrei_R]

It's a 2.8L (NA) quattro. I unfortunately don't have a choice about whether to change the bumper covers (http://img390.imageshack.us/my.php?image=bumper2ez3.jpg) or not. I just wanted to know if I had the option of upgrading the bumper covers while it's convenient, but it's no big deal either way.

[Ryan_S2000]

Did you send in a check yet?
No roll bar.
Yes loaners, but getting your own is recommended. They are in limit supply and not new.
Contact "Nalbar" (Warren) to check on the solo card.

Jay W
505/287 Dakota

OK, thanks for the info. Where would you recommend I shop for a helmet?

[A12]

OK, thanks for the info. Where would you recommend I shop for a helmet?

C2 Motorsports
8380 Vickers Street, Unit D
San Diego, CA 92111
Monday-Friday 9-5:30, Saturday 10-3
858-495-9200

Ask for the the handsome Steve or Ron. They'll take care of you!
See yah around dude!

-Andrew

[cshodges]

"S4" shocks.. not sure what that entails. As long as they bolt to the same location, the shocks themselves are probably fine. It's the springs that can't change. If the S4 spring rates are stiffer and/or lower the ride height compared to the A4 springs, then they're not stock-class legal.

As someone else recommended, don't worry about what class you wind up in first time. Just stick your car in the appropriate class, or run SU, and get comfortable driving your car at this type of event.

[Pervis]

Helmets need to be SNELL 95 or newer, not just DOT approved. 2005 are available now. I use my motorcycle helmet. Larger selection at a cycle shop if you want graphics.

[itrbruce]

And if you expect to continue on to track days/racing, then make sure you get a car helmet and NOT a motorcycle helmet as the latter will often not be acceptable on track.

[Andrei_R]

I've got that covered, Scorpion EXO-700, Snell M2005 approved. Waiting for next-next weekend is getting hard :)

Quick question, because I may need to plan something around the event Sunday: What's the difference between STX and STXL? Aside from run group 3 leaving @ lunch and run group 4 leaving after working for group 5...

[froggy47]

L is for ladies.

:D

[Andrei_R]

I've got a problem.
I was hoping to get my bumper covers fixed by next weekend, but it looks like I won't have time to. The car is in good condition mechanically, but would the mangled bumper covers keep it from passing inspection?

[woodrufj]

If they're loose or sharp, yes.

Jay W
505/287 Dakota


I've got a problem.
I was hoping to get my bumper covers fixed by next weekend, but it looks like I won't have time to. The car is in good condition mechanically, but would the mangled bumper covers keep it from passing inspection?

[froggy47]

Duct Tape?

[Sebastian R.]

Thats a <2L turbo?

Aftermarket bolt on suspension and high flow cat (in approximately the same area as stock), on street tires with 8" or less width rims = STX. Not a bad class for that car.

Body change is going to bump you way up in class. I recommend holding off on the bumper thing.

Jay W
505/287 Dakota
Actually, body kit type mods are allowed in STX, bumper covers are specifically allowed.

[Andrei_R]

It turns out that it's a moot point now. I'm going to be taking a hiatus out-of-state until Christmas; I thought I wouldn't be leaving until about mid-September, but I just found out today I'll be able to go next week. Naturally I won't be able to go to the autocross next weekend, but I'll definitely be back for this in January.

[woodrufj]

THere's an autoX region in EVERY area.

Jay W
505/287 Dakota


It turns out that it's a moot point now. I'm going to be taking a hiatus out-of-state until Christmas; I thought I wouldn't be leaving until about mid-September, but I just found out today I'll be able to go next week. Naturally I won't be able to go to the autocross next weekend, but I'll definitely be back for this in January.

[comSD]

Here's something neat I found. It'll take a couple minutes of your time but it's well worth it for how informative it is.

http://www.wtfstables.com/rmsoloschool/

That's a great link, thanks for sharing!