I want to autocross my 912E

Hi guys,

I autocrossed my Honda del Sol VTEC today. It was a ton of fun. First time for me, and I wanted to take the old Porsche, but I encountered some spark plug hle thread problems... another story. \\

Anyway, I'd like to hear your collective thoughts on what should I do to start. I'm of the opinion that I should just drive it "as is" for now, and learn. But, I'm sure there are some typical, common sensical things to get prepared that don't verge on modifications that my skills are not capable of utilizing as yet.

For example, I've searched and re-read the posts about tire pressure. Should mine vary much from the 911 conventional wisdom? My car is a little lighter in the buttocks than most 911s? How to take advantage of this, I wonder?

My car is at stock (i.e. looks like it's levitating) ride height. There is, literally, three to four inches of clearance between the fender lip and the top of my rear tires. I may not have a chance to lower it before the next auto-X.

I've also considered fielding my old 928S/5spd. But, I think that a little too much car for me to handle just yet. And, the 912E is never going to leave me whereas the 928S might sell one of these days and the value of seat time therein would be squandered. Has anyone ever autocrossed a 928? Seen one? Thoughts?

as always, thanks guys,

David

There were a couple of 928s at autocross yesterday. They sound nice.

I'd probably lower a car that's that high, but I don't think car modifications are relevant if you're just starting autocross. My car could win my class with the right driver. With me driving, it's five seconds off the pace!

Truly, autocross is about driving skill (#1 by far and away) and traction (a distant second place). I am getting better, but mechanical modifications would only help a little.

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'83 SC

Dave,

The tire pressures on your 912 will be similar to those on a 911: 3-5 pounds higher in the rear, depending on tires. I think you would want to address any safety issues with your 912 first: wheel bearings tight, battery hold down tight, good throttle return spring, adequate tread on tires. Secondly, I would recommend lowering, aligning and weight balancing your car at a reputable shop recommended by other Porsche autocrossers in your area, and have them check your suspension for safety at the same time. This would be enough to autocross the car safely with an adequate baseline on which to build experience with the car. You could spend two years with just this level of preparation learning your car, and probably continue to see your times drop. If you decide to compete more seriously in a particular club/class, then depending on the rules, the items to upgrade on you car in level of importance for autocross are: wheels/tires, suspension, and engine (throttle response). The 928 can be autocrossed but is not very competitive in its class because of weight and gearing. The largest improvement we can all make is to our abilities as a driver, but this takes lots of seat time and unlike upgrades to the car requires patience and persistence to accomplish. The main thing is to have fun improving!

Randy W

I would agree, check for the safety factors (wheel bearings, battery, throttle spring, and nothing loose in the car) cause they will hopefully check those at the auto-x anyway.

Then go for it, and have fun. In our club(PCA San Diego), there are always instructors ready willing and able to help you at an event.

Where are you located?

I'm in Pittsburgh. I planned on going slowly... learning and not doing anything to the car until my skills require it. And, safety stuff will of course be top priority. My car is driven on the street so mechanical stuff is never neglected. Has anyone ever seen anyone autocross a 912E? I'm in E stock I think.