1st DE

[na2ub]

I am planning on attending my first DE at Mid-Ohio in May. I just have to do a little preparation first ... battery tie down, Ferodo front pads, new ATE brake fluid, new front tires, and a helmet. I really don't have any significan oil leaks, so I should be in good shape there.

Is there anything else I can do to prepare? My car is basically stock, so I know the suspension is a little soggy, but I don't have the $$$ to get it into shape yet, and I don't want to miss the DE.

Can I apply for C class (MORPCA), even though I have no track time?

Anyone else going?

[chicago_82sc]

I'm planning on attending the May DE at Mid Ohio along with some Chicago based friends. While I'm an experienced DE driver (Road America, Gingerman, Blackhawk & Puttnam Park) it will be my first time at Mid Ohio. As someone who is in their first DE, the D group would be a good place to start. The organizers will probably place you in this group given this is your first DE.

For teching the car, I would do all the things you mention paying particular attention to the brakes. In my mind they are the most important element. Do a good brake flush and have new pads. I also use Ferodo pads on my '82 SC. I started out with a stock SC. The key to starting is learning car control which is what DE's are all about. Have fun and be safe.

The Mid-Ohio PCA web site has a tech sheet to be completed. It says the car must be inspected by a qualified mechanic within two weeks of the event. I plan on having my mechanic go over the car before the event. I'd hate to drive all the way there and then have a problem with tech.

See you in early May.

[Eric Mckenna]

I'll be there in April with the OVR/PCA with my girlfriend it's going to be her 1st DE as well..

BLEAD THE BRAKES..
WHEEL BEARINGS..
MAKE SURE THERE IS NO CRAP UNDER THE SEATS..
SECURE EVERYTHING DOWN..
AND GIVE THE CAR THE ONCE OVER..
TORQUE LUG NUTS.
STEERING WHEEL PLAY..
THERE IS WAY MORE important things TO CHECK BUT THESE ARE THE BUT A FEW..

[Texas Turbo]

For car prep, I'd go ahead and do an oil change before and after the event. You can never be too careful

There are also a number of items that you might not realize you need until you get there, I am usually overprepared but that is a good thing in my book.

Here is my DE checklist:

2 way radios
numbers
tires
pedals
strut bar
Window Cleaner/ Paper Towels
Tire Pressure Gauge/Tire Pump
racing tape
tools
jack
Rain coat
Binoculars
racing license
fire extinguisher
Batteries - aa
film
water/gatorade
Tarp for more shade
Motor Oil/Brake Fluid/Brake Bleeder
Food, Snacks
Lawn Chairs
Sun Block/Hat/ Long sleeved shirt
digicam
35 mm cam

MOST important thing for the DE, check you ego at the door before you go and you will learn TONS more than you ever thought possible. Listen to your instructor and don't worry about passing/getting passed. DE's are NOT racing, regardless of what others may say. This is a great opportunity for you to learn how to DRIVE so take advantage of it. Nothing pisses me off more than jerks that ruin DE's for everyone by driving like a jacka$$. Be considerate of others and you will have a great time.

After it is all said and done, you are probably going to fall in love with your car all over again and become hooked like many of us on here, get ready for one of the best weekends of your life.

[na2ub]

Keep em coming. Do I need racing tape for my H4s and fogs?

[kstylianos]

The list and advise above looks good and thorough.

Racing tape for the lights and possibly a mag bra for the hood is a god idea.

A track with gravel paddocks (VIR for example) is murder on glass (windshields included), paint, etc.

When cars come back into the paddock after a session, the hot tires pick up the loose gravel and hold them until they get hot again....usually releasing their debris when a car is following close (thanks Murphy).

An excuse to include a gratuitous pic:

[na2ub]

What about helmets? Open or closed face?

[Joe Bob]

SA Snell rated helmets are required....

Pull the fuse on the windshield wipers...nothing says FNG more than wipers a flapping coming out of a turn.

[Grady Clay]

Most issues for first time DE are with your head. Don’t let the excitement, noise, activity, and speed overwhelm your common sense. Go slow, don’t drive over your head, and listen to your instructor.

Read the rules, enter now, tech early, and know what you need to take.

Is there a way you and some friends rent the track prior and just motor around getting your bearings?

Get all the car prep done way in advance. Never late prep the night before.

Best,
Grady

[Lothar]

Tape on your H4's is a good idea. If you plan on doing a lot of track events, you could buy a set of fiberglass headlight covers. They don't really cover the headlights. They replace them.

Good luck on your first DE. It won't be your last.