These newsletters are a great way for you to get information.  However, I would like to know what is happening with your racing ventures.  So, consider this an open inventation to be a friend on Facebook. 

Go to the Bank and tap into the awesome power of Data Acquisition!  The DATA BANK Club is a growing collection of data from different tracks and types of race cars.  Best of all, it's FREE.

 

Big professional race teams have several cars they can compare under the data acq microscope, and now you can get that same advantage.  Also, if you are just getting started in data acq, you can go to the Bank and immediately be up to speed on a track you have yet to run.  Another major advantage is being able to see what other drivers are doing that you might have overlooked.  Go to the DATA BANK to see what is already available.

 

All data is done on a deposit and withdrawal basis.  In other words, you can deposit data and make a withdrawal now, or make a deposit now and withdraw later (sorry, no credit).  All members of the Club will be notified by email when deposits are made (so you can see what's available) or you may check online.

 

This project is intended to "narrow the gap" between big teams and independent racers resulting in better racing and the longevity of the sport.  All data is anonymous and any reference to the driver/team will be removed.  For more info, or to join, email John@auto-ware.com

If you are not lucky enough to have a set-up pad at the racetrack, use the following method. It's not perfect, but if you are very careful and methodical you will be amazed and how well it works.

 

Select the smoothest/flattest place you can find to work. Position the racecar on your working real estate. Mark the floor with a piece of duct tape along both left side tires. I like to use a second smaller piece of tape on the first piece to form a "T" to mark the center of the tire.

 

Next, place a piece of maksing tape (I prefer mailing labels 'cause they look less hillbilly) on each fender/quarter directly above the wheel at the 12 o'clock position. Hook a tape measure on the bottom of the rim then make a reference mark on the label next to the tape measure. I like to make the mark at an even inch (just to keep it simple) and a vertical line along the tape measure. Don't forget to write next to the mark what number (inch) was on the tape measure.

 

Now you have a way of keeping track of ride height changes at the track. Also, if you want to change a spring, just get back to the reference marks on the fenders and your corner weights/cross weights will be pretty darn close to what they were before the spring change.  But, if you make a camber change you may need to remark your label.