Your Guide To Track-Day Prep

Testing your skill on the track is something every auto enthusiast looks forward to. There’s nothing like the exhilaration of diving hard into a corner and accelerating toward the finish line. But before you get behind the wheel, you must prepare yourself and your car. See how to do so with these track-day prep guidelines. A little preparation—and the best aftermarket parts–will go a long way toward making your experience enjoyable. 

Essential Steps To Get Your Car Track Ready

Checking elements like tires, brakes, and fluids is essential before going to the track.

Chances are you regularly check many of the things on this list, but it’s even more critical when prepping for a day of high-speed, aggressive driving. Be sure to inspect the following:

• Tires: Step one is to consider using track-specific tires. These are the most important parts in terms of safety and reliability for any track-focused events. Generally, DOT-legal tires with a treadwear rating at or under 200 TW are widely accepted as the standard for track tires, but good tires with adequate tread will work for the beginner getting into the sport. You’ll want to check pressure repeatedly and note how the tires are wearing so you can adjust as needed. Before leaving for the track, ensure you have enough tread for the day and a tire pressure gauge to ensure pressures are on point for the track.
• Brakes: You might think you brake hard while driving on a typical street, but it’s nothing like the track. Your brake system needs to be in top shape; replace worn pads and consider using a high-temperature fluid. Keep your sessions short to prevent brake overheating. Even the toughest brakes can overheat, so taking advantage of a cool-down lap is essential to aid the cooling process. When you pull back into the pits, never use your emergency brake to park the vehicle, as it can lock up your brakes! Keep the car in gear and shut it off once it is safe to do so.
• Fluids: Make sure engine oil is in good condition and filled up. Bring extra to top off as needed. Keep a close eye on oil/water temps throughout the day. Ask local enthusiasts or consult a local specialist on what temperatures are widely acceptable for your vehicle. Again, a cool-down lap is always wise for your engine and brake system.
• Alignment: A professional alignment will promote optimal handling.  Generally, a good track alignment will run increased negative camber and positive caster to counteract rolling the tires through corners while maximizing straight-line stability. Verus carries various suspension components to help you align your vehicle (depending on the application) and enhance driver confidence! 
• Engine components: There’s nothing worse than ending a track day early due to a snapped belt or other preventable problem. Do a visual inspection and look for any damaged or loose components in the engine bay and under the car. Many tracks will not allow vehicles with any fluid leaks, as this can pose a potential hazard to other drivers on the track. Address any mechanical concerns before arrival and ensure that your car is ready for the rigors of track driving.

Before taking the course, ensure your mirrors are in the correct position and turn indicators are functioning. You should watch for other vehicles and move over for faster traffic.

Personal Gear To Bring

Once your car is ready, make sure to protect yourself with a properly fitted helmet that meets safety standards.

Once your car is fitted with proper tires, brakes, and other components, get yourself ready. Here’s some personal gear to bring:

• Helmet: Protect yourself with a properly fitted helmet. This is a mandatory part of your track-day prep. Ensure that the helmet passes the stated safety requirements for your event. Snell SA2020 is the current standard, with many still accepting SA2015. Be sure to check with your organizer before purchasing a helmet!
• Driving gloves: This can improve your feel and steering control. Make sure your gloves are snug but not uncomfortable.
• Footwear: Nix the flip-flops for proper, closed-toe shoes suitable for driving. Nearly all track day organizers require this!
• Fire-resistant clothing: Full racing suits are smart for advanced track days. You can also find affordable, protective options for any outing.

Take Time To Learn The Track

Getting familiar with the track layout and optimal driving lines will boost your on-track performance.

If you’re new to track driving or a particular circuit, take time to familiarize yourself with the course. Study the track layout and understand the best driving lines for each corner. Do you know the proper entry and exit points? A professional coach can be invaluable when learning the nuances of a course and may decrease your learning curve. Most importantly, respect the track rules and guidelines, as they are there for your safety. When you are on the track, you are responsible for the safety of yourself and others around you. Passing safely and following the rules of the road will ensure that everyone has good, clean fun during their track visit.

Ready To Make Modifications? 

Ready to find the right modifications to lower track times? Verus has the track-tested aerodynamics you need.

Once you learn what your car can do and how it feels on track, you’ll better understand what modifications you need to make. If you’re looking at aerodynamics, you can start small with components like dive planes and build up to complete aero kits with specialized wings and splitters. 

Lower Lap Times With Verus Aftermarket Parts

Ready to make the most out of track day? Lower times and optimize performance in a balanced and predictable way with the experts at Verus Engineering. We’ll give you the edge you’re looking for with meticulously designed, track-tested to ensure results. Check out our online shop and return often, as we’re always adding exciting new components to our inventory.