DragStuff

Ok guys, after a long delay, I'm shooting for Oct 5th or 6th to run my car for the first time.

Being out of racing for a little, and you can laugh at me all you want but I'm going to be a little nervous, so I want to make sure I got everything covered before hand and worry about other stuff the day of.

Keep in mind, this is a new car, never down a track, so I need to think outside of the box on what to check for.

Do any of you have a check list you run down prior to race day?

I'm not talking about the obvious, like spare jets or a new set of plugs, or if my helmet and belts are still within date, I'm talking more about what to check and double check for on the chassis, drivetrain, etc....

Thanks

Header bolts and ladder bar rod end nuts...I always forget to check them and they always come loose. If you have driven it on the street and it passed inspection you shouldn't have much to worry about. Where you plan on testing?

The car is not street legal, but thanks for the tip on the ladder bar rod nuts, I do need to check them.

Not sure where testing is happening at, got several tracks around me, need to see whom is not busy but got a good crew already lined up.

Yeah, we have a check list on what to check on the car, check list for what to load in the trailer, etc. Generally crawl over and under the car and look closely, check to make sure bolts are tight. I often paint a stripe on chassis bolts with fingernail polish after I've torqued them down, if the paint is broken or not lined up I know it better be checked. Of course on top of that obvious maintenance like running valves, etc. should be on your list.

I like to take a couple wrenches and check everything front to back, check all hoses and all fluids. Be safe and have fun, Walt

Ok, I know it's a little bit to go yet, but anyone want to guess a time?

I've been keeping an eye on the extended forecast for Oct 5th and it's supposed to be sunny and 73F, so I'm planning to be racing. The track is in the northern part of PA and surrounded by mountains, so there should be some cool air. I was told it's a bit slower up there, then down at Cecil or Maple Grove, which both tracks are running big events that day.

Here are the details, 408 bbc, approximately 500hp, 3000lbs with driver, P/G with 8" converter, 5000-5500 stall, foot brake, 4.57's, ladder bars with coil overs, 130lb springs, 32 x 14 slicks.

Anything else you care to know?

I built the car to run 10.0's but know it may need a little help to get there. I'm hoping to run a low 11's or a high 10.

People are telling me different, but I guess we'll find out.

Going to play it safe on the first run and just listen to the car, as instructed to do by several of you guys, but after I feel ok, going to have some fun and go for some times.

There is no door prize for guessing the closest time, just the bragging rights that you got the closest....

Bruce is this your first time behind the wheel of a 10 second type car?

Lol
You better let me drive it. Lol well you'll be ok after all it is just a camaro! lol

John, not the first time I raced but first time in this car.

Thanks Chris........for what, I'm not sure of????

Just take your time and don't get in a hurry to set the world on fire. Nothing wrong with making some half passes till you get your feet wet and feel comfortable in what you're doing.

I ran it not to long ago for about an 1/8 mile and it did surprise me a bit.

This time though, I need to pay more attention to the car and not how big my smile is from all the fun I'm having.

As long as it comes how in one piece, no matter what the times are, I'll be happy.

My wife informed me, as soon as the car's shakedown is finished, she wants behind the wheel.

Might have to go on a Nova hunting tour.......

I know where a fast one is for sale!

NO! Not mine, it's faster than mine. LOL I knew what you were thinking! LOL

I hope to be out testing soon too.

Good luck Bruce.

Definately, good luck Bruce!