Bracket Racing Tips 2

From Jok Nicholson and the T.E.C. (Top End Club) crew

www.dragracingonline.com is starting a new section that will feature tech tips and the latest news about bracket racing. We will do our best to bring you current news, the latest trends and some basic “tips” that we hope might be of use for the first time racer and maybe rattle some brain cells of the veteran bracket racers out there.

If you have a big money event coming to your track or some “hot news” we want to hear about it. E-mail us at brackettips@racingnetsource.com

Basic Checklist to use before and after you get to the track:

I make a list during the week to remind me of things I want to take to the track or work I need to do before the next race. I have a written list I look at every weekend when I get to the track. I list certain things I want to pay special attention to or different things I want to try this weekend. You can’t go wrong if you have a PLAN. The worst thing you can do is WISH you had a plan. Compare your list to what you actually accomplished as the day goes on. If you want to improve, you will have to work at it.

While I am on the CHECKLIST thing let’s mention some things you should bring with you to the races.

Comfort Items: Ice chest filled with water, soft drinks, maybe some snacks. Don’t forget the sun blocker; a basic first-aid kit (just in case); how about a radio to tune into the track radio so you can hear them call your class to staging. Remember to bring enough stuff for your crew too. If they have fun you will have a better experience at the track and your FREE helpers will want to come again.

Race Fuel: If you have to haul special race fuel, PLEASE haul it safely. Do not put it in your trunk or use an old fuel can. If the track offers a fuel you can use I recommend using it. It is safer and it supports the track operations.

Tools: You know what tools you have used in working on your car so don’t leave them at home. Be sure to bring the tools to change tires if you have a flat. What about a spare tire for everything?

Spare Parts: Hopefully you won’t need them BUT if you do… water pump / alternator belt. Carburetor gaskets, valve cover gaskets, some brake fluid, trans fluid and some engine oil. Just make a list and don’t leave them sitting at home.

These are just some basic ideas that most of you already use. I just wanted to remind you of things that can make racing easier and more fun.

I know you all have some ‘top secret’ tips and ideas that have worked for you at the track. I invite you to share your wealth of knowledge with other racers. Things like wiring tips, towing tips and ideas, suspension ideas, homemade tools that work, stuff that doesn’t work and so on. Just e-mail us at: brackettips@racingnetsource.com. We will put in the 1320 Bracket Tips and even give you the credit you deserve.

See you at the races!

Copyright 1999-2001, Drag Racing Online and Racing Net Source