Gear you take to the track

[Arthur Grant]

Besides your helmet, gloves, shoes, sunscreen, chair, food and cooler of drinks, what do you take to the track? Do you carry it in the car with you, have a support vehicle, tow a trailer behind your race car or have trailer to tow your car to the track. If you have been competing more than 5 years do you take more or less stuff to the track now than before? What do you consider necessary even if you have never used it and why?

[Tom Berry]

Something tells me that Arthur is getting serious about this racing thing!
That hook must be set pretty darn good.

[Mike Simanyi]

I start at the north end of the house and grab everything south, up to the property line.

[Theo O.]

I start at the north end of the house and grab everything south, up to the property line.

[Mark DeShon]

Depends greatly on how serious you are getting. I've only been in it a year and I'm already towing the car! However, I'm running in Prepared class. Plus carrying tools, an ice chest, AND a set of tires would be a bit much for a 914. BUT, when you start towing, you also add that much more stuff you need to take for the support vehicle. Ramps, straps, ect... I didn't always do it that way.
For me, essentials include a large tool box which holds all but what's needed to drop and rebuild an engine at the track (which for a 914 is basically a screwdriver, and a 10, 13, and 17mm wrench ) and setup tools (pyrometer, durometer, pressure gauge). I also take a notebook to log all my temp/pressure readings for future reference. Now that I'm towing I run light on fuel (3 gallons or less), so I also take a fuel jug. And of course, the most important things, you already mentioned. The stuff to take care of you. Sun screen, and LOTS of fluids. Because it's all about the driver, and the driver needs to be his best.
Mark D.

[Eric Clements]

I hitch up a studio apartment with 1 car garage and bring it with me ;)

[Arthur Grant]

Something tells me that Arthur is getting serious about this racing thing!
That hook must be set pretty darn good.

I don't know how serious I am getting but I tend to be someone obsessive compulsive on learning. Regardless of what I take up as a hobby or avocation I like to be learn as much as I can about the subject. I don't believe there are any sigular right answers to anything except salvation, so I see a mulitude of opinions. I read extensively and observe both the strategic and tactical behaviors of the various groups engaged in a pursuit.

In the case of Autocross, I read the key books and numerous posts, among the things I did before my first event. Based on that input I have a harness bar and 5 point installed in the car, bought a digital tire pressure gauge and a foam collar for my helmet. I am not sure the 5 point and harness bar were needed. Money would likely have been better spent on seats to get my head below the roofline. Both for safety and so I didn't look like Mr. Jack in the Box while driving. Because of prior neck injuries I have found I really like having the collar.

I am not mechanically inclined, I can do most things that have manual and step by step instructions, but my days where I enjoy building motors and rebuilding cars from junkyards, has pretty much passed with age and competing priorities. I train regularly with a pair of German Shepherds, tracking & protection, have a sailboat in Dana Point harbor and like to shoot, as well as run my cars when not traveling on business.

[Jeff Stuart]

As someone who is relatively new to the sport, and because I'm pretty sure you haven't been to a wet event yet, I would recommend getting some rain gear in the unlikely event that it rains. There were a couple of events there back in Dec-Feb where it rained, and the first one of those was a real learning experience for me. I now always have ziplock backs (for wet clothing after working the course) multiple extra sets of cloths, at least two pairs of shoes, a poncho, and towels with me at every event, just in case.

Other than that, just learn as you go. If you find you need something that you don't have, find someone you can borrow it from for the time being, and add it to the "crap to take to an autocross" list.

[Arthur Grant]

As someone who is relatively new to the sport, and because I'm pretty sure you haven't been to a wet event yet, I would recommend getting some rain gear in the unlikely event that it rains. There were a couple of events there back in Dec-Feb where it rained, and the first one of those was a real learning experience for me. I now always have ziplock backs (for wet clothing after working the course) multiple extra sets of cloths, at least two pairs of shoes, a poncho, and towels with me at every event, just in case.

Other than that, just learn as you go. If you find you need something that you don't have, find someone you can borrow it from for the time being, and add it to the "crap to take to an autocross" list.

Agree believe a rain event would be a very uncomfortable situtation. I actually was planning to attend one of those events and didn't because of the weather. Also bailed on a instructional HPDE weekend with the Alfa Club. Since I have to run with the top off to fit my head. (Now that I have bought a glass top, I can stuff myself in sort of). and have not place to put my gear but out in the weather, I would likely pass on wet events in the future as well. I have the waterproof and foul weather gear as part of my storm sailing kit.

I am sure it was a interesting for those shaging cones.

[Kurt Rahn]

There were a couple of events there back in Dec-Feb where it rained, and the first one of those was a real learning experience for me. I now always have ziplock backs (for wet clothing after working the course) multiple extra sets of cloths, at least two pairs of shoes, a poncho, and towels with me at every event, just in case.

Don't forget an extra pair of socks. There's nothing worse than wet, pruny, itchy feet for a whole day.

[Jeff Stuart]

and have not place to put my gear but out in the weather, I would likely pass on wet events in the future as well.

Yeah, I have to come up with a new solution to that one... My old solution was a big rubbermate bin with a lid on it, that fit just fine in my cavernous hatchback. Now that I have the RX-8, I think the solution might be a different sized rubbermate bin, we'll have to see what's available.

And I can't believe I forgot to mention the extra pairs of socks, those are a must! After my first event (for which I had 1 pair of socks) I came to the next event with no less than 5 pairs of socks.

[Kurt Rahn]

And I can't believe I forgot to mention the extra pairs of socks, those are a must! After my first event (for which I had 1 pair of socks) I came to the next event with no less than 5 pairs of socks.

LOL. Yeah, once is usually enough to anchor that one.

[Arthur Grant]

Bet the teams with motorhomes get treated nicely on rainy days.

[Doug Kott]

Some glass cleaner and a roll of paper towels are good items to add. Cleaning the windshield is just part of the ritual for me, and I like to wipe down the doors before applying the magnetic numbers to avoid scratching. Also...quart of oil, anti-freeze, ps fluid.

--Doug

[Christine Grice]

There are some good suggestions and check lists in our novice guide:
http://www.solo2.com/MiscDocuments/CSCC ... _Guide.pdf" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Michael Smith]

Some glass cleaner and a roll of paper towels are good items to add. Cleaning the windshield is just part of the ritual for me, and I like to wipe down the doors before applying the magnetic numbers to avoid scratching. Also...quart of oil, anti-freeze, ps fluid.
--Doug

Great suggestions. Those are must haves.

There is a nice list in this document of items to bring: http://www.solo2.com/MiscDocuments/CSCC ... _Guide.pdf

[Randy Chase]

I have my list in word doc so I can make a checklist before events. Some of the list changes if the event is local, if I am driving something else, if there is no chance of rain.

Helmets
ID cards (drivers license, SCCA card, local cards)
Cash and credit cards (hooker and blow money)
Reading Glasses or Prescription Glasses
Racing shoes
Medications
Sunscreen
Hat
Sunglasses
Clothes
Business cards
Paper to write on and pens
Jacket? Sweatshirt?

Rain gear?
Garbage bags
Ziploc bags
Extra socks

Tires and rims.
Rain Tires?
Gloves
Lug nut set
Impact wrench
Sockets
Jack
Wheel chocks
Air compressor
Battery charger
Air gauge
Blue tape
Windex
Paper towels
Detail spray
Microfibre Towels
Water sprayer

Magnetics
Stickers?

Camera and data setup
Compact Flash Card or SD Cards
Digital camera?
Cell phones and chargers
Laptop?
Book to read?
Folding chairs

Water
Cooler
Beer? Mmmm...beer. For event celebration or sympathy party.
Snack bars?

Exhaust bits? Turn downs?
Oil
Fuel (race gas)

Tools
Basic wrenches
screw drivers
Pliers
Socket set
Duct tape
Some baling Wire
Tiewraps of various sizes
Snips
Scissors
Hammer
Funnel
Assorted bolts and nuts and screws

Electrical
Digital Volt Meter
Spare Fuses
Electrical wire
Hose sealant tape
Spare fanbelt

[Theo O.]

I have my list in word doc so I can make a checklist before events. Some of the list changes if the event is local, if I am driving something else, if there is no chance of rain.

...
Helmets
Cash and credit cards (hooker and blow money)
Medications
Gloves
Blue tape
Digital camera?
Beer? Mmmm...beer. For event celebration or sympathy party.
Duct tape
Funnel

...

Sound like a kick ass party, I need to start hanging out with Randy at the track

[Mike Simanyi]

A few more comments:

• Get storage containers with locking tops. The type that simply snap in place can easily blow away in one good gust. Being a sailor, I'm sure you understand...
• Co-drivers make great pack mules. If you don't want to arrange a trailer and truck to bring everything out, teaming up is a great idea. Plus you get to learn from each other and share expenses. I've been incredibly lucky, having the nicest people for co-drivers over the years. I simply can't imagine being without a "team."
• Man up! ;) With a good rain shell and pants and some waterproof shoes (or spare socks and shoes), working in the rain isn't bad at all. Driving in the rain is absolutely amazing! It's an accelerated class in smooth driving, looking ahead and intense focus. You'll be shocked how fast you can be on today's tires.

Mike

[Arthur Grant]

So far pretty good list. I have gone over the novice list before I came out for my first event.
Currently I carry pretty much everything on it. I was of course having fun by posting the question, but I have learned as an example that my car a Corvette C4 seems to have issues with gas pedals, and hubs. I have now acquired and carry a
spare hub,
gas pedal.
I am sure I am more likely to call Auto Club than actually wrench on it in a parking lot, but I have the parts. Also have a
spare drive belt
Spare wheel studs
Spare brake pads
spare lug nuts
(Special recognition here - The spare parts were provided compliments of Tom Phillips)
I have been assured by a number of GRA memebers that they are not only worth having but carrying.
oil
brake fluid
windex
paper towels regular towels, chamois.
Battery Jumper pack which can power both my 12v air pump and my 12v impact wrench.
torque wrench
Thermos with hot water for cup of noodles and Strarbuck Via Italian Roast Coffee
bungie cords
tire iron
Chair with built in cover
Ice chest filled with drinks
quick snacks
Spare street clothes including socks,and gloves
driving shoes
GoPro HD camera with memory
As noted being a sailor yes my carry box has a locking lid.

What tools do you carry and have you ever really needed them?

[Mako Koiwai]

What tools do you carry and have you ever really needed them?

No ... but other people certainly seem to ... from the borrowing that goes on! ;) ... actually yes. I've had to tighten up suspension/camber bolts, shock top nuts, battery tie-downs ... I need to be able to do alignment changes, torque wrench for lug nuts, help fix/replace radiator hoses.

I don't know if anyone has mentioned RESCUE Tape ... but that is a MUST HAVE these days. Rescue tape is a silicone tape that can be used to repair even wet radiator hoses and vacuum hoses. Once you remove the tapes backing, it will fuse to itself, making a water/vacuum tight seal ... that seems to be virtually permanent. I fixed Michael H's vacuum hose on his Porsche a few weeks ago, and I think he's decided to just leave it.



Another item that I feel is a Must Have is the little Schrader Valve tightening tool. Should be in everyones glove box/center console. One day you'll discover a leaking valve while in grid ... typically just before a ProSolo Challenge run ... and it will save you!



If you drive to events on R tires, you should have a tire plugging kit. Most garages won't repair R tires ... for liability reasons. I went to five stores in San Diego once, including the store that sells R's ... and ended up having to fix it myself. It's easy to do with the plug kit ... available at places like Pep Boys.

A tire filler foam spray can make for quick emergency repairs. The new ones do not use an explosive gas, so no worries for the garage that might do the permanent repair. Our Vette comes with a factory filler kit since it doesn't carry a spare.

[Katy Nicholls]

I start at the north end of the house and grab everything south, up to the property line.

He's not kidding!

[Bob Beamesderfer]

Bet the teams with motorhomes get treated nicely on rainy days.

All year round and extra nice on rainy days.

For those with limited cargo space it's balancing act things you might need and things you'd like to have for creature comforts.

Good quality wool socks for just about every weather because they breath, keep your feet warm even if soaked and offer some padding. REI or Sportchalet. If you wear driving shoes, cycling or running socks for those. Waterproof rain pants are a godsend and some sort of breathable, water-proof hooded jacket. I have water proof shoes and still carry spare socks.

Chair, cooler, large straw hat or a ball-cap style with an apron like a Tilley cap to keep the sun off. While the sites we compete at aren't a long ways from where you can get something to eat or drink, bring something along means not having to leave the site.

Tools and frequently needed spare parts and fluids—engine oil, brake fluid, distilled water for radiator—are a are must. Many people mention jack, but also bring jack stands. You may not work under the car without them. Air tank or mini-compressor.

Rubbermade bins make sorting it out a lot easier. I have two Craftsmen plastic tool boxes that are made fit under/behind the seat of a pickup truck so they're easy stow—they fit in the well of first-gen Miata with room for torque wrench and other odds/ends.

[Mako Koiwai]

The more room we have, the more we carry. Sometimes I wish is was JUST the Miata!

The more room you have, the more you can take, which means there is more chance that you'll forget something!

[Bob Beamesderfer]

The more room we have, the more we carry. Sometimes I wish is was JUST the Miata!

The more room you have, the more you can take, which means there is more chance that you'll forget something!

Ain't that the truth!