Suggestions for preparing for a
Performance Driving Experience (PDX)

The Kansas and Kansas City Regions of the SCCA hope you will have a safe and enjoyable weekend at our PDX. A little time spent on preparation will make your weekend that much more fun--we want you to spend your time at the track driving, not fixing your car!
   We realize that, for first-time participants, this may be an intimidating as well as an exhilarating experience. You will be assigned a personal instructor, so if you have any questions about any aspect of the event, just ask them or any of the other instructors. Asking for help isn't a weakness; turning up clueless is!

NB: These suggestions are intended only as guidelines, and do not supercede any requirements laid down in the PDX regulations.

General

Your car will be working much harder than it is used to doing on the highway, so it is only sensible to take it to the track in good running condition. Most problems that are encountered are related to brake fade and overheating, so make sure these systems are in good shape.

• Make sure all required routine maintenance is up to date.
• Get an oil and filter change, tune up, and change the spark plugs if needed.
• Make sure all the fluids are topped up and that the coolant hoses are in good condition.
• Check that the battery is secure and in good condition (no leaks).
• Make sure the seat belts, including the passenger's belts, are in good condition.
• Clean out the inside and remove all loose items.

Tires

• Make sure your tires are in good condition and have plenty of tread left. Cars with tires that are corded or worn down to the treadwear mark will not be allowed to participate. If they are getting thin, now might be a good time to put on a set of performance tires.
  

Brakes

• Your brakes will get a good workout, so make sure the pads and discs are in good condition.
• It isn't a bad idea to bring a spare set of pads just in case.
• You might consider buying a set of performance pads (e.g. metallics) for the event.
• Bleed the brakes and change the fluid if it is old (more than a year or two).

Clothing

The weather at Heartland Park is very unpredictable, so be prepared for all possibilities.

• You will need a crash helmet that meets or exceeds Snell 90 specifications: a motorcycle helmet meeting these specs is acceptable. A helmet that meets these standards will have a Snell Foundation sticker inside. More information may be found at www.smf.org.
• If you have an open or T-top car, you will need eye protection--goggles or face-shield.
• When driving, you will be required to wear long sleeves and pants, preferably of non-synthetic material (e.g. cotton or denim).
• Footwear: tennis shoes or sneakers that cover the entire foot are best for car control. Sandals and other open-toed shoes are not permitted. Heavy boots and shoes are not good for pedal feel.
• Gloves (preferably lightweight leather or suede) are essential if it is cold.
• Take wet-weather gear--if you don't, it will rain.

Things to bring with you

• Tire pressure gauge.
• Jack and tool kit.
• Trash bags to put your stuff in if it rains.
• Folding chair--concrete gets very hard after a time.
• Snacks and plenty of drinking water. There is a concession stand at the track.

On your way to the track

• Note the locations of the various gas stations and convenience stores on S Topeka Blvd near the track. There is also an O'Reilly's auto parts store conveniently located on the east side of S Topeka Blvd just south of the I-470 interchange.
• Check the tire pressures: you will need about 5 to 10 psi higher pressure than usual. Air is also available at the track.
• Fill up with gas: the race gas available at the track is really expensive.
• Buy the things you have forgotten to bring with you.

At the track

• Remove the floor mats and all other loose items.
• Remove the spare wheel and tool kit.
• Remove the hub caps.
• Check the oil and fluid levels.
• Check the tire pressures and wheel nuts.

If you have any questions, call:

Jim Wheeler - (913) 888-4447