I am asking this question because I have never been to a track before. This summer I do want to "learn" how to drive my Turbo better. I know that there are some essentials before going to a track and equipment needed. I plan to use my stock twists since they have new PS2's on them, but what else would I need? I figure an approved helmet, good driving shoes, and a mechanically sound car with good brakes and fresh fluids. Any other things to consider since I am 100% new to the idea of drivers education. Sorry to sound like a noob, but would not want to go to an event and have to sit out since I didn't have the proper equipment. Thanks.

 

1) Tourque wrench
2) Nice tire pressure gauge
3) Some "Track" brake pads you can put on just for the event. (Bring extras, just in case)
4) painters tape to protect your beauty
5) a clear head (no drinking untill 4am the night before)
6) an open mind (to listen to your instructor)
7) eventually you may want to get a separate set of wheels & track tires
8) extra oil, brake fluid & coolant
9) a comfortable pair of pants & t-shirt.
That should pretty much cover it. Take it easy and have fun. Remember, you are not trying to brake any track records your 1st, 2nd 3rd, 10th time out, so learn your cars characteristics.
That should about cover it.

 

Appreciate the info Luis. Do I need to buy a helmet and which kind? I am Korean...so I need a kinda big one. . I also understand about not trying to break records...I just know that I am probably just driving my car to about 50% of its potential, but would really like to understand and learn how to be a better driver overall. Sorry to sound so new to this, but I told myself that I would get myself onto a track this year. Thanks again.

 

Just take it easy and have fun. Remember it is much harder to learn how to drive a high HP car. So take your time.

 

That is great! You are using the car like it is supposed to be used. Please, keep us posted on how your events go and post pics. Once you are on the track once, it is hard to not go back. Its like therapy, definately my favorite stress releiver.

 

An in car video camera. That way you can review yourself back at the hotel.
As for a helmet, buy the most expensive SA2005 (full face) one you can afford.

 

Thanks, and great idea for the camera. I do not have a roll bar, so I assume the suction cup mount would be ok.
Also which manufacturers would you recommend for the helmet? Also what do they usually cost....I have no problem spending alot for safety. I only get one chance on this earth, so it is important for me to be safe.

Luis, I will keep you guys posted and have pics once I get onto the track. My local PCA chapter does offer some AutoCross events at Ripken Stadium, but from I hear they are long days with very short driving times. I want to take the full drivers ed at Summit Point. Can't wait until it gets warmer in Maryland. Looking forward to this.

 

Safety gear is a must, I'd also consider a hans device but you need a 5 point harness for a hans.

 

I recommend avoiding extra hot days. Nothing worse for your car than 110 degree track days especially with a Turbo.

 

Some additional thoughts:

Join Potomac or Chesapeake Region of PCA and participate in Drivers Ed programs at Summit Point, VIR and other tracks, such as Watkins Glen, Mid-Ohio, etc.

Sign up early - very early - as Green group (least experienced) fills up very quickly.

Don't worry about bringing everything to track, most members are very willing to share their tools and even fluids in emergency.

You can purchase a helmet at OG Racing store at track or rent one for your first drive - to determine what feels comfortable for you.

There generally are a few turbos running in all groups, so you will be welcomed.

Most importantly, get out on the track and have some fun. You will be as fast or faster than nearly all cars in your class, at least on the straightaway, but, others with more experience will brake later into turn 1, will have learned the proper line for turn 3, will be more experienced in the carousal (you will learn this) and turns 6 through 10 will be taught to you by your instructor.

I was looking forward to getting out to most of the Summit Point events this year, but, it looks like I will not have a Porsche any longer - at least for the next couple of years. My garage space is limited and it doesn't really make sense to have to 2 cabs, so my track days will be limited to events that allow non- Porsches to drive.

Good luck and have fun.

 

Get a good helmet and tire gauge for your first time out. I think racing pads, hans, 5 point is a bit overkill for the first time out in the green run group, but whatever floats your boat.
Have fun, listen, check your tires.

 

1. get into local PCA (or NASA) drivers ed class.

2. ride with an instructor

3. take a POS out on your first few track days (then take the TT out)

4. Open face Snell 2005 helmet, gloves, decent shoes

5. hydrate adequately

 

One of the most important things is to listen to your instructor. Even though they may not have driven a Porsche turbo before, they probably know a lot more about your vehicle's dynamics on the track. Also, try to spend time with two different instructors if possible. You will see they offer different tips and you can choose which works best for you. Also, concentrate being smooth at the controls.

Most of all, have fun!

 

Bring a folding/lawn chair for downtime.

Also, make sure you ride with your instructor and pay attention to his hands and feet and what the car is doing. I think riding with an instructor is enlightening the first few times. After that, its just fun to go that fast and observe other people's lines around the track. But be careful, I've heard if you get motion/seasick you may have trouble with ride alongs.

 

I've heard if you get motion/seasick you may have trouble with ride alongs.

That actually happened at the PDE at Barber Motorsports - only there was no instructor in car, we were all driving solo. Felt pretty badly for the driver, also for the guy that had to clean up the car, what a mess inside.