I've tracked my p-car during some pretty hot days this season and have always kept my A/C off while on the track. However, I've heard that there is no dimunition in power in the 997 with the A/C on, as it cuts off when power is needed in acceleration. Anyone know about this?

 

If I recall, that's hard on the AC system and it will drip water. I'm not sure if it's that big of a deal on a road course, but running your AC at a drag strip will **** the track workers off something awful.

 

When I did PDE (Porsche Driving Experience) all the instructors laughed because we cut the air off and drove with the windows down (Birmingham is real hot during any summer!). They all drove with the windows up, A/C blasting cold air and were quicker than any of us hacks! Take advantage of the A/C.

 

I also attended PDE and felt those pros could have outrun us with their eyes closed.

 

At track days I've done they require you to have your windows open anyways, so air conditioner usage would be pretty irrelevant. IIRC AC uses a good 20 or so hp, but then again having your windows open increases drag. If I was allowed I'd run it with the windows up and AC on, since in most decent cars it does cut out at wide open throttle...but we're not allowed to.

 

Seems like a safety issue if the force you to have the windows down unless you also have arm restraints/window netting. Where do you run?

Bro

 

Speedventures requires it

 

I guess I wouldn't run with them then.

Bro

 

Places I've ran required windows down as well...in the event of an incident it makes things easier for the safety crew and track workers.

 

That assumes they aren't going to be looking for your arms or possibly your head out there...

Bro

 

Every PCA D.E. that I've attended requires windows down.

 

Then you probably won't get to drive at MOST DE events. Windows down is the norm at DE's. In case you have car to car or car to barrier contact you won't have shattered glass all over the place.

 

 

Windows down is mostly to make point-by signals easier to see.

It's the norm with NASA and all other groups I know of around here at least.

-Sam C.

 

Some drivers run with the AC on when it rains, depends on the car though. If the ECU is programmed for the AC it will make the throttle response smoother when the AC is on.