Open track/driving school May 1 & 2

[Cobra-R]

There is a group of us going down to Mid-America Motorplex May 1 & 2 for a open track event/drivers school.

Here is the site: http://www.nwshelbyclub.com/

registration form: http://www.nwshelbyclub.com/mamreg2004.doc

The track is usually open on friday to run if you want (I usually do) Camping is allowed as well as hotels about 20 min away.

There is also a 1/8mi drag strip there that is usually open saturday and saturday night, so you people with ambition can do double duty.

This is the safest track I know of, there is nothing to hit, there is tons of runoff area's and you will really enjoy yourself. We have a number of people from the club going, it would be great to get more.

Brian

PS: Feel free to ask questions.

[DNeinstadt]

Man, after hotels ($60/night) and registration ($250) for the weekend, that gets expensive REAL quick.

I'd love to do this, but not crazy about those costs or driving 7+ hours TO the track, playing, and then driving home 7+ hours.

Anything closer/cheaper? <whine>

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Man, after hotels ($60/night) and registration ($250) for the weekend, that gets expensive REAL quick.

I'd love to do this, but not crazy about those costs or driving 7+ hours TO the track, playing, and then driving home 7+ hours.

Anything closer/cheaper? <whine>

Dan

Yea, basket weaving at home. ;)

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Man, after hotels ($60/night) and registration ($250) for the weekend, that gets expensive REAL quick.

I'd love to do this, but not crazy about those costs or driving 7+ hours TO the track, playing, and then driving home 7+ hours.

Anything closer/cheaper? <whine>

Dan

Dan, You don't need to run both days, it's $125/day. I'm registering for saturday, and then depending on weather and stuff, I may run sunday.

Camping there is only $20, staying at a hotel isn't worth it (they're also 10-15 miles away).

Finally, the drive from my place is only about 5 hours. And in a caravan of people, it's not too bad.

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
Yea, basket weaving at home. ;)

:boxing:

Argh... :)

$125 is swingable.

Everyone (other than Brian) driving?

Dan

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
:boxing:

Argh... :)

$125 is swingable.

Everyone (other than Brian) driving?

Dan

I'll be doing saturday, sunday depending on weather/mood.

[DNeinstadt]

I meant driving there rather than trailering their vehicles.

Just curious. :)

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
I meant driving there rather than trailering their vehicles.

Just curious. :)

Oh, far as I know the country boy is the only one trailering his car, the rest are driving them.

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
I meant driving there rather than trailering their vehicles.

Just curious. :)

We have discussed maybe pitching in and renting a dolly to bring with just in case.

My car is so unstreetable, I would hate to have it driven back from MAM if we had to use the trailer for someone else.

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
We have discussed maybe pitching in and renting a dolly to bring with just in case.

My car is so unstreetable, I would hate to have it driven back from MAM if we had to use the trailer for someone else.

Brian

Anyone got a matching trailer in Mystichrome?!

Hehe..

Good to know. DEFINETLY considering it.

Dan

[SSHFTY1]

dork:50cal:

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by sshfty1
dork:50cal:

Isn't that the pot calling the kettle black there NorthBranch?:D

[SSHFTY1]

hell no that fool would spray paint his underwear mystic if he knew how.:mad: :mad:

[Steelgrave]

I heard you both already have...:rolleyes: :D :cool:

[SSHFTY1]

nope only him he used up all the paint on his pac man underoos

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by sshfty1
nope only him he used up all the paint on his pac man underoos
:hahaha: :hahaha: :hahaha:

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Man, after hotels ($60/night) and registration ($250) for the weekend, that gets expensive REAL quick.

I'd love to do this, but not crazy about those costs or driving 7+ hours TO the track, playing, and then driving home 7+ hours.

Anything closer/cheaper? <whine>

Dan

Just to give you a comparison. The Mn-F-body club has thier event at Brainerd each year. If memory serves me right, it cost $180/day for thier event. You still going to have to pay for a hotel room and all that. Yes it's a 2 or 3 hrs closer, but I will tell you if you want a safe track, Brainerd is not it. MAM has a dragstrip that we can mess around on in the evening, and historically they havn't charged us extra to run.
Don't know about you, but I would rather drive an extra few hours for more tracktime and for almost no posability of hitting something if I should run off the track. We all want to bring our cars home in the same shape they left in.

This event is about as cheap as an open track event gets. I don't think that the SVTOA on-track events are even this cheap(for members). It is actually one of the best events I go to each year, no doubt about that.

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
Just to give you a comparison. The Mn-F-body club has thier event at Brainerd each year. If memory serves me right, it cost $180/day for thier event. You still going to have to pay for a hotel room and all that. Yes it's a 2 or 3 hrs closer, but I will tell you if you want a safe track, Brainerd is not it. MAM has a dragstrip that we can mess around on in the evening, and historically they havn't charged us extra to run.
Don't know about you, but I would rather drive an extra few hours for more tracktime and for almost no posability of hitting something if I should run off the track. We all want to bring our cars home in the same shape they left in.

This event is about as cheap as an open track event gets. I don't think that the SVTOA on-track events are even this cheap(for members). It is actually one of the best events I go to each year, no doubt about that.

Brian

Well I'm convinced then!

Going to try to make it a priority. Any suggestions for my '04? New pads?

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Well I'm convinced then!

Going to try to make it a priority. Any suggestions for my '04? New pads?

Dan

Bleed the brakes, put about 40 psi in the tires (they have air at the track) and install the pads I am still carrying around in my pickup for you, and you will be good to go. ;)


Brian

[DNeinstadt]

Heh heh heh...

Bleed the brakes and put in higher temp fluid or what?

How about most importantly - drive the car and get familiar with it?

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Heh heh heh...

Bleed the brakes and put in higher temp fluid or what?

How about most importantly - drive the car and get familiar with it?

Dan

I use Ford Hi Performance Dot 3 flud. It's pretty cheap and easy to find. It has a pretty good reputation with the tracking community.

I say safety first, then yes, learn how to drive.

Brian

[Blackcoog]

Hey dan I have some extra cans of German made brake fluid. It wasn't too expensive. I can sell ya a can for cheap if you need it. It has a 600 degree boiling point. :) Good stuff.

Here are some good ones. (http://www.spmotorsports.com/lubricants.html)

[BlackCoupe]

This is the first time I read this post and it sounds like a blast. I would be driving my Cobra down as well, and I would be up for sharing the cost of a dolly as a just in case too.
The season is getting closer! :D :D :D :D :D

[DNeinstadt]

I'd chip in to see an L tow a dolly passing a Hemi.

Ok. What's the plan for the caravan? Everyone driving there Friday or what?

Cobra-R are you heading up this journey? Point us to the person who is?

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
I'd chip in to see an L tow a dolly passing a Hemi.

Ok. What's the plan for the caravan? Everyone driving there Friday or what?

Cobra-R are you heading up this journey? Point us to the person who is?

Dan

I will happy to help plan this. I just gotta warn you all that I need to stay flexible dues to work issues on when I leave.

Normally for MAM, I will get up and leave right away friday am so I can get down there in time to run friday afternoon. Ideally I would like to leave thursday night after work so I could run all day friday. Obviously if they predict rain for friday, I won't be in such a hurry to get down there.

I assume we are going to need a couple different caravans for people that want to leave early, and those that want to leave friday evening. When you know when you can leave, lets post it so we can start making plans.

For people wanting to go early and wishing to get rides, I, as well as my dad, will have a seat available. I usually know other people that are there as well, so I am sure I could find more rides for you all.

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

I am officially IN on this. I want to drive the '04 TO this event and AT this event. I might only sign up for one day due to costs but I will be going for sure.

Let's organize a caravan. What are MOST people doing for the trip down?

Dan

[BlackCoupe]

I took Friday off, so I am open to leaving as early as possible. Thursday afternoon or Friday morning works for me. I have a friend who drives a '02 Z28 that wants to make a road trip. He might be joining us as well. He wouldn't be driving the road cousre, but could potentially do a little 1/4 mile racing.

[Steelgrave]

I started an official "who's going" list and their signup status HERE (http://www.svt4me.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=831#831).

Also has a link to the reg forms...

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by BlackCoupe
I took Friday off, so I am open to leaving as early as possible. Thursday afternoon or Friday morning works for me. I have a friend who drives a '02 Z28 that wants to make a road trip. He might be joining us as well. He wouldn't be driving the road cousre, but could potentially do a little 1/4 mile racing.

Might want to let him know it's an 1/8 mile Todd (where you been lately?).

I likely won't be getting an instructor, so I may have an open seat for a ride (depending on if they let me).

[Cobra-R]

Sent my registration in today. Come on girls, what ya waiting for?????

:scram: :p

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

JUST downloaded and printed the form. HOLD ON PEOPLE Jeepers.

hehe..

[BlackCoupe]

Well, mine has been downloaded, printed, filled in, check written, and mailed. Let the fun begin! :grin: :grin: :shiftin: :grin:

For all you people that haven't sent your registration in yet, I think this slowness is carried over from your driving skills! :eek:

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by BlackCoupe


For all you people that haven't sent your registration in yet, I think this slowness is carried over from your driving skills! :eek:

I find it ironic people buy a "high performance" vehicle but wimp out when it comes to driving it the way it was meant to be driven. :50cal: You do know the steering wheel is for turning, right??????? :shiftin: If Dan N can do it, you all can do it. :drink:

Brian

PS: Glad to see your coming, Todd. You will love this track.

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
IIf Dan N can do it, you all can do it. :drink:
Brian


:boxing:!!

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
:boxing:!!


Dan-->]:boxing: Me-->:50cal:


Brian :grin: :grin: :grin: :grin:

[BlackCoupe]

While you two are off doing your little dance, I'll be :shiftin: .

[Blackcoog]

Is there a deadline? I'd go for sure but I'm in a money crunch right now so the closer we get the better.

[BlackCoupe]

Originally posted by Blackcoog
Is there a deadline? I'd go for sure but I'm in a money crunch right now so the closer we get the better.

I spoke with one of coordinators last week, and he said that a lot of people wait until the last few weeks to register. It isn't until the end of April, so I think you have a little bit of time. I sent mine in just to make sure I didn't miss out.

[Cobra-R]

Anyone that is still on the fence, just try it. I believe tracking is much easier on the car than drag racing. This track is about as safe as it gets. Pay the $50 for an instructor. You will have one on one in car instruction as well as classroom sessions. I guarentee you will learn more about driving a car in one weekend than you do from years of driving on the street. Show up with a open mind and a safe car and you will have the time of your life.

I'm going to explain a little how these events work for people that are new to it.

First thing in the morning after checking in to registration, we have a drivers meeting. Here is where they explain the track, go over the rules,and discuss how things are going to be run. People that elected to have instructors will group up. The instructor will take thier 1-3 students out on the track in a street car(or whatever) to show them the track.

Drivers are typically divided into 4 run groups based on driver experience. The most experienced group will usually hit the track first(this is the group the instructors are usually in). While the instructors are out on the track, everyone else is welcome(IE: optional) to a classroom session to go over some driving basics. Driving lines, proper driving positions, terminoligy, things like that will be discussed.

When the classroom session is over, depending on what group you are in, you will go to your car and drive up to the staging lanes. You instructor will find you, and get into the car. They will go over some basics and on to the track you will go. Once they start waving you onto the track, the flagman will keep a little gap between cars so you don't get bunched up. Speed is not the issue at this point, learning the track and the proper technique is. When you start getting the technique down, the speed will come on it's own as you get comfortable.

The instructors will ride with you for as many sessions as you wish. If they give you the green light to run alone, but you would rather not, just tell them and they will stay with you until you are ready.

When you come off the track, you will drive slowly through staging and drop your instructor off, he is probly going to have another student in the next group and it's nice to minimize his walking. Go back to your pit area, shut the car off and put it in gear. Do NOT put the parking brake on, nor do you want to stop and talk to someone or whatever with your foot on the brake pedal. This can warp rotors, so be conscious of this.

Each session is usually 20 min each, that doesn't sound like much but you will be ready to come in after that period of time. Then all you do is wait for the groups to cycle thru untill it's your turn again. They announce when the various groups should be getting ready, so there is almost no chance of missing your session. At MAM, we usually will get 5-6 run session a day. Thats two hours of tracktime, you will sleep very good that night. ;)

This particualar event is a little different in a couple aspects. The "most experienced" run group is normally allowed either open passing (passing anywhere) or very loose passing rules. The down side to this is, they don't allow passengers in this group. In the other groups, normally passing is only allowed on certain straight aways and only after the car getting passed waves the faster car by.

The other "different" thing at this event is they usually have a "exhibition" race. They open it up to anyone from the experienced group(with the proper safety equipment), and literally have a wheel to wheel race. I did this a few times last year and it was a total blast. Doug saw the one I ran last May, I will leave it to him to comment on how much fun it was to watch.

I hope this helps to explain how an open track event is run. If anyone has questions, feel free to post or PM me.

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

I'm SO in.....

:shiftin: :shiftin: :shiftin: :shiftin: :shiftin:
Dan

[BlackCoupe]

Nice informative post Brian. But why did you have to do this? It is making the wait all the harder! :grin:

[WhiteSVTL]

Alright i printed the form, i just need to fill it out and sent some $$$. Im just going to do sat and sign up for an instructor. I can leave any day at anytime my boss is really cool about it. Id like to leave friday, keep updating so i dont snooze on about caravans

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by BlackCoupe
Nice informative post Brian. But why did you have to do this? It is making the wait all the harder! :grin:

Great to hear Rory, we will have a fun time. :) Now with two white vehicles, we can put a white stripe on each side of dans car. ;) ;) ;)

Brian

PS: dan, you know I am just kidding, right? ;)

[DNeinstadt]

Yeah, I know you're kidding. :)

I wonder, can a guy sign up for Saturday and pay for one day and if he likes it, stay and play on Sunday too?

And can we request you as an instructor or do we get the luck of the draw?

Dan

[John M]

Dano, Im Signing only plan on signing up for Saturday, if I like it and my brakes last, I might run Sunday. Brian told me that Sunday is usually never a problem because people break(hopefully not any of us) and then you can buy their track passes for that day. Im not going to preregister unless I see the event filling up, the reason Im doing this is incase it rains on Sat I wont run and will run if its sunny on Sunday. This is going to be hard enough on dry pavement much less trying it on wet pavement, I also dont wanna race around the track with it raining and my windows down.


BTW- I got dibs on Brian as the instructor already :grin:

[BlackCoupe]

Originally posted by John M
Im not going to preregister unless I see the event filling up, the reason Im doing this is incase it rains on Sat I wont run and will run if its sunny on Sunday. This is going to be hard enough on dry pavement much less trying it on wet pavement, I also dont wanna race around the track with it raining and my windows down.


BTW- I got dibs on Brian as the instructor already :grin:

Rain? It ain't going to fricken rain!

[Cobra-R]

Hey guys,
Yea, technically you wouldn't have to register early and you would still be ok for getting a run slot. One thing to keep in mind, if you don't preregister, you may not get an instructor even though you want one. Most of you are all going to be in one run group, so it's going to be impossible to for me to instruct more than one of you. They will line up the number of instructors based on requests for instructors, so if 15 people want instructors and there are only 10 instructors, 5 people are going to out of luck. By registering early, you are assuring that Track guys driving school will have enough instructors lined up for you all. I can't stress enough how important I think it is for you to have an instructor. I have been doing this for 4 years now and I still have experienced people ride with me to catch bad habits or help in area's I need improvement.

I have talked to Jeff Lacina (owner of the driving school) and gave him the heads up that we had a group coming down. I have known Jeff since the beginning of my tracking career and trust me, he knows how to run a school. Unfortunatly he won't personally be there that weekend (He is also the lead instructor for SVTOA national ontrack events and will be elsewhere that weekend), but his partner Todd Zikas will be there and they are going to have a top notch instructing crew.

I understand your concern for possible rain, John, but I will say that you will learn even more in the rain than you do in the dry. The first year I tracked, I ran 4 times in the rain(even in snow once) and it really teaches you car control (besides being fun). I don't usually run in the rain only because I don't have rain tires, but if I can manage to come up with a set, I will be out there rain or shine.

One thing we could do is on friday(or we could get together sometime before the event) night get together as a group and discuss some tracking basics. I could bring some in-car tapes from MAM and discuss it. Whatever you guys want or need to feel more comfortable, I am more than willing to help with.

Brian

[BlackCoupe]

Brian, you just have a way with words. I am going to see if I can change my registration and get an instructor. You are not working on commission are you? ;)
What you said makes sense to me. Thanks for the tips. :thup:

[John M]

Forget about learning to drive, I aint getting my interior all wet.(I bet Mysticboy feels the same) If it rains I will ride with you and learn how to drive in the rain. Brian do you have a generator ? I was thinking of renting 1 but if you have 1 I will steal your juice, Im going to have a trailer where we can play PlayStation to practice our driving skills between sessions.

[Cobra-R]

John,
Mom and dad will be there and have a generator, they don't run it all the time though.

Your car really doesn't get wet inside when running in the rain once you get moving. Just be aware of the above warning on the instructor situation.

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

I'll run, rain or shine, and I'm signing up for an instructor. :)

Dan

[SSHFTY1]

the way you drive better sign up for 2..:drink:

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by sshfty1
the way you drive better sign up for 2..:drink:

Hope they're fat to keep the wheel hop down in the back..

Dan

[SSHFTY1]

theres plenty of weight already in the vehicle, so I wouldn't worry to much there dano.:grin:

[BlackCoupe]

I just finished mailing my registration in for an instructor, so you all can feel a little safer now! :grin:

[DNeinstadt]

Brian,

Dan and I met Jeff Lacina this past week, what a cool guy. Anyhow, I'm going to attempt to sign up for this with an instructor. My questions are:

1. What kind of caravan is everyone planning on? What days should I take off work?

2. Where can a guy get a nice & cheap cover for the front of the car (bra) to use during the drive and track event?

3. Will I really have to change brake pads and fluid?

4. Are we still talking about a trailer to tow down there?

5. John mentioned something about them posting a list of registrants to see how much in advance we need to sign up. Do you know of such a thing?

Thanks dudes! Can't wait.

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Brian,

Dan and I met Jeff Lacina this past week, what a cool guy. Anyhow, I'm going to attempt to sign up for this with an instructor. My questions are:

1. What kind of caravan is everyone planning on? What days should I take off work?

2. Where can a guy get a nice & cheap cover for the front of the car (bra) to use during the drive and track event?

3. Will I really have to change brake pads and fluid?

4. Are we still talking about a trailer to tow down there?

5. John mentioned something about them posting a list of registrants to see how much in advance we need to sign up. Do you know of such a thing?

Thanks dudes! Can't wait.


Dan

1, We don't know what everyone can do or when they can get away. I was hoping people would post when they can leave and what they prefer.
I am planning on leaving thursday after work if the weather is nice, if the weather is questionable I will probly leave friday morning right away. By leaving thursday night, I will be able to run all day friday and give rides to anyone that wants one.

2, I would throw a post on svt performance and see what others are using. I have a cover for my 00R that I bought from Ford, but obviously it's a different style than yours. Todd has a nice one on his 03 Cobra, maybe get in contact with him.

3, Will you have to? No. Just don't drive behind me. :grin: (I still have those pads if you want them, we can change them at the track together and bleed the brakes, (bring fluid))

4, Not sure about the trailer/dolly. Casey was talking about getting his dads F350, Casey???

5, If you want an instructor, get signed up. If you wait, they may not have enough instructors, since they line instructors up well in advance. (I committed to instructing at this event months ago)

Brian

PS: Whatever Jeff told you about me is not true........unless it was all good. ;)

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
Brian,

Dan and I met Jeff Lacina this past week, what a cool guy. Anyhow, I'm going to attempt to sign up for this with an instructor. My questions are:

1. What kind of caravan is everyone planning on? What days should I take off work?

2. Where can a guy get a nice & cheap cover for the front of the car (bra) to use during the drive and track event?

3. Will I really have to change brake pads and fluid?

4. Are we still talking about a trailer to tow down there?

5. John mentioned something about them posting a list of registrants to see how much in advance we need to sign up. Do you know of such a thing?

Thanks dudes! Can't wait.

Dan

Just to add to what Brian said. I took friday and monday off of work (monday's just to change the oil and clean the truck etc). Bring some Ford DOT3 fluid, thats cheap and will work just fine. I may likely change my pads at the track as well (still need to order them). There is a list on the shelby club site, but haven't looked lately if it's been updated.

[John M]

The only Trailer my truck is going to be pulling is gonna have 3 beds in it :grin: In all honesty Dan, I think we all (Lightning Owners) agreed if something was to happen it would be easier to just run into Council Bluffs and rent a dolly should somebody need a tow home. Those things dont pull very well with nothing on them and nobody wants to tow the thing for nothing. Dont worry should something happen we will figure a way to get all the vehicles back, you are the last guy who needs to worry though.

[Cobra-R]

Thats a good idea, Omaha should have something available should it be needed.

Brian

[BlackCoupe]

I took Friday off of work so I could head down as early as Thursday evening. I also received my confirmation for an instructor.
As far as a car bra goes, I really like the one that I have. The brand is Colgan, has a carbon fiber look, 2 pieces, and it fits like a glove. It's easy to put on and take off as well.
I also bought some real nice dark headlight covers from Autothing.com (not Autoanything.com) to protect the headlights from rocks and all the debris that flies out of Brians car. Pop bottles, magazines, gum, cigarette lighters, anything just to keep me from passing him.

I think that's a great idea about the trailor if needed.

Can't wait.

[Cobra-R]

Doug and I were at Road America this weekend and talked to some of the organizers of the MAM event. They mentioned that there is some sort of a Ford shootout at the dragstrip saturday night. Unless Doug got more info, thats I I can tell you about it, since I am not a dragracer, I didn't ask more about it.

Brian

[Steelgrave]

Yeah they sounded pretty excited to have a few lightnings on the track.

Course I just looked over the registered list on their website, and it appears only Todd, Brian, and myself are registered???

[DNeinstadt]

I haven't paid yet...

I was waiting to see how many people signed up. I think John was doing the same?

I'm going, we already have a hotel booked. NO Jason cooties for me.

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt
I haven't paid yet...

I was waiting to see how many people signed up. I think John was doing the same?

I'm going, we already have a hotel booked. NO Jason cooties for me.

Dan

If your going, sign up. What difference does it make, we have 3 for sures already. Add you and John and there is 5, thats a pretty good group right there. Maybe others are waiting for you?

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
If your going, sign up. What difference does it make, we have 3 for sures already. Add you and John and there is 5, thats a pretty good group right there. Maybe others are waiting for you?

Brian

I can't take the pressure!

STOP IT!

Hehehe

[Supersonic]

Brian,

I was filling out the paperwork yesterday and noticed that you need to have a number on each side of your vehicle. What do you recommend we use? Vinyl or magnetic lettering or something?

[Cobra-R]

You can do whatever you want jeff. Some people will make numbers with tape at the track, some will come with fancy stick on decals. If the look doesn't bother you, I would go with making numbers out of tape that you can easily get back off without residue left on the paint.

Brian

[WhiteSVTL]

Im going also, i still need to send my paperwork in also, are we cruising down friday? keep up dating on departures so i know who i can drive down with, thanks!

[Cobra-R]

Seriously, if you know your going, please send it in asap. If nothing else, register for saturday only, if you decide to run sunday sign up sunday morning. You might pay a tad bit more (I don't know this as fact either way) but at least they will know what to plan for as far as instructors. I have told them we had a group coming down based on what has been comitted to on this thread, but they still need hard numbers.

Here are my plans: If the weather is going to be nice so I can drive all day friday, I will be leaving after work thursday night. I don't think we will be able to get into the track thusday night, so we might have to get a hotel room or something. If you plan on coming down with me, plan on being in wanamingo at 5pm thursday.

People that are planning on leaving friday should post here when they want to leave so you can group up. We better make sure we all exchange cell #'s so we all can be contacted in case of problems or whatever.

Brian

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by Cobra-R

Here are my plans: If the weather is going to be nice so I can drive all day friday, I will be leaving after work thursday night. I don't think we will be able to get into the track thusday night, so we might have to get a hotel room or something. If you plan on coming down with me, plan on being in wanamingo at 5pm thursday.

People that are planning on leaving friday should post here when they want to leave so you can group up. We better make sure we all exchange cell #'s so we all can be contacted in case of problems or whatever.

Brian

Actually Brian, wouldn't they/we meet you at that pit stop on 35 south of owatonna???

[Cobra-R]

Yep, that would be fine, Doug. :)

[Cobra-R]

So, whats the final tally, is it just going to be Todd, Doug, John, and I?

Brian

[John M]

Thursday Night sounds fine for me, just let me know the time. I spoke to Jason and he said he is going to drive down on Friday Night.

[Supersonic]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
So, whats the final tally, is it just going to be Todd, Doug, John, and I?

Brian

I am going as well :grin:

When does the caravan leave?????

[DNeinstadt]

I'm going, we are off Friday, so we can leave Thursday night with the caravan or whatevah!

What tools should I pack?

Dan

[John M]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt


What tools should I pack?



Your Tool enough, Make sure and pack plenty of underwear, for when you **** yourself :grin:

BTW- I packed mine too

[DNeinstadt]

HAHA! :wavefu:

Seriously, if I'm changing pads and such at the track, what tools should I bring?

Dan

[John M]

A decent wrench and socket set should do. I have C-Clamps to compress calipers, if the 03 Cobras have a torks bolt holding the caliper to the assembly, then a torks set too but I will bring mine just in case.

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by John M
A decent wrench and socket set should do. I have C-Clamps to compress calipers, if the 03 Cobras have a torks bolt holding the caliper to the assembly, then a torks set too but I will bring mine just in case.

Kinda what I figured, just the usual stuff. Hopefully no broken halfshafts or anything. :)

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Dan,
Nothing special needed to do a pad change on your car, just bring a normal stocked toolbox.

Here are some things I recommend:
1, extra brake fluid

2, jack and at leats two jackstands

3, towls cleaning materials for wiping the car down in the evening

4, torque wrench with appropriate hardware for checking lugnuts

5, cooler for drinks and food storage

6, long pants and long sleeve shirts for wearing on track

7. Helmet (SA rated, not sure if they are accepting M rated, it might say on the website, I havn't looked)

8, extra motor oil in case you need to top off

9, extra halfshafts for dan. :drink: :grin:

10, anything else you might think you will need, just bring it.

I have some tools, stands, ect that I bring with, I just don't want my stuff dragged all over the paddock area and getting lost(been there, done that) If you have a problem or something unusual, we will probly be able to round up what we need to get you going.

Some of you guys might want to cordinate some tools, jecks, or whatever so you do a minimal amount of doubling up.

They do have air and gas at the track as well.

Brian

[Steelgrave]

In addition:

Snell95+ helmet is acceptable

Car will get dirty, and they have a hose there. Last year I saw 3 different guys washing their vehicles ('ll likely do it after getting there myself for on track picture taking).

Lawn chair to kick back in

If you have a dig camera and it doesn't like focusing on moving objects, consider bringing a film camera (I've learned this the hard way hehehe)

If your bringing brake fluid (and you are bringing a little aren't you?), make sure the bottle is new as in still sealed, or less than a few months old.

If your running stock brake pads, make sure you have very easy access to a 2nd set (unless your driving pretty easy and/or slow, you'll likely need a new set by sunday evening hehehe)

Gas at the track is a small fortune (duh!), if you're not running race gas (most of us aren't) fill up close by the track. A full tank should last most of the weekend if not all.

All vehicles on track will have to have numbers of some sort on the sides. Some people have magnetic numbers, or permanent vinyl declas etc... Racing tape or the like can be made into numbers (masking tape I believe is unacceptable).

Those of you who have not registered yet and want an instructor, you may be out of luck. Might be some available and might not.

That's all I can think of at the moment...

[DirtyM]

Since Dan N & I have never been down to MAM, and can't leave with the Thurs. night caravan, could someone give us the best route to get there? I mapped out on Mapquest and it says to take I-35 from the cities South to I-80 West to I-29 South to the US-34 exit (Exit #35). Take a right, then left onto 190th, and left on Jesup.

Does this sound like the best way, or is there a better/faster one?

Michelle

[Steelgrave]

Yep that sounds like the way I went last year:shiftin:

There's really not much to it as far as getting there goes.

I take it your in charge of navigation?;)

[DNeinstadt]

When riding with me, SOMEONE'S got to be in charge of navigation! I get lost going to the bathroom!

I sent in registration and a check for $195. $125 for 1 day, $50 for instructor, and $20 for dues. Was that correct?

Most people running Saturday I assume.

Bringing brake fluid, tools, extra $ and our own drinks. Also will have digital cameras and such.

I found a bra! I've never been so happy!

Dan

[John M]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt


I found a bra! I've never been so happy!

Dan

Hmm, Thats something I would keep to myself :gay:

[DNeinstadt]

:admin:

[DirtyM]

Originally posted by DNeinstadt


I found a bra! I've never been so happy!

Dan
I'm glad you finally found one. Now you can stop borrowing mine. :D:

[John M]

Originally posted by DirtyRanger
I'm glad you finally found one. Now you can stop borrowing mine. :D:

Haha, LMAO.


:admin: and its not you, Its DirtyRanger

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by John M
Haha, LMAO.

:admin: and its not you, Its DirtyRanger

True that. I got :owned:

[Cobra-R]

Dirty,
Your directions are correct. When you get off I29(the exit is the first exit after a Ford car dealer), take a right, you will go about a city block and come to a stop sign. Take a left (it's a gravel road) Drive down the gravel road about a half mile, you will see the track on your left, but continue on and take the first road to the left. Go about 1/4 mi and you will get to the main gates to the track.

FYI: If you turn left when you get off I29, you can go into Council Bluffs. There is another route to the track from the east thru town with much less gravel road (less then a 1/4 mi I've been told). I am betting that if you go into town and ask, you would be able to get the directions.

Most people just poke down the road really slowly, but if you would feel better, you can take the alternate. I don't have a cell phone, if you can get Johns or someones, we could probly get directions from the people at the track to get you in the other way.

Dan,
Leave the Bra at home. ;) I will have that extra set of pads with me, if you still want them, we can throw them in at the track friday night.

To all,
I want to make one comment before we all head down. Like I said earlier, this is a very safe track. Just do me a favor, check all ego's at the front gate before entering. We are all going to have fun, there is no shame what so ever in being passed by cars that in theory that should be slower. Come with a totally open mind and eager to learn, you will learn more about driving this weekend than you have since turning 16 and getting your liscense.
I as well as others will be more than willing to give rides friday. I am not trying to brag or anything, so don't take it that way, but please do not try to duplicate what you see an experienced driver doing. There are advanced techniques that will not be taught, and you may be unaware of what drivers are doing to make a car do a certain thing. In the name of safety, I cannot stress this enough.

I, as well as my dad (and others, I will introduce you to) are always more than willing to help in any way. Please ask, there is not a dumb question.

Brian

PS: Doug, wtf?????????????? One tank of gas?????? Damn, I go thru more than that per day. lmao. ;) The rule of thumb at MAM for me, one tank of gas= 1 set of tires. :(

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
[B] Dan,
Leave the Bra at home. ;) I will have that extra set of pads with me, if you still want them, we can throw them in at the track friday night.


Are they hawk pads? I will probably use them.


To all,
I want to make one comment before we all head down. Like I said earlier, this is a very safe track. Just do me a favor, check all ego's at the front gate before entering. We are all going to have fun, there is no shame what so ever in being passed by cars that in theory that should be slower. Come with a totally open mind and eager to learn, you will learn more about driving this weekend than you have since turning 16 and getting your liscense.


So I gotta let Rory pass me in his V6 Mustang?!
I'm not actually planning on getting on the throttle unless I have to. :)

Still a little nervous about looking like an idiot.

Dan

[Cobra-R]

Yes Dan, they are Hawk pads. :)


No shame at all, man. There is a guy that goes to MAM in a basically stock (engine wise) Mazda Miata, there are very few people even in the most experienced group that can keep with him. Like I said, no shame.

I will tell you a saying that is known among instructors: "those who are the slowest at the beginning of the day, are usually the fastest at the end of the day"

The idea behind this is, people that go out, take it slow, and learn the proper driving techniques and lines, will be the fastest by days end. The people that go out and think they have something to prove and attempt to drive fast right away, don't learn anything and don't get faster.

Let me put it this way, if you get golf lessons, the first thing they teach you is technique, not how how to whack the ball as hard as possible. Get the technique down, the rest will come on it's own.

Brian

PS: FYI: Instructors seriously don't look favorably at people teasing others about speed. You gotta drive where you are comfortable and not worry about what others think.

[DirtyM]

Brian,
Thanks for the update with the roads on the way down. I know that if we came to that gravel road in the Mystic there would be more than a few choice words about the directions. Its good to know there is an alternate route to take to avoid most of the gravel.

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by DirtyRanger
if we came to that gravel road in the Mystic there would be more than a few choice words about the directions. Its good to know there is an alternate route to take to avoid most of the gravel.

Would look like this:
:yellin: :smackhead :grr: :yell: :grit: :splat:

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
PS: Doug, wtf?????????????? One tank of gas?????? Damn, I go thru more than that per day. lmao. ;) The rule of thumb at MAM for me, one tank of gas= 1 set of tires. :(

My gas tank is bigger, it's just genetics... (didn't we discuss this already with the so called "winky test" vette owners have to take?):cool:

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by Cobra-R

PS: FYI: Instructors seriously don't look favorably at people teasing others about speed. You gotta drive where you are comfortable and not worry about what others think.

There's also a guy running a VW Sirocco that will blow by all of you (he did to me last year twice in one session, the dude is fast). If your apprehensive about being out there thinking your slow and you don't want to offend anyone let me say this:

Your in the beginner group, it's supposed to be that way. The miata and VW really shouldn't be in the D group to begin with. (if they are this year).

Last year in my first session in my stock 03 GT I was passing Cobra's and Z06's left and right (because I rode with brian on friday for about 2 hours). By my 4th session they were passing me. Like Brian said, just concentrate on your line and braking properly and the speed will come naturally.

And if your that worried about going off track wondering what would happen, I've been there and done it. It's no big deal. If you wanna see it and agree to wash the mud off my truck I'll take you out friday and show ya;)

And yeah I would strongly suggest we keep the usual smack talk banter to a minimum till after 5pm. I know we all know each other and Brian will see it for what it is for, but others likely will not.

Besides Brian's slow too and we don't want to offend his fragile ego.

:cool: :50cal:

[Cobra-R]

Originally posted by Steelgrave


Besides Brian's slow too and we don't want to offend his fragile ego.

:cool: :50cal:

Hey, I am still learning the line, give me a break. ;)

Brian

[Steelgrave]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
Hey, I am still learning the line, give me a break. ;)

Brian

Oh I thought it was the perpetual friction testing of the tires in a non-straight line:shiftin: :cool: :grin:

[DNeinstadt]

This was an INCREDIBLE experience. There was SO much to learn, so much to see and enjoy!

I will upload pictures and videos tomorrow as my digital camera was forgotten at home. :(

I have some good shots/videos of all of us. Kudos to Dirty!

Dan

[Cobra-R]

I had fun as well. Thanks to everyone that came, you all did a great job!!!!!!!

Brian

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by Cobra-R
I had fun as well. Thanks to everyone that came, you all did a great job!!!!!!!

Brian

Coming from this guy, that's good stuff!
:shiftin:

[DirtyM]

It was a lot of fun. Even for those of us who didn't drive. I actually got to ride along with one of the instructors for a few laps and that was great. The whole day was a lot of fun and I would go again.

[DNeinstadt]

Originally posted by DirtyRanger
The whole day was a lot of fun and I would go again.

uh oh!!!:grin:

[Blackcoog]

I'd go again to but next time I'm going to actually drive. Should have willwood brakes, race seats, 3L heads to lower compression down from 11.2:1 to 9.8:1, koni shocks, and hopefully a turbo by then. I'll have to sneak it all by Brandie and work on it when she is sleeping. Muhahahaha

The trip was a blast, even though they didn't let me run at the strip because I didn't have a battery cut off switch for my trunk mounted battery. :mad: Bunch of BS... Anyway if you didn't get to go you missed out it was awsome.

[BlackCoupe]

Yep, I sure did have fun. No doubt about it. I would do this again in a heartbeat.
:grin: :grin: :grin: