ASRA/NASA at PIR - wanna go?

ItBites · #1 (**permalink**) 10-14-2004, 10:00 AM

I think I'll be going to the ASRA/NASA track day at PIR on Saturday of this weekend (Oct 16).

Anyone else want to go?

JB34 · #2 (**permalink**) 10-14-2004, 05:32 PM

I wish I could make it but have prior commitment, but you will like the track. Are you watching or participating?

ItBites · #3 (**permalink**) 10-15-2004, 10:24 AM

JB,

I'm gonna drive if they'll let me. I have the car aligned for road racing now (whew - what a job). I plan to sign up for the HPDE 1 group and take it easy. I have ridden around the track in Spec7's a couple of times and think it's a neat track. Have always wanted to drive PIR and since PASA doesn't run there, I have to join ASRA/NASA (they are somehow combining clubs - don't know what they'll be called in the future).

BTW, I built an elevated "alignment rack" (so I can reach under the car) and have homemade turning plates if you or Brian ever need to check or adjust a setup.

I'll also be at Speedworld on the 24th and at Firebird West on the 30th (provided I don't break something serious). See you at one of those events.

JB34 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-15-2004, 02:11 PM

If I have some time, I might drive out for a while. Some Porche friends of mine will be there. Look for a maroon 911. It is owned by John Dowling and he is an instructor for ASRA and NASA. Ask for a ride...you will be impressed. Ask John for the correct line and remember...do not downshift going into turn 1!!!

Wish I could drive. I love that track.

JB34 · #5 (**permalink**) 10-16-2004, 08:59 PM

Good job out there. We had a ton of stuff to do and couldn't stay any longer. How did the tire pressure adjustment work for you in the final sessions? Kinda scarey going through Nascar 3 and 4 for the first time, isn't it?

Thanks for the phone call. I would call you back but I don't have your number. Brian and I are working as instructors at the Truckin Nationals the 23rd and 24th so we will miss the drags. See you at the West track on the 30th.

ItBites · #6 (**permalink**) 10-18-2004, 09:48 AM

Jim,

Was good to see you. Thanks for the encouragement. Tire pressure still a little high , but getting closer. I'll have it nailed by mid-day at Firebird - I think. Thanks again very much for the advice.

Yes, NASCAR 3 and 4 are intimidating. My instructor (Bill) was pushing me to raise the speed thru there. Second run he wanted me to hold a steady 80 mph there - barely managed that. Third run he wanted to see 85 or 90. My nerves could only manage 85. He says the car would hold at 110. I say not with me in it!!! I can't imagine going around there at NASCAR speeds - wow!

Also wanted to note that during the second run I passed the Silver McLaren F1 (like it was standin still). Third run I think he was running a little better. He went out first and ended up behind me as I pulled onto the track. Left him behind, but never did make a full lap around to pass him. That was a very cool car - V-12 BMW power, center driving position, lots of carbon fiber. Someone said they go for $1M... Punk kid driving it. My instructor said he wondered what the kid did for a living. I suggested probably nothing...

Also, if you or one of the other guys ever need to get ahold of me - 480/888-8971

JB34 · #7 (**permalink**) 10-18-2004, 08:34 PM

I think that Bill is correct on his assesment of the oval, but my comfort zone is 95. John goes through there at 100+ but then, he has a full roll cage and we have 1 little hoop in a plastic car. I pushed it once through there and had the wheel straight but was drifting up the bank. I knew it was time to back off. Too much gray hair now.

My personal rule is simple: I'm not getting paid for this, I don't have to prove anything to anyone, so keep within the comfort zone and have a good & safe time.

From what I could see, you ran a really good line. More seat time and your times will come down. You were by far the fastest of all the students and ran in the low 1:20's on the laps I timed. Pretty darn good for the first time.