ThunderHill April 13th

[Berstuck]

So I signed up for Track night in America on April 13th, and it's going to be my first ever track day. Just had a couple questions for you guys. I can rent a helmet for $35 dollars, which seems kind of steep. What am I looking for if I decide to buy a helmet before I go? And does anyone have any tips on best price?

The other questions I have center on the what to bring stuff. They recommend everything from water coolers to chairs, and tools, oil, all kinds of fun stuff. I'll be going by myself in my Mustang. And from what I understand you can't have anything loose in the car, does that also include the trunk? Seems like I'd have to bring a trailer/spouse's car to bring all the recommended items. Am I missing something here?

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[c_reber]

Most people who drive their cars to the track will "set-up-shop" along a pit wall or designated parking area. Find some people who seem cool, introduce yourself and ask where you should park. When you find a spot you're comfortable with, you can unload your gear and just leave it while you're actually running on track. I've never been to T hill before, so can't really be specific on spots.

For a helmet rental, $35 does seem a little steep BUT, consider buying one and you're looking at $150-700 for a basic auto helmet. So for the very first time, you might just want to rent (unless you have friends that will loan you one for free).

I know there are a few norcal track guys on this forum, so they can chime in on specifics. Maybe you'll even find another mustang owner to meet up with there. Have fun!

 

[lilgdad]

Yes you have to remove anything "removable" or that could come loose out of the car including the trunk, everything, there should be nothing moving but you in the car. No floor mats, no nothing anywhere in the car. Plan your trip like a 2-day camping trip, everything you need for 2 days, for 1 day at the track, I ate more and drank more than I thought for one day (stress induced and nervousness). Plus buying stuff at the track is expensive to say the least, food, drinks, fuel ,oils etc. Its like working out all day. You will be physically drained and jacked up on adrenaline by the end. Need chairs, portable shade, smokes, chew, pop snacks etc. My car was full of shit going, then you have to unload it all, bring a tarp to cover ur shit or use as ground cover. tools, extra fluids, oils, brake fluid, car cleaning detailing items, emergency cash i would say at least $100 in case of an oops or you need to seek help, some people are very generous with helping fix your shit, others are complete a-holes full of themselves, race crews/drivers can be an interesting bunch. I am no professional driver, just a novice doing HPDE.

I bought a 3/4 helmet for my first years use, I would recommend renting a helmet then buy a full face when you are ready. I am now stuck with a 215 (which was the cheaper one I found) dollar 3/4 face helmet when I really want a full face. They are expensive! And I would never buy a used helmet and buy a name brand when it comes time. Safety first always, no dumb street racer crap or attitude on the track, that will get someone hurt or dead;)

And yes, by all means bring the spouse, you will need someone to babel to when you are off the tack and excited.

 

[job]

So I signed up for Track night in America on April 13th, and it's going to be my first ever track day. Just had a couple questions for you guys. I can rent a helmet for $35 dollars, which seems kind of steep. What am I looking for if I decide to buy a helmet before I go? And does anyone have any tips on best price?

Just show up, rent a helmet. IF you decide you like it. but one. https://www.saferacer.com/collections/auto-racing-helmets If you do buy one look for an "SA" 2015, 2010 are good for a few more years.
Just make sure all your fluids are full and fresh. you will have 3-20 min sessions.The only thing I would bring is tire air gauge, torque wrench, and a AAA card. listen to the instructor!
Thunderhill is a great track, lots of run-off if you make a mistake and go-off.

 

[NightmareMoon]

You drivers seat (or a cooler) can serve as a chair, but a folding chair is nice to have for the downtime between sessions.

Definitely bring water/soda/snacks. The last thing you want on track is low blood sugar.

I'd rent a helmet the first time personally. Take the opportunity to check out what helmets the regulars are running and ask questions about them. There are some cheaper SA2015 helmets <200 which are intended for primarily motorcycle use. Car helmets have a few different design features/proportions, and they tend to cost a bit more. If you do buy, make sure you have a comfortable fit with any eyewear you intend on using.

 

[lilgdad]

Yes, if you are only doing a few 20-min track sessions, you will not need the whole camping setup that I mentioned. Follow what job and NightmareMoon said and enjoy!

 

[db252]

So I signed up for Track night in America on April 13th, and it's going to be my first ever track day. Just had a couple questions for you guys. I can rent a helmet for $35 dollars, which seems kind of steep. What am I looking for if I decide to buy a helmet before I go? And does anyone have any tips on best price?

The other questions I have center on the what to bring stuff. They recommend everything from water coolers to chairs, and tools, oil, all kinds of fun stuff. I'll be going by myself in my Mustang. And from what I understand you can't have anything loose in the car, does that also include the trunk? Seems like I'd have to bring a trailer/spouse's car to bring all the recommended items. Am I missing something here?

I've been to Thunderhill many times myself and may see you there on the the 13th. You can definitely rent a helmet but if you plan on making this venture a habit, which will most likely happen as it is addicting, buy your own. You are looking for a SA2015 approved helmet. It can be open or closed face based on your preference. I have a G-Force open face and they aren't that expensive and as I said earlier, if you start making a habit of track days, it will pay for itself. Just do a search and you will find plenty to choose from.

This being your first time, you won't be doing much sitting as you will have classroom time, probably going to the skidpad and looking around at cars, talking with everyone and the such. Plus, they have a large main three story building where you can hang out (couch/chairs/tables) and plenty of outside seating as well so no need to bring anything like that. Bring a few bottles of water but they also have vending machines and a snack shack to order food and drink as well. Don't worry about bringing any tools either as you aren't changing anything on your car. Check your oil before you leave to the track and if it's good.....then it's good. Nothing loose in the car or the trunk; wherever parking spot you pick for the day, feel comfortable leaving anything pretty much unattended while on track or leave it in the building. Everyone there is for the same thing.

Enjoy it.....I know you will.

 

[job]

Here is the track in a 2016 shelby [ame]

 

[Berstuck]

Thanks for all the replies. It seems like helmets are in the $160 dollar range for entry level stuff, so I'll just rent one. At least it will give me an idea of what I'm looking for if I do decide to buy one. I had looked into doing something like this last year at Sonoma raceway and never pulled the trigger. That $100 promo for non members was a great deal, and I'm really looking forward to this.

 

[Berstuck]

Here is the track in a 2016 shelby

Nice video, the track looks like a lot of fun. I'll have to look up a few more videos on youtube before I go.

This video made me think of one more question for you guys. I have a ram suction cup mount on my windshield, and was thinking of buying Harry's lap timer to record the event. I've seen people run these things in numerous videos, but I understand all tracks and organizations are different. In the SCCA rules it says it must have a secondary tether. I have no clue what is meant by that, and was hoping for a little enlightenment.

 

[job]

I wouldn't even wast your time recording or lap timing. you will be overwhelmed with the information coming at you, at speed. just go and have fun, keep it simple.
I have been doing this for over 20 years, I instruct with Audi club, Hooked on Driving and many others.
When you get bit by this HPDE bug, and get comfortable driving at speed, then purchase a timer app, and a camera (gopro) type.

here is a link to find track events in your area. https://www.motorsportreg.com

 

[BTM]

Here is the track in a 2016 shelby

The event referred to by the OP is actually running the 2mi West side, not the 3mi East from that video. A bit more technical, but still tons of fun.

Here's a video of T-Hill West from the same promoter (SCCA Track Night) last year:

Can see a bit more of what the track is like from this compilation of clips shot by my dad from up the hill:

I did 3 or 4 of them last year, and it's designed to be a cool, mellow vibe. More accessible and less intimidating than the usual track rat organizations. Advanced group will be running fast, but the Beginner group is totally geared toward noobs, very friendly.

This Track Night Beginner group is an excellent way to get started into the track addiction, for not much $, and less time commit than the usual full-day gig. Note that there are no instructors, unless you bring one yourself, or talk one of the more experienced drivers into riding with you.

Highly recommend! And, yes, I'll be there.....running Advanced and chasing my "nemesis" buddy in his C6, hopefully addle:

And to answer the question about what to bring, you can keep it simple for this one;

-Windex and rag to clean bugs off windshield
-Helmet (I advise against the gross loaners, just buy an SA2010 helmet for as little as $100, and it will still be good for 3+ years)
-A box to put all the loose stuff in your car into
-Full gas tank....the S550 will drink a 1/4 tank in each 20min session if you're getting after it

Since all of our cars are pretty new, I'll assume everything is in good repair, and your tires and brake pads aren't worn out. If it's your first track session, I wouldn't even worry about optimizing tire pressure. The factory lug nut torque is a stout 150ft lbs, so although it's a good idea to check, there's not really likelihood anything is coming loose unless you're on aftermarket wheels with different lugs (smaller diameter shoulders and lower torque rating)

PM me if you want more...

 

[Berstuck]

The event referred to by the OP is actually running the 2mi West side, not the 3mi East from that video. A bit more technical, but still tons of fun.

Here's a video of T-Hill West from the same promoter (SCCA Track Night) last year:

Can see a bit more of what the track is like from this compilation of clips shot by my dad from up the hill:

I did 3 or 4 of them last year, and it's designed to be a cool, mellow vibe. More accessible and less intimidating than the usual track rat organizations. Advanced group will be running fast, but the Beginner group is totally geared toward noobs, very friendly.

This Track Night Beginner group is an excellent way to get started into the track addiction, for not much $, and less time commit than the usual full-day gig. Note that there are no instructors, unless you bring one yourself, or talk one of the more experienced drivers into riding with you.

Highly recommend! And, yes, I'll be there.....running Advanced and chasing my "nemesis" buddy in his C6, hopefully addle:

And to answer the question about what to bring, you can keep it simple for this one;

-Windex and rag to clean bugs off windshield
-Helmet (I advise against the gross loaners, just buy an SA2010 helmet for as little as $100, and it will still be good for 3+ years)
-A box to put all the loose stuff in your car into
-Full gas tank....the S550 will drink a 1/4 tank in each 20min session if you're getting after it

Since all of our cars are pretty new, I'll assume everything is in good repair, and your tires and brake pads aren't worn out. If it's your first track session, I wouldn't even worry about optimizing tire pressure. The factory lug nut torque is a stout 150ft lbs, so although it's a good idea to check, there's not really likelihood anything is coming loose unless you're on aftermarket wheels with different lugs (smaller diameter shoulders and lower torque rating)

PM me if you want more...

Thanks Chris, much appreciated.

 

[Berstuck]

Can I bring a relative and have them ride with me during the novice sessions?

 

[c_reber]

Looks like no if they are not driving.

Passengers are allowed under the following guidelines:

Any passenger must be a participant. (Novice, Intermediate or Advanced group driver)
Novice drivers may recieve in-car coaching or instructional rides from intermediate and advanced group drivers
Intermediate drivers may recieve in-car coaching from advanced group and give in-car coaching/instructional rides to novice group.
Advanced drivers may give in-car coaching or instructional rides to Novice and Intermediate group drivers.
All ride-alongs require permission from an official.

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