Frequently Asked Autocross Questions

What is an Autocross?What do you want to know?Is it safe?
What do I need to do before I enter my first event?
What is the difference between Sat and Sun events?
What is the Developing Driver Class?
What do I need to bring with me to an autocross?
What is this MineralRing thing?    How do I get there?
Where/when can I get instruction?
Where is the best place to stay in Mineral Wells?   What goes on Saturday night?
OK, so what is the best restaurant?
What is a "PreTech"?
Do I HAVE to get my car PreTeched?    OK, where do I go?
Which tire is the best one to use?
What tire pressures should I run?
How much fuel do I need?
What is a PCR?Where can I get a copy of the PCRs?
Why does Maverick Region use the 1997 PCRs as the basis for their rules?
When do Autocrosses Start?
I'm ready! How do I enter the next event?    When is the next event?
Where can I find out more about autocrossing?
Can I just come out and watch?
What is that "Run What You Brung" autocross thing?
The PCRs say the drivers window must be up, but you guys let me choose?
Do I Have to Put My Top On or Up?
What type helmet do I need?
What are all those weird letters and funny words everyone seems to use?
How can I improve the autocross performance of my Porsche?
An interesting question and answer session about participating with a  "daily driver"...

BACK to Helpful Hints

What is an Autocross?   It is a timed automobile competition, where one car at a time drives a course defined by pylons and/or painted lines on a paved surface. Penalties are assessed for hitting the pylons or crossing the painted lines. Historically, an autocross requires the ability to look at a driving course (you get to walk the course prior to driving it) and to anticipate what must be done to drive it quickly...you don't get to practice! In contrast, a Time Trial event is conducted on a permanent road course, as at a race track, where each time you drive, the corners are in the same places. You get to practice a lot for Time Trials...you gradually bring your speed up, until you cannot improve further. An Autocross requires you to go fast immediately. You will get 3+ runs and some timid people use the first runs to "practice"...but it is limited.

Is it safe?   Yes. Since there are no other cars or stationary physical objects (like curbs, guard rails, trees, utility poles, buildings, etc), the risk of collision is essentially zero. There are only 2 real concerns: rolling over and fire. The only way a car will roll over at one of our autocross events is if a wheel breaks or a tire comes off of a rim. Both these are very unlikely to happen, as Porsche wheels are among the finest in the world. If you keep proper air pressures in your tires (we check them if they appear low), they will not come off the rims. There is nothing unusual about an autocross that will cause a fire. If your car won't catch on fire on the highway, it won't catch on fire during an autocross. But just in case it does, we always have fire extinguishers at the corner stations (where the workers are). We also check your car to make sure there are no fuel leaks. We are serious about safety!

What do I need to do before I enter my first event?  Read and understand the rules. Don't worry about modifying anything...yet. It's much more important to learn how to play the game, than to spend time and money trying to make your car go faster. You should primarily check your car to be sure that it is in proper condition. Check the tire pressures, brake fluid level, and engine oil level. Remove anything loose in your interior or storage areas (trunks). Clean your windows (so you can see)...while you are at it, clean the whole car, because a clean car goes faster? Check your brake pad/lining thickness and replace them if necessary. Check your brake fluid condition (change once a year). If your tires don't have adequate tread depth, replace them. Check the battery to be sure it is very secure. Check for any fluid leaks. Be sure you have a current state inspection. If your car has a rubber timing belt, have it checked or replaced often. Most of these are the same items you already do, if you maintain your car properly! See the rules for details about these.

What is the difference between the Sat and Sun events?  The Saturday Time Trial event is run on "permanent" courses and is generally faster than the event on Sunday. The Sunday Autocross event course changes for each event and, while slower, provides unique challenges each time.

What is the Developing Driver Class?  It is a class set up for new drivers, designed to develop their enthusiasm and skill without having to compete with drivers who have been driving competitively for years. See the rules for information about entry requirements and limitations. There is also an informative document which describes the Developing Driver class.

What is this MineralRing thing?   The MineralRing is a big, paved lot. It was used during the Vietnam War to tie-down helicopters. Fort Wolters (nearby...closed now) was the primary US Army Helicopter Training site, during this era. It has been converted to a driving course. A permanent course is marked (with several variations). The permanent course(s) is(are) used for our Sunday events. On Saturday, a different course is set up each weekend. It's in Mineral Wells, about 40 miles W of Fort Worth. Bob Manskey is the guy who "owns" the MineralRing (he's a former PCA member) and is the guy who coined the name MineralRing...it stuck. There is an interesting satellite photo of the track, taken in 1995. The permanent "course" is shown, but it has changed since 1995. The current course designs are shown below the satellite photo.

Where/when can I get instruction?   Maverick Region normally holds at least 1 Driver Training event each year. They are very popular, so sign-up early. Several other PCA Regions in Zone 5 also have Driver Training events. If you are relatively new, by all means, attend a Driver Training event. When you get to your first autocross, ask anyone at the event anything you don't understand. We're all friendly. I bet you can find someone to answer any question. A good way to get a quick idea of what to do is to ask someone, "Who is the best driver out here?" Then ask that "expert" to allow you to walk the course with them...if it's an AX. They will be flattered! Listen to what they tell you as they walk around the course. During the event, you will be required to work. Working a "corner" is a very good way to observe how drivers negotiate the corners. Once you figure out who the best drivers are, watch how each goes around the course...they will probably be different, a function of driving "style" and car setup. Maverick Region also has a Developing Driver Class, especially for new drivers...it allows you to learn without heavy competitive pressure. For more information, acess this article about AX and TT instruction.

Where is the best place to stay in Mineral Wells?   There are several motels:

Best is subjective, but the quality is probably in the order listed.

OK, so what is the best restaurant? There are several restaurants that are good. The quality is again subjective, but here is a list of some good ones:

What does everybody do on Saturday night?   Sleep? But before that, a group usually goes out for dinner. Ask around and you'll probably find someone who knows when and where.

What is a "PreTech"?   It's a check of your car for safety. If something is found to be wrong, it gives you time to fix it before the event. PreTech is no longer mandatory, we now have a safety check at the MineralRing on the morning of the event (show up early!). However, it is always a good idea to check out your car beforehand, and many area Porsche service facilities will pretech your car for you.

Which tire is the best one to use? This is a subject that could take hundreds of pages to cover...then next year everything changes! The best AX tire can be different for each model car. Realize also that your driving style will influence your choice of tires. Some are better with a smooth style and others allow you (need you) to throw the car around. You'll find that many tires can be used with success. Observe the tires used by people in your class and select the tires that seem to be used successfully, by drivers with the same style as you have (or want to have).

What tire pressures should I run? Hard question to answer, as tire pressures are so variable from car to car. In general, never go under what Porsche recommends. In general, you probably will run 5 to 10 PSI higher pressures than the factory recommendations.You need access to a tire pyrometer to adjust pressures and suspension settings accurately. A good trick is to stop near the track and put about 40-45 PSI in your tires (yes, that's too much), then when you get to the track, talk to people and find out what pressures seem to be popular and then bleed your tires down to that pressure...easier and faster than trying to pump them up.

How much fuel do I need?  It depends. At an autocross, where you get 3+ runs, each lasting about 90 seconds, you won't use much fuel, so an almost empty tank is OK...and it's lighter when it's empty. At our Saturday events, which are more like Time Trials, you may get 6-9 runs, each lasting about 90 seconds, you still won't use much fuel, but since the course is faster and you take more runs, more fuel is required. That is just the minimum amount so that you won't run out. Several other issues complicate the question:

As the above shows, the answer is dependent on the car, the driver, and the course. The weather could be a factor, too. So, there is no one answer to this one.

A half-full tank is the worst choice...the fuel sloshes around and can affect the handling...it's like having a loose one-hundred pound weight! Either a full tank or an (almost) empty tank seems to be the best two choices. I'd say that the full tank is the safest bet for most courses.

What is a PCR?  It's a set of rules, designed for use at the yearly PCA convention, the Porsche Parade. It's called the Parade Competition Regulations. Maverick Region uses the PCRs as the starting point for their rules, and only modifies them as necessary. BTW, every PCA member has input to the PCR change process. Just contact your Zone Representative, and/or write the PCR Chairman directly: Dennis Frick, 2 Pine Tree Dr, RD #1, New Cumberland PA 17070 DJFrick@worldnet.att.net.

Where can I get a copy of the PCRs? You can order a copy from the PCA National Office. Contact Ruth Harte at PO Box 30100, Alexandria, VA  22310, 703-922-9300. The PCRs cost $10. The Maverick Region rules are based on the 1997 edition of the PCRs. These may not be available from National. There will be copies of the 1997 PCRs at each autocross.

Why does Maverick Region use the 1997 PCRs as the basis for their rules?  The PCRs are normally not published until after Maverick Region starts their Autocross season, so we must use PCRs that are at least 1 year old.

When do Autocrosses Start?  When ever the people putting them on get ready. Seriously, most autocrosses start about 9:00AM, but there will be people at the MineralRing from 7:30 on. Get there early...a good way to meet some of the best people around. Help them set up everything! It's a good way to get involved and you might even learn a trick or two.

I'm ready! How do I enter the next event?  Fill out an entry form and send it, with a check, to Bill Dugan...his address is in Helpful Hints. The entry form is in Slipstream and can also be found at this site, under Forms.

Where can I find out more about autocrossing?  Read Slipstream...there are articles about the sport almost every month...written by local autocrossers of all levels. Panorama also has articles about autocrossing and time trialing (similar to autocrossing, but faster and done on a track, instead of a big parking lot). For example, in the March 1999 issue, Alan Kendall, a PCA member from Kansas City, gives some excellent advice, slanted toward driving on the track. There will be a new autocrossing tip added to this site often...check Tip of the Month. There are countless books, magazines, and internet sites on the subject. Here is a short list:

Can I just come out and watch?  Sure! We'd love to have you. We don't charge any entry fees, but will require that you sign an insurance waver, so check-in with somebody when you get there. If you want to get involved, but not compete, we will let you "work"...go out on the course with some other people, observe, replace pylons, talk on the radio, wave flags, etc. It's a good way to meet other autocrossers and to see what is involved up close.

What is that "Run What You Brung" autocross?  It's a charity event, benefiting the Hope Shelter in Mineral Wells. The idea is to have everyone bring and enter something other than their normal autocross car. Over the years that this event has been held, we've had go-carts, bikes, roller-blades, delivery vans, tractors, riding mowers, and all types of automobiles. Yes, you can bring and enter your Porsche...it gives the Hondas some competition!

The PCRs say the drivers window must be up, but you guys let me choose...what's the facts?  The 1997 PCRs specify that the drivers window must be up, but later editions say it must be down. The driver's window rule has changed several times, since the PCRs were first written. There are reasons for having it in both positions and it's a political hot potato, more than anything. There are several issues:

The weather and the physical characteristics of the event would seem to dictate the driver's window position...down in very hot weather...up for events with curbs or other things that could cause your car to roll over or to hit something if you loose control. You won't hit anything at the MineralRing, since it's totally flat and devoid of physical objects (like the 100 ft tall, concrete-based pylons on mall parking lots, otherwise know as "lights"...don't laugh...a well known MR member hit one)...oh, you might hit the timing trailer if you get really off line! That's why we made this one your choice.

Do I Have to Put My Top On or Up?  Yes and no. PCA requires that "Speedsters and Roadsters may have convertible tops open. All other open cars must have convertible tops closed unless equipped with a roll bar." per the PCRs...see D-5.1(h). Additionally, it says, "Removable tops do not have to be carried on or with Speedsters, Roadsters, or Cabriolets. Removal is not permitted on any other model"...see D-2.4.10(c). The later section also says that class progression points are assigned for removing the top (it's an issue of removing weight), but fails to specify the exact number of points. This wording has been around since the 356 models were the ONLY Porsche and were obviously written for them. Maverick Region interprets the PCRs and the "Guidelines for Autocross, Rally, and Track" to prohibit removing, lowering, or opening tops, unless the car is a Speedster or Roadster (i.e. a 356), or unless it has a roll bar or roll cage. That means that cars must have sun roofs closed and that Targas and 914s must run with the top installed. Even if your car has automatic head protection bars that snap up when inverted, you must run with your top up or installed. This interpretation is for AX and TT events only. Other type events have different rules. Note that if you add a roll bar or roll cage to your car, you should check with the Safety Coordinator for information regarding the required construction.

What type helmet do I need?  You need one with a Snell M2000 or Snell SA2000 rating. Snell specs are updated every 5 years, so the latest helmets have M2005 or SA2005 approvals. If you're buying a new one, go ahead and get a 2005. The "M" means "motorcycle" and the "SA" means "special applications". The 2 types are identical except:

For most manufacturers, it is cost prohibitive to manufacture 2 types of shells (the hard, fiberglass outer part), so the only difference is normally the liner. The "M" type is less expensive and can be bought at motorcycle shops, where the "SA" type is normally available only at auto race shops. Both types can be bought by mail, but don't do this unless you can return it when it doesn't fit properly (very important).

What are all those weird letters and funny words everyone seems to use?  The letters, like DNF and TTOD, are called "initialisms" and are used to simplify (shorten) the reporting of an event. An acronym is an initalism that can be pronounced as a word, like RAM. Don't look these up in your dictionary...

The funny words are just "autocross speak"... How can I improve the autocross performance of my Porsche?  The number one best improvement you can make to your car to make it go faster is: Driver Improvement (sometimes called adjusting the nut behind the wheel). Go out, enter some Autocrosses, Drivers Ed event, or go Time Trialing! You will get much more out of the car than you ever thought could possibly be in there! Practice, practice, practice! DI is also an upgrade that you can take with you to other vehicles. Try that with a DME chip!

If you are or want to be racing your Porsche, the first step in any program of modifications is to get the rulebook and read it. This will tell you what modifications are legal in which classes, and may suggest things that you didn't think of. The next thing to do is to talk with the fast drivers. They will have good suggestions...most of them have been where you are! No, they are not worried that you will beat them...

Even if your car may feel a little underpowered, the best modifications you can make (especially for the $$) are in the areas of handling and brakes. Engine modifications tend to cost a lot of money for little or no improvement. The speeds need to be rather fast before horsepower counts for much.

Some of the best upgrades are:

Again, check the rules as some of these changes will cause you to "bump" to another class, where everybody has the same modifications...and perhaps more! Modifying your car for autocross competition is a lot like global nuclear prolification...when they get more firepower...you have to get more firepower! There is no real advantage in doing a lot, because there is no secret trick modification that will make you win instantly. A good driver will beat a good car everytime!

(part of this was taken from an article by Dave Darling on the PelicanParts page...thanks, Dave)

An interesting question and answer session about participating with a  "daily driver"...
 

Q: What is the best way to participate in the AutoX and TT events in a daily driver?

A: Come out and drive! Quite a few people just drive out, pull out the spare tire, pump up their tires a little bit and go for it... It doesn't have to be a big production.

Q: I am not interested in entering a technology race, nor in changing my perfectly enjoyable Boxster into a race car.  I would just run straight street, but I know you can go through those oh-so-expensive street tires in a hurry.  Folks usually say "get DOT race tires".  I assume this logic means that those DOT race tires are less expensive than their street counterparts...?

A: It depends on how you ask the question.  Does a single DOT race tire cost less than single high-quality street tire ?  Yes.  But does the amount  you spend in a year on tires decrease ?  Maybe, maybe not.  The DOT race tires do NOT last longer than street tires.  I would probably just run street tires until such time you feel the need to get an extra set of wheels.  This is a step that many people never take.  You can have just about as much fun on street tires as you can R-compound tires, as long as everyone else in your class is similarly shod.

Q: I have looked at the classification guide in Slipstream, but must admit I am not exactly sure of the ramifications of upgrading to DOT race tires.

A: It would move you from class 7S into class 7.  You would be competing with other people who had made some small changes to their cars and who are probably running R-compound tires.  You might find yourself more competitive in the S classes for a while, so I would leave things as they are for a few events till you get the feel of things.

Q: I am not really interested in doing anything else beyond the tires (since I am going to them mainly for the economic benefits), but if I use them, will it dump me in a class with a bunch of folks that have many other modifications?

A: Well, moving to class 7 is not a huge jump.  Most people there have done very minor modifications - larger wheels and R-compound tires are the most common.  Some have stiffer springs and maybe different sway bars.

Q: What class does this put me in? "Base"?

A: Yes, "Base" is the approximately the same as the "Production" classes in the PCRs. It's signified by the un-lettered classes, as in class 7.  We are terminology-challenged on our classifications right now.

Q: So I would be forced to compete with people that have overbore, etc?

A: No - the "Base" classes are for cars with very minor changes.  Any large performance enhancements would move you up into the higher classes, such as the "I" (improved) and "M" (modified) classes.

Q: Any additional guidance/advice would be appreciated?

A: If you want to improve your times, your best bet is seat time and instruction.  If you want to save money, a good way is to get an extra set of wheels, some R-compound tires, and just swap wheels before the event.  This is a HUGE pain, but might save wear and tear both ways - your R-compounds will last longer if not driven daily, and your street tires will last longer without being autocrossed.

But gauge your wear on your street tires - that might not be a decision you have to make for a while.  And as you become a better driver, your tires last longer as well (see above point about seat time and instruction!).

BACK to Helpful Hints