I’ve been wanting to get started autocrossing for some time now. I have a stock 92 GS-R with some moderate weight taken off.
How would looping my steering rack effect class placement? Currently I just have the belt off, but I’ve been meaning to “complete” the job. What’s been keeping me is I don’t want a stock car being placed in a class I’m not even ready for. Or is power steering desired in autox and should I just keep it altogeter?
Would it be a wise decision to invest in something like a $250-$300 Bell helmet being a begginer or is that overkill?
Thanks in advance you guys. I’ve been trying to get started for the longest time, but it’s kind of intimidating when you’re trying to do it all alone. It’d be nice to hear from people who autocross in the bay area, but any advice is completely welcome
Keep your power steering. Taking it off bumps you out of the stock class as well as STS. Not sure about DSP or SM.
You should probably just get a $50 - $100 dollar helmet. If you like autoxing, you can always upgrade later. If not, you won’t have thrown a bunch of money away. I prefer an open face helmet for autox, but if you’re going to do other types of motorsports that might require a full-face, you might consider that too.
Also, you said you’ve got some “some moderate weight taken off.” What exactly have you done? The rules are very picky about some things that you might think aren’t that important. I suggest keeping your car stock(if it really is still stock) and running in the stock class a few times. Then you can decide if you want to stay there or move on to something like STS. Let me know if you have any other questions.
-nino
The only thing I’ve taken out that would be a pain to put back in is the A/C system. Would that be a problem? I took out the cruise control stuff too since it didn’t work and I never used it. Should I prop it back up? Everything else can be put back easily. Also, could you point me in the direction of helmets in the price range you mentioned? Much appreciated.
You are allowed to remove the AC for STS, but I’m not sure about stock class. The cruise control has to stay(I’m pretty sure) for either class. As for the helmets, I would say go to your local motorcycle shop and check out what they have. Some helmets fit differently than others so it’s worth trying them on. When you find one that you like, you can either buy it there, or try to find the same model for cheaper online. I bought my open face helmet at a local shop for less than $100.
My advice is that you use the loaner helmets that most clubs provide when you start out. Don’t invest in a new helmet right now, wait until the 2005 Snell rating comes out. This will make your helmet pass tech for an additional 5 - years.
Since the AC is out just run STS but put the PS and cruise back in. Just buy some coilovers and shocks. Then just drive it like that, it will be competitive.
Sorry to take over your post DB2PILOT. But I think this will help you too. I am planning on doing autoX too but I need to know what modifications are allowed in STS. What class would I be in with GS-R pistons, racing steering wheel, Adjustable fuel pressure regulator? I am also planning on getting a set of coilovers and strut bars. Will that keep me in the same class or will I be bumped up to the next class above me? Thanks
This site (look here) gets you started as to what and where you can move/remove stuff from your car. Get on the SCCA site and look for your region. Some have phone numbers to call for info.
Loaner helmets first. Can’t and won’t talk you out of auto-x. Fun for all! Just try it first to find out if it is for you. Very adictive. Have fun.
Just remember on the rules. If it is not in print. It is probably is NOT legal.
Wow thanks alot. I was looking for something like that for weeks. The new SCCA web site is so hard to use that I could’nt find it. Thanks again.
Also during inspection will they know that you have a different set of pistons in your car? I am runnig p72(3rd gen GS-r) pistons so it not that big of a difference will they be able to find out? I can try to hid the pistons but a a chrome fuel pressure regulator will be hard. Thanks
