12 replies to this topic

[Brad Sutliff]

Hey guys, my name is Brad, I am new to SM and tracking in general. I'm 22, so somewhat limited funding wise. But I just purchased my second car, a 1997 Miata, as a project build for the next SM season. Needs some work, as it has 150k miles, but it runs well, also does have an idle issue once in awhile that I need to figure out.  I am located in Santa Rosa CA. Just wanted to introduce myself to everyone before I come around asking for a bunch of help. Thanks for reading! Here is the car. 

[Johnny D]

Hi Brad,

You served ?

Anyway, the site has a lot of info, use the search box, upper right, downloads, get Dave's book, etc, etc.

Newbie's are asking most of the same but you can certainly post questions.

NCRC, SCCA, NASA are all having events this month at Thunderhill.

Welcome.

J~

[Brad Sutliff]

Thanks. I did not, my younger brother is the one on the right, i'm on the left. He is an Army Ranger. I went and checked out the NASA event at Sonoma last month. Made me finally go for it after watching. So I might make it out to Thunderhill to watch again. 

[Tom Hampton]

Welcome, Brad! 

 

0.  Go to the track and meet people!!!!  There are a TON of people in the SFR area who will help you out.  SM folks are awesome.  They will bend over backwards to help you get up on the curve. 

 

1.  Buy Dave Wheeler's book: The Spec Miata Constructor's Manual v2.0 (advanced-autosports.com).

2.  Get a copy of the CCR, and GCR from NASA and SCCA. www.nasaproracing.com, www.scca.com/clubracing

3.  You can read my blog for what it takes to do a full home-based build.  www.tomhampton.info

4.  Read everything obsessively, and repeatedly. 

5.  Learn to use the search engine on this site.  We've covered everything several times over. 

6.  visit www.specmiata.com which is the OLD site, and is archived.  There is still tons of information there.  Use google search to serch the old site.  The native search enging sucks.

7.  Ignore the BS on this site.  People here bicker about the smallest, stupidest stuff as if it is the end of the f-ing world.  You will HAVE A BLAST!

 

Join NASA and do HPDE 1/2/3/4 in your car.  You can do those in your miata and/or your personal car.  It doesn't have to be full race-prepped----just SAFE and reliable.  Its a great way to get started, and see what the rest of the weekend is like.  You learn how race weekends "work" and get into the culture so that "wheel 2 wheel" is just another rung on the ladder instead of this big giant leap.  You can watch the races, meet the people, and learn how to drive all at the same time.  I really can't speak highly enough of the NASA HPDE experience.   

[Johnny D]

If you didn't know already, you can do track days if you want too in your cars current condition, (as long as it runs and is safe, etc) until you get things together.

Roll cage would be good to get in.

http://www.ncracing.org/events.php

http://www.tracknigh...derhill-raceway
J~

[Brad Sutliff]

Thanks Tom! I will definitely get that book, and check out everything you listed. My first time last month at a NASA event I was a bit nervous to approach people since i was just a viewer attending and what not. But I will next time. Definitely need to make it to Thunderhill to meet people. 

[Ron Alan]

Brad,

 

I will be at TH on the 18th...car #40. Do not hesitate to walk up and introduce yourself at any point! Always available to answer questions via email/text/call as well. There are great people in both local race organizations...you really cant go wrong with either. SCCA is strictly race cars while NASA has HPDE also as mentioned.

[FTodaro]

Thanks Tom! I will definitely get that book, and check out everything you listed. My first time last month at a NASA event I was a bit nervous to approach people since i was just a viewer attending and what not. But I will next time. Definitely need to make it to Thunderhill to meet people. 

Welcome Brad don't be shy to approach an SM driver most of us like to talk about our addiction. You will find some of the friendliest people you will ever meet at the track.This hobby is a journey of learning but that is the point.

[Danny Steyn]

Brad - welcome to the addiction. One hit of the new drug and its all over!!!

[Brad Sutliff]

Thanks for the warm welcome guys! I'm already addicted and I haven't even got on the track yet!

[Alberto]

Definitely talk to people at the track.  We are a social group of people and always willing to help a newbie. 

 

For cage work, I highly recommend TC Design.  The quality of his cages are top notch and prices are very affordable.  I also had him install my seat on his awesomely sturdy brackets.  He can actually do a half cage until you are ready to fully jump in although roll bars are easy to sell if you want to retain the ability to use your soft top. 

 

The cage was actually the last thing I did during my build.  I spent a year driving on the street and freshening the brakes, suspension and such and tracking the car to improve my skills and get familiar with the car. 

[Brad Sutliff]

Thanks Alberto! Never thought about a half cage. Would a half cage be easily converted to a full cage? Without having to get rid of existing parts etc? 

[Alberto]

Thanks Alberto! Never thought about a half cage. Would a half cage be easily converted to a full cage? Without having to get rid of existing parts etc? 

 

The way he explained it to me 5 or so years ago yes but best to check with him to see if that is something he still offers.  It was an idea that I contemplated but ultimately didn't do.