The Basics of Racing
Lesson 8: Modifications

WARNING: Don’t Use This to go Get Groceries. But, it’s Standard on the Track.

In the last 7 BLOGS we’ve talked about basic race car driving techniques. In the next 2 we’ll cover: Car Modifications including the Windshield Replacement Cost, and Driver Preparation & Safety. In the final BLOG (number 10) I’ll wrap things up with some final thoughts. So… Car Modifications: A well prepared race car is very different from it’s street car counterpart. Let’s cover just a few of the most basic mods. Please refer to the chart above: Proper tires (A) are one of the most important components on a race car, for both competitive and safety reasons. Special seats (B), roll bars (C), and 6-point racing belts (D) are important (and required) pieces of safety equipment. Small, egonomic, steering wheels (E) not only give the driver good control but supply good “feedback” from the car. Special shifters (F) give the driver better/smoother gear transitions. A fire extinguisher (G) is an obvious neccesity. Some race cars have built in fire-control systems. Just one push on a big red button automatically sets off 4 or 5 strategically placed nozzles, putting out a fire in seconds. Suspension and braking mods abound on race cars. Items like coil-over shocks (H), big brake kits (I), special tie-rods (J), and anti-sway bars (not shown) make the cars corner fast and stop quick. Transmissions are equipped with special gearing ratios and high performance clutch assemblies (K). Electrical systems are tuned with special batteries and other high-efficiency components like racing coils (L) and twin plug distributors (not shown). And what would a high performance track car be without a racing motor (M). Some of these engines are so highly tuned, for maximum horsepower and torque, that they are only good for about 25 hours before they must be rebuilt. Special exhaust systems (N) and large throated carburators (O) are both major pieces found on a racing motor. Of course heat is one of the constant enemies, so auxilary radiators (P) are used to keep both motors and transmissions running as cool a posssible. Many mods are made to the chassis and body on a race car. Chassis are seem-welded for strength and lightened for higher horespower-to-weight ratios. Cars are lowered for a lower center of gravity. Aerodynmic devices, like rear wings (Q) create down force. A race car is a finely tuned machine. It has one purpose. And that is to go fast. Scary fast. In the hands of a professional driver it can do what it’s designed to do. In the hands of a novice it can litteraly be… Well, enough said. Next time: Basics Number 9: Driver Preparation & Safety.

Just like a race car your online business needs to be “purpose built”. Built specifically for your business and for your customers. Not generic or “stock”. Not like everyone else. Having all the right components, and having all of those components working in tandem, is what will keep you tuned and competitive. You’ve got to be well balanced and built to be nimble within your market. And, most importantly, you’ve got to have a competitive advantage(s) over your competition.

I’m Larry. On the weekends I’m either driving a race car or teaching someone else how. During the week I’m the Creative Director at Ninthlink. Flag us down. Let us help you find your your correct position in the market place. And get you on a winning track with your online business. Call to action: Let’s get you moving. Email me at: [email protected].

Are You Prepared and Competitive?

Do not attempt. Professional branders on a closed course.