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Re: Fw: tech list

To: Billy and Ann Green <bgreen99@frontiernet.net>
Subject: Re: Fw: tech list
From: "Robert M. Lang" <lang@isis.mit.edu>
Date: Thu, 3 Jun 2004 09:54:51 -0400 (EDT)
Cc: 6pack <6pack@autox.team.net>, Triumphs <Triumphs@autox.team.net>
On Wed, 2 Jun 2004, Billy and Ann Green wrote:

> Hey lists-
> 
> Please reply to bgreen99@frontiernet.net
> ----- Original Message -----
> 
> Does anyone know how I can get a tech list so I can make sure the '69 TR6 is
> up to snuff for VTR in Richmond (to autocross)?

Here's the general autox tech list:

1. make sure the driver isn't an idiot. If they have a bumper sticker that
says: "I beat Ayrton Senna on street tires", then they might be an idiot.

2. make sure the car isn't puking any fluids. Drips are probably okay,
streaming any fluid is bad.

3. no parts falling off. Duct tape can be used to hold parts on, but the
tech guys will tug on the parts to make sure that you've used the proper
"technique".

4. the battery must be properly secured. Note: bungy chords are not
apropriate for securing your battery.

5. no empty beer cans in the passenger compartment.

6. tires must be in good condition. NO chords showing and NO cracks in the
sidewalls

7. cute stuffed animals can be attached to the car as long as they don't
pose a danger to the driver or course workers.

8. set belts must be in good condition (no fraying) and must be properly
secured to the body of the car. Note: the seats must also be properly
secured.

9. no nitrous oxide under any circumstances

10. throttle actuation must operate freely and there must be throttle
return springs in place and operating properly. You will get bounced if
tech can "over-center" your throttle - they don't want any stuck throttles
(and from experience let me say that YOU don't want a stuck throttle).

11. No poofters.

12. the brake pedal must be firm and hold pressure. If it is not, you will
be bounced - they don't want any "incidents", and lacking brakes is one
step toward a sure incident.

13. I forget was I was talking about.

14. the bearings must be "tight" and not sloppy. There should be zero play
in the front steering (no loose tie-rod ends, no sloppy ball
joints/trunnions).

The even number checklist items above are "for sure" tech items.
Odd-numbered items are there (obviously) for levity. The goal for tech is
twofold - to keep you from getting hurt and to keep you from hurintg
someone else. If your car is deemed unsafe, then take heed and either make
repairs or beg for a ride in someone else's car. Common sense should
prevail - if you're driving a "barn-find" to the event that hasn't been
driven at all in 30 years, please be realistic about wheher using the car
in _any_ driving event is a good idea.

Last - as a matter of common sense, the interior and boot should have no
loose objects when you go to do your runs. Not only are empty cans rolling
about a distraction, silly things like toolboxes in the boot can (and do!)
cause damage to the car. Remember - SAFETY FIRST.

> Thanks
> 
> Billy

I hope this helps.

rml
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