 Scratcher (Costas' Camaro), now all in one thread.... |
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 Jul 15 2012, 02:11 PM
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#1
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Experienced Member  Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62  |
Track day sponsored by a local ford dealer. I'm in one of the few GM cars (two camaros, one corvette) that showed up.
https://vimeo.com/45772822 17 sec clip.... Full vid soon. Costas cars and such... (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/host103.jpg) EDITED: Instead of making new threads, I'll just keep adding on to this one :-) This post has been edited by Shortcutsleeping: Sep 6 2012, 01:37 AM |
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Jul 15 2012, 07:25 PM
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#2
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Full vid.
https://vimeo.com/45770575 Loved the new setup/balance...sadly the car was designed and built when the old bias ply tires were the norm. I've always ran radials and then switched to the 'jumbos' which are worth even more time (due to more grip). The lateral grip/braking forces ended up cracking an upper control arm mount. EEEK. Engineer has designed a 'bomb-proof' fix that only adds about 2lbs....should be back up and running soon. Costas cars and such... |
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Jul 17 2012, 01:13 PM
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#3
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
(IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) I love watching scratcher vids!
What's new about the set-up? It didn't seem like you had much trouble getting a 1:51, how much time is still on the table? I wish my Jerico squealed like yours does, it must be my poly engine mounts that damp out some of it. |
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Jul 18 2012, 12:28 AM
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#4
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Stan,
Thanks, glad you liked it! Driving that car is just stupidfun... The setup changes revolved around the premiss I floated in the tire temp chapter (http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch192.htm) on wdms. That is, I can get the correct camber in a corner by utilizing a lot of castor and little static camber or I can take some castor out and run a bit more static. Running high castor really gives an incredible amount of weight jacking in corners and can contribute to poor low speed (sub 50) handling characteristics (push) and that just chaps me. So this setup was a lower ride height than my typical and with a good deal less castor and then, of course, rebalancing the cross weights to 0. I'm rear heavy also, but not as much as I'd like. I will say this setup is by far the fastest on the car so far. Wahoo! As for time on the table...I'm not really sure. My guess is another two seconds maybe? A 1:49. I should be back there later in the year (cooler) with hopefully more rubber laid down (it had been raining) and we'll see. If I regeared for the track (from a 4.11 to a 4.56), I'd feel comfy with a 1:49 fairly easy....meh, we'll see. I also love the gear whine :-) Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 6 2012, 01:47 AM
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#5
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Hi,
I changed the thread title so I can just keep adding stuff here instead of making new threads. Figure this way would be easier :-) Old writeup on TX2K12 finally published: http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch193.htm (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch193pic40.jpg) ZOMG I SPUN SCRATCHER!!! https://vimeo.com/44211628 (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch193pic01.jpg) Taking my wife for some laps: https://vimeo.com/48857808 (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch193pic08.jpg) (She pulls out her iphone and takes some pics and vids...lol) At the recent ECR event I cracked an upper control arm mount and that has since been removed (both sides) and replaced with bigger/stronger parts with some mods....Story/pics coming soon as well as a chapter on the ECR event. Next event: NARRA (www.narraonline.com) at TWS in a few weeks. Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 6 2012, 02:44 AM
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#6
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North of the border Group: Admin Posts: 2,307 Joined: 4-February 04 From: Montreal, CANADA Member No.: 177 |
your dog engagement tranny... is that w/ straight teeth or helical ?
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Sep 6 2012, 03:10 AM
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#7
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
It's a jerico 4 speed and it has straight cut teeth.
Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 6 2012, 03:14 AM
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#8
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Swapping out gears (while watching Star Wars....heh)
(IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch163pic08.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch163pic09.jpg) Full writeup and moar pics here: http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch163.htm Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 6 2012, 09:35 AM
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#9
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 118 Joined: 30-October 11 Member No.: 120,269 |
That car is awesome to look at in detail. Just wondering, what is the reasoning with the tank-like front hubs on that car? Did all the camaro GT cars get built with those?
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Sep 6 2012, 04:27 PM
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#10
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Sep 5 2012, 11:14 PM)  Swapping out gears (while watching Star Wars....heh) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch163pic08.jpg) "May the force be with you" <whack with the hammer> |
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Sep 6 2012, 04:31 PM
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#11
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
QUOTE (The Batman @ Sep 6 2012, 05:35 AM) That car is awesome to look at in detail. Just wondering, what is the reasoning with the tank-like front hubs on that car? Did all the camaro GT cars get built with those? Wide 5 hubs. I don't know much about the history with them etc, but the bearings and snouts are massive, and they move the lugs out to a very large bolt circle diameter. I'm sure Costas can tell you more. |
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Sep 6 2012, 08:00 PM
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#12
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Stan is right, they are wide-5 hubs.
http://www.colemanracing.com/Hub-Wide-5-Fr...e-55-P3626.aspx No, most GT1 and Trans-Am cars run a standard 'grand national' style hub with 5x5 bolt circle and the top guys run center-lock hubs with only 1 big central lugnut. My car was designed and built to go as fast as possible as inexpensively as possible while still being durable. It is nearly all from the coleman racing catalog which is plain jane circle-track parts. When you knock a corner off a top flight tube-car you've just spend thousands of dollars on control arms and uprights. With my car, you may spend a few hundred. I pay for cost savings in a bit of weight, but it's fine with me. The Wide-5 hub is indeed big but it is hollow aluminum and very light for what it is. The benefits include very light wheels (no center mass), HUGE bearings that last and last (they are similar to a 3/4 ton truck in size), and they are extremely durable. Big brakes can work, zero-scrub offsets can work, and even I can't crossthread a lugnut on a 1" stud (at least I've not done it yet!!). The chassis designation from the guy who made the run of frames (some he sold bare, others he made rollers and hung bodies, about 44 chassis in all however the buyer wanted them) was 'SBE' and it was for Simple But Effective. I've got a H#LL of a lot less money in my car than anyone that turns lap times even remotely close to me. Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 7 2012, 09:16 AM
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 118 Joined: 30-October 11 Member No.: 120,269 |
Interesting, thanks for the info and the new website to explore!
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Sep 7 2012, 03:21 PM
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#14
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
And, once you are done with Coleman...
http://daymotorsports.com/ http://stockcarproducts.com/ http://aa-mfg.com/pdshop/shop/ http://smileysracing.com/ https://www.circletracksupply.com/ http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Oval-Track-Racing-Parts.html Not exactly circle-track, more formula car, but they still have good stuff: https://www.pegasusautoracing.com/?iorb=476...m_campaign=BROI Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 11 2012, 05:11 AM
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#15
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Breaking Scratcher: http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch201.htm
Note crack where rear of upper control arm mounting tab meets the rear front suspension upright. OOPS. (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch201pic14.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch201pic15.jpg) Fixing Scratcher: http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch203.htm (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch203pic12.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch203pic18.jpg) This picture has nothing to do with the repair, I just really like it. (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch203pic16.jpg) Put it all back together tonight and setup the front end, event next weekend. Still have some things to do, but it's getting there. Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 11 2012, 11:27 AM
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#16
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Nothing says 'I love you.' like a box of Hydroshoks Group: Moderators Posts: 5,284 Joined: 23-December 03 From: Granbury, TX Member No.: 4 |
Excellent the way you document your experience and thoughts ... excellent.
It's a great tool for you (and others) to use and learn from. Oh and Louis is such a hack ... (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/laugh.gif) |
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Sep 13 2012, 04:01 PM
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#17
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,892 Joined: 3-July 04 From: Pearland, Texas Member No.: 385 |
Another advantage to wide-5 wheels was that you could own a trailerfull of wheels with different offsests, widths and even diameters and not have to post an armed guard by the trailer 7X24X365, as opposed to regular wheels. I guess it's because you're paying for mostly just barrels. That differentiation has pretty much disappeared. It's certainly not the cheap solution it used to be.
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Sep 19 2012, 04:24 PM
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#18
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Thanks Mitch, and you are right. After so many events things get forgotten or out of order...and writing it down helps so much. We do this with most of the projects, the crapcan racing, etc.
Gene, I *kindof* agree with you. Wide 5's are still super cheap in 15s, but the 16s gain a bit, but are STILL priced a lot lower and are a helluva lot lighter than comparable wheels. My 16x13s were under 230 per wheel. Everything has gotten more expensive...it's not that wide 5s have gained in price and normal wheel price stayed stagnant. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) NARRA event at TWS this weekend and I got a mention and a picture in the press release today. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/cool2.gif) LINK: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/re...juLoryu-w%3D%3D "This weekend will see the long anticipated showdown between the two TT-Unlimited class points leaders, Texan Kevin Ferguson (Craftlogic Software Viper ACR) and Arizona native Jeff Bawden (Good Neighbors Support Services Viper SRT-10). Don't count out Michael Greenberg or local Paul Costas either. Costas (BikiniRacer.com Chevrolet Camaro) dominated the Texas event last year, while Greenberg (Greenberg Cheese Viper Comp Coupe) just took second in the TT-U class at Monticello." They included a pic of our family with Scratcher and the trophy too. I did put 'Witchdoctor Motorsports' as the primary sponsor....but I guess bikiniracer gets more wow factor (duh!). (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) From last year: (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch185pic05a.jpg) Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 19 2012, 04:59 PM
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#19
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
Is that a real license plate? Where’s the registration sticker? LMAO!
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Sep 19 2012, 06:08 PM
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#20
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Stan,
It is a fake plate. My graphics lady does them and they look awesome. She 'dirties' them up and shades them to look like a real plate, but it is just vinyl on white aluminum panel. (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/indexpic01.jpg) (photo by CornerConcepts) Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 24 2012, 10:18 PM
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#21
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
https://vimeo.com/50067383
Short clip of me using all the road at TWS at the double NARRA event at TWS this past weekend. Full vids and data to follow. #LoneCamaro #SeaOfVipers Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 26 2012, 02:02 PM
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#22
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
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Sep 26 2012, 02:31 PM
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#23
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
30 second clip my wife took at TWS Sunday afternoon.
Check the rate of closure on the Vipers at the end of the straight... :-D http://api.smugmug.com/services/embed/2107...&height=360 **backstory: I did not have fresh tires for this event...so I did minimal running on Saturday, basically enough to take the win, then the same on Sunday morning then on Sunday afternoon I took passengers and killed the tires. I was struggling for grip with the rears out of slow/medium corners, but it sure was fun to take folks out and show them the track from my perspective** Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 27 2012, 09:46 PM
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#24
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
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Sep 28 2012, 05:24 PM
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#25
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
1 lap (some traffic) of GoProHD goodness:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC9BrwkiSH8...mp;feature=plcp Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 29 2012, 02:39 PM
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#26
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
And now for something completely different.. ;-)
Rear facing HD cam, taking Nick (former 3rd gen CMC racer) for a quick lap. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRvWE6e5EVE...eature=youtu.be Costas cars and such... |
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Oct 20 2012, 07:06 AM
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#27
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch204.htm
Pics, story, links to more vids... I'm still working on overlaying some data onto the latest vids from NARRA. Costas cars and such... |
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Oct 21 2012, 03:10 AM
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#28
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
Its too bad FRRAX doesn't have a 'like' button like facebook (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif)
I really want to build a tube frame car... |
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Jan 3 2013, 05:36 PM
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#29
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
The official NARRA recap video (28 minutes) from TWS is up. Lots of great action shown from a lot of angles. Scratcher and I get a few nice shots and then they include a short part of my podium interview. Awesome production quality (all 1080p HD!!), make it full screen for sure!!! For my interview they got a good shot of the "ThinkFast Engineering" polo I was wearing. w00t!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLEF220F...player_embedded Two quick screencaps from the video: (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/host116.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/host117.jpg) dammit, I need to repaint my rear cage downtubes!! Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 4 2013, 04:15 AM
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#30
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 295 Joined: 30-July 05 Member No.: 833 |
sweet deal
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Jan 4 2013, 06:22 PM
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#31
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
Whats the specs on that TT-1 vette that was faster than you? (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif)
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Jan 4 2013, 08:47 PM
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#32
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Veteran Member Group: Member Posts: 2,688 Joined: 23-December 03 From: Ft Worth, TX Member No.: 8 |
Nice!
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Jan 4 2013, 09:43 PM
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#33
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Stan:
Specs on TT1 corvette = Go to doug rippie motorsports, drop off a blank check. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) http://dougrippie.com/products/c6-corvette...o-race-machine/ From the link: Cost is 125K- ??? The price varies depending on parts used. The one above is 150,000 USD It is a SERIOUS six figure car and <excuse mode = ON> I was on dead dead tires and my best lap still had traffic <excuse mode = OFF>. We are back at TWS next month with narra and I should be on fairly fresh tires and we'll see if I can get in front of him in my 25k hooptie (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) . NARRA is an 'honor system' as far as tech. They *do* weigh cars, but they have to believe whatever dyno they are given. I'm pretty sure he was on fresh michelin slicks both days. Driver is no slouch for sure, and I'm hopeful he shows up again and I'll wrangle some time to go check out the car a lot closer. I'm still on my original camshaft that my engine builder laughs at. It was the smallest cam that he figured would work with my heads/intake. I am pondering stepping up a bit on the camshaft (65-85hp easily, over 100hp if we went big) but not sure I'll have the time/money to do it. Scratcher really does not make that much power, it is just fairly light with big tires and good mech and decent aero. Aero will get an upgrade later in 2013 or might get pushed back to 2014 depending on other projects. Ya'll look at www.narraonline.com for the 2013 schedule. These folks have been great to run with and they have w2w, tt and hpde! Costas cars and such... |
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Feb 1 2013, 07:50 PM
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#34
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Aight, semi-fresh new (to me) used tires on order. Registered for Narra.
Got this in my email today: ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Redneck challenger to race in Texas. R U Faster Than a Redneck TV show challenger Jeremy Rohrs and South Side Performance to debut in Whelen US TimeTrial Championship at NARRA's Texas World Speedway event, Feb 15-17. Jeremy Rohrs and his South Side Performance (SSP) team will take on the might of American muscle in rounds 1 & 2 of the 2013 Whelen US TimeTrial Championship at Texas World Speedway, Feb 15-17, in what he calls the "perfect preview" to his appearance in Speed Network's new show, R U Faster Than a Redneck. "This will be a taste of what to expect from the show. Imports and exotic European machinery up against the best the US has to offer, but in the case of the Whelen USTTC we're talking some seriously fast Vettes and Vipers," said Rohrs. "I will be driving the exact same car at TWS, South Side Performance's 540whp 2010 Nissan GT-R with the exact same setup and power level as it was on R U Faster Than a Redneck." Hosted by comedian Jon Reep the new TV series debuts Feb 22, the Friday following the Whelen USTTC event at Texas World Speedway. Shot at Carolina Motorsports Park, which will be visited by the North American Road Racing Association's Whelen US TimeTrial Championship May 3-5, the show pits domestic hot rods against custom imports. Similarly themed, the Whelen USTTC is open to all high performance road and racing cars and features marques such as BMW, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, and Subaru against Corvette, Camaro, Ford and Viper. Full Story: http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/re...0QzTBiDQQ%3D%3D +++++++++++++++++++++++ So yeah....should be interesting. Costas cars and such... |
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Feb 18 2013, 07:49 PM
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#35
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Newsflash = THIS JUST IN:
I R Fastar Than a Redneck! More details to follow... Costas cars and such... |
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Feb 18 2013, 11:54 PM
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#36
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 295 Joined: 30-July 05 Member No.: 833 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Feb 18 2013, 02:49 PM) Newsflash = THIS JUST IN: I R Fastar Than a Redneck! More details to follow... Costas cars and such... being in Texas doesnt that automaticly qualify you. heck im in south jersey and most people think I qualify. Cant wait to see Scratcher giving the pimp hand to some wana be see what happens when you don't rear the whole thread , I quess no camaro now im bummed and im going to go kick my dog This post has been edited by 198esp: Feb 18 2013, 11:57 PM |
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Feb 19 2013, 10:44 PM
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#37
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Feb 18 2013, 02:49 PM) I R Fastar Than a Redneck! Here I thought you'd fit right in with the redneck aspect of all this... Or did you mean to say that you are faster than some other redneck? That must be what you meant... (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) QUOTE Don't miss a Special Preview of R U Faster Than a Redneck. Friday, February 22nd after the NCWTS Daytona race! I'll have to look for this on my DVR! |
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Feb 20 2013, 12:47 AM
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#38
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
QUOTE (StanIROCZ @ Feb 19 2013, 04:44 PM) QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Feb 18 2013, 02:49 PM) I R Fastar Than a Redneck! Here I thought you'd fit right in with the redneck aspect of all this... Or did you mean to say that you are faster than some other redneck? That must be what you meant... (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) QUOTE Don't miss a Special Preview of R U Faster Than a Redneck. Friday, February 22nd after the NCWTS Daytona race! I'll have to look for this on my DVR! On the podium interview after winning overall both days, the guy asked me about the redneck thing (me being the #LoneCamaro in the sea of Vipers/Vettes/GTRs) and I said that I didn't really consider myself a redneck, but since I show up with a home-built cobbled together car I was pretty sure the rest of the field saw me as one! (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) They had HD GoPros going, so I have no idea if any footage is for the show or not. I passed the camo GTR a few times... (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif) One of my favorites from the weekend...a little opposite lock as I turn from the paddock onto the hotpits. (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/host124.jpg) Full story and vids coming soon. Costas cars and such... |
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Feb 20 2013, 04:43 PM
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#39
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Still working on my update, have some cool vid to post up too... (I pulled a General Lee at one point...heh)
But the NARRA writeup is done and was just released: http://myemail.constantcontact.com/-Rednec...aid=tiu5nrMP9PQ Snippet: "Costas claims outright Whelen USTTC honors for the 'rednecks' as TV show contestant Rohrs podiums in series debut. The scales were definitely tipped in favor of the 'rednecks'. Amongst a sea of Vettes, Vipers, Camaros, Mustangs and Chevrolet powered Miatas, only a Porsche and a pair of Nissan GT-Rs dared take on the might of American muscle in rounds 1 and 2 of the 2013 Whelen US TimeTrial Championship at Texas World Speedway (Feb 15-17). All eyes were on the South Side Performance Nissan GT-R of Jeremy Rohrs, one of the contestants in the new R U Faster Than a Redneck TV series that premieres this Friday on SPEED, but it was Paul Costas and his Camaro who stole the show." If you have a NARRA event you can attend, I strongly recommend it. Great group to run with! www.narraonline.com Costas cars and such... edit - to fix link This post has been edited by Shortcutsleeping: Feb 21 2013, 02:16 PM |
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Mar 7 2013, 04:48 PM
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#40
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
And now....the rest of the story...
http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch208.htm A very not-pretty lap: https://vimeo.com/60254150 Was a fun event, NARRA folks are great to run with, and the contingencies (I won free pirellis) are getting stronger. www.narraonline.com Costas cars and such... |
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Mar 9 2013, 02:08 PM
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#41
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
In the paddock he seems like such a nice guy.... has a little girl coloring and he wears a Powerpuff girl T-shirt... but he is a bad man on the race track
nicely done, congrats! I can't imagine what 1.7G feels like. I can get the occasional, nonsustained, 1.3 in my car when I get my panties un-wadded. |
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Mar 18 2013, 09:36 PM
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#42
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Thanks!
1.7 feels pretty stout. I got to give rides to three more folks at the tx2k track day! We've got a plan for more DF, so maybe 1.8 will be in our future... Love this shot (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/host147.jpg) Costas cars and such... |
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Mar 18 2013, 11:10 PM
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#43
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 295 Joined: 30-July 05 Member No.: 833 |
that is a pretty great shot, car is looking pretty slick
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Apr 3 2013, 10:01 PM
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#44
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 412 Joined: 26-August 09 From: Mathews Va Member No.: 6,032 |
I would love to hang that picture in the garage for inspiration
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Apr 3 2013, 10:19 PM
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#45
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Thanks guys...
I'm trying to get that last pic in high-res and if it is good then I'll be happy to share it. Costas cars and such... |
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Aug 12 2013, 06:27 PM
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#46
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8W4gOBSuLzI...eature=youtu.be
Youtube vid of the NARRA event earlier this year at TWS. This is the third installment and Scratcher gets a quick view in the intro slot moving through traffic, then I get a quick interview around the 2 minute mark and then around 2:50 or so some more vid including some slow-mo into the carousel. Thinking on making the haul to Sebring in November for the season finale of NARRA. Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 25 2013, 05:42 PM
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#47
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
If you're bored and want to check out some pics. I may load some vid if I get time.
Found some improvement and went faster at a recent test. Saw some cool cars as well! http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch210.htm Check out the McLaren trying to get close to an awesome third gen!!! PSHAW!!! (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch210pic08.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch210pic02.jpg) Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 26 2013, 02:39 AM
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#48
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
I enjoy reading everything you post (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif)
QUOTE It's tough to go faster without testing and as the ThinkFastEngineering.com manual says, you should change SOMEthing every session and see if you go faster or not. Even when just the driver mod makes me faster every session? Seriously, over the past year I get faster almost every session without touching the car,,,, just growing ball sack (with a couple exceptions). I could play with my spoiler angle or adjust my front koni's,,, but then I wouldn't know if I got faster because of the tune or driving. I assume your statement is based on the assumption that the driver is using 100% of the cars potential. |
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Sep 26 2013, 05:17 AM
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#49
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
QUOTE (StanIROCZ @ Sep 25 2013, 09:39 PM) Even when just the driver mod makes me faster every session? Seriously, over the past year I get faster almost every session without touching the car,,,, just growing ball sack (with a couple exceptions). I could play with my spoiler angle or adjust my front koni's,,, but then I wouldn't know if I got faster because of the tune or driving. I assume your statement is based on the assumption that the driver is using 100% of the cars potential. In my mind (and everyone tunes differently) you pull enough data to effectively and subjectively view a change as a positive, negative or neutral. More importantly, you're bright enough to do a debrief after a session to help evaluate the performance. SO...If you were my student and went to a trackday solo, I'd tell you to do the first session or two with everything the same (equalize air pressure) and get a baseline time. After the second session you'll sit down for 5 minutes away from everyone either looking at a track map or watching a replay of a lap. Dissect each corner into entry, mid, and exit and as you do the lap and prioritize what ONE BENEFIT would help you the most. Let's say it is on entry and the car is simply not getting INTO the corner as quick as you think is possible. Mid and exit are okay. So, we now know the result we need (better turn in) and we know to always begin adjustments on the end of the car that is NOT working until you run out of adjustments and then AND ONLY THEN can we "do damage" to the opposite end of the car to achieve balance. So, in the front we need more turn in. Let's ponder that. First, look at the tires. Are they rolling over too much and bumping pressure might help. OR are they not rolling enough and we're overinflated? Does the turn in suffer on both directions? Can we back off on the sway bar end links to let the car roll and bite a bit more? Can we make a damper change? (Note: Neil has a great chart in his book, also this is damn handy too: http://www.amazon.com/Carroll-Smiths-Engin...er+in+my+pocket ) So let's say the tires looked great and you backed off on the sway bar end links. Initially you had them totally snug with bulging little bushings, and now you've loosened them 5 rounds a side where they practically rattle (noise does not slow you down, FYI). Then on the third session one of three things happen. You get faster, slower or stay the same. If you get slower....time to ponder: Assuming you drove well and had clear track, did the setup change NOT help the turn in? Look at your data on turn entry....is the degrees per second turn-in not as good as before? Or time stayed the same? Did the turn in help but it caused you issues on mid or exit now? Or, most likely, you got faster...and you can debrief yourself and say "self, the setup change helped, the car rotate into the corner better and i went faster because of that and because I had more confidence in the car and I'm simply driving better". Now you get to debrief AGAIN pondering 'what ONE change could I make to help my lap times?". And it starts over again. If you're unsure, re-tighten the sway bar end links and drive another session. More than likely you'll say 'fork that!!' and you've successfully learned a quick little trick that can help your setups in the future. Folks who are vested enough to not only want to go faster but are willing to methodically look at the car, do debriefs, make track notes and also keep records of setups and changes are typically folks who can self-learn assuming they've at least got a baseline procedure to follow. Most any procedure will work and the one I outlined above is the one I use, taught to me by Neil. My last outing I did three sessions flip flopping changes to double verify that they worked. Now, sometimes you've got to take a sharp car (setup wise) and 'dumb it down' so the driver has a stable car to 'get up to speed' in. Then, when the driver has caught up to the car, we can begin to re-sharpen that car and the driver goes really fast. Now, the setup from step 1 and step 10 ended up being the same, but we had to get the driver up to the ability to drive the damn thing and that took 9 steps. I've had a student who showed up with a prepped c5Z06 on hoosiers and after one session he bolted back on the streets because there was no way he was getting to the level of the car on purple crack. He could almost reach the car's level on streets, but hoohoos were out of the question at that point. A few track days later and we're again ready to bolt on the hoosiers and begin to work our way towards reaching the limits of that combination. Long and winded and hopefully you followed that.... but that's my .02 Costas cars and such... |
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Sep 27 2013, 02:10 AM
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#50
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
I should probably restate what I said. I've changed to softer rear springs at Grattan because the car was very loose on that particular track. I did that because I could tell something was obviously wrong. What I said before was centered around the thought that if I can't feel anything wrong why should I change it? I'm still getting faster with driving. After every session I look at Harry's lap timer and overlay the video with the data for my fastest lap. I usually focus on the G meter to see if I'm at the edges of the traction circle or not. If not I know I'm not using the cars full potential at that point in time on the track (assuming no elevation change impact etc) and I go back out the next time and work on braking later or whatever it may be. I come back in with a faster time. Repeat. Harry's also has the ability to overlay speed and acceleration data from one lap to another and that is useful in determining why I ran faster one lap than another (in most cases it is because I braked later). I could probably be a bit more aggressive with testing mechanical things even when everything seams ok, but going to the track by myself most of the time means that I'm pretty busy all day and sometimes its nice to sit down with a Gatorade in the shade and think about driving rather then a mechanical thrash in the hot sun (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)
I finally sucked it up and taught myself left foot braking over labor day weekend at Grattan. I went slower during the morning sessions and spun out with a duffed 4-2 downshift but now that I got it I won't ever go back (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) |
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Sep 27 2013, 04:36 AM
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#51
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I build race cars Group: Advanced Members Posts: 4,748 Joined: 31-August 05 From: Central coast, CA Member No.: 874 |
QUOTE (StanIROCZ @ Sep 26 2013, 07:10 PM) I finally sucked it up and taught myself left foot braking over labor day weekend at Grattan. I went slower during the morning sessions and spun out with a duffed 4-2 downshift but now that I got it I won't ever go back (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) I think you'll still be learning LFB a couple of years from now. I made the mistake of trying it during a race and decided that it helped in T1 at Sears Point. The problem was that I hadn't done it enough for it to be an automatic response to a braking situation, and in the heat of battle a few laps later I got confused and couldn't find the brake pedal into T2 - terribly frustrating experience. Drove off the outside and into a tire wall, right foot still on the gas and left foot lost. That was 10yrs ago, I've been LFB in the truck ever since. Felt awkward and jerky at first, but I persevered. Once I could modulate braking with the left the same as the right, I practiced handing off the braking from one foot to another during braking zones, without changing the decel rate at all. It took years before it got ingrained into my brain and I'll use the left foot automatically in panic situations. Haven't had the balls to try it again on track, tho. |
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Jan 20 2014, 08:16 PM
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#52
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
https://vimeo.com/84606424
1 minute teaser vid from the NASA season opener here in Texas. I missed qualy due to a persistant cooling system issue and had to start last. Full writeup and more vids coming soon. Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 24 2014, 12:52 AM
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#53
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
https://vimeo.com/84813119
First race on Saturday. Go from last to second, but then rising temps mean I pull off before damaging something expensive. Costas cars and such... |
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Mar 11 2014, 04:01 AM
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#54
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
https://vimeo.com/88661203
Inside-my-helmet-cam for a few laps of MSR-C outside of Fort Worth. It's damn cold, the tires are fairly old and I'm trying to keep the pointy end forward. Costas cars and such... |
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May 30 2014, 12:29 AM
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#55
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
TWS story http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch220.htm
First time on Hoosiers and I won a new set! Sunday's race I started last since I didn't think I was going to do it, and ran it up to P1: https://vimeo.com/94120203 Costas cars and such... |
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May 30 2014, 02:29 AM
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#56
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
Patience my ass lol
Contgrats! |
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Jul 19 2014, 11:55 PM
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#57
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Gotta think fast when you crest the hill and JUST CATCH A YELLOW BEING THROWN so you know SOMETHING is wrong down there...
https://vimeo.com/101186362 One of the races that weekend: https://vimeo.com/100343994 More vids and full writeup to come soon. Costas cars and such... |
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Jul 20 2014, 07:39 AM
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#58
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Rennmeister Group: Advanced Members Posts: 781 Joined: 24-December 03 From: Mehlingen, Germany Member No.: 26 |
What an Oh Shit moment that was in the first vid.
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Jul 21 2014, 02:32 AM
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#59
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Yeah, more than one person called it a CODE BROWN.
FULL HALLETT WRITEUP, PICS, VIDEOS HERE: http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch223.htm * * * * * * HUGE THANKS TO JEREMY on this board for all the help that weekend!!!! * * * * * * (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch223pic34.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch223pic16.jpg) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch223pic35.jpg) Costas cars and such... |
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Jul 21 2014, 04:12 PM
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#60
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 739 Joined: 27-June 12 Member No.: 142,453 |
I would love to know more about the pink Camaro. Got any links to a page about it?
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Jul 22 2014, 12:35 AM
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#61
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 41 Joined: 5-May 05 From: College Station, TX Member No.: 737 |
QUOTE (79T/A @ Jul 21 2014, 11:12 AM) I would love to know more about the pink Camaro. Got any links to a page about it? The car is owned by my wife, Misty White from Texas. I'm logged in with her id to answer. I also race it when my ST1 mustang is under the knife. Car is a 1999 SS that she purchased new and was formally an American Iron car that has morphed into an ST1 or ST2 car depending on which driver is in the car. It is basically a cam only, 241 headed LS6 making 427/403 to the wheels, converted to speed density with Fast LSX 92mm intake, about 3200# running on 315/35/17 BFG R1's all around. DR. Gas oval tubing X pipe with no mufflers (sounds like a demon). Wheels are 17x11 from Jongbloed. UMI K-member and homebuilt watts link. Color is accurate FM3 panther pink from a 1970 Chrysler. Thanks PPG! It's purple when in dark light, and bright pink in sunlight. Graphics are a faux carbon fiber. Front hubs are C5/6 Corvette Race hubs with custom adapters that retain ABS (no more hub issues at all). Car is getting on in years but has had a lot of development work done on it in the last 36 months which has netted over 4 seconds of lap time at TWS (home track). Car is an absolute animal and requires a lot of concentration and strength to drive...but is a freakin' blast to drive. Took 3rd at Hallett in ST1 against some serious machinery and I was ON THE NUMBERS as ST2 legal. Not bad against the vettes and tube frame cars! Plans for the near future are a Jerico and upgraded 10 bolt to get rid of the lateral axle slop and pad knockback. Then maybe some cubes as the little 346 has 7 years of hell on it but just keeps on doing what it does because we take very good care of it. Is that enough info?! LOL! |
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Jul 22 2014, 03:58 AM
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#62
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 739 Joined: 27-June 12 Member No.: 142,453 |
Thanks! I noticed that cars pace compared to tube frame cars and had to know more about it.
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Jul 22 2014, 02:57 PM
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#63
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Nothing says 'I love you.' like a box of Hydroshoks Group: Moderators Posts: 5,284 Joined: 23-December 03 From: Granbury, TX Member No.: 4 |
QUOTE (RPOZ27 @ Jul 21 2014, 07:35 PM) I'm logged in with her id to answer. hmmm ... been a while since I've banned someone ... (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) QUOTE (RPOZ27 @ Jul 21 2014, 07:35 PM) Is that enough info?! LOL! Let me interject a little more background about the author ... Matt is a humble, yet precocious individual, well known in the local DFW Mustang circles simply as MFW. My most vivd memory of Matt is him stuffing a trash barrel with the remnants of a nose cone that once hung on the front of his car all the while uttering variants of the universal word, many of which make me blush to this day. Hence the "F" in MFW. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) Car looks good, Matt ... sounds good too. Misty has done a great job ... |
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Oct 16 2014, 02:20 PM
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#64
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
https://vimeo.com/108743926
1.42.4 at tws in TT on my first timed lap of the session. 20th heat cycle for the tires. I had brand new tires an thought about busting them out and going for a low 1:40. I made a few small mistakes and cost myself a 1:41. https://vimeo.com/108747319 1.42.9 at tws in SU qualy chasing a DRM Vette on stickers. 19th heat cycle for my tires. Both vids are from Sunday morning. It rained on us Saturday afternoon and a front came through and it was cool and crisp and the track dried and it was in great shape. Of course, shortly after this it rained again and the chance for fast lap times was gone. Costas cars and such... |
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Nov 5 2014, 05:46 PM
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#65
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Some fun with a DRM Corvette!
I now have TWO GoPros running, so there is a front and rear cam. Both of these are short races R3 = https://vimeo.com/110841105 R4 = https://vimeo.com/110958309 We catch lap traffic on the final lap Quick TT lap = https://vimeo.com/110888300 Wrapped up the SU and the TTU championship. Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 26 2015, 04:26 PM
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#66
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
It's Monday....you need some stuff to read and watch anyway. :-P
enjoy! Reflections on the double championship: http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch230.htm FIRST RACE OF THE SEASON ALREADY DONE!!! Fortunately won all four SU races and both TTU days. (FREE HOOSIERS!!!!) R3 from Sunday: https://vimeo.com/117245855 R4 from Sunday: https://vimeo.com/117344383 Fastest lap of the weekend for all cars and all classes: https://vimeo.com/117226161 Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 27 2015, 02:01 AM
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#67
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FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Jan 26 2015, 11:26 AM) Fastest lap of the weekend for all cars and all classes: https://vimeo.com/117226161 Costas cars and such... Good god... |
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Jan 27 2015, 02:17 AM
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#68
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 2,038 Joined: 3-March 10 From: Huntersville, NC Member No.: 9,105 |
Man that thing moved! I'm sure it's on here somewhere, but whats the power and weight?
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Jan 27 2015, 02:38 AM
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#69
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FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196 |
QUOTE (Steve91T @ Jan 26 2015, 09:17 PM) Man that thing moved! I'm sure it's on here somewhere, but whats the power and weight? Off the top of my head (and not giving away the full details that Costas might want kept somewhat secret), lets just say 700+ hp and 2500 lbs. I'll leave it up to Costas if he wants to be more specific than that. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) |
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Jan 27 2015, 05:00 PM
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#70
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 2,038 Joined: 3-March 10 From: Huntersville, NC Member No.: 9,105 |
Wow. Just amazing.
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Jan 27 2015, 08:03 PM
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#71
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
Congrats Paul!
Scary fast! |
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Jan 27 2015, 11:39 PM
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#72
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 237 Joined: 11-July 13 From: Evansville IN Member No.: 223,764 |
Thanks for sharing and congrats!
Now I"m ready to go get wrenching on my junk . . . . (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) |
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Jan 29 2015, 03:14 PM
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#73
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Thank you for the kind words everyone....the car is indeed stupid fun to drive and pretty quick on the track. I call it my smile-machine.
No matter how much I wrench on it or have to work on it, I still smile the instant I get on track with it. QUOTE (trackbird @ Jan 26 2015, 08:38 PM) Off the top of my head (and not giving away the full details that Costas might want kept somewhat secret), lets just say 700+ hp and 2500 lbs. I'll leave it up to Costas if he wants to be more specific than that. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) You're a little high on power and a little low on weight, but you're not that far off. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/cool2.gif) (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch236pic22.jpg) Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 29 2015, 07:30 PM
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#74
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FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Jan 29 2015, 10:14 AM) QUOTE (trackbird @ Jan 26 2015, 08:38 PM) Off the top of my head (and not giving away the full details that Costas might want kept somewhat secret), lets just say 700+ hp and 2500 lbs. I'll leave it up to Costas if he wants to be more specific than that. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) You're a little high on power and a little low on weight, but you're not that far off. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/cool2.gif) Costas cars and such... Oh, I actually thought I was low on HP and "heavy". Which engine phase is this? We discussed multiple versions and I thought this was the final one? |
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Jan 30 2015, 06:33 PM
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#75
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 226 Joined: 17-April 09 From: Texas Member No.: 4,728 |
Good job have you got to play with any rear camber yet?
Mark |
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Jan 30 2015, 09:34 PM
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#76
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
FULL STORY FROM THE WEEKEND:
AKA: OVERCOMING BROKEN CAR PART 1 AND PART 2 !!! http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch236.htm (IMG:http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch236pic02.jpg) "We launch and I work hard to put a ton of heat into the brakes and tires on the pace lap. I bring us slow around the carousel and slowly raise speed to where I'm dead in the middle of the power in 2nd as the moment steals all of my consciousness. My left hand holds the 9 o'clock position on the wheel, my right hand is open with fingers wide as the palm is almost touching the ball of the shifter. My left foot still dragging the brakes as my right foot is balancing the throttle position to the corresponding power needed to slightly overcome the brakes as my eyes are intently focused on the starter. I don't hear Scratcher, and I don't hear the car next to me with the loud exhaust dumping right at me. I don't feel the shoulder straps pulled so tight that my HANS is shoved into my shoulders meaning that Scratcher and I are one and any impact or nuance no matter how severe or minute is transmitted to my body directly with no filter or masking. I don't smell, I don't feel the heat and there are only two things that occupy my brain at this instant. First, the focal point on the starter's right elbow and second the gentle command to slow down my heart rate. It isn't fast by any means...in fact it probably was only a few beats above my resting heart rate, but in this fleeting moment I need to be relaxed and while my physiology is in a loop issuing and reissuing a relax command...his elbow twitches. Before his wrist has even moved vertically, the brakes are released, the loud pedal is matted and my backside goes to full sensitivity for the potential wheelspin that does not occur meaning my severe tire warming antics were successful. Result: Pack is left behind." Mark, I've not had time to do rear camber yet and at this point I think I'm going to do a front roll center change (as well as taking out the sliver of anti-dive) and get that done first. But then, yes, next is to get the rear cambered a bit moar. Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 31 2015, 01:20 PM
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#77
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
QUOTE As I went into diamonds edge to brake heavily and then turn and start my way back towards the front straight, the car felt darty under the brakes and I was thinking that perhaps I'd gotten the rebound settings wonky and this was the result. No matter, I just needed one lap so I scooted up the back straight, went through the carousel and flew under the green flag flying at the starters stand to begin my qualifying. At the end of the front straight I got into the brakes a little bit early and I'm glad I did. The front end washed out and the tires locked way too easy, I unlocked them after a nice cloud of smoke and then got into the corner. Scratcher felt okay in the corner, but had difficulty going straight. I assumed I had uneven dampers, a faulty damper or a tire going down so I hustled the car that lap, laid down a decent 1:37 and pulled it into the paddock to check it out. Tires were okay, front dampers felt find when pushing down on the frame...and so I went to check the bearings and steering linkage next. Uh-oh. Dude runs one of his fastest laps of the day with his steering rack about to fall out of the car (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/loco.gif) |
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Feb 1 2015, 02:23 PM
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#78
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 2,511 Joined: 14-November 04 From: Homer Glen, IL Member No.: 540 |
QUOTE (StanIROCZ @ Jan 31 2015, 07:20 AM) Dude runs one of his fastest laps of the day with his steering rack about to fall out of the car (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/loco.gif) It's amazing what you can tell yourself in the car. "Well, the rear end is starting to make some noise. I probably did something wrong setting up the gear, the race is almost over." Kept enough pressure on P1 that he made a PUY and gave me the win at Road America! We were only doing ~140MPH into T1 and T5. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/rotf.gif) (IMG:http://i60.tinypic.com/xlw38i.jpg) This post has been edited by nape: Feb 1 2015, 02:23 PM |
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Apr 28 2015, 12:08 AM
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#79
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
QUOTE (nape @ Feb 1 2015, 09:23 AM) It's amazing what you can tell yourself in the car. Indeed!!! Aight, some brainiac decided that the spec7 class did NOT need to be with the miatas, but with the ST/SU cars. Here is qualy. HUGE HUGE field. Enjoy the sound, and let me know what you t hink about the rates of closure. https://vimeo.com/126189818 Costas cars and such... |
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Apr 28 2015, 11:04 AM
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#80
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FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Apr 27 2015, 08:08 PM) Aight, some brainiac decided that the spec7 class did NOT need to be with the miatas, but with the ST/SU cars. I haven't even seen the video yet and that sounds absolutely idiotic and extremely dangerous. |
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Apr 28 2015, 12:03 PM
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#81
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Advanced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 295 Joined: 30-July 05 Member No.: 833 |
QUOTE (nape @ Feb 1 2015, 08:23 AM) QUOTE (StanIROCZ @ Jan 31 2015, 07:20 AM) Dude runs one of his fastest laps of the day with his steering rack about to fall out of the car (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/loco.gif) It's amazing what you can tell yourself in the car. "Well, the rear end is starting to make some noise. I probably did something wrong setting up the gear, the race is almost over." Kept enough pressure on P1 that he made a PUY and gave me the win at Road America! We were only doing ~140MPH into T1 and T5. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/rotf.gif) (IMG:http://i60.tinypic.com/xlw38i.jpg) Tell me more about this pic how did that tube fail, what was the thickness of that tube. did the upper weld go first and then the bottom cracked from fatigue. Im very curious, switched my car to an adjust 3 link |
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Apr 28 2015, 01:08 PM
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#82
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
QUOTE (trackbird @ Apr 28 2015, 06:04 AM) I haven't even seen the video yet and that sounds absolutely idiotic and extremely dangerous. It was pretty dangerous, yes. I'll have some race videos up soon as well....the time difference between the fast guys and the slow classes were incredible. Costas cars and such... |
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Apr 28 2015, 02:08 PM
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#83
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FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196 |
QUOTE (Shortcutsleeping @ Apr 28 2015, 09:08 AM) QUOTE (trackbird @ Apr 28 2015, 06:04 AM) I haven't even seen the video yet and that sounds absolutely idiotic and extremely dangerous. It was pretty dangerous, yes. I'll have some race videos up soon as well....the time difference between the fast guys and the slow classes were incredible. Costas cars and such... I'm expecting 70+ mph closing speeds (and maybe greater than that). I'll check out the videos when I get home. Glad nobody was hurt. |
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Apr 29 2015, 04:48 PM
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#84
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
10 Lap race from Sunday
https://vimeo.com/126335877 Front and rear cams going as well as a good microphone in the cockpit to hear the small block/jerico sounds. Costas cars and such... |
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Apr 29 2015, 05:25 PM
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#85
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 183 Joined: 26-November 13 Member No.: 223,779 |
THAT IS THE BEST AND MOST INTENSE VIDEO FROM SCRATCHER YET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Holy SH*T, the speed, the track surface, the speed differential.... Thanks for sharing. |
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Apr 29 2015, 05:52 PM
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#86
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 2,038 Joined: 3-March 10 From: Huntersville, NC Member No.: 9,105 |
Yeah that was unreal. Did anybody get you on video from the stands or pit wall as you went by on the front stretch? I'd love to hear that.
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Apr 30 2015, 02:18 AM
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#87
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Thanks guys, I was dumbstruck when I heard the spec7 and PTF cars were going to be in our group when they are usually with the miatas. This being a big fast track I actually thought they were joking.
But....oh well. We did a SPLIT start for Race1 and I caught traffic sooner....and I'll post that up in a few days. Crazy there too! SUPPOSEDLY there is some front straight vid and I'll try and track it down. More soon! Costas cars and such... |
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May 5 2015, 05:26 PM
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#88
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
When you have a special set of matched tires, you can take 'em on the high side!!!
https://vimeo.com/126943404 (short vid, tight pass, wall) Costas cars and such... |
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May 6 2015, 01:19 PM
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#89
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 2,511 Joined: 14-November 04 From: Homer Glen, IL Member No.: 540 |
QUOTE (198esp @ Apr 28 2015, 07:03 AM) Tell me more about this pic how did that tube fail, what was the thickness of that tube. did the upper weld go first and then the bottom cracked from fatigue. Im very curious, switched my car to an adjust 3 link Cage is 1.5 x .120 DOM. Brace tube was 1.5 x .095 ERW. It was a complete failure by the time I found it. There was no rust in the break, so hard to tell how long it was failing. That setup was in the car for 5 seasons (~25 events). It broke using the gator teeth at Road America, which are extremely rough at the end. Blackhawk Farms put in gator teeth and that was the race weekend before RA. I'm guessing that the load spikes (load/unload over the teeth) did it in. Replacement is 1.5" square x .250 wall. Ready to find the next weakest link. |
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May 6 2015, 01:38 PM
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#90
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 183 Joined: 26-November 13 Member No.: 223,779 |
QUOTE (198esp @ Apr 28 2015, 12:03 PM) QUOTE (nape @ Feb 1 2015, 08:23 AM) QUOTE (StanIROCZ @ Jan 31 2015, 07:20 AM) Dude runs one of his fastest laps of the day with his steering rack about to fall out of the car (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/loco.gif) It's amazing what you can tell yourself in the car. "Well, the rear end is starting to make some noise. I probably did something wrong setting up the gear, the race is almost over." Kept enough pressure on P1 that he made a PUY and gave me the win at Road America! We were only doing ~140MPH into T1 and T5. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/rotf.gif) (IMG:http://i60.tinypic.com/xlw38i.jpg) Tell me more about this pic how did that tube fail, what was the thickness of that tube. did the upper weld go first and then the bottom cracked from fatigue. Im very curious, switched my car to an adjust 3 link Wow, this is a very interesting failure. Lots to discuss here! If someone wants to continue discussion, please break this into a new thread. I believe I could provide some great insight with a few phone calls and research. I'm an engineer at an aerospace company who does welding, I have access to our corporate weld engineer who is also the onsite race day Track welder for Indy and Kansas Motor Speedway. -Brent C This post has been edited by LS1Torq: May 6 2015, 01:39 PM |
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May 7 2015, 01:49 AM
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#91
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Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 41 Joined: 20-March 15 Member No.: 223,865 |
Subscribed!
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Nov 13 2015, 02:59 PM
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#92
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
http://www.witchdoctormotorsports.com/ch243.htm
It was bound to happen, a guy in a sports-racer attempted to move Scratcher out of the way. Yeah....NO. Lots of vid links in the update, enjoy!!! Costas cars and such... |
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Nov 13 2015, 03:01 PM
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#93
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
QUOTE (Steve91T @ Apr 29 2015, 11:52 AM) Yeah that was unreal. Did anybody get you on video from the stands or pit wall as you went by on the front stretch? I'd love to hear that. I've been asking for the SAME thing!!! I do have quite a list of folks who generously offered to drive my car while I stood on the pit wall and listened!!! <giggle> HERE YA GO: (this link is in the update as well, but here it is directly) https://vimeo.com/145289146 Costas cars and such... |
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Dec 31 2016, 06:12 PM
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#94
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
2015 was a good year for Scratcher.
2016...we started a shop in January and then had Athena in February so Scratcher took a year off. 2017 plans still in the works. But I had started a recap vid at the end of 15 and just now found it and finished it.. The racing Gods will surely smite me for these shenanigans... but oh well. Enjoy....snarky comments welcome! https://vimeo.com/197618731 Costas cars and such... |
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Jan 4 2017, 02:04 PM
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#95
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,323 Joined: 30-March 06 From: Detroit Suburbs Member No.: 1,144 |
(IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/2thumbs.gif) enjoyed the vid
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Jan 4 2017, 04:37 PM
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#96
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Veteran Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 3,892 Joined: 3-July 04 From: Pearland, Texas Member No.: 385 |
Me, too. The quick images flashing up on the screen at the start were a little short. About the time you're enjoying the image, it was gone. Otherwise, nice work!
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Feb 1 2017, 02:52 PM
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#97
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
Pro vs Joe
(David and Goliath??) He was chasing me damn hard until he broke his really expensive car... (click HD in the lower RH corner and select 720, and then click full screen and turn the sound UP) https://vimeo.com/201979947 enjoy!! Costas cars and such... |
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Feb 1 2017, 03:27 PM
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#98
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FRRAX Owner/Admin Group: Admin Posts: 15,432 Joined: 13-February 04 From: Ohio Member No.: 196 |
Nice! That thing is a rocketship. The pilot seems to do an ok job too. lol. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)
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Feb 4 2017, 03:06 AM
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#99
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
More vid from the weekend.
R2 - chased by another tube car https://vimeo.com/202124041 R3 = chased by another (this time faster than the other one) tube car https://vimeo.com/202162461 r4 = chased by a Wolf Sports racer.... Fairly close the whole race 3 camera views!!!! https://vimeo.com/202310699 Costas cars and such... |
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Feb 14 2017, 05:43 PM
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#100
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Experienced Member Group: Advanced Members Posts: 1,038 Joined: 29-December 03 From: Texas, USA Member No.: 62 |
QUOTE (trackbird @ Feb 1 2017, 09:27 AM) Nice! That thing is a rocketship. The pilot seems to do an ok job too. lol. (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) LOL and thanks! Talked to the BMW guy a bit....they put over 350k into that car. Over TEN TIMES what I have in Scratcher. I was all... "DAMN". (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) Costas cars and such... |
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