So looks like my friends and I are going to Mason-Dixon Drag strip in Boonsboro, MD. I read up on what to expect at the strip, but I want to know what's the fastest way to launch our cars? Any advice for the strip? Thanks.
Posts: 825
Joined: 10/9/2007 From: Harrisburg PA Status: offline
The following information I copied from a post on a forum (not sure it was this forum). I'm no expert but this sounds like good advice. My apologies to the original poster for plagerizing his/her info:
Technique 1. Constant Throttle Technique. Bring the rpm up to say 2500-5500 rpm (depends on traction). When its time to leave release the clutch quickly but smoothly. Dont shock the drivetrain. Dont add any throttle. You will get some wheelspin and when you sense the car about to hook then start to roll into the throttle. The idea is to keep the wheelspeed from rising out of control but keep the front end form dropping. This is good for a 1.93 for me if the track will hold it.
Technique 2 (Advanced for slick tracks). Bring RPM to 4500. When you leave use the throttle to hold the rpm at 4500 and use the clutch to control wheelspeed and font end lift. Remember clutch controls wheelspeed and amount of force applied to the rear tires and throttle controls engine rpm. This is good for a 1.89 for me if the track will hold it. When it wont Im sometimes slipping the clutch for 30' to a 2.05. This is pretty hard on the clutch when the track is very slick but its quicker.
Technique 3 (Tacky tracks.) Bring rpm to 4500-6000 rpm and go full throttle the same time you are coming out on the clutch and just-roll slip the clutch slightly as you came out to avoid shocking the tires. When I do this correctly I get a 1.85-1.92 60'. When I dont I get 2.60. This is a all or nothing method. You either get a good 60' or blow the tires off.
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First Day at the Drag Strip - 
