Other Checks
Heat is an insidious enemy of the racer. Heat changes things slowly, making systems less effective over time without the racer necessarily becoming aware of the problem until it is too late.
"We repack the wheel bearings every week," Newton says. "Those trucks are so nose-heavy that you have to use the brakes a lot more than people really think. They do get pretty warm."
"We bleed the brake system every week," Setzer says. "We don't use brake ducting, and every time the brake fluid gets hot it's not as good the next time. I'll run a pint bottle of brake fluid through the system every week and keep new fluid in there."
Setzer also keeps a close eye on the right-side hubs. "We broke two hubs last year, one in the last race of the season," he says. "With these wide-five patterns, you've got to keep a pretty good check on the hubs."
As you race and gain more experience with your car, you will also find other items specific to your operations that need regular attention.
"We all work other full-time jobs so it takes some work," Bolick says. "Usually, it's about three nights a week. Anything you can do Monday to Friday and not have to do here at the track, it's a lot better."
Track time is always very limited, so make the most of it. And, while these aren't the only things you need to do to get to that checkered flag and collect that end-of-the-year trophy, they form a good foundation from which to tailor your operation. Even if you're not running for your track's championship, at least you can expect to run well each time you arrive at the pit gate.