Going to a 1/4 mile track this weekend, not sure if I'll run or not. I need tips on how to launch and what not, since I have no idea what I'm doing. I have a completely stock '95 SE auto except for the intake snorkel being removed. I'll be running on street tires, also (and not the greatest ones ). I'll also probably have the drop resistor unhooked for the track.

-What RPM should I launch at? I'm guessing not very high at all (like 2000 RPM?)
-Should I manually shift or not? At what RPM?
-etc.

Thanks in advance...

 

My best 60' times have come from launching just above idle, ie approx 1000 rpm. Its probably possible to produce a slightly quicker 1/4 by shifting manually but I haven't been able to do it and definately not consistently.

With streets just hammer it the first run and see what it does. If it breaks loose back off and try it a bit differently next time, be lighter on the throttle until you can launch without breaking the tires loose. Its really a matter of trial and error, no 2 cars will be exactly the same considering the mods and tires.

Just go with the ideal of learning and having fun. Before you pull up to the lanes go and watch a few runs and pay attention to the routine the drivers go through and if you have any questions just ask the track workers they would sooner explain it to then rather than when you pull up and try to stage with rear wheels etc. Don't laugh, its been done many times including starting off in reverse gear.

 

Do I need to attempt to warm up the tires before I race? I mean they're just street tires, I seriously doubt they'd benefit from it.

So basically I want to launch at 1000, and not really bother with manually shifting? Sounds good to me, that's actually easier. I have a tendency to push too hard when I try to manually shift and end up knocking it into drive anyway and missing 2nd gear (not a big deal obviously, but it defeats the point of manually shifting).

I'm actually going with a bunch of supercharged GM W-body guys for the weekend (GTP's, Regal GS's, etc.) They have the track pretty much to themselves for the whole afternoon and invited me to go along. They know what they're doing and they'll take care of me and help me learn.

Thanks Jime!

 

I usually do a quick spin of the tires OUTSIDE of the waterbox before my run. I launch my auto at about 1500rpms. I usually give it partial throttle (minimal wheel spin) until I can feel the wheels catching and then floor it. It really is one of those things that just takes practice....Good luck

Also I always manually shift but I have the TS ECU with an extended rev limiter.

 

Ya do what juice said, a quick spin outside the waterbox mainly to clean them off but also to heat em up a bit.

 

Alright. Sounds good to me. I may be doing some temporary weight reduction, too (stuff like removing the back seat, etc.). Not sure yet though. Thanks guys