Fifth Annual Southwest Se7ens Festival autocross info

[BirkinBernie]

Hi all!

 

It's not too late! If you are planning on entering the Southwest Se7ens Festival next weekend, there is still time. I need to hear from you by Thursday because that is when we will be placing the order for the box lunches for Saturday evening.

For event and entry info, please go to:

 

http://mysite.verizon.net/bclong7/5th7fest.html

 

Our featured speaker this year, driving instructor Neal Bellamy, has provided some info regarding the lot where the autocross will be held:

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This is an asphalt lot with a gentle slope, and with a

worn sealer coat. There has been lots of traffic on

the sealer, so a lot of it is gone in many areas.

 

The surface is smooth, and does not shed debris, so no

marbles develop. The grip is decent, but less than

normal naked asphalt.

You will need a fairly soft setup. If you have

adjustable shocks, be prepared to adjust them between

runs. You will probably need to use little to no bump

in either end, a small amount of front rebound, and

likely little to no rear rebound.

If you have an adjustable front sway bar, have the

tools needed to soften it (longer moment arm). If you

have a rear sway bar, you may need to either set it at

the softest setting (for adjustable bars), or to

disconnect it entirely.

 

You will likely need to adjust your driving style to

be sure to be in control (not too fast) at corner

entry (especially for off camber turns). If you go

into a corner too fast and start pushing, it will seem

like an eternity before the front grips again and you

regain steering control.

Also, it will be important to be smooth and careful on

throttle application. Too much throttle too soon on

corner exit can also cause power on understeer. Correct that with more careful throttle application

and/or more rear shock bump setting.

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I hope we see you next weekend!

 

Bernie Long

Chairman, Southwest Se7ens Festival