Expert: Dan Liddy - 3/15/2008

Question
well i am 24 and am enlisted in the army ... i always went to the dirt track and recently came into enough money to get my own car and everything that i would need... the problem is that i am a beginner and don't know what i need and all... i mean i am decently mechanically inclined and i catch on and learn very quickly to new things.... just wanted to know if you can shoot a couple of tips my way on how to start cause i used to be in pba (power boat racing assc) and know that buying the new stuff right off the bat isn't the way to go... but anyway would appreciate the help thank you

Answer
Hi Stephen:

I'd suggest you start going to the local tracks and buying pit passes so you can get up close and personal with owners, drivers, cars, and crew. Ask a lot of questions about expenses, cars, equipment and tires. Let it be known that you're interested in getting started in the sport, and find out which association to join, probably IMCA .  While you're in the pits or paddock you might find a couple of race cars for sale. Don't buy one right away , not until you have a feel for the market and what you can afford. And let me take this time to discourage you from buying into the fastest class available . you will spend a whole lot of money showing the world what the words "really slow" mean.  Take your time, learn the ropes, and start near the bottom, it's cheaper, and a lot more fun.

Next, there's a wealth of information on the web, sit down and do a few searches, including one for race driving books. Buy the one by Bob Bondurant. Also subscribe to the magazine "Circle Track", it's LOADED with good technical information and it's about $16.00 a year, dirt cheap !!

Finally, get a few catalogs. (again a web search, try 'race car parts') from Summit Racing, Swift Bodies, Pegasus, Goodson Machine, and Hoerr Racing (HRP) This will give you some ideas about costs, and also some of what's available.

One last thought, don't EVER  get into a race car that's not equipped with a full fire system and a fuel cell that's properly protected.  I've seen way too many racers get badly burned because they didn't have what common sense would dictate. And I've been badly burned once myself, it hurts like hell !!  

That's all I can think of at this time, but I'd be happy to answer more specific questions as they arise. I don't have the last words on circle track racing, I'm a road racer kinda guy, but I'll help where I can. Fell free to write again !  

Best of luck,


Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Florida