Expert: John Quarles - 5/2/2011

Question
I always see people inserting different stats into their computers like wind speed and track temperature, but how are these stats used in dragracing? How would they help you? How do i apply the track temperature,weight, tire pressure, etc. to make my probability of winning better? Thanks so much for your help and time.

Answer
Hailey,
The answer to your question is much more complicated than most might think. At this point I will speak concerning drag racing and limit my answers to only what I know.

The variables that are input into a data management tool are numerous, and only act as a starting spot for any particular point in time.

Track temperature is directly proportional to tire traction, therefore it is directly proportional to clutch settings, transmissions and rear end gears. That means that there has to be a matrix of information developed from testing and racing.

A by-product or secondary term is vehicle weight, or more specifically how that weight is distributed about the vehicle. That can be calculated to some degree but testing always backs up computations.

As far as tire pressure is concerned, I do not think that the magnitude of the pressure actually changes from track-to-track...in drag racing. I seem to remember that Prostock cars run about 3 psi in their tires. Tire pressure variance is much more critical in circle track racing.

How do you increase your probability of winning...study everything you can get your hands on and volunteer to help someone who knows what they are doing.

This was probably not the answers you were looking for but I hope that it helps.
If you have any more questions feel free to ask.

Best Regards,
JQ