auto-x noob

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Mar 25, 2004 | 11:01 AM

doodoobrown

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From: east bay

auto-x noob

I just got my WRX wagon and I'm interested in doing some auto-x events in the bay area in the future. I have 2 questions for those that have done them

1) do you suggest that a noob w/o performance driving experience just jump in? Or do you suggest some performance driving schools first (aka driving safety courses)?

2) Mod the car 1st (suspension)? Or do a few auto-X events with it stock and then start modding?

Mar 25, 2004 | 01:45 PM

AuSTi

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Just enter an event and have a good time. See if the region has a Novice/Rookie chief who helps new people to the sport. If the region has a Street tire Novice class and you and your car are eligible, enter that class. If you are autocrossing for the first time, I wouldn't change the car. Learn what the car does and then make changes that will help you and the car. Above all else, have fun.

Mar 25, 2004 | 01:48 PM

Trvlr5

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From: Raytown MO

Car Info: 2003 WRX in World Rally Blue

I did my first event last weekend. My strategy was to sign up for one of the last heats, and then show up really early to watch the good drivers run the course to see where they braked, the line they took through the corners, etc.

When it came time for my heat, I just took it nice and easy on the first run to see if I could make it without getting lost.

After that first run (no cones, thank you very much) I turned it up a notch and that worked just fine.

AS for the mods question, I asked the experienced drivers about that too and searched the I-club, NASIOC and ClubWRX for input. The info I got from all of those sources agreed that I should get as quick as I can with the car stock, and then start to mod it.

Mar 26, 2004 | 10:20 AM

doodoobrown

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From: east bay

thanks for the info...

UGHHH - how am I going to fight the urge to mod???

Did you guys run on your RE92s?

Mar 26, 2004 | 01:14 PM

MonkeyAB

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From: How do you swap an RSTi?

Car Info: 2001 Impreza 2.5RS(Ti)

some instructors say to just beat the crap out of the RE-92's because it's easier to learn how to adjust pressures and such with them since the "window of performance" is so broad (i.e. it's a lot easier to figure out the best pressures) with the 92's as opposed to a performance tire.

Personally I did one Auto-X with them and then decided to ditch them, I guess I just thought I was ready to move on. The stock tires are great to learn on and have fun with, but you won't be competitive.

Mar 28, 2004 | 07:45 PM

wrxwagon2b

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Monkey is right... have fun with your 92's and learn how the car runs before you move on to mods. I have an 04 WRX Wagon and I am competing this year for the first time. I went to a Local SCCA sponsored Lvl 1 class and got about 10 runs with/without the instructors giving you lil advice here and there. The class was about 8 hours and it was fun.

I am gonna be running R-Compunds for my races this year. Although Im new I want to get in the mix of things the fast way and learn from there. Thats just me...

Note that when you go to an event get a Ride from some of the drivers and Watch how they drive. Try to get in a WRX so you can relate to the character of the car though. In the end you will learn something new Every Event... Ask all the questions that come to mind from tire pressure, to alignments. to what tires, Ask them all!

GL and HF out there.