Drag racing is an intense acceleration contest that uses special tires and equipment. Drag slicks or tires help racers by providing more traction and grip for high-performance racing. Most drag tires use a soft rubber compound with little to no tread, allowing maximum surface area contact. When buying racing tires, consider tire composition, weight, and intended use.
Beyond tires, you need to ensure your vehicle remains in tip-top shape for drag racing. Repetitive races can damage your engine because the activity consistently pushes your vehicle to its limits. To help you maintain your racing vehicle, consider the following five tips.
1. Drag Racing Tire Lifespan
The lifespan of a drag racing tire depends on the tire and the number of races you play to participate in. Most manufacturers and racers say a typical racing tire can last about eight runs or 1.5 miles. That said, some premium radials can last between 90 and 120 runs.
Environmental conditions can affect the lifespan of the tires. For example, racing in extreme temperatures or leaving the vehicle parked outdoors in the open sun can lead to a rapid decline in the tire’s performance.
2. Check Wheel Alignment
Proper wheel alignment is essential to drag racing. The alignment can affect rolling resistance, camber, and weight transfer. Each issue can cause significant problems or delays in performance, shaving off precious seconds during a race.
With proper alignment, you can achieve MPH gains and reduced rolling resistance with less steering input. Also, you can distribute the load evenly across the tires with a zero-camber setting.
Ultimately, tire alignment affects performance, power, and control. Always consult a professional before a race to ensure your wheels are correctly adjusted.
3. Maintain Fluid Levels and Viscosity
As with any vehicle, from ones with an Edelbrock 1913 to those with modern fuel injection systems, fluid levels are crucial to performance, power, and operation. In drag racing, the viscosity of those fluids also matters.
A more viscous oil will create internal drag, which hinders engine performance and efficiency. Also, when the viscosity is inconsistent, the consistency of reaction times suffers. Always check the engine’s fluids before a race to ensure better performance.
4. Check Brakes
Going fast is essential in drag racing, but so is stopping quickly. Drag racing brakes allow for safe stopping at high rates of speed. The brake pads are fade-resistant, and they stick better when hot. Depending on your racing and driving habits, drag racing brake pads can last between 30,000 and 60,000 miles or more.
5. Change Oil and Air Filters
Regardless of your engine or conversion kits, such as Holly Sniper EFI, drag vehicles need frequent oil and air filter changes. Racecar oil gets dirty quickly. If left in the engine, it can become abrasive.
Air filters may also need frequent replacing. A damaged or dirty air filter restricts the amount of air getting to the engine, which leads to reduced performance and power.
Are you interested in drag racing? Converting your vehicle and maintaining it for the performance sport is a commitment. Contact a local mechanic or auto parts dealer to learn more.
