02/12/2002

ENDURO TIP OF THE MONTH
by Doug Watson

Welcome to the 2002 pre-season. With racing starting down in Daytona, it is that time again when our thoughts start formulating a 2002 strategy. What kind of budget do you need and how much do you have to do to the car to get it ready. What rules have changed, or even the need to build a new car for this coming spring. Whatever your situation you must think about safety. Here is a list of some safety items you might want to consider.

1.        Racing Seat:  A racing seat is a must if you don’t want to get thrown around. The seat should be mounted to the cage. If you don’t have a cage make sure you use quality hardened bolts, nuts, and washers. Prices of racing seats vary.

2.        4-Point Cage:  A cage is a great investment. Not only can a cage save you from serious injury, but it can also lengthen the life of your car. A good cage can be bought in kit form for about $200.00 and can be reused in another car later.

3.        5-Point Harness:  Harness’s are a must for this heavy contact division. A harness combined with a racing seat will keep you firmly in place during almost all on-track incidents.

4.        Window net:  A window net is imperative in a rollover and lets face it, were talking 100 cars in most enduros. A rollover is possible and a net will keep your arms in and large foreign objects out.

5.        Hutchins Device:  This is a great Device for the racer. They’re available at oval speed for $300. If this is out of your budget you can get a foam neck brace for about $25.00.

6.        Fire Suit: I think the name says it all. If your serious about racing you shouldn’t be taking chances. Any extra time you gain in a car that’s on fire is worth any amount of money. The better rated a fire suit; the longer it withstands the flames.

7.        Fire Extinguisher: Every racecar should have a fire extinguisher especially because they are available for only $10.00.

8.        Helmet: It is obvious why we need a helmet, but make sure you have a good one (snell95 approved) and that it fits properly.

9.        Padding:  Everything you can get thrown into should be padded if possible. If you don’t have a cage the padding from the back seat works great on the drivers door, but make sure you remove all the hardware first. You should also look under the dash and or on the steering column for anything your legs could get thrown into in the event of a hard hit from the rear.

This is by no means all of the safety equipment available or that should be used, its just some basic’s you should be considering.

‘Till next month “Keep the rubber side down!”

--Questions and comments can be sent to Doug Watson at: Doug@longislandjam.com
--If you have a tip e-mail me at:  tips@longislandjam.com

Sources:  Doug Watson/LongIslandJam.com
Posted:  February 12, 2002