How far under index?

[Randall Klein]

How about .01 OVER the index. Except for INDY and heads up, 3 under to .01 over is about the same (given that .01 over can be done in poor conditions)
Of course you have to dial the index, but you eliminate breaking out to some degree

I've had 2 races (at Topeka's wind tunnel) where my opponent could not run the index but had to dial it. Made me very nervous as they could run all out

Just another view

[HR9121]

With the exception of Indy all National events have quotas below a full field so qualifying is a non issue granted you can run the index and have enough grade points to enter. Like the others have said I wouldn't worry too much about heads up runs in your class not a very populated class like A-D/SA.

[Darrel Goheen]

Originally Posted by Freddie

my question is what should I be looking for to be able to qualify at most National events as well?

I believe the only national event you have to worry about not qualifying is the US Nationals in Indy.

[The Hawk]

If you get an entry fee paid, just worry about getting under the index. Then go from there.

[james schaechter]

Originally Posted by Freddie

I know at National events qualifying is based on how far under the index you can go, but how far under do you really need to be to be competitive?


We have done quite a bit of work to the car inclusive of all the legal and accepted chassis mods, and have it right at weight, with a beefed up rear, good axles and a gear we think is right for now. I know a 5 speed car is at a disadvantage over the automatics but this is what I have to work with and I LOVE driving the 5 speed.
.

The only people that will tell you that a stick is a disadvantage are people that race automatics or haven't raced stickshifts in many many years. The equipment in terms of clutches and transmission choices are excellent! A car can be set up to run rounds without having to dive into the bellhousing either. There are some considerations when building a stick car, especially with drivetrain, but as far as driving and winning, they are competitive and way more fun! There is not a lot of money to be had racing so you damn better have fun! LOL. Welcome!

[Ron Ortiz]

Forget the drama and heartbreak of qualifying. Go out and get a 302 FFFord, put a stick in it and you will qualify very well.

If that is not your choice, then just bust your butt with what you have and listen to people who say work on your stuff.

Or, do what you want and have fun.

Ron Ortiz
U/SA did I say have fun

[Jeff Teuton]

Fatherly advice from someone with not enough sense to quit. Run your car, lots of little things you can do without major expense. Get a golf cart. Bring beer ( or your choice). Race, have fun, take the cart, ride around , lie about how much hp you got and how your opponent is cheating, drink beer. Sleep well. Repeat as necessary.

[Jim Hanig]

Originally Posted by Jeff Teuton

Fatherly advice from someone with not enough sense to quit. Run your car, lots of little things you can do without major expense. Get a golf cart. Bring beer ( or your choice). Race, have fun, take the cart, ride around , lie about how much hp you got and how your opponent is cheating, drink beer. Sleep well. Repeat as necessary.

Truer words never spoken,

[jmcarter]

Originally Posted by Jeff Teuton

Fatherly advice from someone with not enough sense to quit. Run your car, lots of little things you can do without major expense. Get a golf cart. Bring beer ( or your choice). Race, have fun, take the cart, ride around , lie about how much hp you got and how your opponent is cheating, drink beer. Sleep well. Repeat as necessary.

And a US Nationals Wally to cap it off, not a bad way to race (and nobody is ruling you out for a repeat performance).

[HR9121]

Originally Posted by Jeff Teuton

Fatherly advice from someone with not enough sense to quit. Run your car, lots of little things you can do without major expense. Get a golf cart. Bring beer ( or your choice). Race, have fun, take the cart, ride around , lie about how much hp you got and how your opponent is cheating, drink beer. Sleep well. Repeat as necessary.

We're all glad you haven't come to your senses yet Mr Jeff! This also sounds like alot of people I know haha.