Driving a car on the street and on the track are two completely different experiences. For that reason, the preparation your car needs in either scenario will also differ.

Prepare for Your First Time at the Track

If you've always fantasized about being a professional race car driver, a day at the track can get you pretty close. Sure, you may not draw the large crowds the professionals do, but you can experience the adrenaline of maneuvering your car at high speeds towards the finish line. Before doing so, however, make sure you car is adequately prepared to run in those conditions.

Prepare Your Tires

Your tires will play a major role in how your car takes on the track since they are the only contact your vehicle makes with the ground. To start, your tires should be round without any dents, bulges, or damage. It almost goes without saying that you shouldn't be racing on tires that have been patched up after a flat because they won't be able to handle the high stress conditions. You also have to be sure your tires are at the right pressure in order to make maneuvering curves a breeze. Many drivers keep their ideal pressure a secret since this can be a tricky adjustment that makes a huge difference. Finally, remove your hubcaps in order to avoid having them come off mid race and become a danger to other drivers.

Check on Your Engine

Your engine should be in good condition, meaning it can handle the high stress and strain of working at top speed. Check to be sure you have no leaks anywhere under your hood. These can be bad news for a couple of reasons. First off, leaks can leave a trail of fluid on the track, causing slippery conditions for other drivers. They can also leave your car low on essential fluids, causing damage to your engine.

Listen to Your Brakes

It goes without saying that your brakes are extremely important during a race. You'll need them to work well in order to keep you safe. This means there should be no leaks and no cracks in your brake lines. Be sure your brake fluid is topped off and that it is still running clear. Next, check that your brake pads still have plenty of life left in them since they can wear down faster during a race. For tips on how to inspect your brakes, check out this article! As you prepare your car for a day at the track, be sure to give it a synthetic oil change in Warminster using a synthetic racing oil. If you're not sure what type of oil is best for your car, contact the experts at Synthetic Oil Direct. Give them a call at (215) 834-8720 to get professional recommendations, like AMSOIL's DOMINATOR® 5W-20 Racing Oil. You can also browse their online shop to find a full range of the best AMSOIL Oil products.

Fill up on Fuel

Your car will definitely need plenty of fuel to keep it going during your races. Be sure you have plenty of fuel to make it through all the races you're participating in but don't go overboard. If your tank is too full, it can get heavy and slosh around on curves. Many opt for a high octane fuel since this tends to result in better performance on the track. Whatever you choose, just be sure it's suitable for your specific car.

Use the Right Oil

You may be tempted to use your everyday motor oil on the track, but there are actually specific racing oils you can use for maximum protection and performance. Racing oils include different additive packages that will ensure you get the best from your engine while out on the track. They include antiwear properties, extra detergents, and the much debated ZDDP. You can find synthetic racing oils in different viscosity ranges, making it easier for you to find the perfect oil. Check out AMSOIL's full range of synthetic racing oils here!

Empty Your Car

Before heading to the track, lighten your load a bit by emptying your car of all the items you don't need. Start by removing all the trash that has accumulated in your car and then move on to items you may use daily but won't need on the track. These items may include child seats, extra shoes, and dog toys. At the track you can also remove your spare tire and jack before your race. Not only will this make your car lighter, it will also prevent loose items from flying around while you're driving.

Synthetic Racing Oil in Warminster

Find the perfect synthetic racing oil for your next day at the track by contacting Synthetic Oil Direct at (215) 834-8720. You can also shop their full range of racing products in the comfort of your home by checking out their online shop.