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			"Auto Cross is Fast Fun for All" Questions Contact  Bob Ploof, Jr.
Auto Cross Schedule
Come one, come all to Auto Cross. It is both fun and a real challenge,  but even beginners can do it! Click Here for the 2008 St. Louis Region SCCA Autocross Schedule and Event Information Please feel free to contact Bob for more information.
What is autocross? Who can do it? What kind of cars autocross? Where is autocrossing held? What do I need to autocross? What do I need to do to my car to autocross? How does one become an autocrosser? Where can I find out more about autocrossing?
What is autocross? Autocross is a basic form of motor sport racing that takes place mainly on parking lots, navigating a course made up of traffic cones. The idea is to go through the course as quickly as possible, without hitting any cones. Vehicles run against the clock, and are in classes depending on level of modification and performance. TOP
Who can do it? Anybody can autocross, so long as they have a drivers license and parental consent (if under 18). TOP
What kind of cars autocross? It is generally thought that these autocrosses are for small, nimble cars. Cars like the Mazda Miata, and Dodge Neon, but other vehicles such as Mustangs, Trans Ams, RX-7s, pickup trucks, Corvettes, and even our Impala SS'. TOP
Where is autocrossing held? Autocrosses are held at Gateway International Raceway in Madison, IL. TOP
What do I need to autocross? Drivers license and helmet. If you do not have a helmet, a few loaners are available at the event. If this is something that you plan on doing a lot, it would be suggested to purchase a helmet of your own; they are reasonably priced at about $100. TOP
What do I need to do to my car to autocross? When you go to an autocross, you will have to put your car through a tech inspection. At the tech inspection your vehicle is checked for safety reasons. They see if your tires are tight and your wheel bearings are not bad. The last thing you want is for your tire to come off in a turn and launch across the parking lot. They check that your battery is tight so that they cables don't come undone if your battery slides around. They check for proper brake fluid level, you have to be able to stop. They check for the throttle return spring, so your vehicle doesn't stay stuck in wide-open throttle. They also make sure that all loose items are out of the vehicle, including trunk. You don't want anything to ding your trunk from the inside, nor do you want a floor mat bunched up under your brake pedal, or loose items smacking you in the head during a run. They have you remove you center caps, must be a universal racing thing, for drag racing makes you do the same thing. TOP
How does one become an autocrosser? Go out and do it! Everyone has to start somewhere. If you have never done it before, don't let that bother you. Go out, ask questions, and most of all, have fun! At one time or another, the veterans had never done it before; they had to start somewhere also! TOP
Where can I find out more about autocrossing? Try St. Louis SCCA Solo II, St. Louis SCCA, and Sports Car Club of America TOP

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