We've put together a brief list that will help you get your race car stored properly and ready for action next season.
Preparing for storage:
With our shortened racing season in the Northeast, our cars will often sit for 6 months. If a race car is not prepared for storage properly, it will mean a lot of extra work getting it ready for the new season. Here are a few reminders to help you:
* Disconnect the battery and put it on a charger or battery tender to keep it from draining.
* To avoid flat-spotting a good pair of racing tires, put the car on jack stands or if you have a some junk rubber laying around, simply put those on instead.
* To properly store race tires, keep them out of the sun and in a climate controlled place. Sub freezing temperatures can reduce the integrity of performance and racing tires.
* Flush the cooling system of water, and replace with coolant, especially if your car is being stored in an unheated garage. A cracked head can be a very expensive way to start the season.
* Change the oil to avoid contaminants from corroding the inside of your engine.
* Fill the gas tank as full as possible. Air means moisture, which results in condensation in the gas and injection system. Before filling the tank, make sure to add a fuel stabilizer and run it for 20-30 minutes to ensure it gets distributed through the fuel system.
Safety & Maintenance
Once your car is properly stored for the winter, now comes the fun part. You know those guys you see running at the front of the pack? Their cars are probably not sitting all winter, but instead getting worn parts replaced and upgraded. A full racing season can take its toll on any car, especially ones that are 15-20 years old. That's why it's important to perform a complete inspection of the suspension, brakes, engine, and transmission components. This is necessary not only to ensure your car is as fast as it can be, but also for your own safety. We've seen dangerous failures that could have easily been prevented with a little bit of preventative maintenance.
To assist in helping you prepare your Spec Miata (or other race car) for next season, Flatout is offering our "Winter Inspection Special." We will perform a complete inspection of your car, including the following:
* Check torque on all nuts and bolts in the suspension; inspect shocks for leaking; and inspect ball joints and tie-rods.
* Check brake pads and calipers.
* Check hubs and bearings for play.
* Change the fluids; clean/replace filters; and flush the coolant system.
* Inspect drive belt and coolant hoses.
This full inspection service is only:
* $529.99 for Mobil1 engine oil, OR
* $569.99 for Joe Gibbs XP3 engine oil
(We recommend XP3 for prolonging the life of your pro-built Spec Miata motor.)
~~This does not include the cost of any parts that need to be replaced (hubs, brakes, tie rods, etc.)~~
Also available:
Performance alignment with corner balancing: $200-$250
Contact us to schedule an inspection or for more information about our other services.
