Wet track - HPDE driving techniques

[opus]

Looks like this coming weekend will be wet and cold.  I got a new days of dry HPDE experience.    I heard we need to take corners even later than usual.  What are the tips for beginners driving in a wet track? 

[Brian Minkin]

# 1.  Increase tire pressure 5 or 6 pounds from what you normally use on a dry track.

#2.  If possible avoid deep puddles of standing water. 

#3.  Look/feel for traction.  A wet line is anywhere you can find traction. If the surface is worn/polished in a turn take a line that crosses the polished section rather then following the proper line for that turn in the dry. Usually this will mean later then normal turn in to cross the polished part of the turn.

Obviously your speed will be slower then on a dry track.

[catchacab]

Bring an outboard motor and a rudder!

[Darren]

Stay off the shiney s$#%

[Darren]

Brian Minkin wrote:

Obviously your speed will be slower then on a dry track.

In the turns...but not much slower on the straights!!

[George3]

opus wrote:

............... What are the tips for beginners driving in a wet track?

LISTEN to your Instructor !!

[Bill Lehman]

One important technique is to use smooth inputs with the brakes, throttle, and steering wheel.  As mentioned, the normal race line tends to be smooth and slippery.  Frequently these spots have been filled with concrete.  Avoid concrete.  At Thunderbolt I believe  the only place with concrete is the Octopus and there is not too much.  This might be a place to try a rim shot.  If you have the ability to soften your suspension, try that.  Full soft on swaybars etc.   I haven't driven Thunderbolt when it was wet but I know from watching the Grand-Am that the track puddles at the approach to turn 1.   

[George3]

 

Good advice. 

I already soften my rear anti-sway bar one notch last week.

[ninjabones]

 

[opus]

Bill Lehman wrote:

O If you have the ability to soften your suspension, try that. Full soft on swaybars etc.

I got adjustable shocks. Does that mean I should put it in softer settings?