Howdy...autoxing a GT?

[vmaxjohn]

hi, I'm new to this board, but it seems there are some knowledgable folks with good experiences. I'm interested in the Elantra GT, but is this a car for some occasional autoXing? I'm not kidding myself, I've got a kid coming any day now, and I won't be modding this thing anytime soon, if I can in fact get one. I'm just wondering if I should look elsewhere for a better all around sporty car? Honestly, I'd like to get into TSD rallies, any thoughts there as well?
What are the first mods (for future reference, hehe) that are worth the cash? Thanks!<img src=/images/forums/snitz/uhh.gif width=15 height=15 border=0>


<hr noshade width=60% size=1 align=left>I need a racecar, eh

[Mechanix034]

<img src=/images/forums/snitz/thumbup.gif width=25 height=18 border=0>Man sounds to me like you'd better be forgetting about a car and concentrating on your kid!

Well, if you have to get the car anyway, you're gonna have to be realistic with yourself first: the Elantra GT will NEVER come close to what an Evolution or WRX will have to offer, not to mention the more tunable Japmobiles out there like Silvias, RX7s or even the last couple words in performance, Skyline and Supra.

All this aside, thats just on the dyno,and maybe on the strip...elsewhere, the driver counts for as much as a hot turbo setup or correct gearing,the driver is an integral part of the racing soloution, and with the right skills you will be competitive.

Start with tyres,what are others running on the course, and what works for them?Asking around in your area and hanging out with the folks who do the AutoX where you are can yeild plenty of useful tips,especially when it comes to gearing and shift and brake points on the track.Suspension setup will have much to do with how you drive the car, it WILL have to be dialed in to how you want it to be,and will doubtlessy be a major factor in what your results will be like, especially when you're looking for that last itsy bitsy iota of traction...

When it comes to the engine,it depends much on the track and how you're geared for it: will you benifit more from a quick-revving NA setup, or on-tap boost with a blower?Are any others running turbos on the course...and what kind of turbines are they using?Do they have antilag...?

Try following what the more successful competitors are doing, and tweak it round more towards how you want things to be, I wishg you all the best, and CONGRATULATIONS on the impending birth of your child!


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>Power without the skill to control it is a dangerous thing...

[vmaxjohn]

Thanks 034! This kid coming, I tell ya what! It's made me realize all the fun things there are to do, and all the things he can learn from. I'm a guitar teacher, and a few months ago got into another band! We're rehearsing once a week, playing once a month...it's crazy. I just want this kid to do lots of cool fun things in his life, and I'd like autox to be one of them. The thing is, the Elantra GT really seems to fit my needs on paper, other than being down on power....<img src=/images/forums/snitz/disapprove.gif width=15 height=15 border=0>
BUT, it's all relative, as the car doesn't weigh a heck of alot. I'm just looking for a sporty car that can haul my gear and family. Thanks for your reply!

John


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>I need a racecar, eh

[Mechanix034]

<img src=/images/forums/snitz/thumbup.gif width=25 height=18 border=0>Anytime, man! But just be sure to get the equipment you'll need to stay healthy, bucket seats, 4-point harnesses with submarine belts and of course a helmet...and you want your baby to start on this path? Getting him to start go-karting with you can be an awesome experience for the whole family,especially if your wife gets involved too(just make sure the outing didnt turn out like mine, my mom kicked my butt the first time i ever got on the karts,and my dad just ran laps around the both of us...damn all ex-Ford dirvers! lol)

Well, all the best man, and stay safe out there!


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>Power without the skill to control it is a dangerous thing...

[pucci]

Hey man, congrats on your upcoming child. Sounds like you'll be a cool papa - bands, guitars, racing cars... uh, did I mention i'm available for adoption? <img src=/images/forums/snitz/laugh.gif width=15 height=31 border=0>

I'm also interested in getting involved with auto-x and I was wondering if anyone knew of web sites w/more info on getting started...

peace


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>All go and no show...

[MarkHazard]

These should get you started:
http://www.scca.org/amateur/solo2/index.html
http://www.autocross.com/

This is probaly the best for beginners:
http://www.tirerack.com/features/solo2/handbook.htm

ENJOY!! <img src=/images/forums/snitz/cool.gif width=15 height=15 border=0>


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>

[pucci]

thanx!!<img src=/images/forums/snitz/cool.gif width=15 height=15 border=0>

[vmaxjohn]

AutoX is a total blast. Also, the folks who put on my local events are completely helpful, and even the national champ was giving me pointers! Don't hesitate, go and run, and learn as much as you can. Have fun!


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>I need a racecar, eh

[EN00]

It looks like the Elantra GT is classified in HS. It looks like stock class will work best for you. There are 8 stock classes so you will not be racing against Supra or WRX. I started autocrossing with an 87 Ford Escort. If you show up with a bone stock Elantra and not have the slowest car.
I like stock class because it keeps me from spending a lot of money on my car. The best mods you can make for stock is to get a spare set of wheels and some autocross tires (Kumho are probably the best for the money). Also look into some shocks. Start with a stock car and add those two things and you can be competitive.
I would recommend that you go to an autocross with whatever car you have and look at the different classes. If you want to do some things like a strut braces or a cold air intake you might want to look into STS. Save yourself some time and money and get a solo rule book before you buy anything.
For TSD any car will work and it's a good way to get to know the racers in your aria. Just look for somthing in your region or here


<hr width=60% noshade size=1 align=left>2001 Mellow Yellow Tiburon and friends.
Fear God and you will have nothing else to fear.

[pucci]

Excuse my ignorance, but what is STS and TSD?