"Khalbali" (khalbali)
10/24/2015 at 14:02 • Filed to: None
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"Khalbali" (khalbali)
10/24/2015 at 14:02 • Filed to: None | 1
| 6 |
I really want to get into cheap racing next year, 24 hours of LeMons to start as there doesn’t seem to be chump car events in Colorado. I’m currently learning to be a mechanic but don’t know much yet and have no real idea where to start. What should I be looking to spend on the car itself? Any car recommendations or general tips would be greatly appreciated, and any Denver OPPOs looking for a seat I may have a couple open!
Ike
> Khalbali
10/24/2015 at 16:25 |
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I interviewed Jay Lamm (founder of the event) if you want to listen to that episode, http://untitledcarshow.podomatic.com/entry/2015-10-…
Go over to the LeMons Forum, it's a great resource. The general consensus is it will cost about 1.5-3k (depending on your gear) to get a car and yourself prepped
Needmoargarage
> Khalbali
10/24/2015 at 17:23 |
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It really comes down to how much experience and equipment you have. Can you weld? Do you have a truck/trailer to tow with? Can you swap an engine? Most of these are essential in Lemons racing. If you aren’t comfortable with these things, I think your best bet is to get involved with another team. Learning these skills along the way is possible, but not recommended for a race car.
If you decide to start your own team you will end up spending quite a bit of money and need to find teammates. For Lemons, a car (though initial purchase should be under/around $500) will often cost 3-4g minimum to build if you are unable to do all the work yourself. Paying somebody to fabricate a good roll cage will set you back a couple grand alone. Seats, tires, brakes, suspension, and all safety items add up quick. On top of all that, you will spend a bunch on tools and equipment, gas, towing, race fees, helmets, suits, etc. There’s a lot to think about, and it helps to have a team to split expenses and share experience. Hope this helps some...
Stef Schrader
> Khalbali
10/26/2015 at 12:17 |
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Oh man - I think Grumpy Cat is up there from the LeMons forums. He built this awesome old truck that won IOE and is always looking for wrenching help and drivers.
That’s where I’d start: the forums. See who’s nearby. Ask if anyone wants to hop onto a team. Go from there. TBH, I started farting around the local road courses before deciding I’d like my own LeMons car, so that’s the best way I’ve found to meet other people who won’t bork the car.
Jake Huitt - Two Alfas And A Nissan, Not A Single Running Car
> Khalbali
10/26/2015 at 20:12 |
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I’d be in. I have a truck/trailer, welding gear, driving and some mechanical experience.
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Khalbali
> Jake Huitt - Two Alfas And A Nissan, Not A Single Running Car
10/29/2015 at 01:13 |
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Cool I'll definitely keep you in mind! I'm just kinda browsing the CL over the winter while I work out the details/convince my wife. Looking at getting a tow vehicle for camping anyways, but could definitely use welding gear.
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Jake Huitt - Two Alfas And A Nissan, Not A Single Running Car
> Khalbali
10/29/2015 at 11:20 |
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And the trailer. :)
It’s only 18ft, and the tow is a 93 dakota v8. So car is about 5k lbs max. It has a 6500 towing, and 1500 trailer.
It’s a MIG, so no aluminum, but for things like body work and the roll cage, it’ll be fine. Have a decent tool set as well. For off season repairs I have the lift, engine hoist, transmission jack, stuff like that.
For the car, the only things I can think of are RWD, manual, light-ish, and a decent engine.