THE SAFETY DANCE

ARBY PROVIDES SOME POINTERS FOR READYING YOUR RACE CAR FOR A TECH INSPECTION

- MARK ARBLASTER

ANY driver who has ever walked away from a wreck at the track will always be grateful for the high standard of safety equipment that the drag racing governing bodies enforce in order to keep us all safe. That’s why, depending on your drag car’s ET capabilities and the relevant class rules, you may need to get your car techinspected before you head to the track. You are not just doing it for your own safety, but also that of the track crews, the racer in the other lane, and even spectators.

After a year and a half out of racing due to car upgrades and general life challenges, I was keen to get back in the game, so it was time to get my POR440 VG Valiant tech-inspected for its return to the track.

Most of the car’s racing is done in Sydney, which is currently sanctioned by the IHRA. If you’re also in an IHRA-sanctioned area, it’s best to grab a copy of the rulebook, which you can find on the IHRA website, to find out what’s required. Yep, it sounds boring and it’s a heavy read, but if you care about getting it right the first time, it’s the way to go. Likewise for those under the auspices of ANDRA – learn the specific rules and make sure your car adheres to them. Option B is to ask a mate who’s a racer, but while they will probably get you steered in the right direction, chances are they will miss some of the fine print.

Once you feel you are good to go and have picked the class you wish to race in (generally determined by the speed of your vehicle and extent of modifications), you can reach out to a local tech inspector. These people are all listed with their contact details on the IHRA website.