Preparing my 944 Turbo for the Track

[mk5-fast-gti-driver]

So, I was originally going to Track my Daily Driven Car, which is a 2007 VW GTI but I have decided that I will be tracking my 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo instead. The 944 Turbo is my "Summer" Car. I don't drive it in the snow.

Before I can track the 944T, I first need to get it running properly. The engine was making a ticking/tapping sound, which led me to believe it was a problem with the hydrualic valve lifters, so I replaced all the lifters but now I just need to get the camshaft belt installed onto the cam sprocket and the timing set. I'm hoping that by replacing the hydraulic lifters, that the engine won't tick or tap anymore.

So my question is: What things could I be doing to get the 944T prepared for the Track?? (Keep in mind, this will also be a street driven car)

I'd like to improve some safety stuff, too so any opinions would be great.

Thanks.

[breakaway500]

The first step would be to make sure your car is 100% mechanically sound.Oil downs on track are not appreciated by anyone. A recent oil change,check the belts and hoses,repair any loose wiring,double check your cooling system as you will be taxing it on track.A good air and fuel filter is a plus.Don't forget a look at the spark plugs,wires etc.A well running car is a blessing
Tires are very important.They should be fresh with adequate tread and not too agressive, and certainly not some old shed sourced units that your cousins neighbors gardeners best friend happened to have laying around. Tires are the most crucial part of any cars ability to perform on track safely at any speed.Make sure they are balanced properly as well.
Brakes should be checked for proper pad thickness and the brake fluid should be flushed/bled before an event.Check you brake lines for corrosion and brake hoses for any wear or cracks.DOT4 brake fluid is a good inexpensive upgrade.The car should stop straight and not pull.
Suspension should be tight and properly aligned.Shocks should dampen properly.You will be driving at speeds not normally obtained on the street (legally..) so it's best to make sure everything is pointing in the right direction.
Driveline components should be checked for any excessive wear..clutch should be strong,transmission smooth.There should be no excessive fluid leaks from any system.Double check your wheel bearings for excessive play or roughness.
Seat belts should be checked for proper operation and have no wear.Make sure you look at both sides as your instructor is just as important to consider.
The body should be sound and all glass intact.Cracks in the windshield are not allowed.Brake lights must work.Both front windows must be able to be lowered.
Personal gear is important as well. A good fitting Snell 2000 or better helmet is required and long sleeve cotton shirt.
Read over the rules a few times to aquaint yourself with particular class requirement.Some classes have more rules than others. If the car is basically stock,the above guidelines should suffice,however it doesn't hurt to look at all the requirements for all classes.Think of it as homework.
Being properly prepared is the key to enjoying your time on track.

[brucesallen]

For 944T specific info you gotta make contact with Nick Efremow. He has run a series of 944Ts for 20 years in COM and Porsche club in Street Stock 1. A couple of years ago at Watkins Glen he finished 7 straight days with the two clubs back to back. Very reliable. efremow@ll.mit.edu

[breakaway500]

Very reliable..and FAST!