Who has autox with a Stang.....

[tito_146]

Any of you has taken the Stang for an autocross event. I did that and though satisfied with the performance I want to see what can I do to improve the time on the track. These were my observations; when approaching a turn the front end seem loose (understeer). If brakes were applied late in the turn the abs would activate itself on the front inside tire. Which leads me to believe the front end is not planting the tires right on the pavement. At the exit of the turn oversteer was very noticeble. I was expecting this due to the high torque #'s on this engine. Oversteer was there but could be control with the throttle(sp).

My 01 is completly stock. Any advice?

[lethalchem]

I took my '03 cobra to the autocross last weekend. I had a blast. My best times were obtained by breaking earlier than I felt I should. I would get on the binders hard while till in a straight line, pushing hard till I felt the ABS throb once, then I'd let off and turn into the corner. Seemed to work well:).

[tntcbra]

There are tons of things you can do to make the car feel better autocrossing. Most of them have nothing to do with the car. I'm not harassing you as a driver, but the truth is that most (I include myself) novice autocrossers have a lot to learn.
As said above, braking hard into the turn and getting off before turning in will help. Just remember, brake into the turn, not in the turn.
The car is prone to understeer but it is aggravated by the car being upset. The brakes are great so use them!
Just get seat time and ask questions of those who run well. Every autocross that I've been too, someone was more than willing to offer driving suggestions. Also, you'll hear it said everywhere, look ahead! Until you find yourself looking 4-5 (or more) gates ahead, will you realize how much it helps you to be smooth.
Find an instructor and take them for a ride. Listen to what they have to say. Take a novice school. Then take another one.
Autocrossing is a blast and it's more fun when you can beat someone.
The first car related suggestion I'd have is to make sure your tire pressures are up. In my '96 convertible with the Comp T/As, I run the front up to 42 and the rear at 39. Of course, this is just for starters and I usually adjust somewhat. Watch your tires to see how much sidewall rolling you have. If your okay, lower a pound or two to gain traction. If the front is rolling but still is not sticking, raise the rear 1-2 pounds and see what happens.

Whatever you do, have fun!

Tim

[tntcbra]

Notice the instructor riding along in the above picture. Accept what they have to offer.

Tim

[tito_146]

No more autocrossing for a while. Have to wait until september I believe for the next event. Thanks for the advice. I'll definetly follow up on them.

Thanks. :)

[jgreathead]

If you can spend time walking the course again and again to the point that you can sit in your car with your eyes closed and run the whole thing in your mind's eye.