Getting Started New to the fast cars and pro tracks at NASCAR Silicon Motor Speedway? Don't get intimidated! Here are the basics you need to get started, from finding your car, to getting out onto the track, to learning how a crew member can help you.

Racing

Starting the Engine -

Lift the "Start Switch" to start your engine. Make sure your engine is running at the race countdown! Step gently on the accelerator and listen for the engine. You should hear it rev up. You can also check to see if the tachometer readings change. If the needle is stuck on "0," your engine is not running.

Throttle -

Remember: You're behind the wheel of a 750 horsepower stock car. That's an awesome amount of power. To get your car going, give it plenty of gas (it has a tall first gear). Once you're moving, however, ease off the accelerator to keep the car from fishtailing.

Transmission -

If you're a speedway rookie, the system automatically sets your car to an automatic transmission, meaning you don't have to use the clutch to change gears; the car does it for you. If you want to change to a manual transmission, just ask at the Registration Desk.


The Automatic Transmission is easy to operate (see the diagram below). You don't have to use the clutch or move the stick shift at all, unless you want to put the car in reverse.

The Manual Transmission uses the traditional "H" shift pattern shown below.


The Walls -

During the race, you might find yourself facing one of the walls. Don't panic! Just shift the car into reverse and back away from the wall and back on to the track. Your crew seat passenger can help you back up safely away from oncoming traffic.

Ease onto the Track -

Stay below the white line when driving slow (less than 100 m.p.h.) to keep other cars from plowing into your rear end. When you've matched the speed of the other cars, pull onto the track.

Think SMOOTH -

Hold the steering wheel with both hands, at "10" and "2," and don't over-correct when you turn. Steer the car smoothly and consistently.

Emergency Stop -

With your safety and comfort in mind, we've equipped each race car simulator with an Emergency Stop button. If during a race, you feel the desire to stop the motion of the simulator for any reason, push the large red button located in the center dash. This immediately stops the motion of the simulator and a crew member will report to your race car and check with you. Note that even though the motion is stopped, you can still drive and finish the race.