HPDE Advice, Guidelines and General Rules

WHAT TO DO IN THE TWO WEEKS BEFORE THE EVENTClean your car up. Windows, paint, engine compartment. Make sure the brake fluid is fresh. The highest frequency failure we get at the track is bolied brake fluid because it was not fresh. The rain in the pacific northwest contributes to this as brake fluid absorbes water and that reduces the boling point of the fluid. Ensure that your car has a current annual inspection and you have turned it in to us or you have a hard copy to bring with you to the track.

Perform all necessary maintenance. This is not the time to defer maintenance. You are going to be driving your car at the edges of it's operating envelop and having it in tip top shape is the best way to ensure you will have a good time free from mechanical failures. This is also a good time to go through your car and remove any articles which will not be required while driving and to secure or remove items like telephones, radar detectors etc. Also make sure your battery, spare tire and jack are secured.

Although an in-car fire extinguisher is not mandatory at ORPCA events, participants should be aware that at some other Clubs events they are required. If you are planning events outside ORPCA, please familiarize yourself with the host Clubs rules.

WHAT TO BRING
Our events are held at Portland International Raceway and Oregon Raceway Park, only major events have the concession open. It may be a good idea to bring your own refreshments (water is good) and food along.

Dress comfortably for the weather. It can be cold or hot, wet or dry. It's suggested that only cotton (or natural fiber) shirts and pants are appropriate for drivers. Cotton wicks water away from the skin effectively and helps keep you cool in the hot waether. Driving gloves and comfortable rubber soled shoes are recommended. Please no high heels, sandals or heavy soled shoes or boots. You need to be able to feel the pedals through the footwear. Be sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen. For a sunny or rainey days a popup cover is a good thing to invest in. A comfortable chair is also a good thing to bring.

Something to store the stuff from your car that you want to keep dry is also a good idea. I use the plastic storage boxes or a tarpaulin that are available at most hardware and storage stores.

HELMETS ARE MANDATORY
Acceptable helmets are SNELL SA/M 2000 approved or later. DOT Helmets are not acceptable.

THE DAY OF THE EVENT
The track gates are open by 7:00am (unless otherwise noted) to prepare for the day. Sign the necessary waivers and get your registration paperwork on entering the track. Find yourself a spot in the paddock (the large paved lot). Remove all loose objects PRIOR to entering the tech inspection line. These include floor mats, bags, tool kits, radar detectors, unsecured cellular phones, makeup etc. Anything that could move around inside of the car should be removed.

Place the numbers on your car and proceed to the tech inspection line with your tech inspection form valid drivers license and your helmet.

Your car will be subjected to a tech inspection each day of the event to ensure it complies with PCA regulations. Remember, it is the responsibility of the driver to bring a track worthy car to the track.


At the track you and your car will be inspected for the following minimum participation requirements:

* Valid Driver License
* Wheels properly torqued (90ft-lb standard unless otherwise requested)
* Tires in good condition with sufficient tread for the event
* Battery securely fastened
* Brake fluid reservoir properly filled
* Brake pads at least 30-50%
* Brake lights are properly working
* Gas cap secure and seals properly
* Windows in acceptable condition with no cracks greater than 6"
* Seat belts in good condition with no cuts or frays (driver & passenger belt types must match if an instructor will be riding with you)
* Interior and trunks have no loose items including floor mats
* Convertibles require built in factory roll over protection or a fixed roll bar. If you are running open top your helmet while on your head must be below a straight edge laid from the top of the windscreen to the roll bar (known as the broomstick test)

Mechanical issues may develop as the day progresses, consequently our event officials observe all cars for the duration of the event in order to maintain the best event possible. Any existing or evolving mechanical issues including, but not limited to: fluid leaks, loose body panels, bent wheels, noise emissions over the track limit for the day or any other condition that track officials deem inappropriate or unsafe will require correction before you will be allowed to continue to participate. You are the most connected with your car. If you feel or hear anything out of the ordinary our advice it is pit immediately and check it out. Don't continue to drive your vehicle if you feel that it is not performing at 100%.

There will be no event fee credits issued for tech inspection failures or mechanical breakdowns during the event.

After completing tech go the the checkin area to complete registration and receive your wrist band and run group sticker. The wrist band should be placed on your left wrist and the run group sticker should be placed in the top driver side corner of the wind screen so as not to obstruct your view ahead.

CAR NUMBERS
Your number will be assigned just after pre-registration is completed. We strongly encourage you to bring your own numbers to the event. These should be readable from 100ft. A four inch tall or greater number with a 1 inch stroke and good contrast to it's background is the minimum we are looking for. If you have a single set of numbers for your car they should be placed on at the top center of the windscreen. If you have two sets of numbers they should be placed on the left and right rear passenger windows or doors. If you have a coupe with no rear windows the place the number on the windscreen in the center top area.

DRIVERS' MEETING
A mandatory drivers' meeting will be held prior to the first car out at which announcements will be made regarding that day's event, including track conditions, any announcements about the schedule that may be necessary, driving rules and practices. The use of flags will also be discussed. This starts around 8:30am. If you don't understand something then ask. The only poor question is the one not asked.

GASOLINE
Many of the events do not have gasoline available at the track. There are service stations close by to PIR. Be sure to have a full tank before the event.

EVENT REGULATIONS
Both you and your car must comply with the following regulations. Failure to do so will result in your disqualification from the event. Meeting these regulations does not guarantee that you will experience a safe event.

1) track operations rules:

• All participants and guests entering the event site must read, comprehend, and sign the Release and Waiver of Liability and Indemnity Agreement and put the waiver band on your left wrist before departing the signature station. If you bring a minor (a person under the age of 18) to the event you will be required to complete a minor as observer waiver for each one accompanying you.
• Your car must have passed tech inspection, have a number on it, and you must have paid your fees before being allowed on the track. We will check this at pre-grid.
• Know and obey all flags. They are explained below.
• Passing is permitted only in designated zones and only after the passing signal (point by) is received. The car being passed must allow the passing car by. Let's emphasize that there will be NO PASSING IN THE TURNS. The passing zones are clearly marked...
• A Pass must be completed prior to reaching the marked end of the passing zone. No late passing or you will be penalized.
• Slower cars must let faster cars by at the next passing zone.
• If you spin or have two or more wheels off the track you will receive a BLACK FLAG and have to report to an official at the black flag station. Always acknowledge (wave to the turn worker) the black flag so the turn worker knows you saw it.
• No passengers, other than instructors with registered participants are allowed at PCA events.
• No alcoholic beverages of any kind may be consumed by ANY person during the event. The use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited. Prescription drugs that may cause drowsiness must not be taken. You are responsible for determining whether you are fit and healthy enough to participate in the rigors of a track event.
• When driving, the driver's side and passenger's side windows must be all the way up, or all the way down. Sun roofs must be closed, convertible tops must be up and Targa tops must be on. It's advised to keep the driver's side window all of the way down so you may easily give passing signals.
• If you want an instructor to ride along with you, your vehicle must have equal seat belt restraints for both seats.
• Acceptable helmets have a SNELL SA/M 2000 or later rating in the inner liner of the helmet.
• Cabriolets require a roll bar or factory roll over protection. Your helmet must be below the roll bar - same goes for the instructor.

2) Car Technical inspection requirements

ANNUAL TECHNICAL INSPECTION is REQUIRED for all PARTICIPANTS CARS

We require an annual tech inspection at the shop of your choice. Our advice is don't wait to the last week prior to he event to have this completed. We had several people loose their registration fee due to last minute mechanical issues that were uncovered by the inspection last year. 

At the first event in 2008 we have noted that a few of you have chosen shops that are not really familiar with Motorsports or your specific automobile. This is your choice but I want to remind you that you are required to bring a track worthy vehicle to our events. A shop familiar with the stresses and wear experienced in track driving and with your specific automobile will do a better job of this inspection for you.

There are many of these shops available in the Portland area. If you are not aware of these shops your respective car club should be able to point you to a shop with the experience needed.

Download MS word format Form Here

Download PDF format form Here

NOTE: For those of you from outside the local area. if your regular HPDE program has a similar requirement and you have already had an annual inspection done, we will accept proof of this inspection as satisfying this requirement provided the items on the inspection list are generally the same. Please contact Don Clinkinbeard to gain our agreement to accept your inspection before you show up at the track.

PENALTIES
Because safety is our number one concern, the regulations reflect this concern (though we cannot guarantee a safe event). The event officials reserve the right to disqualify any participant who fails to abide by these regulations or in our judgment is operating his vehicle or behaving in an unacceptable manner. The event chair makes the final ruling, there is no appeal. Remember we are all volunteers here. A good attitude will be appreciated.
If you receive a black flag your attitude will determine the extent of the penalty if any. When you arrive at the black flag station an attitude of listening and learning and understanding will be looked on favorably. If you are argumentive or belligerent we may ask you, at our option, to sit out the rest of the run session so you can think about your attitude. If this happens twice we may ask you to leave the event for the day. Again, the event chair makes the final ruling, there is no appeal.


PASSING PROCEDURES
ORPCA allows passing at certain specific "passing zones". The end of the passing zones are marked. Passing in any other area of the track will end your event with us at our discretion. The Passing Rules will be explained in the pre-event email we send to all participants and discussed at the drivers' meeting just before the event. Additional copies of the event passing rules can be obtained in the tower.

SAFETY NOTE
In the event that your car is disabled while driving on the track, pull off the track as close to a flagging station as possible and away from the driving surface, stay in your vehicle unless it is on fire. Do not attempt to make repairs. In the event that another vehicle is stopped, do not stop to offer assistance yourself. The event officials will deal with the situation. A disabled vehicle on the driving surface that is not is a passing zone may be passed if the driver indicates to you that you should pass him or her. This is the only exception to the passing zone rule. Do not pass a moving vehicle under a yellow flag under any circumstances unless not passing will result in an immediate safety issue.

TRACK CONDITIONS
Fast Dry - Watch the line for Rubber and Oil, use the wet line if you feel slippery.

Wet - Move off of the line a full tire width or two, this will improve the available traction.

Many of the curves at PIR collect puddles of water in the apex areas. Be alert and adjust your line appropriately.

TIRE CONDITIONS
Tires - Use the factory setting prescribed by the manufacture. When on the track, tire stresses and temperature will rise dramatically. Be sure your tires are in good shape. Always check your tire pressures as soon as you can after you leave the track. Tire pressures grow with tire temperature and on the track your tire will reach temperatures that they will never achieve on the street. Any of the instructors can provide advice on tire pressures for you but it is your responsibility to keep your tires properly inflated..

BRAKES
Driver Education events place stresses on braking performance never experienced on the street. It's extremely important to make sure that your brakes are in tip-top shape!

Brake fluid can boil on a hot day, indicated by a soft pedal. Slow down and cool down until the fluid has returned to functional temperature. Exit the track as soon as possible and have the issue corrected. Brake pads can become brittle and chunk through excessive heat cycles. This is detected by vibration during hard braking. ABS systems will set up a similar vibration but they do less harm to the brakes. Complete your lap at reduced speed when the brakes vibrate and pull into the pits to inspect your pads. If you are not sure what to look for, ask a tech inspector or any of the driving instructors. You should always make sure you have any brake issues corrected before continuing to drive the vehicle.

We highly recommend that you have your braking system flushed with new, fresh brake fluid and the brake pads have sufficient material before venturing out onto the track where these components can be used to their potential. Do not install new pads just before a DE event without breaking them in properly. You are responsible for ensuring your car is ready for the track.

Brake rotors (discs) experience much higher operating temperatures as you learn to use them to their potential. Damage to your rotors can be a result of too much heat unless careful steps are taken to minimize this. Cool-down laps with minimal braking are imperative to proper brake management and will extend rotor and pad life.

After exiting the track and parking your car in your paddock space, keep your foot off the brakes as much as possible and let them cool off. When the car is parked do not set the parking brake, instead leave the car in gear. If the parking brake is applied after a run session, the pads or shoes could become welded to the brake rotor or drum.

DRIVER CONDITIONS
Listen to your body. Drink a LOT of water, don't eat excessively, and do not exceed your limits. Most experienced drivers will not stay on course for more than 20 to 25 minutes during hot days and hot laps. Body and mental fatigue can set in very quickly at a track event. The lapse of mental focus is the first sign that you are wearing down. You will notice that it becomes more difficult to execute the line through turns, and shift/brake points become erratic. Slow down for a lap or two to regain strength and focus. As in distance running or any athletic event, a short break will allow the body to rejuvenate. If, late in the day, you feel yourself drifting off of "the line" and having a harder time driving smoothly, you are probably tired and it would be a good choice to pull into the paddock and call it a day. Driving at speed is one the most cerebral and physically stressing things you will do.

Driver Skills Benchmarks/Run Group Qualifications

These are guidelines and we will generally follow these. Final decisions on run group qualifications are made by the CDI.

Novice Benchmarks (solo driver qualifications)

For those of you aspiring to become an instructor here is some guidance to what we look for:

You must clearly be an advanced driver meeting all of the above requirements. We expect you to spend at least a year in the advanced run group driving with ORPCA or BMWACA locally. Generally that will mean at least 4 events in the advanced run group. We prefer that you drive with other clubs and at other tracks also in the advanced or equivalent run groups. Good tracks for you to gain experience are Pacific Raceways in Washington, Thunderhill, Infineon and Laguna Seca Mazda Raceway in California, Spokane Raceway in Washington and Oregon Raceway Park in Oregon. All of these tracks are more technical than PIR. You will learn a lot about your driving skill by driving at these other venues. You will need to attend our annual instructors clinic to become approved and you must instruct at least twice a year at PIR with either BMWACA or ORPCA to maintain your instructor status.

A Bit about our INSTRUCTORS
Your instructors are experienced in performance driving at PIR and other tracks. Many of them have driven hundreds if not thousands of laps around the course at speeds and cornering limits above those which you will experience during your driving sessions. Your instructors will be most impressed by smooth driving and following the proper line and attending with a learning attitude..

They have been directed to attempt to keep you from getting in over your head and may ask you to slow down so that you can better follow the line. If you are not comfortable with your assigned instructor feel free to ask for a different instructor at any time--simply pull into the pit and indicate to the CDI that you'd appreciate another perspective. You instructor has the same rights as you do.

You may wish to ask an instructor to drive your car to demonstrate the techniques he or she is trying to teach to you. You can learn a lot from this experience, but are not expected to do this and should feel no obligation to do so. If you do choose to request this, the instructor is expected to drive smoothly and under control, not abusing your vehicle in any way. He or She is not obligated to drive your vehicle either and can choose not to even if you request it.

Your instructors are given track time during the day, and may agree to take you as a passenger in their vehicles. This can be a very informative and educational experience.

One last note about Instructors: It's not a good idea to scare them.

In the end you are solely responsible for driving your car on the track. You make the choices and operate the controls, your instructor can only provide guidance to help you make the decisions that should lead to correct vehicle operation.