Before you hit the track again, take time to ensure your equipment is in top condition. A well-maintained car is a fast and safe car.
Safety First: Is Your Equipment Up to Date?
Your safety gear is your lifeline—don’t take it for granted. Check and replace any outdated or worn-out equipment, including:
- Seatbelts and harnesses – Inspect for fraying, wear, or expired certifications.
- Parachutes – Ensure proper deployment and repack them if needed.
- Window nets – Confirm they meet regulations and aren't weakened.
- Helmets and head restraints – Check for cracks, worn padding, or out-of-date certifications.
- Fire suppression system – Ensure it's fully charged and functional.
- Racing suit, gloves, and shoes – Look for wear, damage, or any signs of fire exposure.
Off-Season Maintenance: Keep Your Car in Peak Condition
The off-season is the perfect time for a thorough inspection and refresh of every component. Make sure to:
- Inspect and tighten every nut and bolt – Vibrations and stress from racing can loosen even the most secure fasteners.
- Change all fluids – Fresh oil, water, brake fluid, and transmission fluid keep everything running smoothly.
- Perform an engine and transmission refresh – If needed, consider a rebuild or inspection to catch potential issues before they become race-day problems.
Upgrade for Performance and Reliability
Looking for an edge over the competition? Consider these strategic upgrades:
- A new engine – More horsepower, better efficiency, or improved reliability can make all the difference.
- Better shocks – Shocks are essential for traction, stability, and consistency.
- Chassis improvements – Reinforce key areas and adjust weight distribution.
- Better data acquisition – Upgrade sensors, lap timers, and telemetry systems to fine-tune performance.
- Serviceability enhancements – Make your car easier to work on with quick-release fasteners, better access panels, and more efficient wiring.
Thinking Big? Build an Entirely New Car!
If your current setup has reached its limits, now might be the time to start fresh. Designing and building a new car allows you to incorporate everything you've learned, optimize for new rules, and push performance to the next level.
No matter how big or small your off-season projects are, every improvement adds up when it's time to race. Stay ahead of the competition by staying prepared!
Test at JS Speedshop’s Home Track
Mark your calendars for the Friday Test & Tune session at Mission Raceway Park on April 18, 2025. This event is perfect for competitors aiming to evaluate and optimize their vehicles before the weekend races.
Find Out What Your Engine Can Really Do
If you are considering more extensive testing, book a dyno session with the team at JS Powersports. Come test anything from your bracket car to your top alcohol drag car on their state of the art 5500 horsepower hub dyno.
Friday Test & Tune Sessions at Mission Raceway Park
Scheduled on select Fridays, these sessions offer racers the opportunity to fine-tune their vehicles in a controlled environment, ensuring they're race-ready for upcoming competitions.
Drag Racing at Mission Raceway Park's Titanium Strip
The Titanium Strip at Mission Raceway Park is the only NHRA-certified drag strip in British Columbia, sitting at just 25 feet above sea level—perfect conditions for getting the best performance out of any car over the 1,320 feet of asphalt.
Mission Raceway Park hosts a variety of racing events, from the NHRA National Open to the JBS Equipment ET Series and the Mopac Auto Supply Street Legals. Experience the thrill, speed, and community of drag racing at Mission Raceway Park's Titanium Strip this 2025 season!
Want to know when the fastest cars will be hitting the strip? Check out Mission Raceway’s event calendar.