Dirt track racing is a type of car racing performed on clay or ground with an oval track surface. It started in the United States before World War I and became widespread during the 1920s and 1930s. Two different types of racing cars dominate - open wheel racers in the Northeast and West as well as stock cars in the South. While open-wheel racing cars are specially designed racing vehicles, stock cars (also known as twisted cars) can be either specially made racing cars or street vehicles that have been modified to varying degrees.
Dirt track racing is the most common form of auto racing in the United States. There are hundreds of local and regional racetracks across the nation; some estimates range as high as 1500. Sport is also popular in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK.
Video Dirt track racing
Racetrack
The surface of the track may consist of any soil, but most racers prefer a track with a clay base. Curation of the racetrack is a long and complicated job and requires hours of work. Usually the machines to track curation include classes, cultivators, rollers and water trucks but these vary on different ground tracks around the world. Usually tracks are rated and 'dug' after the race is over and then watered with water trucks. Maybe then broken down with a cultivator or rolled up. These steps are repeated but are repeatedly required and vary according to the climate, location and composition of the soil.
North America
Almost all tracks are oval in shape and are less than 1 mile (1.6 km) in length, most of them are ½ mile (804 m) or less. The most common increase in the US is ý mile, 3/8 mile (603 m), 1/3 mile (536 m), ¼ mile (402 m), and 1/8 mile (201 m). With longer tracks, race cars reach higher speeds of up to 160 mph (257kmh) and the interval between cars increases. This reduces the chances of a collision but increases damage and possible injury when the car broke down.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom the oval track is usually in grass with a length of 400 meters (ü mile) up to 800 meters (ý miles). The race consists of several four qualifying laps that eliminate the slower drivers. Then there is the last race featuring the fastest competitor.
Europe
In mainland Europe, long tracks can be grass, sand or cinder, and can reach 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) long.
Australia
Dirt track racing in Australia has a history dating from the 1920s and 1930s. The most oval trackways are similar to those in the United States for auto racing like sprint cars, speedcars and sedans, with most tracks generally around Ã,ü mile (402 m) up to 1/3 mile (536 m) in length. Most tracks have clay surfaces, though some use dolomite, dolomite and clay mixtures or even mixtures of sand and clay. During the 1970s and early 1980s, a small number of trails were paved with asphalt, though this phase only lasted about a decade and all the flattened traces were finally restored to the previous surface.
Maps Dirt track racing
Racing vehicles
Each racetrack or sponsoring organization has a rule book that outlines every class of racing cars that includes dimensions, engine size, equipment requirements and restrictions. Requirements for each class are usually coordinated with multiple tracks to allow the widest place available for each type of car. This coordination allows drivers to compete in many different racetracks, increasing competitors' chances of winning, and enabling racing associations to develop a series of racing events that promote fan interest.
Many tracks support two types of racing in their programs, open wheel cars and stock cars. Both types range from large and powerful V8 engines to small but still powerful four-cylinder engines. Some of the smaller open wheel racing cars have a class for a single cylinder engine. Depending on the class, the car may have wings to assist in handling at higher speeds.
Open wheel cars
Open wheel cars are generally produced with tubular frames and bodies purchased for a particular class. The wheels of this vehicle are not protected by fenders; they are open or "open".
Classes include:
- Dwarves (5/8 replicas from 1928 to 1948 coupes and sedans)
- Mod lite - motor engine 1000-1250cc (5/8 full size replicas changed but just as fast)
- Kart (go kart)
- Mini sprint - 600cc motorcycle engine. Usually use the upper wing.
- Sprint wing - 410ci, 360ci machine, or 305ci machine. Top wings help this fast and powerful race car with downforce.
- Non-wing sprint car
- Silver crown
- Midget (speedcar)
- Three quarter dwarf (TQ)
- Midgue quarters
600 and 270 micro sprints
Open wheel sanctioning bodies include:
- USAC - United States Car Club
- World of Outlaws Sprint Cars (national tour series 410ci machine)
- All Star of Champions Circuit (top 410ci touring series Midwest, mid-Atlantic, and Atlantic tour)
- National Sprint League (series 409 from Midwest Turing)
- American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) (national tour series 360ci machine)
- United Sprint Car Series (USCS) (mid-series 360ci machine tour south and south)
- MOWA (series of 410ci series Midwest machines)
- POWRI midget and mini sprint
Popular chassis manufacturers around the country for winged sprint cars are Eagle, Maxim, J & amp; J, Triple X, and GF1. There are also several engine builders who built both 410ci and 360ci machines for the sprint car team journey. Speedway engines, Kistler, Gaerte, Wesmar, Shaver, Don Ott Racing, and Fisher Racing Engine are the more popular engine builders.
Modified cars
The modified car is a hybrid of an open wheel car and stock car. This car class has the characteristics of stock car racing. The rear wheels are covered by fenders but the front wheels are left open. There is a sanctioning body that controls the rules for this class on most tracks. Every body that receives sanctions has their own set of guidelines provided in their annual rule book and registration fee. Institutions that impose sanctions include:
- Advance the Super Dirt Series Auto Parts
- IMCA (International Motorcycle Contest Association)
- UMP (United Midwestern Promoter)
- USRA (United States Race Association)
- USMTS (US Touring Modified Series)
- WISSOTA (WISSOTA Promoter Association)
- TSMA (Tri-State Modification Association)
Full-bodied car
Full-bodied cars, sometimes referred to as stock cars, are vehicles that, unlike open wheel cars, have a fender that covers all the wheels. Full-bodied cars can vary from full-tube frame frames and final models of aluminum bodies to cars manufactured by major manufacturers with certain modifications permitted for each class. There are several common types:
Non-production cars
This is a stock car made specifically for racing, usually with a welded tubular frame and a body made or purchased specifically.
The most popular type of full-body car shit is the final model. They are categorized depending on what song and series are being run. The race track dictates what type of final model is competing, but mostly falls into one of these categories:
Late model
Today, sophisticated gross models have steel tube frame frames built with aluminum bodies that give them a sleek aerodynamic look of racing cars, but there is no stock of these 2300 pounds. These cars are powered by 850 horsepower (630 kW) motors than can turn over 9,000 rpm. The engine is based on the Chevrolet V-8 power plant, Chrysler, and Ford. These cars are considered the most sophisticated cars in racing dirt. They hit speeds in excess of 100 mph (160 km/h) and glide around the corner of the ground. They are tracked on dirt tracks across the country anywhere from 1/5 to a mile.
The cost for these cars is very high. The cost for one complete end-to-end race model is about $ 70,000. There are also cheaper tools and parts that can be purchased, but staying competitive is much more expensive. To get a frame (chassis) and new parts without transmission and motor around 20,000 to 30,000 dollars depending on the quality and from which the chassis manufacturer came. Manufacturers across the country include Rocket, Sweet-Bloomquist, Club 29, Longhorn, Moyer's Victory Chassis, Black Diamond Racecars, GRT, Warriors, Barry Wright Racecars, Rayburn, MasterSbilt, RicOchet, and Swartz Race Cars. The engine for this car is about 850 horsepower and can cost up to 40,000 dollars. Motor builders include Hatfield Racing, Durham Racing Engines, Cornett Racing Engines, Gaerte Racing Engines, Clements Racing Engines, Custom Racing Engines, Vic Hill Racing Engines, and Pro Power Engines.
Most of the racing and special events series offer different motor options with the total weight of different vehicles to create a uniform game field:
- Motor is open - there is no transfer limit with this type of motor. Most open motors exceed 400 cubic inches but the 380 small blocks are also common open motors. These motors use blocks and aluminum heads and often have special welded cams. The cars that run this motor option should weigh at least 2,350 à £ (1,070 kg). Cars that use steel blocks must weigh 2300 lb.
- Motor specification of motor spec made to specification series. The motor may be steel, aluminum or a combination. Specific motors typically can not exceed 358 cubic inches (5.87 à ° L). The car that uses this motor option weighs 2,300 pounds (1,000 kg) and runs a 10 inch (250 mm) or 12 inch (300 mm) spoiler.
- All steel motors - steel and head blocks, a maximum of 362 cubic inches (5.93 L), and weigh in at 2200 or 2150 pounds depending on the series. Cars with all-steel motors must run a spoiler 10 inches (250 mm) or 12 inches (300 mm).
End model is limited
The finite end model and the final model stock have the same body rules as the very late model. The main difference in the two classes is the motor rule. Engine limitations typically include the maximum engine displacement size, required cylinder head angle, maximum compression ratio, and maximum carburetor size. The rules of suspension usually prohibit the use of expensive canister shocks. Tire options are also usually limited to certain tires such as Hoosier D55 specification tires.
Model stock late
Late model stocks have the same body rules as super late models and limited end models. This class usually has a more limited engine rule.
Typical end-line stock machine requirements:
- Chevrolet 350, Chrysler 360, Ford 351 engine. Must be all steel except intake manifold.
- The maximum displacement machine is 362 cubic inches (5.93 L).
- Machines usually can not be modified except for aftermarket carburettors, intake manifolds, and exhaust manifolds.
Many different tracks and sanctions have variations on these rules which are open late models, limited end models and late model stock.
Crate end model
The final model of the crate uses a small Chevrolet block engine that has been sealed with a special tag. Typical motors include GM 602 and GM 604 engines. Recently the CT525 GM crate has become a popular racer choice and some of Ford's motorcycles after the market has emerged in competition. The crate machine is sealed on the intake manifold, cylinder head, front cover, and oil pan with special off bolts. The crate machine shall not be altered, modified, altered in any way from the manufacturer's specifications.
The final model of the crate has three main southern tour series: Final Model Series Nesmith Chevrolet Dirt, United Crate Racing Alliance and Fastrak Crate Late Model Series.
Popular late model race series
- World of Outlaws Late Model Series
- Lucas Oil Final Model Dirt Series
- Southern All Star Racing Series (SAS)
- South/Spring Residents
- International Motorcycle Contest Association (IMCA)
- United Midwestern Promoters (UMP)
- Mid-America Race Series (MARS)
- Midwest Late Model Racing Association (MLRA)
- United Late Model Association (ULMA)
There are hundreds of additional regional and national special events that are not held throughout the year.
Main annual end model event
These cars are modified cars produced. There is a high degree of variability between modified car classes. The lowest divisions of the modified production car may actually be stock except because their interior or windshield is released. The highest division of a modified production car may have only a few genuine parts, and may be almost as fast as the ultimate race car model. Most of the cars have their glass windshield removed and their interiors stripped. The original chair may be allowed to be used in the lowest class, but the racing seats and roll cage are required to be installed in the higher divisions. Safety and other performance features are added to higher division cars. Machines in the lower division are really stock, and the higher divisions are highly modified and upgraded. Most modified production cars use full exhaust systems. The engine varies from 4 unmodified cylinders to a modified V8. Cars in the lower division use stock tires, and higher division cars use specially tailored race tires.
Common name of modified production car division:
Unmodified production car
These cars are cars driven on the road; including the original interior. Machines can be modified as allowed under different rules:
-
- Saloon
Motorcycles
Trail and grass bikes have capacities of 250, 350, 500 and in solo class and can reach speeds of up to 80 mph (130 km/h) on straight and non-brake lanes that are attached to the engine. The National Grand America dirt track championship uses motorcycles with a capacity of up to 750 cc and can reach speeds of up to 130 mph (210 km/h).
There are three sidecar classes. The continental class has a 500 cc single cylinder engine, also in the United Kingdom there are left and right sidecar engines with engines up to 1000 cc. Sailing races are some of the most exciting in Grass Track sports, with drivers and passengers working together to get the best grip and speed around the bend.
Vintage Racing
Many obsolete racing vehicles left in the granary for rusting are restored to their former glory. Recovered racing vehicles are being displayed at auto shows and sometimes running. Cars that compete in classic racing events are from the late 19th century to historic cars from a few years ago. There are more than 170 racing events in North America, and thousands of other vintage events approved by hundreds of clubs.
Racing program
Typical race programs usually involve a number of classes, and many tracks offer open wheel and stock car racing. There are various event formats.
Hot lap (warm up or exercise)
This race is 2-5 laps for the driver to understand the condition of the track and set their race car. They are in the early evening before qualifying and hot races.
Qualification
Qualifying session occurred before the start of the event. The Lucas Oil Dirt Late Model Series and World of Outlaw Late Models use a qualifying system to line up their hot race. They give each driver 2 laps of time to get their time. This system is also used to align the big crown jewel event. For most of the regional series they use a method called "pill draw." Before the race, each driver draws a number and determines where they started his hot race. Recent Scoring Transponder innovations have brought racing dirt tracks to the internet live post "live" scoring and event time (Race Monitor).
Heat racing
The initial race for each class, called a hot race, often opens the schedule. Hot races can determine the starting position of the race at the main event and usually earn season championship points. The hot races are shorter than the feature races, and not many cars race in any heat, from 8 to 12 rounds for hot races. There are many formats to qualify for feature events.
In a race in which they qualify to determine their starting position for their hot races using a "heads up" system. This system is where there is a predetermined set of cars that go to feature A of the hot race, usually above 3 or 4.
In a race in which they used a lottery to march on their hot races using a method called a graduation point. In this system, a driver receives a number of points for where they are completed, 1-59 to 2nd and so on. The lower they finish. To add points obtained by the driver to complete, the driver also gets 1.5 points for each car they pass. They will usually take the top 16 drivers with the highest number of points and line up with feature A.
There may be a semi feature in which unqualified racers can race toward the open positions remaining in the feature A event. The race is referred to as the last qualifier or feature B. Cars that do not make feature A through hot races or qualifying sessions get one another chance to pass to feature A through feature B. Long B anywhere up to about 20 rounds. Depending on how many Bs determine how many transfers to A, anywhere up to about 6 will be transferred. If the driver transfers through B, they will start behind the driver who made it through the heats/qualifying position.
In other races selected with larger cars, there may be more features of "alphabet soup" (C, D, E, F, etc.). In that case, the rider in the lower feature race will race with a certain number that progresses to the next higher feature (eg the top two in advance F to E, etc.).
Features/Main
A feature or main feature races are held for each division. The top cars of the event compete in the race. The starting position may be determined by the season point standings, or by a combination of hot/qualifying/trophy dash/semi-featured positions. This is usually the longest race in the program and depending on the distribution can range from 10 rounds to 50 rounds. Points, trophies, and often a bag are generally given, with each number determined by the final position. Event winners feature is considered the winner of the event.
Custom events
Many tracks have special events that tend to attract a larger crowd. Sometimes, a track will sponsor a "powder-puff" race to allow women to ride a race car for several rounds of races. Otherwise, women drivers can compete in the same event as the men.
Many contract tracks with National and/or Regional racing associations to schedule sanctions events. The drivers in this event earn points for ratings in series and sometimes track points. Associations also typically require a secured wallet from a trace of a sanctioned incident.
Some tracks also have "run-what-you-brung" contests usually towards the beginning of the season. The audience collects two drivers from the stands who, after signing the release, can run their private cars against each other in one or one round one round.
Dirt tracks tend to be more emergency and more flexible than asphalt sidewalks, and can be converted for use in other motor sports. For example, the Little Valley Speedway in Little Valley, New York is a half-mile dirt track that can be converted into an 8-digit track, a demolition derby hole, or a direct-drawn tractor.
Championship
Both racetracks and racing associations win the championship as determined by the guidelines of the related rule book. Awards, usually for the top ten drivers in each class, can include trophies, jackets, and amount of money.
The track championships are awarded according to points earned during the season. Certain points may be awarded for participation in the event and additional points are added depending on the finish position in each race. Points earned on one track are generally not counted for other track championships.
On NASCAR sanctioned ground tracks, drivers can compete with racers from other NASCAR tracks, both paved and dirt, for Whelen All-American Series championships across states and provinces, where the best players from the state and the provincial champions will won the national championship. The rugged old model drivers won the first NASCAR championship in 1982, and these drivers often win regional and national championships in the NASCAR league's 30-year history, which only applies to non-touring divisions.
The racing association calculates the points earned on tracks for specific sponsored races. In addition they can promote the appearance of drivers and their winners at various other events.
See also
- A.M.A. Grand National Championship
- Dirt Tracks
- List of Ostan Dirt Trails in the United States
- National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame
- List of roads oval in Australia
- Australian Speedway Hall of Fame
References
External links
- "Rough Of The Dirt Track Rider" Popular Mechanics , May 1935 p. 649-656
- Dirt Track Race Germany
Source of the article : Wikipedia