[quote=ColoradoXFire]HDDP,

"What do you suggest I do to prepare myself prior to showing up at an Autocross event and not looking like a fool? I know this would be a big list of things and I've bought a few books on the subject of solo racing and time trials but I know nothing replaces seat time..."

(1) Start hanging out at the local auto-X events. Most of the folks around here are really pretty friendly and supportive. We're pretty lucky in Cincy, Both the Cincinnati Sports Car Club and the SCCA stage events so there is an auto-x around here just about every other weekend.

(2) Buy your own helmet. There are "loaner" helmets at the events but they are kind of like rental shoes at a bowling alley...they tend to get pretty funky.

(3) Jump in and go for it. Start slow and smooth, concentrate on clearing the cones and leave the ESP/Traction Control "ON". Drive as fast and as smooth as you can and try to avoid triggering the "Electronic Nannies". Believe me, you'll know when it kicks in. it can be a pretty good teaching tool for a novice.

(4) Once you start getting consistent times, turn off the ESP/TC system and start pushing it a little harder. Remember, lurid tailslides and howling tires my be amusing but are seldom the FAST way around a track !

(5) Once you've begun getting the hang of it, OOOps you're hooked ! You now have a serious new money and time sucking hobby ! Soon You'll be shopping for lighter wheels, R compound DOT rated tires, trying various brake pad compounds, different shocks and jounce rebound settings, tinkering with "collision bolts" for more aggressive toe /camber settings, buying driving shoes, suit, high tech jack, pyrometer, G-meter, data logger, in-car camera and mount and on and on and on...

Welcome to the wonderful world of Grassroots Motor Sports. The tire, shock and brake pad vendors are happy to see you !

Seriously, jump in and have some fun. With a little effort and luck you'll actually become a better DRIVER !

Slim