Chicago Racing (track info inside)

[Kaffieen_Kraze]

kakolitoy,
Cool, put me down for a pair (4 tires) for the next race at HTOP then. Thanks a bunch.
Kraze

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Nexus
Walt.

i like the awards....i was just trying to post of pic of the tq/1st i got but my scanner is down.


racing and winning something is nice...even if they are little things.

hmmm can i suggest something....how about if you have several of those foam thingys you can trade for a free race day or something?

Venture has punch cards and after the 10th race/punch you get 1 free race.

just suggesting :D


That sounds a good idea!!!!!!! ;)


Hopefully HTOP and Tinley park would do the same:D


Pls punch cards sounds very cool, I hope not punch on the face I do not like wearing sunglasses :cool:

[Nexus]

If it rains Sat/sat night....will the track at Tinley be raceable on sunday?

Are there dryers you use or is it mother nature style drying? Just wondering....i'll be coming from waay north...palatine...to race.

[Rookie Solara]

Walt:

I think you should do the ChicagoRC thing when we were racing at HARPER.....around 8:00am, post a note at your www.chicagilandrc.com website and let everyone knows is that still ON or NOT.....so ppl can make their choice to come or not to come.....simple as that, and your brother should able to access the page in no time.

[mab_man20]

Im gonna try to make it down to tinley tomorrow if the weather holds up. Its supposed to rain tonight, hopefully it will dry.

[Nexus]

suburbanites...

what's a better way to go on Sunday?

294 South(east) to I-80 West to Harlem to 183rd

or

294 South(east) to 95th street east to Harlem to 183rd


thanks in advance

[Dropkicked]

Nexus,
Take 294 to 80 to Harlem.... It's probably more miles, but it's alot faster.

[chicago rc]

I come down from Palatine, DropKicked is right, take 294 to 80.

We held the Monster Jam today and it rained hard until about 11am but then the sun came out and the lot was bone dry by the end of the day, 4pm or so. If it rains again I don't know what to tell you guys but it was dry when I left there tonight.

You all missed some pretty cool off-road action. A full review of the days events will be on the web site soon. Sled pull, jumping, radar runs, all really fun!

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[SixVi6-Camaro]

yup I was there.. on the drive there it was raining like mad! we were ready to just call it off but when we got there it stoped and cleared up. It was beautifull out! the weather did stop a few other peopleI know from coming out though. :(

It was cool but my buddy's savage was plagued with glitching problems which kept both of us a bit busy. I still got to run my maxx a good bit and meet some new people. I love the track.. I'd say keep it just as it was today. I'll post a pic of my maxx that I took just after I got home. its ummm... not clean. :rolleyes:

I'm looking forward to the next one.

John

[Rookie Solara]

Just our luck (on-roader) - by www.cltv.com @ 11:09 pm SAT.

Sunday...Mostly cloudy...windy and cooler. Occasional showers. High near 60. West winds 20 to 30 mph and gusty. Chance of rain 80 percent.

[Dropkicked]

This rain is supose to die down soon. Weather channel is calling for rain tomorrow evening with the same forecast otherwise.

Everybody grab your power crystals and think positive thoughts. :D

[T-Racer]

Chicagoland RC Raceway surface drys fast has good drainage so if it does rain all night and stops the track will be suitable to drive on in about a hour after it stops and we have air blowers and brooms to clear the rest.

We will try to put on web but we will both be at the track with no internet connection my cell will be on TONY Cell 773-447-8006

[Dropkicked]

T-Racer/Walt,

If you want, call me in the morning and I'll headline the conditions on my site, or post it here, or both.

[SixVi6-Camaro]

http://home.attbi.com/~exsells/maxx_63.jpg

yeah it got a bit messy at the monster jam with huge pits of mud on the track. I love runing in mud. just soo much fun making a mess.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by SixVi6-Camaro
yeah it got a bit messy at the monster jam with huge pits of mud on the track. I love runing in mud. just soo much fun making a mess.

That was exactly the reason why I cannot go into the OFF-ROAD RC racing....too much work on cleaning the car after race, however, I raced at Tinley off-road track one thing and that was a lot of FUN, if someone decided to let me borrow his Inferno/Mugen or any off-road for racing, I won't mine to clean the car after the race (just cannot get myself to buy one...)

Wait....I do have a friend's T-maxxx here that collecting dust....

(PS)....just realized that there are 5 teams so far on the 2.4 endurance racing......good to see that is still alive

[Walt]

Tony and I just decided to give up for today, no racing at Chicagoland R/C Raceway.

80% chance of rain is bad, but on top of that, we've got sustained 40mph wind and a HIGH of 60 degrees... that's cold. Even if the track was dry for a while, we'd be misserable in that wind.

We'll also post on our web site (if I can wake my brother up out of bed to do it).

Sorry guys... mother nature is just not cooperating with us today. We've got a nice long season ahead though, and plenty of nice weekends to look forward to.

[Nexus]

No racing at Chicagoland Raceway

:mad:

Maybe the gods will be on our side and it clear up like yesterday.


If it does clear up or is just overcast Venture is open from...

SUN: DOORS AT 10AM RACE AT NOON

Venture's track is always up so even if not enough guys show to race you can still get laps in to work on set-ups.

[Walt]

We thought it might clear up, but they are calling for these 35-45mph winds all day, and only the high 50's. Even without the rain, that's just too cold/windy to be standing out there.

With any luck at all we'll have some good weather next Sunday and some great racing.

[PtCruiser2003]

Weather permitting I will be out at Hobbytown St. Charles on saturday the 17th. I got a FT T3 that i have never raced on pavement before. I have been going out to AJ's Racway in DeKalb on Saturdays cause there isnt enough people to make a bracket for Carpet racing Trucks.

[mab_man20]

While all you gas guys were stuck inside moping around and spending time with your mothers/wives (admit it youd much rather be racing! :D), Nexus and i headed over to venture and got in a few hours of great practice time and some even better back and forth racing. Hopefully the hatefull god of bad weather will go away next weekend. (except maybe on sunday....lol...j/k i plan to pull a full weekend of racing. HTOP on saturday and Tinley on sunday.)

[Nexus]

no babies yet for me...so i don't have to celebrate mother's day with my wife :P heleolol


mab...was fun running on carpet and getting good traction for a change...as opposed to outdoors :D


weather pending...i'll be racing at HTOP and Chicagoland Raceway next weekend.

a few people mentioned they might bring out their electrics next week...c'mon battery guys don't let the nitro's scare you...they aren't thaaaat fast :P j/k

can we run 5 minutes nitro vs mod electric sometime at Tinley? i'm sure it would be a pretty good race.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Nexus
can we run 5 minutes nitro vs mod electric sometime at Tinley? i'm sure it would be a pretty good race.

Sure. Once the weather is nice, we plan to start doing 'special' races after the normal racing is overwith every Sunday (well, depending on when the normal racing ends). This can be something we do.

Our first 'extra' race will probably be the 2.4 hour enduro on May 25th. Since we're running that with 4-man teams, I'm pretty sure an electric team could do pretty well, as long as you can swap batteries in under 15 minutes while your other 3 team mates are running.

[wrxdan]

Well I bought a house last Sat. Now I'm a poor boy, but a poor boy with a 2 1/2 car garage:) Just thought I would share.

Dan

[Rookie Solara]

Wow.....does EBAY is your new best friend now DAN..? Planning to sell all the RC car for ONE MONTH of a mortgage...? J/K.

Anyhow, here is a feebie from a architect, I care the less about the house....but for a 2-1/2 car garage, here is what you need.

SPACE one - your WRX with STi mod.

SPACE two - Mitsu Lancer Evolution (RED)

Space 1/2 - small micro track like mine.......

Hey, no need to thank me about SPACE DESIGN, I've got a 5 years BS degree on that specific major.....:D

[wrxdan]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Wow.....does EBAY is your new best friend now DAN..? Planning to sell all the RC car for ONE MONTH of a mortgage...? J/K.

Anyhow, here is a feebie from a architect, I care the less about the house....but for a 2-1/2 car garage, here is what you need.

SPACE one - your WRX with STi mod.

SPACE two - Mitsu Lancer Evolution (RED)

Space 1/2 - small micro track like mine.......

Hey, no need to thank me about SPACE DESIGN, I've got a 5 years BS degree on that specific major.....:D

NO RC stuff is going anywhere! I am going to finish the basement into a RC shop! And will have room for a Micro track:)

I got a BS degree in Computer Science and I'm not even using it:rolleyes:

We are going to be living near Fermi Labs, ahhh a nice dose of radiation should be healthy.

[chicago rc]

A review of the Monster Jam is now posted along with a few photos. More photos and come video is being worked on.

We need a few more teams to sign up for the 2.4 hour enduro on may 25th, stop chatting and start telling people to sign up! The team that wins this race earns serious bragging rights.

Is this the year for Team Howard? At least try to finish the race this time OK Rookie :-)

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[Rookie Solara]

Oh Chicago RC, don't start on me now, it is MONDAY, just DON'T..........

(hee hee, you knew I paid big bucks for Walt and JIM to let me team up with them.......on the other hands, I tried to BUY the first place finish this time, or should I say "COMPLETED Race" title....hee hee)

Where the heck are you at the ON-ROAD race..? NO SHOW? No NTC3? or you still those POS MUGEN can even race with us..? Come on, get a car and still your DNS/DNF season......

Oh....Friday night, I saw that exact same LAMBO (yes, the new one with the goffy Italian name Lambo) at Rivinia (yeah, try to impress my wife by listening to classical music concert so I can race RC car on Sunday.......terrible)....it is YELLOW and it is a 60 plus old guy driving like 10 mph to show off......that sounds of the engine/exhaust is something my TRD coffee can exhaust cannot match

[chicago rc]

Sorry Howard, 3 classes at grad school this term, not enough time to do everything. I don't have 20 hours a week to spend cleaning and tweaking my car like you. And what a sorry excuse for not running off-road, "It's too hard to keep it clean" you said? Put your cleaning stuff away and get in the dirt.

Seriously though I won't have a TC for a while the way things are going right now, 2 off-road vehicles are enough, I am married too you know! And that Lambo is almost as fast as my 954RR :-)

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[kakolitoy]

My younger brother and I are thinking about double header this weekend. HTOP on Saturday and Tinley on Sunday.

We are pretty sure if we race on Sunday that we will bring our 1/10 235 cars to fill in the the Super class. We are not sure if we will race our TC. If something major happens in HTOP, and we will just race our 1/10 235 cars.

In case, we race on Sunday. We will be really late, we might get there by 1 to 2 P.M. Just to be advance so you can put us in the system our frequency are:

75mhz 87

27mhz Non-us channel

I will PM you, or post in on Saturday night for confirmation on Sunday.


thanks

[Walt]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
In case, we race on Sunday. We will be really late, we might get there by 1 to 2 P.M. Just to be advance so you can put us in the system our frequency are:

75mhz 87

27mhz Non-us channel

I will PM you, or post in on Saturday night for confirmation on Sunday.


thanks

That's pretty late, but we can add people in at any time, so it shouldn't be a problem.

[HauntedMyst]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
(yeah, try to impress my wife by listening to classical music concert so I can race RC car on Sunday.......terrible)

lololololol

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by HauntedMyst
lololololol

Yeah, laught all you can......it was not even funny when I was falling asleep on the concert several times and she elbowed me everytime I fell asleep..........

Man, those are horrible concert.........the high point was the intermission with hot COFFEE and desert.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Yeah, laught all you can......it was not even funny when I was falling asleep on the concert several times and she elbowed me everytime I fell asleep..........

Man, those are horrible concert.........the high point was the intermission with hot COFFEE and desert.

That cracks me up... I end up being dragged out there 2-3 times a summer by my wife. I hate that place. We always end up sitting so far back that we can't see anything and we're just listening to speakers anyway... I suggested that we save some money by just sitting in our own back yard and listen to crap music... I even offered to point a flashlight up into a tree. For some reason, it just doesn't count unless we drive all the way to Ravinia and pay to park and pay to get in...

Next time you get dragged out there Howard, let me know. Maybe I can get one of my required trips in at the same time and we can just sit and talk about RC.

[HauntedMyst]

Rivinia is definately done best as a group endeavor. My wife like to go and make a picnic of it, which means dragging even more crap with you to sit there and listen to speakers. All in all though, it's a nice setting and beats the hell out of having to sit through an amatuer opera.

[Rookie Solara]

Oh, god, I feel MUCH BETTER, I thought I was the ONLY one that need to go thru all those CLASSICAL music training courses before touching our lovely RC car, now I know I am not alone.

Well, Ravinia was NOT that bad, as I remembered the last time I was there with my wife.........like 5-6 years ago when I was dating her at the time. Picnic, cheese, wine and candle.......lots of fun and romantic - but it was because I was dating her at that time...........

Now, she is called WIFE..........why do I need to go back there again? WHY? Classical music............they are playing something I had never heard or seen before.....I wish they can play my 3PK or NTC3 Starter box like that, at least I can stare at those thing for a while and not falling asleep.......

Oh intermission, when was the last time I had to line up 10 minutes to get a cookie with 100 of 60 plus years old grand parent...? For a cup of free coffee and some cheap cookie..........WOW, woobee............

But still, as long as she is happy, and LET me touch my RC at least 1-2 times a week, I will do anything................I have 8 more concert to go this summer at Ravinia, 6 more at Chicago Hall, (that damn place across Art Institute that will cost me $12 for parking and need to wear tie plus fancy restaurant dinner)................I just can't wait.

Again, for RC, I will sell my ass if necessary, unfortunily, not even my wife interested about my ass..........oh well.

I can tell you guys one thing........beside sleeping, the ENTIRE concert, I was thinking about the overheated problem of my NTC3 from last week.....thinking about how should I tune the RS-12 again, what foams should I run on Sat/Sun..? Do I really want to soften the front springs for both NTC3/SNRS4 for more steering..? How can I get more steering on my SNRS4 at HTOP.........? And how to catch Walt at the SNRS4 class......? At one point, I even start thinking about how to get my MICRO go faster on wednesday night race............

...............untill ONE of the violinist actually snapped his violin's wire in the middle of the piece..........that was the ONLY MOMENT I enjoyed the concert with my wife at the SAME TIME.

Never seen that before......I felt bad for him and felt I've got my money worth already.

[Walt]

Someone has to explain to me why all our wives can't get together and go to Ravina with each other while we go out and do something fun. Maybe we need to introduce all our wives to each other (I bet Brian's wife would join in too... he suggested a long time ago that the wives start a 'my husband is racing RC' social circle).

The weather is looking good for this weekend... can't wait. Although this week is not looking dry enough for us to get our off road track finished in time for our opening off road race this Saturday.. that off road track stuff is making me mad... it's so much work to get an off road track ready. On road is so easy.

[Rookie Solara]

No...Correction, WIVES does not have problem to get together and know each other....never....at least not my wife.

They just want US to be there with them.........they just want us there to "TALK" RC.....places like BORDERS are perfect for my wife, so I can read the "GARDENING DESIGN", "MODERN WOMEN", "LIFE STYLE" "IN-STYLE" "YOUNG PARENT" magazine with her while "WE" can still "TALK (only)" RC.......and she always think I am a kid when I am reading RCCA and NITRO magazine cause those are for KIDS only.

They just want us to sit next to them doing absolutely nothing....and letting us to TALK RC is a bonus already. Again, they just want us to spend time with them, but how offen we are actually doing something WITH THEM together...? Definitely reading "IN-STYLE" magazine and seeing J-Lo's new RING is NOT something I am looking forward to.

Anyhow, RAIN, please keep them coming untill weekend, but looks like we will have sunny weekend afterall...high 60s only, but NO COMPLAINTS.

[wrxdan]

What does HTOP charge to race? Is it $10 + transponder rental? I want to run but we close on are new house in July so money is tight. I love paying my lawyer $350 to spend 15min reviewing my contract:( Then paying him another $350 to spend 15 mins reviewing my selling contract. Hmmm 30min = $700. Well at least he should let me drive his BMW after that reeming.

[Nexus]

wrxdan - last week they charged $10 but no transponder fee.

from what i understand they will charge $5-6 to rent the transponder.... :(


mab...did you guys work out the kinks with the computer system at HTOP.

[PtCruiser2003]

Whats HTOP?

[mab_man20]

Dan: Your first time out we will NOT charge you to rent a transponder. They are also available to purchase for $18 in the store, or you can get the HTOP membership for $50 and get 50% off all race fees, 10% off everything in the store, and a free transponder.

Race fee is $10, $5 if you sign up for the membership.

NOTE: If on any race day we are sold out of transponders, we will not charge to rent from our set.

Nexus: yes we worked out the system as best we could. Basically we can set the number you will use all day as long as that number is not higher than the number of people in that race (i.e. if 6 people are in the heat, no one can use transponders 7-10 because the computer will not read them) We will do our best to have everyone keep the number they purchased, and they will take presidence over those who are renting. If you bought a transponder it will not be necessary to change every heat, only if their is a conflict in the main.


HTOP stands for HobbyTown USA in Oak Park.

I hope to see most of you at the track!!

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by mab_man20
Dan: Your first time out we will NOT charge you to rent a transponder. They are also available to purchase for $18 in the store, or you can get the HTOP membership for $50 and get 50% off all race fees, 10% off everything in the store, and a free transponder.

Race fee is $10, $5 if you sign up for the membership.

NOTE: If on any race day we are sold out of transponders, we will not charge to rent from our set.

Nexus: yes we worked out the system as best we could. Basically we can set the number you will use all day as long as that number is not higher than the number of people in that race (i.e. if 6 people are in the heat, no one can use transponders 7-10 because the computer will not read them) We will do our best to have everyone keep the number they purchased, and they will take presidence over those who are renting. If you bought a transponder it will not be necessary to change every heat, only if their is a conflict in the main.


HTOP stands for HobbyTown USA in Oak Park.

I hope to see most of you at the track!!


Are you going to have the crystals ready?

I mean we do not have to take it off from another transponder. Our transponder is already mounted in the car and easily be reach to change the crystals.

What kind of KO system are you running again?

Is that the first TD1 system?

I just ordered some transponders for TD1 I want to make sure its compatible. I ordered the second generation, and Robert (team KO Japan) said that I might have to check the system. I ordered a few.

PLs. let me know so I can return the transponsders if it will not work. It takes about another week to send and get it back.

[T-Racer]

Racers

I just recieved 15 personal transponders for ab system. The cost will be $60. i will have them at the track Chicagoland R/C Raceway on Sunday. Howard was a no show on Weds Micro race night. He had to take his wife to concert or something :D LOL.
New fast track and everyone had a great time. See everyone on Sunday

T-Racer

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by T-Racer
Racers

I just recieved 15 personal transponders for ab system. The cost will be $60. i will have them at the track Chicagoland R/C Raceway on Sunday. Howard was a no show on Weds Micro race night. He had to take his wife to concert or something :D LOL.
New fast track and everyone had a great time. See everyone on Sunday

T-Racer .

Does AMB personal transponder needs power from the receiver?

I saw a few rechargeble one, but I think you have to order the whole set.

[T-Racer]

Yes

You plug the P transponder in third channel of you radio.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by T-Racer
Yes

You plug the P transponder in third channel of you radio.

Sir T racer

you got pm


or email from me. Pls reply soon


BTW: My tires arrived in the U.S. yesterday and the Beure of Costums have it. Hopefully, they will realease it today so I can bring it on Saturday and Sunday.


Hope to see you too on Sunday

[Walt]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
.

Does AMB personal transponder needs power from the receiver?

I saw a few rechargeble one, but I think you have to order the whole set.

You can order individual rechargable AMB transponders, but they are considerably more expensive (at least $75 compared to $60 for the direct powered units), plus they are bigger and heavier. Also, you'd have to figure out a way to charge them since you certainly wouldn't want to purchase their charging rack capable of holding 20 units.

I'd stick with the direct powered, 'personal' transponders.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Walt
You can order individual rechargable AMB transponders, but they are considerably more expensive (at least $75 compared to $60 for the direct powered units), plus they are bigger and heavier. Also, you'd have to figure out a way to charge them since you certainly wouldn't want to purchase their charging rack capable of holding 20 units.

I'd stick with the direct powered, 'personal' transponders.


I am not sure I might be wrong, I saw an Italian driver using the rechargable transponder and he has 2 slot charger for his personal transponder. I will find out today to confirm it and research which will be the best to have.

Thanks for the feedback,I will keep that in mind. I do not mind spending few more dollars if the rechargable have better performance than the wired one.

[Walt]

I don't know how the 'performance' can be any better for the rechargeable ones. The working electrical innards are identical. The rechargeable ones just add the battery and charger (that's right... the charger is inside the rechargeable ones... the charging rack simply supplies a constant voltage to the transponder). The performance on the track of the two types is identical, only the rechargable ones are heavier and bigger because of the battery and recharging circuitry.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Walt
I don't know how the 'performance' can be any better for the rechargeable ones. The working electrical innards are identical. The rechargeable ones just add the battery and charger (that's right... the charger is inside the rechargeable ones... the charging rack simply supplies a constant voltage to the transponder). The performance on the track of the two types is identical, only the rechargable ones are heavier and bigger because of the battery and recharging circuitry.

That's good to hear in performance. I am also concerned on the electrical wirings. In my opinoin, wireless would be better in the cars that we drive. The tranponder mounting on the 235 mm and 8th scale were on the throttle servo and the 235 receiver is on the other side of the car. I just prefer not much wirings to reduce the risk of problems that may cause in case of collision.

Another advantage of the rechargeble transponder, it does not need power from the receiver pack. We run digital servos in most of our cars and digital servos are power eater. They really drain my receiver pack. Especially the 750 mah that is recommended for our cars. I know transponder does not need a lot of volts, but I rather use the power of my battery for the servos to keep our cars safe at all times.

[Walt]

Good reasons I guess, but I think that with a little thought, the wiring can be a non-issue, and if you're going to carry around extra weight anyway with the rechargable transponder, why not just carry around a larger receiver pack in the first place?

But, as far as we're concerned, you can have either in your car and our scoring system will treat it exactly the same. We have absolutely no problem with you purchasing rechargeable transponders to use as personal transponders.

In fact, I think the best reason to get a rechargeable one for yourself is if you want to run several cars at our track on a given day and don't want to buy several of the direct power units. It might be easier to tranfer a single rechargeable transponder between your cars on a given day then to tranfer around a rechargeable one, and it's cheaper than buying several of the direct power units (which, of course, is the most expensive but easiest solution).

[kakolitoy]

I have to research and think it over the Advantages and Disadvantages on both personal transponders. Then, purchase the one that is suitable and satisfactory for our use. Either way it will work on your system.

Anyway, thanks for your opnion.


BTW: Did you notice I cut down on my shortcuts such as u to you, and w/ for with etc. I always editing everytime I have a reply from you for Easier to understand and Quick replies. I am just used to text messaging Welcome to the new era :)

[Rookie Solara]

T-racer.........I heard last night was a great turnout and great track layout....? Yeah, I have to work last night, continoue education garbage and Village Public hearing tonight.....FUN FUN FUN....still, I prefer doing work instead of another continoue education at Ravinia Concerto #5..........:D

See you guys on SUNDAY, I hope, if there are no Concerto #6.

[Kaffieen_Kraze]

How is everyone doing?
Just trying to get a feel for how many people are going to be at HTOP this Saturday. I'm really excited, as this will be the first time I've gotten to race in about one and 1/2 months. Both myself and my GF will be there racing, and hope to see you all. Oh and if anyone is looking for 1/10 bodies please let me know. I've been on a painting kick lately, and I have a bunch that I'm looking to get rid of for cheap...

I could also use some of your expert tuning help, both of our cars seem to be bogging down when I punch the throttle. I believe that I need to adjust the low end needle, but still not quite sure. If anyone has any input or ideas please let me know. Oh by the way, I have a fairly new (1 season old) HPI .12 SS, and my GF has the stock motor, the .15FE I think.

Thanks for any help, and see you all on Saturday.
Kraze

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by Kaffieen_Kraze
How is everyone doing?
I could also use some of your expert tuning help, both of our cars seem to be bogging down when I punch the throttle. I believe that I need to adjust the low end needle, but still not quite sure. If anyone has any input or ideas please let me know. Oh by the way, I have a fairly new (1 season old) HPI .12 SS, and my GF has the stock motor, the .15FE I think.

Thanks for any help, and see you all on Saturday.
Kraze

OK....my rate is $105 per hour (really) and since I want you to be my client and use my service, I will throw you a freebie for now..

Your high end (not low-end) is too lean, you might be even 1-2 turns TOO LEAN.....counterclockwise turn the high end needle 1/8 of even 1/4 at a time untill when you WOT the car are running without bogging and have plenty of smoke/oil coming out from the pipe...then you can lean it back just a hair for more high speed.

About your low-end........we need to actually RUN the car on the track to find out, and the $105 per hour will start from that minute(just kidding man)

I will be there along with Serpent_Hk i think......

[Walt]

Rookie: Do you know yet if you'll be at Tinley on Sunday?

Some guys from St. Louis just e-mailed me and said they want to drive up on Sunday to race with us, but they said to make their trip worth while they want to run a 30 minute main. I said that I can't promis a 30 minute main yet because some people are still getting used to a 10 minute main, but I was thinking about running an 'extra' main, after the normal mains are done, for people who want to stick around and do a little more racing, and we can run it for 30 minutes.

I'm also trying to get these guys to come on the Enduro day... that would make their long drive worth it.

Speaking of the enduro, we need more people to sign up or Brian is going to have to cancel the trophies and stuff.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by wrxdan
What does HTOP charge to race? Is it $10 + transponder rental? I want to run but we close on are new house in July so money is tight. I love paying my lawyer $350 to spend 15min reviewing my contract:( Then paying him another $350 to spend 15 mins reviewing my selling contract. Hmmm 30min = $700. Well at least he should let me drive his BMW after that reeming.

You want better lawyer? Mine charged me the same for 2 houses....so you are not that bad. Our office are covered by 10 different attorney firms......NONE of them drive Bimmer (to work), but I am sure they all have BIMMER at home, they told me they don't want their client think they ar e loaded........(right).

About the fee of racing.....you can do this...

SELL your WRX and get yourself a Yugo GLX (if you can find one)..then you can use those $$$ to race at least 3-4 years.

P.S....your lawyer didn't let you drive his bimmer after you paid him $700...? May be next time you can let him drive your WRX and call it even on the contract fee...........:D

[Dropkicked]

Walt,

I don't know what class your out of town guys are planning on running, but one of my guys and myself are racing super nitro. As well as Honda in his monster truck with a TC body I'm sure.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
Walt,

I don't know what class your out of town guys are planning on running, but one of my guys and myself are racing super nitro. As well as Honda in his monster truck with a TC body I'm sure.

What happened to your Super two weeks ago? I can't remember. My brother lost the front belt... I fixed that for him yesterday and found out why. I don't think he ever cleaned the belt cogs (pulleys.. whatever you want to call them). The small one that runs the front belt had so much stuff stuck in it that you could hardly see the 'teeth' any more and the belt could basically just walk right off the side. (and you thought my car was dirty Howard).

We might have a couple of guys running in the 'super' class this Sunday with 1/8th scale cars too... that should be interesting.

I put a 2-speed back into mine... every time I do that I end up taking it right back out, but this time I did the AE 2-shoe 2-speed conversion, so maybe I'll like that more than the HPI 'finger' 2-speed I've tried in the past.

[Rookie Solara]

Walt....so you finally believe JESUS and install the AE 2-shoes on the 2-speed...? Trust me, that is your final answer of your HPI frustration tour.......however, still, I have no definite answer from HPI stating that the AE shoes are LEGAL for challenge.

About the 30 minutes race, I am OK with that, as long as I am qualified to be on that main, and as long as I have TIRES left after the 3 heats and 10 minutes main.......of course, thats all depends on the time and my cars too.....but you can count me in.

Again, this SUNDAY is more SNRS4 for me......since I have the new engine for her and I can finally stretch the leg of her with full power due to the bigger track......so get ready to kick some IMPACT butt or monster truck butt (actually, I would rather let HONDA pass me, cause my RS4 is no competition with that if accident happen).

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Walt
What happened to your Super two weeks ago? I can't remember. My brother lost the front belt... I fixed that for him yesterday and found out why. I don't think he ever cleaned the belt cogs (pulleys.. whatever you want to call them). The small one that runs the front belt had so much stuff stuck in it that you could hardly see the 'teeth' any more and the belt could basically just walk right off the side. (and you thought my car was dirty Howard).

We might have a couple of guys running in the 'super' class this Sunday with 1/8th scale cars too... that should be interesting.

I put a 2-speed back into mine... every time I do that I end up taking it right back out, but this time I did the AE 2-shoe 2-speed conversion, so maybe I'll like that more than the HPI 'finger' 2-speed I've tried in the past.


PLs. be clear so at least we know what to bring on Sunday. Two days ago I was not even sure about Sunday. Now you are making us thirsty to run our impacts and 8th scale. I know it will be hard for us to race on a Sunday, but if you are planning to extend this Sunday 90% we might be there.

Are you sure 2 8th scale will be there. I just broken in a NIB .21 MS. I really want to see the power on the track. Hopefully, my gears would not break so we can finish a hour main.

PLs. clarify so we can start setting up our 8th scale today.

[Dropkicked]

Walt,

I was making repairs after every race. First time the car was ever on a track, so I found things that needed repair real fast. In the third race I broke right at the beginning, and took about 2 minutes to fix, overheated right after I got it back onthe track. I just called it a day at that point. I did a 50% or so plastics rebuild, new pipe, 125cc tank, and a few other things so I should be good this week as long as the engine holds up. It's acting like it's got airleaks. I've got a box on the way from wolfpack, so I'll also be running the associated 2 speed hopefully. I was running first gear only last time (13-44). I've had nothing but problems with the HPI 2 speed. I'm hoping to at least finish every race this sunday. I'm still new to on road, so it's gonna take some time to get use to everything.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
PLs. be clear so at least we know what to bring on Sunday. Two days ago I was not even sure about Sunday. Now you are making us thirsty to run our impacts and 8th scale. I know it will be hard for us to race on a Sunday, but if you are planning to extend this Sunday 90% we might be there.

Are you sure 2 8th scale will be there. I just broken in a NIB .21 MS. I really want to see the power on the track. Hopefully, my gears would not break so we can finish a hour main.

PLs. clarify so we can start setting up our 8th scale today.

Kakolitoy....I think Walt was referring those 1/8th are you guys...if there are enough 1/8th, you guys will form your own class, if not, you guys are racing with us and IMPACT (now, you need to pick either IMPACT or Vectors)....

But I think IMPACT for you guys should be safe cause I don't see any 1/8th 2 weeks ago........

[kakolitoy]

Good thing you let me know, because we were about to pass Sat. @ HTOP. We were about to use the Saturday to set up our 8th scale for Sunday. We have not touch our 8th scale for a while. Setting it up the way we want it takes a little bit notetaking especially @ Tinley park. Great, that was a little bit rush because .21 motors takes a lot of time to have a proper break in. Even 4 tanks of 125 cc The compression is still very very tight, compared to .12 motors. Whooh! That was a relief.

Walt, I am sorry. I did not read the whole thing. When I saw 8th scale I started thinking about our cars. We need to refresh our 8th scale driving before we hit the track again. Or else we will just have a bad day in the track. I reread it and understood it.

[wrxdan]

I'm running HTOP this Sat. Does anyone have any extra space on their table? I have a chair but my friend is using my table for a garage sale, nice planning on my part:rolleyes:

What time does setup start at HTOP?

Dan

[Nexus]

wrx....HTOP setup starts about 9am...i think.

Mab...i believe kitt, rutt, trak, euge, and i will all be at HTOP running eletric TC...should be some really good racing! bring on the Nitro challenge this Sat heleololol



what's this 30 minutes main thing? :P nice for Nitro A Mainers...not nice if you run electric and would have to marshall for 30 minutes :(


I think it would be an interesting race but would rather see it run after then regular mains....just my opinion.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Walt....so you finally believe JESUS and install the AE 2-shoes on the 2-speed...? Trust me, that is your final answer of your HPI frustration tour.......however, still, I have no definite answer from HPI stating that the AE shoes are LEGAL for challenge.

Doesn't matter... I've been in 5 A-mains at HPI Challenge races and have yet to see a single person in the A running a 2-speed. They don't set up large tracks, and they don't prepare the surface and they require HPI rubber tires, so you won't be needing a 2-speed most likely. I plan to pull mine out for the Challenge race unless they really surprise us with a big track.

A 2-speed is always going to pose some reliability issue, so if it's not needed, I remove it. Plus, I like the feel of the car with a little engine braking getting into the turns... I know some will say that a drag brake can be set with a 2-speed to do the same thing, but I don't agree... an engine automatically gives you more braking at higher speeds and less as you slow down, while a fixed drag brake tends to do the opposite. I like the feel of actual engine braking a lot better.

[Walt]

Kak: yes, I was refering to you coming out late, but there is a chance that the guys that bought cars from you could be there... I saw them last Friday and they had their 1/8th scale cars with them and looked ready to go, but I didn't ask them if they were going to run this weekend. Even if they did show up, and you guys showed up, I think there would only be one 'large car' class, not two.

Nexus: We would not make the electric guys marshal a 30 minute main after only running 4 or 5 minutes themselves. In fact, we usually run the electric guys first, so they can leave once they are done marshalling the race just after them if they want. Besides, no one is saying you can't pick up a nitro car and join in the long-race fun for the summer:D

We have had some nitro guys complain though about the same thing, and some have said why should only the 10 fastest guys get to run longer... they paid the same entry fee. It's something we'll have to think about, but it does give more incentive to get into the A-main, and it is common practice, and generally only the guys in the A-main are really ready and willing to run longer anyways.

We'll probably come up with some rule like "as long as there are at least 20 racers in a single class, the A-main will be packed with 10 racers, and that race will be 30 minutes in length." That way, we don't have to watch 3 T-maxx's going around the track for 30 minutes one day.

Fact is, we're making this up as we go to try to make the most people happy. I still like the idea of running an extra race for those that want/can stick around a little longer, but we'll have to see if everyone else likes that idea.

wrxdan: At Tinley, we supply nice big plastic tables if you don't have one of your own:D

The weather is looking great this weekend... if I can find a baby-sitter for Saturday, I just might race both days myself.

[kakolitoy]

My European shipment arrived last night 6:30 p.m. Just to let you guys know I am still waiting for my Asia shipment. It should be here today. I Know its been in the costums for 2 days. I hope they release it so I can bring them tommorrow. At least you can get to try them tommorrow and give me a feedback on those tires. I even asked my GF to stay home and wait for the package tommorrow. Soon as it gets here she will bring it all in the track. I am sorry for the delayed. Usually, my Asia shipment comes here quick and fast and my European takes about 1 to 2 weeks.

The tires that you guys ordered are in my Asia shipment. Most tires in my European shipment were for my 235 cars and 8th scale tires. I do have 10 TC tires, but there only 10 pairs. 6 pairs were taken by my tire monster brother.


Brands were: Ellagi, Enneti, and Ufra (swiss made)

[kakolitoy]

This is a Ufra tires that were made in Switzeralnd and used by most European drivers. The rims are the exact same thing as the Ellegi or the 705 stock tires (diffent in colors this came w/ white). if you like the Ellegi you might like this tires too. I picked this tires to run it in Tinley because these tires were run in European TC. Rain or Shine they will race. Tinley is kind of slippery so I decided to run them.

Great thing about Ellegi stock 705 that came w/ the kit. The tires were trued already. The Ufra you have to true them. If you do not have a truer, I suggest to run your car 2 tanks the day before the race. I am not going to carry Ellegi stock from 705 because Serpent does not want to sell them from anybody else. Also, they charging more money for their tires because it trued (B.S. I can true it for free). Actually, serpent have a on line shop now direct to FL. I have been running this tires all days, so i can properly brake in my sx12 MS 5 pt. I have nothing say just its about the same as the stock 705 tires.

If you want to try them let me know, If I ran out of stock Tracer should have the stock because he will carry this for me.

thanks

[Rookie Solara]

Say no more.........

SATUARDAY - SUNNY..........HIGH - HIGH 60s, NO RAIN and NO 40 mph winds.

SUNDAY - Partly SUNNY, even better..........HIGH - LOW 70s, NO RAIN and NO 40 plus winds as well....

MONDAY - EVEN BETTER and BETTER................HIGH - 80s. no rain.
......................but need to work.:mad:

[wrxdan]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Say no more.........

SATUARDAY - SUNNY..........HIGH - HIGH 60s, NO RAIN and NO 40 mph winds.

SUNDAY - Partly SUNNY, even better..........HIGH - LOW 70s, NO RAIN and NO 40 plus winds as well....

MONDAY - EVEN BETTER and BETTER................HIGH - 80s. no rain.
......................but need to work.:mad:

Howard....Howard....working is a privilege, so you don't "need" to work:)

[kakolitoy]

Might have enough people to run 8th scale class. Hopefully, Mark, Don, and Phil can set their cars for Sunday. WE will not run Tc. Just 8th scale and 235 mm cars. Another guy that race in Racine that drives a proceed will definitely come.

Hopefully, the 2 guys that brought their 8th scale the first race will be there.

[Dropkicked]

Oh man.....

I wish I would have realized somebody was getting 1:8 scale tires in. I just paid out the nose at leisure today.

How much are you selling the Ellegis for?

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
Oh man.....

I wish I would have realized somebody was getting 1:8 scale tires in. I just paid out the nose at leisure today.

How much are you selling the Ellegis for?

I am not selling 8th scale and 235 tires right now. I have not think about it. People were just asking me for tc tires and that is the one I am selling. Those are my stock tires. I am selling the TC tires only.

How many sets do u need? so next time I order from my source I will order extra for you. Also, How much does it usually cost in a Local shop?

Also, what shore?

I know we will be there Sunday you can just tell me on Sunday.

[Dropkicked]

I think I paid 27 for fronts, and 27 for rears. 35 shore all around, the Ellegi standard tires.

BTW, anyone need a brand spankin new Hudy 1:8 Tire Truer Arbor? My buddy forgot to bring his today so I ended up having to buy one just to get the tires trued. I don't have a real need for it though. $30, and I can bring it to Tinley if someone wants it sunday. I paid $36 with tax. :(

[Dropkicked]

I'm sorry, $27 for the fronts, and $37 for the rears.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
I'm sorry, $27 for the fronts, and $37 for the rears.

I thnk I can give you a lower price than that.

How many do u need again?

I will let you know on Monday. I cannot order on the weekends just weekdays.

Are you running a 8th scale or Wolfpack modified super nitro?

[Dropkicked]

It's a wolfpacked Super. I'm not going to need them very soon I don't think. I'm sure I'll get alot of miles out of a single set. Would just be nice to know for future reference.

Thanks

[kakolitoy]

If not, come join us tommorrow @ HTOP. Run your wolfpack and we will run just our 235 cars.

Its very tight in that track, but its still fun. :)

[Dropkicked]

hmmm, I thought I replied to this hours ago, but, oops.

I can't make HTOP tomorrow. Actually I'll be lucky if I make it out there once or twice all summer. I can pull off the 1 race day per weekend, but not 2. I know the wife will say it's fine, but I'd feel guilty.

[Euge]

Great job running a great program, mabman (I can't remember the name of the other guy helping run it). It was my first time racing at HTOP and had a great time. I'll definitely be back out to Oak Park in the future. The motocross style starts are definitely exciting, albeit a little chaotic. But it's good practice for starts in the main.

(thanks for letting me win, too!)

[xxx mike]

A good time at Tinley too. I am sunburned really bad, but had a fun race day anyway. As always, the program went along at a good pace - big track, 3 quals, good competition and some nice weather.

I heard the computer calling out to "nexus" as one of the electric guys, and I saw the super nitro with 1/8th foams (dropkicked)?? So I think I might be starting to match some faces to these online names. Who else was out there that I was not aware of? It's not a big deal, but it would be nice just to know who is who from the board to the track.

I was the one with the Terrance & Phillip NTC3, if you were not already aware.

Huge thanks to Walt and Tony for making that track a reality. Without a good sized, local touring car track, I don't know if I'd even be racing anymore. It's great what you have set up, and I really am happy with it.

[Dropkicked]

sunburn? I look like I took a nap in the microwave (with a t-shirt and hat on). Yep that was my POS. Second time out was definitely better than the first. I finished 3 (including the main) out of 4, with only a couple broken parts all day. After last time I probably would have been better buying a new kit. I actually got to relax between races for the most part. :)

[wrxdan]

Great race on Sat. I had a lot of fun. Special thanks to the race organizers!

Dan

[Walt]

I just e-mailed all the race results from Sunday (Tinley) to my brother the web master to put on the site. Should be up there soon. The results from Friday's NASCAR race will be up also. If any of you guys are looking to try something new, come on out to one of our RCNASCAR races on Friday nights and check it out. We set up a 'not too big' track under the lights and run oval with real NASCAR paint schemes and bodies, with rubber HPI slicks. We run a 45 minute qualifying period, where we are only looking for your fastest single lap to grid for the main, which is 30 minutes in length. Everyone who participated in our first race had a great time.

Speaking of sun burn, I got it really bad too. What makes me mad about that is that I just bought a brand new bottle of SPF 45 sun block, and I still got burned. I think that my new sun block might be defective. I know I burn bad, which is why I put the 45 on my neck and face and wear a long sleeved shirt to the races... I hate sun burn.

For those that wanted to stick around after the normal races yesterday at Tinley, we ran an extra 30 minute mini-enduro that was a lot of fun. Even several of the electric guys teamed up and ran 'tag team style' in the enduo (and did quite well I might add).

We hope to do some extra races like that after the normal races once in a while.

Remember, after next Sunday's race is the big 2.4 hour enduro. Sign up if you haven't already.

[Nexus]

HTOP was fun...

euge:
(i let you win)...you couldn't catch my TC3 in the main...until my front steering carrier broke :P heleololheol

xxx mike:
sunburn? i'm already brown helolol i was running the blue/white electric TC3...i marshalled your car when your body clip fell out and you had the front end sticking up....i think i met you and your brother...doesn't he run the RTR NTC3?

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by wrxdan
Great race on Sat. I had a lot of fun. Special thanks to the race organizers!

Dan

Dan, I remembered you told me you replaced the rubber O-ring underneath the carb of your MT-12....where did you get that? Al's...and do you know the parts # of that..?

I can't seems to find the "JUST" O-ring parts....unless the 2637 parts from Serpent that I have to buy the entire CARB repairment kits....which 90% of the stuff that I don't need.

For others, if I think I have some air leak underneath the carb, beside replacing the rubber O-ring, what else can I do..? I know someone told me to use liquid seal, but what EXACTLY am I suppose to use.....? Lock Tight..? Silcone sealant..?

Thanks a million........

[Walt]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
For others, if I think I have some air leak underneath the carb, beside replacing the rubber O-ring, what else can I do..? I know someone told me to use liquid seal, but what EXACTLY am I suppose to use.....? Lock Tight..? Silcone sealant..?

Thanks a million........

You can use regular 'automotive' RTV (room temperature vulcanizing silicone). They say to use the stuff that says 'oxygen sensor safe', but I can't remember why... I can't think of anything in an RC engine that would be affected by 'normal' RTV... no sensitive electronic sensors in these engines, but whatever.. most RTV silicone sealants are labeled O2 sensor save anyway.

Put a little bead of the stuff at the top of the opening for the carb (on the engine) before you put the carb on. Then, when you push the carb down into that hole, when it makes contact with the housing it will squeeze out the RTV and form a good seal. Clean the parts really well first... RTV will not stick to oily surfaces.

[wrxdan]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Dan, I remembered you told me you replaced the rubber O-ring underneath the carb of your MT-12....where did you get that? Al's...and do you know the parts # of that..?

I can't seems to find the "JUST" O-ring parts....unless the 2637 parts from Serpent that I have to buy the entire CARB repairment kits....which 90% of the stuff that I don't need.

For others, if I think I have some air leak underneath the carb, beside replacing the rubber O-ring, what else can I do..? I know someone told me to use liquid seal, but what EXACTLY am I suppose to use.....? Lock Tight..? Silcone sealant..?

Thanks a million........

I had to order them. You get 2 per package, they are the same size that came on the MT-12. I guess RTV would work, just don't get crazy with it.

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/WTI0001P?&I=LXACY6

I knew a guy that rebuild his MOPAR 440 for his Charger. He used RTV for every gasket, I mean every gasket!! He ended up plugging an oil passage and spun a bearing. What a tool:)

Dan

[wrxdan]

Howard. I forgot to add. I have 3 left, I can mail you one if you want. Paying tower shipping for a stupid o-ring is no fun.

Dan

[Walt]

I am trying to lessen the burden on myself of running the races at Tinley Park. Remember, just like Brian before me, I started running races because I like to race, and there were no longer any tracks running every Sunday near me (AJ's: too far away and same layout every week, Venture: too far away, track too small, HTOP: every other Saturday, I need Sundays, and I want to race every week, plus their track is just a little on the small side for my taste).

Anyway, the problem is that the effort it takes to run the races is overwhelming me, and in the end, I don't get to race much. If this keeps up, I'll end up throwing in the towel, just like Brian did eventually after going through the same thing.

Here are my major problems:

1. 'Track' transponders. There were about 22 guys using the 10 hand out transponders yesterday, and I can count on one hand how many of those guys actually brought the thing back when they were done so the next guy could have it, without me yelling and calling out names.

2. Marshalling. Same basic problem. Everyone yells that there are no marshals for their race, but then those very same people aren't out there to marshal the next race. Not everyone is a problem, but unfortunately, it seems that the vast majority don't go out to marshal until yelled at repeatedly. We all know that if I don't yell for marshals, there will be no one out there, or maybe one or two guys tops, and they are likely standing right next to each other.

Here's my thoughts about the transponder issue. Personal transponders are not a problem. If everyone had one, there would be no issue. I can start charging a rental fee for using a track transponder, maybe $5, to encourage everyone to just buy the personal. I'd still have to hunt down the people who don't return the club transponders since not everyone would buy the personal one right away.

I can rent out the 10 track transponders for $5 each to the first 10 guys that say they need them, and set them up as personals for them to keep all day, but when the 11th guy signs up that doesn't have a transponder, they would just not get scored all day.

I can leave it as it is but just tell everyone that I will not be the one in charge of hunting down transponders. If you use ours, you are on your own to find it for your race... don't even bother me with it because I don't have the time to deal with it.

I can require that all the transponders be at the scoring table at 'x' time after the race is over (maybe 2 minutes), and any transponder not back at that time, that driver gets sent home early.

Any other ideas?

Regarding marshalling, I think there are not too many options.

I can put orange cones on the track with numbers on them, and warn everyone that if they are not at their marshalling position (or someone there in their place) at 'x' minutes after their race (maybe 3 minutes), then they will have their fastest time removed. I don't think that's going to work because if you are in a class with only one group, who cares, and what would stop people from not marshaling after they run their main?

I can do the same as above except the first time is a warning and the second time they go home early. Again, this won't work for the main because they are done anyway.

I can adjust the order.... instead of race then marshal, I can set it up marshal and then race, and everyone who is not out there at 3 minutes before the race they have to marshal (the race right before their race) doesn't start the very next race.

I can charge everyone more to race and with that extra money hire permanent marshals... not sure if everyone would want to pay double entry fees though to not have to marshal. Probably not, especially those that aren't paying extra now and don't marshal anyway. Or the guys that don't mind marshalling.

I really hate to be mean about it, but like I said, I do this because I like to race, not because I like to run races. If things to well, I don't mind running the races, but I get really tired of repeating the same stuff all day (turn off radios, return transponders, marshal).

How are you guys handling it at HTOP? I have a feeling that with less people and a smaller track it is not such a big deal. We don't have any trouble on Wednesdays with 20 guys running micros. Anyone ever been to a track where there wasn't the marshalling problem? If so, how did they do it?

I'm looking for suggestions and feedback. I want to make our races run as smoothly as they can, and right now, I see this as the area that needs the most improvement.

Oh, and I am also going to take the suggestion from a lot of people and have a lunch break. Maybe between the 2nd and 3rd round of qualifying we'll do a 45 minute break or something. People were getting hungry and didn't have a chance to get food. It will push back the finish time, but people need to eat.

Please let me know what everyone thinks.

[kakolitoy]

Great weekend!

Saturday @ HTOP:

Last Satuday was the greatest race day @ HTOP. No problems in transponder and frequency problems. Great improvement on organization. thanks to the staff of HTOP. I would also want to say thanks to the racers that made HTOP like a show. 3 cars were always close to one another and not hitting each other. The great thing about it, when we get hit accidentally we say sorry to each other. It really put the crowd the to watch more and have fun.



Sunday @ Tinley:

Even though we were exhausted we still had fun @ the track. We raced Saturday @ HTOP and after the race my younger bro's band (www.Onedayoldband.com) had their GIG in Fantasy Lounge in Chicago. We did not get home until 5 A.M. Sunday morning. Sad thing about it I have to go to work @ 7 A.M. I had my lasty beer @ 4:00 a.m. and still made to work on time and have little bit hang over. After work, I went home and charge the reciver packs and drive straight to Tinley. I was so sleepy, but when we saw the track I was alive again. I felt like I had 3 shots of ESPRESSO.

Walt: thanks on everything the anouncement on the main, letting us race even if we are late etc. We really had a good time @ your track.

Drop:Nice to meet you.

Serpent impact: hope your impact has no damage.

Rookie: thanks on Saturday. Where is your SN?

Triple X: great job in the main.

WRXDan: great race (Stay away from Dan :) ).

[wrxdan]

Walt, sounds like you need to hire a bouncer:) When someone doesn't return the transponder in a timely manor the "enforcer" will stop at the racers pit table to deliver friendly punch to the teeth. No marshaling = random super sized cloths lines thru out the day.

Better yet you need Terry Tate Office Linebacker, but in a RC format:)

[Dropkicked]

Walt,

I sent you a PM about your 2 speed.

As far as marshalling goes, I think you're on the right track. Placing cones with numbers coresponding to your number on the grid is a good idea. That at least gives people a specific place to be. Doing a check at the beginning of the race seems to help a bit too. I'm sure if you send a few guys home, or dock laps, etc. the problem will start to rectify itself pretty fast. I don't know if I'm here alone on this one or not, but I think some people need marshalling instructions. I'm no old pro by any means, but some guys were pulling cars off the track and then walking the car all the way to the drivers stand while cars were ending up upside down with no marshall around. Maybe print out some of the information from Chicago RC's site on marshalling and hand it out at the beginning of the race. I know alot of the experienced guys will pitch it, but some of the new guys who just don't know might read it.

Just My 2 Cents

[kakolitoy]

The super nitro / impact class main results is not in your site. I would like to see the results of the main if it is ok.


thanks

[Walt]

I sent you the results (via kakolitoy@hotmail). I ended up running that race as a completely separate race because so many new people added in and so many others were broke and therefore out. It was just easier to do that way. But that makes those results not fit in well with our other results without a lot of extra work on the web site... probably not worth it.

Let me know if you got the results.

[kakolitoy]

thanks :D

[Dropkicked]

Could someone please forward those to me also (sales@justnitro.com)

Thanks,

Tom

[kakolitoy]

let me know if u got it.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
Walt,

I sent you a PM about your 2 speed.



I didn't get your e-mail yet.

Please use: walt@chicagolandrc.com

[Dropkicked]

Unfortunately, I got it. That was horrible.


Thanks Guys

[Kaffieen_Kraze]

Walt,
1st off let me say that I'm sorry I had to yet again miss racing at your track. I think 2 race days a weekend is not going to fly for me. I can however do Tinley one weekend, and HTOP the next weekend...

OK about marshaling...

At HTOP we run in to many of the same problems. Yelling all the time to "Return transponders, turn off radios, MARSHAL!!!" I know it gets to be a pain, and hopefully race directors and racers can work something out.
At HTOP I ended up marshaling almost every race (that I was not running in) and I get really tired of it, but if there is no one out there to marshal, then their is no race. The rules at HTOP are marshal or you will get docked laps, but like you were saying not everyone will care about that. I think the best solution is to have your track meeting at the beginning of the day, and tell everyone how tired you are about yelling the same stuff over and over. And that if things don't improve you are thinking of closing up shop all together. After all no Walt, means no race director, no race director means no races, and no track, and no little foam tophies :(

If you changed the order to marshal than race, and if no marshal then you don't start the next race, perhaps people would start to listen. This sounds like one of the best ideas to me.

Also to all of the racers,
We need to talk to our other racers. If you see someone who should be marshaling, then tell him to get his behind out there. Guys come on this should not be such a big deal. I know that under walts system you only get 5 min in between races, and sometimes you really need to wrench on you car, but seriously if you can't take 5 min out of your wrenching time to help out on the track...then please don't bother showing up at the track at all. RC is a great sport/hobby one of the things that I love most about it is the companionship/friendship. But if you are going to be so selfish that you can't help out you local track...SO IT CAN STAY OPEN.....STAY AT HOME, WE DON'T NEED YOU!!!

Getting people to marshal, Its a huge annoyance, but I think that if we all try to work together we can, all have a safe and fun race day.

Having ranted a little, let me now thank everyone who actually does marshal. We all know that its a thankless job, but someone has to do it. Those who take it upon themselves to marshal are doing us all a favor. THANKS GUYS I for one really appreciate it.


Ok, now about the transponders...
Walt, I'm with you, I hate being the mean guy, but the line has to be drawn somewhere. Give people X min to return the transponders, and if they don't...heck don't let them use the transponders again. You have to protect your investment. Your club bought the transponders, and if people are continually not returning them, whats to stop them from taking them home at the end of the day? It no fun being mean, and yelling, but its also on fun worrying about all of the little details. If you start taking away trasponders, or kicking people from the track, I think that others will listen, and straiten up pretty quick.

Walt if you are actually getting all of your club transponders back, you are doing better than HTOP. GUYS last weekend we lost like 2 or 3 of our transponders. I realize that the people who are reading this board are not the ones that need to be reminded to return their transponders, but we gotta do something. This is crazy, if we keep loosing transponders pretty soon we are not going to have any at all. That will mean that any newcommers will not get their laps counted, which will mean their will be less and less newcommers, which will mean that RC (in chicago at least) will start to suffer. Ok I know that is going out on a limb, but please, if you see someone with a transponder, tell them politely that they need to bring it back to the directors table. This goes hand in hand with helping out the tracks. If you can't abide by the tracks rules why are you showing up at all. All you are doing is runing the day for other racers or your race director...Guys return the transponders, this is the bottom line.

Ok everyone, I'm sorry that this post is so negative, but like Walt said people are getting fed up with this crap and it needs to stop. If anyone wants to flame me, go ahead, but I think we all know the truth of the situation.

Kaffieen_Kraze

[HauntedMyst]

Walt,

As far as marshalling goes, the simple reality is it's time to draw a line in the sand. Much of the time, people who arrive at the track the track and have no connection to it think entry fee covers all their obligation to the track that day and their expectations need to be reset. Turn marshalling when and where they are supposed to turn marshall is an obligation, not a choice or a favor. Someone is marshalling for them, they need to do it for someone else. If people choose not to turn marshall, they should be sent home and asked not to return, in some cases ever. I have no doubt that having no where to race will change their tune.

I would suggest the following guidelines.

1. Ditch the whole "lost the fastest lap" thing. Its simply not a motivator for anyone but the top 2 or 3 fastest guys. If you come in 4th place and are 2 to 3 laps down, what does it matter if they lose a lap? Make it a firm line, if they didn't marshall, they either get moved to last place in the main with a one lap deficit or my personal choice, they don't run in the main.

2. If they can't marshal because they have to leave for some duty, they have to find a replacement.

3. If they are leaving after their main just because, then that is unacceptible. If they can't be there to marshal the main after theirs, then they need to not run the main.

Again, the reality is that r/c racing is a group effort. It takes a group to run the races, it takes a group effort to race and it takes a group effort to clean up when everyone is done. HTOP is just getting to the point of where everyone is taking their part of the responsibility. Reset the expecations and let people know if they don't want to be a part of the entire group effort, then they will have no place to race.


As far as the borrow transponders go, apply the same rules. There is no reason a transponder should be left in the car for more then 3 minutes after the race. You get done with your race, take the transponder out and take it to the directors table. How hard is that?

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
Unfortunately, I got it. That was horrible.


Thanks Guys

If you don't mind. 2 things.


1.Change the tires to the normal SN tires. 8th scale tires have a lot of traction and extra weight for your car.


2. If you want to keep your tires, change the motor to top end .12 or .15.

Novarossi, Novamega, Sirio, RB, CMB, STS, JP, or Collari.

hope this helps

[Walt]

Kaff: Everything you said needed to be said, including the part where you said that probably no one that reads this thread is a problem in the first place. I'm looking to the people in this thread, like yourself, for ideas on how to get the 'masses' to follow the rules, and these are almost entirely people who don't read this thread (I did hear last year that someone that reads this thread gave us a 'dummy' transmitter on the day that we had a transmitter impound so that they could keep their 'real' transmitter at their pit table... I don't know if it's true or not, and I'm not going to name names).

I'm leaning more and more towards the marshalling idea where you marshal first, then race, and if you didn't marshal, you don't race. I think that the order of racing then marshalling is much more important when you're running traction compound on tires that needs attending to in the minutes before your race... I don't think that's the case with nitro outdoors. I think I'm going to give that a try.

As for transponders, I guess we've been lucky so far because we've still got all 10 of ours, but it takes a lot of effort to get them, and it's a continuous effort all day long. For that issue, I'm leaning towards just telling everyone that I will not be the transponder cop. If you use one of ours, you are on your own to find the jerk who didn't return it.

Either that, or if a person does not return it, then they don't use it the rest of the day. They can still race, but they get no scoring... they show up as DNS the rest of the day. Maybe I like that better because it doesn't punish the poor guy who got stuck with the jerk in the race before them.

Bottom line is, I'm not going to yell anymore. I'm going to have fun if it kills me, and I'm going to run all three qualifiers (not half of two qualifiers like I did yesterday).

Thanks for the feedback Kaf. Anyone else have any comments? Again, I'm looking for advice and help here. I really don't think anyone reading this thread is the problem... but I'm hoping you might help me find a solution.

[Walt]

Haunted: What do you think of changing the 'order' to marshal, then race. If both of our tracks did it at the same time, it would be less confusing to everyone (not sure who would have to make that decision at HTOP).

I think that marshalling before your race would work better because that way people know that if they are not out there they won't be racing in the very next race, so that's a pretty good incentive. Like you said, most guys don't care if we take laps away... heck, it's a ton more work for me too, as I'd have to manually go back into the races and deduct laps, etc. I just don't think anyone would care about that unless it's a 'big' race, like a nationals or regionals or whatever, or if we gave out real prizes.

Sending people home who don't follow the rules is probably the best incentive, and a last resort, but I think I'm getting real close to starting to do that.

[wrxdan]

Just wondering how the mashaling works for the 2.4? Do the same marshals stay out for 2 hours or do they cycle in and out?

Dan

[HauntedMyst]

Walt,

I still think marshalling after your race is the best way to go. For one, if you have to marshall before your race, then I think it adds some confusion and anxiety. Before your race, your focused on getting your car ready, etc. After your race (of any heat), it should be a simple thing to take the car off the track, take out the transponder, walk back to the director and out on the track and enjoy marshalling without worrying about your car. The director can do a quick scan of the track and make sure racers = marshalls. If you marshalled before, you may forget something you need to do on your car, be focused on that and miss a marshalling opportunity being in your head. Then you have to run back and try and fix or prep whatever you forgot after your marshalling and before your race in 5 minutes. That's all just theory. Maybe next weekend and the following at HTOP, we can try it that way and see how it works. I'd also suggest you actually stick to not letting people who don't marshall be in the main. Just tell people up front "We will be scanning the track at the 1 minute mark before the race. Thats when you need to be out there. Not 30 seconds before or when the race starts. You need to be poised to marshall 1 minute before the race. For the heats, if you aren't out there, you won't race the main. If you aren't out there after the main, you won't race next time you arrive." and then stick to it. Repeat for transponders.


Another thing I think you may be able to do is add an assistant. I don't know if you have one, but if you are carrying the burden entirely, you need one or two assistants to run races, particularly the ones you are running in. I know having both Chris and Mike run our puter helps a lot.

[Walt]

Originally posted by wrxdan
Just wondering how the mashaling works for the 2.4? Do the same marshals stay out for 2 hours or do they cycle in and out?

Dan

With the 4 man teams, there should be one member of each team at any given time marshalling. That's the way Brian did it last year, and it worked out OK.

[HauntedMyst]

One last thing. I might be helpful if Brian from Chicago r/c was to send out a "Marshalling Notice" to the other tracks in the area to get them to enforce the same way. It would be good if every track was on the same page and ultimately serves to benefit not only the tracks, but the racers as well.

[Walt]

Originally posted by HauntedMyst
One last thing. I might be helpful if Brian from Chicago r/c was to send out a "Marshalling Notice" to the other tracks in the area to get them to enforce the same way. It would be good if every track was on the same page and ultimately serves to benefit not only the tracks, but the racers as well.

I guess, but we've got to decide how we're going to do it first... unless you just mean the 'you marshal or you're gone' part. I'd like it if all the tracks adopted that rule at the same time.

[Rookie Solara]

kakolitoy..........yeah, my super nitro got T-boned by Dropkicked and walt tag-team (just kidding.....)

I crashed myself to the wall just for fun to see how strong of the super nitro.........the result, whole car is untouch except broken rear lower pin, right rear bulkhead, and rear arms........retire after the 2nd heat begins. :mad:

I shall be back next week if I can get the parts on time and have the air leak problem resolve....and this time, SINGLE speed.....even though the 2-speed does work on me, but after seeing Walt's horrible sence of the 2-speed stripping technique.....I would like to go back to single, just play safe.

Dropkicked/walt.............I am planning to get the wolfgang IMPACT tires conversion as well, since those impact front foams are way cheap and last longer then those overpriced rc4less foams, I will give it a try........but I am not running the IMPACT wide rear foam........only the FRONT impact foams all around.

Ah..........I can feel you walt........about the transponder/marshelling cases, I am still thinking, even though how much I want to tag-team with you to run the track, I realized that whenever YOU race, I race as well........and in BOTH classes too.......that make it impossible.

But I am sure it will be a better answer soon........

[mab_man20]

Its very odd that you started this topic this week, as i was going to bring up the same issues today.

We lost 1 transponder, 1 was broken (which wasnt even ours, someone traded it for one of ours) and 1 #3 chrystal. At the next race I'm going to make an announcement that if we dont have all the transponders (minus the ones we already lost) we will make everyone buy a transponder. Its that simple, we cannot afford to lose 2 transponders each race day. I hope that everyone on here continues to set a good example to the rest of the racers. I DO NOT want to make everyone buy a transponder, but if we keep losing them there is no choice.

Marshalling: This weekend we ran a race every 5 minutes, as a whole, the racers were always ready. Unfortunately we ended up waiting a few times because we had no marshalls. I like the idea of not letting people run in the main that day and not letting them race the next day if they leave after their main. Venture always has marshalls, but there is no great secret. The racers simply know and understand their responsibilites and are always on the track and ready.

After a race people should do the following sequence of tasks:
1. Turn off their car
2. Remove the transponder and place it in the bin/tray.
3. Find a corner of the track where there is no one.
4. Wait for the race to start.

If you are doing more than what is described above, and are on the track less than a minute before the next race your not being a responsible marshal.

I like the idea of putting out cones with numbers. That way you can number them so the bad corners always get covered and its a piece of cake to see who isnt marshalling.


I disagree with the mashalling before the race because people do need to do last minute work on their cars. It would be the best way to get people to marshall, but i believe it would take some of the fun out of racing (assuming you already marshall, if you dont already marshall then it will take a LOT of fun out of the racing :D)

Walt: if you want to start instituting certain rules at the same time, i am all for it. Email or IM me and we can discuss which rules in person.

thanks

[PtCruiser2003]

Does anyone here run at Hobbytown in St. Charles?

[Alycat]

I'm leaning more and more towards the marshalling idea where you marshal first, then race.......
It's nice to see RC drivers are much the same the world over :mad: - with meetings I've run, I always say it's simple "transponder out, radio off, and back out on the track to marshal".... but ....

Anyhow, that idea sounds good Walt - I certainly agree the "lose a lap" is almost useless, most times drivers here don't come out to marshal is because their car had problems and they're working on it -- "lose a lap, tough, I only did 3...".

One question I've thought of - who marshals the last race of the meeting? - the first final held? They've probably gone home!

BTW Walt, Alycat supports this
(now :rolleyes: )

[kakolitoy]

You guys have email or PM from me. My Asian Package arrived last night. PLs. email me or call.

thanks

[Walt]

Originally posted by Alycat
BTW Walt, Alycat supports this
(now :rolleyes: )

Yeah, I've seen that in there.

Here's what I'm leaning towards for this weekend.

1. I'm telling everyone as they sign up that there will be a driver's meeting at 11am SHARP. Anyone not standing right in front of the scoring table at 11am will be removed from the computer and can take back their $10 and go home (or they can stay, but they will not participate). And I'm going to stand by it. If someone hears their name called at 11am, it's because I'm announcing that they've just been removed.

2. If you want to use one of our track transponders, you pay $15 instead of $10, however, you'll also get a note card with a 'Chicagoland R/C Raceway' stamp on it. When you've collected 12 of these stamps, a personal transponder is yours. If you decide do purchase a personal transponder from us after you've got some number of stamps lower than 12, your price is "$60 - 'number of stamps' x $5"

3. Anyone using our transponders is on their own to figure out who has it in the race before them and get it from them in the likely event that they will forget to return it. I will not help hunt them down. If you don't want to bother, then get a personal transponder. If you want to pick up the microphone and call for it to be returned, that's fine with me (no swearing though).

4. I'll have the cones out there (or something else if I can't locate cones by this Sunday) with numbers on them for the marshaling positions. The numbers will correspond to the car (grid) numbers. At the '2 minutes to go' point (3 minutes after your race is over), we'll look at all the marshaling positions, and anyone not out there will be removed from the computer, no warnings. All you'll hear is " 'your name here', you've been removed from the computer." If you want to be put back into the computer, you've got to come up to the scoring table and pay another $10. Otherwise, you're done for the day. And if you do pay the $10 to get back in, you'll be put back in as a new driver, so any times you had earlier are gone. The order will still be 'race, then marshal'. If you don't marshal for the main, your name goes onto the 'double fee' list, so the next time you come to race, you're looking at $20 instead of $10.

I've put a lot of thought into this and realized that I don't run these races as a business or to make money. I do charge money, but only just barely enough to cover the cost of putting on these races. In fact, I haven't even collected enough money yet to cover the cost of the hinges for the track boards (let alone all the other investment I've put in).

I do this because I like to race, and the people that don't marshal just take away from my racing experience. If I upset them and they never come back, I'm actually better off. I'd be plenty happy if there were just 10 great guys (most of the guys from this board, plus a few others) who showed up to race. More is fine, but only if they are happy people who don't swear, fight, yell, refuse to marshal, etc. Heck, I'd be plenty happy racing all day with just Howard (I picked Howard as an example only because he and I are very close in lap times, so it would be a fun race).

I think things will run smoothly once it is explained to everyone that it's going to work this way. Some will get kicked out, and they will be upset I'm sure, but in the end, everyone will be happier because there will be marshals out there when it's their time to run, and I'm confident that the vast majority will follow the rules.

If the other tracks want to follow suit, that's fine with me, but I honestly don't really care if they do or not. If the same guys keep getting kicked out of my race for not marshalling and say they are going to Venture or Aj's or HTOP instead, that's fine with me. I don't want those guys anyways.

[Walt]

Oh, and one more thing... we're going back to a radio impound, and here's how it's going to work (I searched on the internet, and a lot of tracks do it this way). The impound will be up on the driver's stand. Shelves, cubby holes, whatever in that space directly behind the drivers. Radios will go up onto the driver's stand when the people sign up, and they will stay up there until the day is over. No radios off the stand. They don't need to be off the driver's stand. We'll set up our scoring table right next to the stairs going up to the driver's stand to enforce the rule and to make sure no one walks up there to steal a transmitter. It will be impossible to reach the transmitters from the ground.

With this rule in place, I don't see how we can possibly have any more radio problems.

And we're likely going to allow up to 10 guys to race for free each Sunday IF they agree to get to the track by 7:30 to help set up and help out a little during the races (enforcing marshaling and transponders and such) and help take down the track.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by mab_man20
We lost 1 transponder, 1 was broken (which wasnt even ours, someone traded it for one of ours) and 1 #3 chrystal.

I am guity as charged........I was totally forgot to let you know here about me getting the #3 chrystal.......so, my bad, and yes, I do have the #3 crystal with me and planning to return that on next next SAT....however, I don't have the rest of the stuff. NOT ME.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by Walt
Heck, I'd be plenty happy racing all day with just Howard (I picked Howard as an example only because he and I are very close in lap times, so it would be a fun race).


Wow......that sounds fun for YOU....cause you are always in front of me, and everytime I hope you make mistake/crash the board, and you just never will :mad:..........

I just want to get my single speed back on my SNRS4, fix the rear , get the engine sealed and race ONCE with you with the Super......just for ONCE (it was like 2-3 years of waiting).

Now......free racing, that sounds interesting....

[Walt]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Wow......that sounds fun for YOU....cause you are always in front of me, and everytime I hope you make mistake/crash the board, and you just never will :mad:..........

I just want to get my single speed back on my SNRS4, fix the rear , get the engine sealed and race ONCE with you with the Super......just for ONCE (it was like 2-3 years of waiting).

Now......free racing, that sounds interesting....

I'm going to try to find time this week to get my Super running again (with a single speed). I should be ready for this weekend.

We are serious about free racing for some that can come out early to help set up AND help to enforce the rules, etc. during the race. Doesn't matter if you are in the same races as me, because I need some time to fix my cars, so I need people to run races that I could run, but can't because my car needs work.

Starting this week, if 5 or so guys come by early (by 7:30am) and help set up the track and help out a little running the races (nothing big... tape up the results, pick up cars after the races and put them on the impound table, etc.), we'll waive the entry fee for you. This goes for Howard and anyone else that can/will help out, but you actually have to help out... not just get there early and sit at your table and work on your car. You must really help.

[HauntedMyst]

Originally posted by Walt
Yeah, I've seen that in there.

Here's what I'm leaning towards for this weekend.

1. I'm telling everyone as they sign up that there will be a driver's meeting at 11am SHARP. Anyone not standing right in front of the scoring table at 11am will be removed from the computer and can take back their $10 and go home (or they can stay, but they will not participate). And I'm going to stand by it. If someone hears their name called at 11am, it's because I'm announcing that they've just been removed.

2. If you want to use one of our track transponders, you pay $15 instead of $10, however, you'll also get a note card with a 'Chicagoland R/C Raceway' stamp on it. When you've collected 12 of these stamps, a personal transponder is yours. If you decide do purchase a personal transponder from us after you've got some number of stamps lower than 12, your price is "$60 - 'number of stamps' x $5"

3. Anyone using our transponders is on their own to figure out who has it in the race before them and get it from them in the likely event that they will forget to return it. I will not help hunt them down. If you don't want to bother, then get a personal transponder. If you want to pick up the microphone and call for it to be returned, that's fine with me (no swearing though).

4. I'll have the cones out there (or something else if I can't locate cones by this Sunday) with numbers on them for the marshaling positions. The numbers will correspond to the car (grid) numbers. At the '2 minutes to go' point (3 minutes after your race is over), we'll look at all the marshaling positions, and anyone not out there will be removed from the computer, no warnings. All you'll hear is " 'your name here', you've been removed from the computer." If you want to be put back into the computer, you've got to come up to the scoring table and pay another $10. Otherwise, you're done for the day. And if you do pay the $10 to get back in, you'll be put back in as a new driver, so any times you had earlier are gone. The order will still be 'race, then marshal'. If you don't marshal for the main, your name goes onto the 'double fee' list, so the next time you come to race, you're looking at $20 instead of $10.

I've put a lot of thought into this and realized that I don't run these races as a business or to make money. I do charge money, but only just barely enough to cover the cost of putting on these races. In fact, I haven't even collected enough money yet to cover the cost of the hinges for the track boards (let alone all the other investment I've put in).

I do this because I like to race, and the people that don't marshal just take away from my racing experience. If I upset them and they never come back, I'm actually better off. I'd be plenty happy if there were just 10 great guys (most of the guys from this board, plus a few others) who showed up to race. More is fine, but only if they are happy people who don't swear, fight, yell, refuse to marshal, etc. Heck, I'd be plenty happy racing all day with just Howard (I picked Howard as an example only because he and I are very close in lap times, so it would be a fun race).

I think things will run smoothly once it is explained to everyone that it's going to work this way. Some will get kicked out, and they will be upset I'm sure, but in the end, everyone will be happier because there will be marshals out there when it's their time to run, and I'm confident that the vast majority will follow the rules.

If the other tracks want to follow suit, that's fine with me, but I honestly don't really care if they do or not. If the same guys keep getting kicked out of my race for not marshalling and say they are going to Venture or Aj's or HTOP instead, that's fine with me. I don't want those guys anyways.


Walt,

I think this is great and would like to see us enforce the exact same rules at HTOP. Frankly, we don't want those guys either and in the bigger scheme of things, setting up the marshalling rules and enforcing them is an education process for all r/c racers in the big picture of Chicago.

[TRF Drive Hard]

Hey guys, just thought i drop in here... seems like we have a dilema with the transponders and marshalling... im very new to racing this year and it has been very fun... here's my take on the transponders...

When giving out the transponders, i think something should be made of some kind of exchange to ensure its return... i have noticed people taking or exchanging the transponder crystals without prior acknowledgement... i also believe that the transponders should be relabeled or stamped with a number I.D. inside... another thing too is they should be shoo goo'ed so the crystal wont get stuck when exchanging crystals... do you think that putting someone in charge of transponders is too much? someone that goes around anouncing "your number is #" and personally handing out the transponder... in exchange for the transponder you take something of theirs... car keys, a 10 dollar "fee" that guarentees that you will get it back if you return the transponder... i dunno just a thought...

Marshalling... im pretty quite clear on the rules of marshalling... not sure about the others... how bout this... this is kinda silly... using the number stickers you have... lets say, the electric guys slap a number sticker that is the same as their car on too their right fore wrist... nitro guys on their left fore wrist... this will indicate who raced or who will be racing, electric or nitro... ok, i know i can come up with something better...:p

ted

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Walt
I'm going to try to find time this week to get my Super running again (with a single speed). I should be ready for this weekend.

We are serious about free racing for some that can come out early to help set up AND help to enforce the rules, etc. during the race. Doesn't matter if you are in the same races as me, because I need some time to fix my cars, so I need people to run races that I could run, but can't because my car needs work.

Starting this week, if 5 or so guys come by early (by 7:30am) and help set up the track and help out a little running the races (nothing big... tape up the results, pick up cars after the races and put them on the impound table, etc.), we'll waive the entry fee for you. This goes for Howard and anyone else that can/will help out, but you actually have to help out... not just get there early and sit at your table and work on your car. You must really help.

As much as we would like to be there in Tinley @ 7 a.m. its just really hard for us to race on a Sunday. We try to help @ HTOP as much as we can. We did not help cleaning out last Saturday because my younger brother has a GIG, but we did helped out to put the boards in the morning.

Honestly, this bad news is affecting us all. Now, how can we race in Tinley again. We will be late everytime we go race on a Sunday. Not being their in the driver's meeting will take the name out and sentence to go home. I know we might race in Tinley once a month, but I am sure will get there about 2 p.m.

I thought all of us had a great weekend, I was wrong. I am hoping for all of us to "UNITE" and keep the fun in racing.

BTW: If we could just keep doing what we are suppose to do and be an example to other racers. They might follow too!!

[xxx mike]

I have no problem with marshal duty or being at the drivers meeting, but I am not too excited about radio impound. Especially for me, since even if I want to turn on my radio I can do so without turning on the actual transmitter.

It's like at work, punish the whole group for somthing that one or two people do... I think it's BS (and I have gotten hit by other people being on my channel) but I guess thats just the way it has to be.. I don't like the extra worries of having to get the transmitter when you might be having trouble with the car, or the crowds of people, leaving it exposed to sun or whatever.. it just adds a little more stress before the race.. I run PCM, and I don't worry too much about the dummies getting on my freq when they are not supposed to. It has happened, and the car just stops wherever it's at.. it's irritating, but it happens and life goes on.. no damage done to me. Those people who do it, should be the ones to take the impound punishment for not being able to control themselves. I think most of us, either have radios where we can make adjustments with the transmitter turned off, or we know not to turn them on.

It would just be nice if it was not a blanket policy.

[Nexus]

it's probably true that most of the culprits of what everyone is talking about don't read this board.


I've probably raced at Venture the most out of the Tinley and HTOP guys...they never really seem to have any problems with the transponders and marshalling. Most of that has to do with the type of people that race there....i don't think Venture is out there being enforcers about rules...the racers just do what needs to be done.

radio impound...against that. if you need to work on your car between races how would you address that...example...i could rebuild/clean my electric motors but would have no real way of testing if the commutation was correct or your steering goes out, you fix it, how would you test it out?

marshalling before your race...against that also. racers would not have the needed time to prep their cars. it's already hard enough sometimes to get your car ready with the limited amount of time between races.


I'm not sure what the solution is but whatever rules you develop the race directors just need to stick to that.

[Alycat]

I know one club that never seems to have drivers drive off at the end of the meeting with club transponders -- when you enter, if you do not have your own PT, that's fine, just leave your car keys at race control - amazing how many drivers seem to remember as they are about to leave.

[Walt]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
Honestly, this bad news is affecting us all. Now, how can we race in Tinley again. We will be late everytime we go race on a Sunday. Not being their in the driver's meeting will take the name out and sentence to go home. I know we might race in Tinley once a month, but I am sure will get there about 2 p.m

If I tell you that you can come in late and register, I'm not going to then kick you out because you missed the driver's meeting. You can still come late, but you will be held accountable to following whatever rules were discussed in the driver's meeting, which you've already read here. Simple really: you must obey the radio impound, you must return the transponder to us right after your race, and you must go directly out to marshal. It's very simple.

By the way, after only 2 days, I'm now fully recovered from all the yelling and such that I had to do on Sunday to get the races to run. I'm ready to do it again! Of course, I'm going to make the changes discussed here to make things run more smoothly, but I'm basically recharged and ready to tackle another race day. Oh, that reminds me... need to recharge my transmitter and receiver batteries...

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Walt
If I tell you that you can come in late and register, I'm not going to then kick you out because you missed the driver's meeting. You can still come late, but you will be held accountable to following whatever rules were discussed in the driver's meeting, which you've already read here. Simple really: you must obey the radio impound, you must return the transponder to us right after your race, and you must go directly out to marshal. It's very simple.

By the way, after only 2 days, I'm now fully recovered from all the yelling and such that I had to do on Sunday to get the races to run. I'm ready to do it again! Of course, I'm going to make the changes discussed here to make things run more smoothly, but I'm basically recharged and ready to tackle another race day. Oh, that reminds me... need to recharge my transmitter and receiver batteries...

Following rules is not a problem. If you can follow the rules we can do it too!!! That is simple. I think one of the solution is a great driver's meeting where everyone has to listen and expect some Disciplinary action if rules were broken. The law is a "MUST" and needed to act by the racer which were ordered by the head council (YOU). It does not matter who you are if you broke the law you are sentence to be punish. If you warned all the racers about the consequences, we "SHOULD BE" responsible in every action that we make. The racers has the "CHOICE" to do the right or wrong thing. However, you as the judge should act what was written in the book. If I, T racer, Triple x, Rookie, Mab, Nexus, Drop, or you etc. (Pls. this is just a example not being personal) did not follow the rule. It does not matter who we are we will be responsible on the decision we made. WE Should get "PUNISH" and stick to the rules we made. Another rule that I suggest, pls. tell all the drivers to minimize the suare words or not to suare @ all. HTOP is really a family track. Variety of ages go there just to watch especilly kids. We do try to watch our words @ HTOP, compared to Tinley almost impossible to not hear any suaring words. There were a few kids out there last Sunday, and it seems like most racers does not care about their action. I know we cannot tell the racers not to suare, but I believe in good examples. Good examples might help other racers to realize that their action is not appropriate.

[Walt]

Good point about the swearing. There are a very few, but loud, repeat offenders. I will bring that up in the driver's meeting as well.

[Euge]

It really doesn't matter if I have to marshall before or after a race. It's really the same thing from a racers viewpoint. It probably just seems like you have more time if you can work on your car up until your race, but there have been many times that I have broken my car in a race and couldn't work on it right after the race because I had to marshall. Marshalling before the race, obviously I could start working on it right after my race (or during the race if I break in the middle of it). It just seems like more time when you marshall AFTER your race, even though it's really the same thing.

As far as the radio impound, I'm sure it's near impossible for someone to steal a radio, but lets say someone pulls a "Mission Impossible" heist and manages to take a radio. I take it the track assumes no responsibility? So, we the racers impound at our own risk? I think I know the answer to this question and I understand that a track can form any rules it sees fit, but I don't think I'm alone when I say that the impound makes me nervous. Especially since I personally never have frequency conflicts. (I have a M8 with the synthesized transmitter and receiver. For alternate frequency, I can write 'ANY'.)

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Euge
It really doesn't matter if I have to marshall before or after a race. It's really the same thing from a racers viewpoint. It probably just seems like you have more time if you can work on your car up until your race, but there have been many times that I have broken my car in a race and couldn't work on it right after the race because I had to marshall. Marshalling before the race, obviously I could start working on it right after my race (or during the race if I break in the middle of it). It just seems like more time when you marshall AFTER your race, even though it's really the same thing.

As far as the radio impound, I'm sure it's near impossible for someone to steal a radio, but lets say someone pulls a "Mission Impossible" heist and manages to take a radio. I take it the track assumes no responsibility? So, we the racers impound at our own risk? I think I know the answer to this question and I understand that a track can form any rules it sees fit, but I don't think I'm alone when I say that the impound makes me nervous. Especially since I personally never have frequency conflicts. (I have a M8 with the synthesized transmitter and receiver. For alternate frequency, I can write 'ANY'.)


In any where you go, especially bigger tracks locally and Internationally there is a radio impound. Most bigger tracks have big driver stand and they have a shelf behind the drivers for their radio. The shelves have numbers too, but some bigger tracks has an officer to make sure radios are left off and in the shelves. Noone has to go down from the Driver stand w/ their radio. They should be empty handed. Its almost impossible to steal because people will see it. For instance, one driver has a radio on his hand he will be stop. First by the officer, or the drivers that will see him going down. I bet you, you are not the only one watching the drivers going down from the stand. Our radios are left on the stand too. We will be watching too.

[Walt]

I am sensitive to the radio impound concern of theft. But I honestly believe that your radio will be more secure in the radio impound at the top of our 6 foot tall driver's stand with only one way up there (right past the scoring table) than it would be sitting on your pit table. I admit nothing is perfectly secure, and if you were always locking your radio into your car when you were not racing, that is probably the most secure way (I don't think many people were doing that). Since the rule will be 'no radios coming down those stairs all day long, it would be pretty difficult for someone to get up there and come down with a radio, right past us and everyone else, and not have someone notice it.

Of course, we can't say we'll be responsible for radios left in the impound. But what we can do is make the impound very secure to the point where no one will worry about it, and that's our goal.

In the end, it will be up to the racers whether or not they want to participate at our track given the radio impound rule. I think more people will want to come to our track because of it, so we're sticking with it. Too many people are getting their cars broken due to others turning on their radios.

We're also open to suggestions to make the impound more secure. How about supplying closed-ended hooks up there that you can pad-lock your radio to (not sure if many radios have a way to lock them up, but some do, or you can build something custom to allow it to be locked up). Heck, I'm an engineer, I'll try to come up with a way to allow the radios to be easily locked up with a pad lock that the racer would provide... I'll work on it.

[Kaffieen_Kraze]

Although radio impound makes people nervous, I personally don't see any other way to handle this. Perhaps if the radios were all stored in shelves, or bins or whatever at the directors table then people would feel a little less nervous abour the impound. Although I do like the idea of the shelves at the drivers stand. Yes it sucks that because of a few people we all have to suffer. If anyone else has any ideas as to how to make sure people leave their radios off while in the pits, please speak up. I'm sure we would all like to hear them.

Just another tip...
Everyone should engrave/scratch/identify their radios some how. I personally have an engraver and I use it on just about everything. My radio, my chassis, my tools, you get the idea. I know that if you are going to be selling this stuff later it does decrease the selling value, but hey a lower selling value is a lot better than no selling value (cause it was stolen, and you can't get it back)

Walt, MAB,
I agree with the set of guidelines that Walt has posted. If there are guys that are not following rules of the track (radios off, transponders returned, marshal) then they need to pay the conciquences. If those conciquences are not being allowed back on on the track, then so be it. they need to take responsabilities for their actions.....Time to pay the piper baby!! :mad:

I also think (in HTOP's case) that having people leave a set of keys, or something else of some value when they rent a transponder is a very good idea. As someone else said, I bet when it comes time to leave, they will remember to return the transponders.

These are just my opnions... for better or for worse.
Kraze

[kakolitoy]

I am concern about the impound. All racers are going to need someone to turn off their motors before going down the stand. Hopefully, everyone will be nice to shut our motors before we go down the stand.

Also, starting up the car. I hope someone will start my motor for me when I get up in the driver stand.


That is going to be a team work for all the drivers in Tinley.


BTW: How about those people that is always having a hard time to start their motor!!!! :)

[Walt]

Just to clarify, at Tinley, the radio impound will be at the top of the driver's stand... no way to get to the radios without going up the stairs, and therefore, right past the scoring table (which will be moved to right next to the stairs).

I think it is going to work out fine.

Oh, and good suggestion to label your radio... if not to keep it from being stolen, then just to make sure you grab the right one when it's time for you to race (unless you're the only one at the track using a cheapo Hitech Lynx radio... aka: me)

[Dropkicked]

That's one thing I never thought of..... starting up and shutting down the car. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's car does'nt like to start without a little bit of throttle. Would this be the kind of thing where we could grab our radio, get the car going and on the track, then up to the stand, and reverse for shutting down? I run a fail safe and throttle return, but still don't like shutting my radio off and setting it down while the engine is running. Not to mention I don't come out with my posse. I mean most of the guys that I've talked to are in my class. I'm sure by the end of the season I'll know more people, but for now I'm kind of an outsider. The one guy I am trying to get out to race is also running the same class.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
That's one thing I never thought of..... starting up and shutting down the car. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's car does'nt like to start without a little bit of throttle. Would this be the kind of thing where we could grab our radio, get the car going and on the track, then up to the stand, and reverse for shutting down? I run a fail safe and throttle return, but still don't like shutting my radio off and setting it down while the engine is running. Not to mention I don't come out with my posse. I mean most of the guys that I've talked to are in my class. I'm sure by the end of the season I'll know more people, but for now I'm kind of an outsider. The one guy I am trying to get out to race is also running the same class.


Any Suggestion will be great!!!

Walt any clarification in this matter?

Drop and I have the same point.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
That's one thing I never thought of..... starting up and shutting down the car. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's car does'nt like to start without a little bit of throttle. Would this be the kind of thing where we could grab our radio, get the car going and on the track, then up to the stand, and reverse for shutting down? I run a fail safe and throttle return, but still don't like shutting my radio off and setting it down while the engine is running. Not to mention I don't come out with my posse. I mean most of the guys that I've talked to are in my class. I'm sure by the end of the season I'll know more people, but for now I'm kind of an outsider. The one guy I am trying to get out to race is also running the same class.

I agree that this is the only remaining problem with our proposed impound system. If we allow people to take their radio off the driver's stand during their race, we loose some of the security of the impound because now we have to figure out if the person leaving the stand with the radio is supposed to be doing it or not. Plus there is the possibility that they won't bring it back up at the end of the race like they are supposed to.

But, after thinking about it for about 2 minutes, I realized that I can easily make the impound such that the driver can lock up their radio with a small pad lock that they will supply. Perhaps with the locking ability, we can allow driver's to have their radios off the stand just during their own race, but I'd still rather have all the radios stay up there all day. I think everyone can find someone to help them out. If you can't find someone, ask me and I'll help you out or find someone who will.

At the end of each race, we hope to have 'officials' there to shut down your car and put it onto the table in front of the scoring table. You shouldn't have any problem at the end of the race.

We'll just have to see how this goes. Maybe we'll allow the current racers to leave the stand with their radio, but only if keeping all the radios up there all the time is obviously not working.

And do bring with a small pad lock... I will have a means to lock up your radio in the impound for this Sunday (I'll build the thing tonight if I have to). It will work with any small (regular sized) pad lock.

[Euge]

I like the idea of being able to lock the transmitter at the impound. I'd be okay with that idea.

I've never been to Chicagoland RC raceway, but I hope to make my first trip out there this weekend! I'm mostly a Venture guy.

As far as the transponders go, instead of leaving car keys, perhaps a monetary deposit would be more appropriate. Or perhaps an ID card like a drivers license or school ID (for those kids who don't drive yet). Or both the id and deposit.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by Euge
As far as the transponders go, instead of leaving car keys, perhaps a monetary deposit would be more appropriate. Or perhaps an ID card like a drivers license or school ID (for those kids who don't drive yet). Or both the id and deposit.

Well, car keys, credit cards and especially DRIVER license are totally unacceptable........cause thing that we cannot explain CAN happen......and some ppl will just steal it JUST for fun....and also why chicagolandrc need to take responsibiltiy IF those stupid things happened...? No way.

Charge them $5 or $10.......then give them back when all 10 transponder are all recovered........also, we guys can TAKE their $5 or $10 if the racers refused/forgot (more then 1 more) return their transponder......

The chance of losing money is very min, besides, losing $5 or $10....tought luck....however, losing a car keys/house keys and especially driver licence......that can lead to other major problem which is much worst then $5/$10......

[Walt]

Chicagoland R/C is not planning on taking anything as collateral for the return of our transponders (I think that might have been an idea for HTOP). We are going to start charging a rental fee for using our transponders, and that fee will build in an account that can be used at any time to purchase a personal transponder.

[mab_man20]

Rookie: Im glad to hear you have it! Thanks.

I like the idea of collatoral for all rented transponders. It will probably be money. The obvious amount would be $15 which is just below our cost of a new transponder if we need to replace it.

Really that and getting marshalls on the track 2 minutes BEFORE the race starts is all that needs fixing.

Chris is talking with the softwear manufacturers to figure out why the softwear makes no sense (why let us assign a car number if that number wont be number of the transponder for that car??).

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by mab_man20
Rookie: Im glad to hear you have it! Thanks.

I like the idea of collatoral for all rented transponders. It will probably be money. The obvious amount would be $15 which is just below our cost of a new transponder if we need to replace it.

Really that and getting marshalls on the track 2 minutes BEFORE the race starts is all that needs fixing.

Chris is talking with the softwear manufacturers to figure out why the softwear makes no sense (why let us assign a car number if that number wont be number of the transponder for that car??).

Mab.......you knew that will never happen if I don't have to switch from my 6 to 3 four times on SAT..........besides, I am being very gentle about pulling the crystal.........for others, they might just snap on the crystal body and yank it out from the transponder...you know not all of the crystal are tight fit with the crystal caps.....when you pull the cap, the crystal is still inside, then I have to use a needle head to pull it.....trust me on that, after several weeks of PULL and yanking, you will have to replace the crystal for good.........then who are you going to charge from..?

[Euge]

Do HTOP and Chicagoland RC Raceway use the same transponder system? If I bought a personal transponder at HTOP, would it work at Chicagoland RC Raceway? I'm not sure if this has already been discussed in the past.

If so, I'd definitely buy one.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Euge
Do HTOP and Chicagoland RC Raceway use the same transponder system? If I bought a personal transponder at HTOP, would it work at Chicagoland RC Raceway? I'm not sure if this has already been discussed in the past.

If so, I'd definitely buy one.

Sorry, but at Chicagoland R/C Raceway, we use the latest AMB digital system with 'true' personal transponders (each AMBrc transponder has a unique 7 digit code). HTOP uses the KO Propo system which uses crystals, but I think there are only 10 or 20 different crystals, depending on which version they bought.

Ours are more expensive ($60), but once you install it, you never have to mess with it again.

[Euge]

Originally posted by Walt
Sorry, but at Chicagoland R/C Raceway, we use the latest AMB digital system with 'true' personal transponders (each AMBrc transponder has a unique 7 digit code). HTOP uses the KO Propo system which uses crystals, but I think there are only 10 or 20 different crystals, depending on which version they bought.

Ours are more expensive ($60), but once you install it, you never have to mess with it again.

This sounds like the system they switched to at Leisure Raceways in Joliet, which I haven't been to in a while.

Thanks for the info.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Euge
This sounds like the system they switched to at Leisure Raceways in Joliet, which I haven't been to in a while.

Thanks for the info.

I know they have an AMB system, but I'm not sure if it's the latest AMBrc digital system, or the older, original AMB20 (analog) system. Only the new digital system supports personal transponders. Neither system is compatible with KO.

[Euge]

Originally posted by Walt
I know they have an AMB system, but I'm not sure if it's the latest AMBrc digital system, or the older, original AMB20 (analog) system. Only the new digital system supports personal transponders. Neither system is compatible with KO.

I don't know much about transponder systems, but I do know that back in january Leisure switched to a personal transponder system that used unique 7 digit numbers. I'm pretty sure it's the newer AMB system as well. Anyone here know for sure?

[xxx mike]

I am not too crazy about any of this. I think I am going to sit this sunday out and just watch. I am guessing chaos and added frustration will come, and the whole plan will either need a big change or it will be left behind.

I realize that if it sticks I will have to cope with the rules eventually and deal with it to keep racing at the track, but I honestly think this blows. I am certainly not boycotting, I really do like racing at the track, but I am going to wait and see if this rule gets changed after the first trial week. If it sticks, I'll just deal with it and grumble about it a little.. If it does work, it will just be a lot more of a pain for us - especially for me and the others in nitro. I really like race day to be as laid back as possible, not a stress like the rest of the friggin week.

If anyone ever catches me with my TX on (and transmitting) when it's not supposed to be, I'd have no problem being banned for life. I mean it, I know better then to do it and I don't.. I know the rules and thats that. Sometimes I use NIMH batteries and charge them between rounds, and when I run more then one class I use the same radio for all cars. I can understand impounds at big events like nationals, where placing really does mean somthing - but for us locals, it's an added headache that I don't need.

[Nexus]

i agree with xxx mike.

the impound could lead to bigger problems...especially if they weren't locked up. broken or even worse...stolen radios would cause a huge fight.

the track wouldn't insure it....no one would admit to it...people blaming each other, ect.

as far as watching...usually everyone is wrenching between rounds....how often have you actually watched someone walk down the drivers stand?


It sucks that all this even has to be addressed...I may pass as well on racing this weekend.

[kakolitoy]

Honestly, this is all the hobby is about. Following the steps of our great racers. Without the great racers there will be no racing @ all. I know we do not want to lose the finest drivers in Chicago. I am sure I am not the only one that is disappointed in all of the events going on right now. However, there is just no solution in this kind of incident.

If you have a better idea than impound. Please speak up and share it with us especially to the organizers. Your idea is probably the solution that all of us are waiting for. Any where we go there are rules such as schools, Parks, or any local community. Without rules everyone will have their own way, and violators will be all over the place. Pls. understand if the racers just tried to listen in the first place this decision would not happen. I am not a Sociology expert, but I cannot see a better way.

PLs. I am not being biased, based on my observation. Most racers in Tinley is hard to control compared to the racers of Libertyville and Oak Park. Especially in Super and nitro class (the guy that drives a big monster truck that looks like a 5th scale). His purpose is not about racing he built his car to destroy all of the cars he see and some guys called him the "TERMINATOR." That guy shouldn't be in that class, but its ok because its a varieties of big blocks anyway. But at least try to race not to destroy someones car.

BTW: I am not being personal, if I offended someone because of the facts of my observation. I am very sorry, I just want to say the truth. Finally, I hate to see losing two great racers in Chicagoland.

[Dropkicked]

LOL, don't get me started about Honda's buggy on street tires..... too late.

That thing is a hazard if I've ever seen one. The damage I took from an 1:8 scale car sunday was minor, and nothing to get mad over, not to mention purely accidental. But Honda makes no effort to control that thing. It weighs easily twice as much as my car, and could end my day faster than just about anything else at the track (including the boards). Oh yeah, the bords...... every time Honda hit's the track it turns into a different track, turns widen by a foot, etc etc. I have to admit I do find some humor in it, but I'm not going to repair my car every monday because I got T-Boned by that thing. I know I'm not the fastest guy on the track, or the most experienced, but I make an effort to stay out of the faster guys way, and try my hardest to not plow into anybody else.

**End Rant**

[xxx mike]

I actually own a Supernitro for this year. It's all set up and ready to go... but guess why nobody has seen it? I don't want to run it in the same class as Honda! The dude is a menace.. even out on torrence where people just drag race, he has always found a way to destroy his own cars (and sometimes other peoples). He's a great character, and I actually like having him around (he makes me laugh) but I really don't want to race with him when he has the 1/8th buggy out there. I do stupid things on the track too, but it's usually accidental.. to him it's just like all in a days work. - I don't have many super parts, and I don't want to start making a stock pile of those, so I just have fun watching him. It's not a big deal though, because I can just jump into 1/10 and play in there. Maybe I will just bring the video camera on Sunday and be Mr. Cameraman... then race just race in the enduro at night and skip the regular race. - That is, if the Enduro team shows up..

[Dropkicked]

I don't know if anyone has thought of this, or mentioned it but here goes.

Every track has their rules. Transmitters, marshalling, etc. Why not Type up a page of rules, just the basics. When and where to marshal, don't turn your transmitters on in the pits, etc. Underneath the rules put the consiquences. For the marshalling make a diagramshowing where the marshalling points on the track are. As I said in an earlier post, some basic marshalling tips. I'm sure between the people here there is enough access to copying machines to make more than enough for each weeks races. Pass them out to EVERYONE when they register EVERY WEEK. Someone breaks the rules, enforce them. I know that the one wreck that resulted in screaming and yelling, and a hunt for the culprit was caused by a kid. He probably didn't know the basic track procedures. If you go over stuff in the drivers meeting, and give everybody something in paper form there will be no apologies needed. Break the rules, face the punishment. Period. Nobody would have any reason to "not know". Tell everyone, tape it to your pit box, tattoo it on your fore arm, whatever, just learn the rules. When rules are ammended, tell everyone to read them again in the drivers meeting.

I'm all for punishments on the rules. Don't marshall, don't race. Don't marshall after the main, don't race next weeks main. Turn on your radio in the pit, go home. I just think that educating everybody, and making painfully clear that the rules will be strictly enforced will get everybody to do what they are supose to do.

I'm sure there are things that I do that would get some peoples panties in a bunch. They are probably things that I don't know not to do because I'm new to organized racing. I saw alot of guys sunday that are probably on their first gallon of fuel, or on using $20 stick packs. I knew the basics from racing in Glenwood 15 years ago, but some of the guys at the tracks don't know anything. It's not their fault, they just have'nt had things explained clearly.

Walt, if you don't have the time or the energy to put something together, I'd be happy to help. You have my email address and phone number, just let me know. I enjoy racing, and Tinley is the closest track to me. I'm more than willing to do my part to help make things run smoothly.

[Euge]

Originally posted by xxx mike
Sometimes I use NIMH batteries and charge them between rounds, and when I run more then one class I use the same radio for all cars. I can understand impounds at big events like nationals, where placing really does mean somthing - but for us locals, it's an added headache that I don't need.

man, I forgot about that. I like to keep my transmitter batteries charged at all times. If I'm not using my transmitter, it's charging. I doubt I could do that while it's locked up.

xxx mike and nexus have good points.
I'm back to not liking the impound. :P

[Dropkicked]

XXX MIKE,

Honda's the one who ended up with his car inside the KMart isn't he? I know somebody hit the curb and their car actually went through the glass into the store a couple years ago, I though t it was him. I wasn't there but have heard the story a bunch of times.

[Euge]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
I'm all for punishments on the rules. Don't marshall, don't race. Don't marshall after the main, don't race next weeks main. Turn on your radio in the pit, go home. I just think that educating everybody, and making painfully clear that the rules will be strictly enforced will get everybody to do what they are supose to do.


there you go. That sounds like the solution to me. I haven't been to Tinley yet, but it sounds like it's pretty obvious who is and isn't breaking the rules. You can see from the list of racers who is supposed to marshall and who isn't there. If a transponder is missing, it's pretty easy to figure out who it is again from the list of racers. And only a few people are going to have frequency conflicts. If someone in the pits has a transmitter on, you'll know who it is. (On a related note, this rule should be carefully enforced. Last week at HTOP, I remember someone's car going crazy. It was assumed that someone else in the pits had their radio on. It turns out the racer whose car was going crazy forgot to turn his transmitter on before placing his car on the grid.) In short, we should probably punish those who violate, not make everyone suffer. If you take deposits for the transponder, perhaps people who violate rules can have part of this deposit deducted. Like if it's obvious someone ignores one of the rules, then take a few bucks from his deposit. As common as an impound is, it's only going to be viewed as a blanket punishment, especially by those not familiar with national/international rules.

[Walt]

Man, I've got a lot to address this morning:

Easy one first: Honda. I heard complaints about him last week, and he will NOT be racing in anything but a 'truck' class, and then only if we get at least 4 or 5 trucks. His running in the Super class is over.

Impound: I don't like it any more than anyone else. It's a HUGE pain in my rear! I have to baby sit all those transmitters all day long. But I don't see any other way. People still leave their transmitters on and people still turn them on during other races. Even when I threaten to kick people out.

What am I supposed to do when someone comes up to me and says they were getting glitches during the last race? What can I say when someone says there car was just destroyed because someone turned on a radio briefly during their race? I can't do anything. These people are not coming up to the scoring table and turning on their radio right in front of me where I can see them... they do it at their pits, or in their car, or wherever. What's the point of threatening to kick people out for turning on transmitters if it's IMPOSSIBLE to catch anyone in the act?

Bottom line about the impound is that, in the end, more guys want it than don't want it. The chances of loosing a radio to theft or whatever is much less than the chances of loosing a car to someone else turning on a radio. I'll give everyone a chance to lock up their radio if they want to. Seriously, were you guys all locking your radios into your cars between races... no. Anyone could have walked around last Sunday and stollen 10 radios AND the cars that go with them and no one would have noticed, so don't make it sound like this is just asking for theft.

And why in the world do you guys need to charge your batteries during the day? I charge my batteries once a month, maybe. Unless you have some kind of special '10mAh' batteries in your radios, you don't need to charge them during the day. We run 3 qualifiers and a main, that's 25 minutes of racing, plus some practice, so less than a hour you're out there. People run 1 hour mains all the time. Give me a break. Besides, I never said you couldn't take your batteries out of you radio to charge them between races if you need to... we can even supply power up on the driver's stand to plug in chargers if you want... we're not trying to be a pain, we're trying to help. Almost nothing is worse than having your car go full speed into a wall because someone turned on a radio. The alternative (impound) isn't perfect, but it's a heck of a lot better than glitches.

If we loose guys because of the radio impound, so be it. In the end, I think we'll gain more than we loose because people will know that they won't get glitches at Chicagoland R/C Raceway, and there is no need to have the radio in the pits anyway.

Marshalling: Simple rule this week. Marshal or be kicked out. Someone said it's easy to look out there and know who's marshalling and who isn't... not for me it's not. I'm not good at remembering names, and I admit it. I look at the list and see a bunch of names and I have no idea who each of those guys are. Again, if I can't enforce the rule, what's the point in having it? This week, there will be numbered chairs out there. Sit in the chair that goes with your grid number and you're fine. Don't and you're kicked out.

Drop: did you say you raced in Glenwood 15 years ago? That wouldn't be the 'Glenwood School for Boys' would it? If so, that's where I ran my first race... the good old days.

I want to once again explain my position. I really like to race RC cars. I felt that there was not a good place for me to race anymore, so I started my own track. I do not do this for the money (what a joke... I'm in the hole thousands on this)... I do it so that I get to race, and I also like seeing others in this sport having a good time and having someplace good to race. Things went pretty smooth last week, but it took way to much effort on my part to achieve it, which meant I could not race. If I don't race, then what's the point of me doing this? Changes are being made to make the day run more smoothly and without my constant attention. With a radio impound, I won't hear a single person yelling at me because someone turned on a radio. With the marshalling rule, I won't yell once to get out there and marshal, I'll just remove people quietly and politely if they don't. If we put the cars up on the tech table after every race, I won't have to hunt down transponders after every race.

Instead of complaining, why not offer to help? Instead of pointing out the flaws with our track(s), why not make suggestions for improvements? I just want this to go as smoothly as possible, and this is our latest attempt at that.

I think things will go fine. We had a radio impound the last race of last season, and everyone told me they liked it. I heard no complaints. This year's will be much better and much more secure (no one is going to climb up there with a bolt cutter to cut the lock on your radio to steal it). We'll work out the issues with having your transmitter to start your car, etc. Don't worry about it.

See you guys on Sunday.

[kakolitoy]

Pls. give this decision a chance. We have not seen any solution that work in the track yet. This solution might make everyone to follow rules and educate the racers to follow rules in life. Let just wait in see. There might be chaos on Sunday, hopefully racers will move on, overcome, and learn to understand rules.

Honestly, almost every year I get radio interferrence. Off course, I have to fix my car and spend some cash to rebuilt. My younger brother had the same problem. We cannot control a beginner to turn on their radio. They did not know what is going on the track. All they want to do is practice at the same we practice. Even though there are some damages in our cars, we did not get mad just rebuilt the car and let the beginners know what is going on. This pushed me to go back in Asia last year and order my bro's own channel. When I get back he never had frequency problems again. I did not order my own channel for myself because most of my radios were 75 MHZ. Asian channels work on 40 mhz and 27 mhz only.

PLs. calm down and relax. Lets just wait the results on MONday.

Triple x I would like to see your SN. Pls. give us (me and my bro) a shot of your SN before you decide not to race anymore.

[Dropkicked]

Walt,
I actually raced at Don's indoor track in Glenwood plaza. The Glenwood school for boys track was run by Don's I believe, but was after they shut down the indoor track. I had started my 14 year hiatus by then.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Euge
You can see from the list of racers who is supposed to marshall and who isn't there. If a transponder is missing, it's pretty easy to figure out who it is again from the list of racers. And only a few people are going to have frequency conflicts. If someone in the pits has a transmitter on, you'll know who it is.

Sounds like I have my first volunteer. Euge, did you just sign up to sit at the scoring table and take care of this? If so, here's what you just signed up for:

After every single race, you'll have 3 or 4 people come up to you saying at the same time "transponder 'x' is missing", and while you're looking up the people who had those transponders in the last race, you then realize that one of those transponders wasn't even used in the last race, so now you're looking back 2 races. At the same time, the 5 guys who have transponders and are on the driver's stand already are yelling that there are no marshals. So, now you're looking up transponder names that go with the numbers that are missing, and you're making an announcement for marshals. A minute goes by, the guys looking for transponders are getting mad (loosing warm up time), two are still missing. The guys racing are still complaining about no marshals. You're looking around the track now. You only see one guy marshalling, but you don't know his name. You call again, and this time call out all the names of the guys that are supposed to be marshallling... that doesn't work... they know they are supposed to be marshalling.. race then marshal, how much simpler can it be? They are 'choosing' not to marshal. Now someone on the driver's stand is yelling out "who's got on channel 64!!!", so now you're also making an announcement to check radios, which NEVER works, that guy is still yelling, you don't even know for sure if someone has a radio on... maybe his stuff isn't working right. You're looking for who else is on that channel... doesn't matter because when you find the guys name, because you don't know who he is. At the same time you've still got a transponder missing and only two marshals out there...

I think you get the picture.

This was my entire day. Every single race. No one would continue to run these races week after week without making changes. If you are willing to do it and think it's easy, by all means, the job is yours for the taking.

You make it sound like it's so easy to just check who's got the transponder and check who's on what channel and check who's marshalling or not. Each individual task is easy enough, but when 10 of those tasks come at you all at once and continuously, and no one listens to your begging and then threatening them to marshal, return transponders, turn off radios, etc., it's not only not easy, but it's impossible.

If anyone thinks there's enough money in this for someone to do it as a business who isn't also trying to race, start adding it up. $4000 transponder system, $2000 for the driver's stand and boards. A notebook PC for $700. Printer for $100. PA system for $400. A good blower costs $300. Miscelaneous stuff (wiring, connectors, paint, etc.) set you back another $300. Plus it takes hundreds of man hours to build the track parts and the driver's stand. Then another 30 man hours or more to figure out the scoring system, etc. You also have to get to the track 3 hours before the track opens to blow it off and start setting up.

I'm sorry for the ranting, but I'm getting tired of people making it seem like they are doing me a favor by racing at my track. It's the track operators who are doing everyone else a favor putting on races. Please, try to be part of the solution and not part of the problem, and if you think you can do it better (like I think I can), then no one is stopping you. Start running your own races, and don't have a radio impound if you don't care if people's cars get wrecked because someone turns on a radio.

I'm going to continue to do the best job I possibly can, and if it's not good enough, I'm sorry.

[kakolitoy]

Walt does have a point. When we got in the track last Sunday. We saw Walt running around, we felt like Walt is having a overtime in his day off. Instead of having fun in the track, he looks stressed out because of all of the events that day. We came there and wait for his signals if it is ok to register late. I cannot bug him because he was doing everything. He cannot even fix his car because he needs the time to settle another problem.

Walt made and brought us the track that we never had in Chicago before. This is like a dream came true. Pls. lets help him to solve this kind of problems. He is doing this one man team. Why can we just look at the bright side and listen to his sides. Tinley is the most competitive track we got. If we can only get there in the Sunday morning, we will pledge to take some of the responsibilties to make Tinley race as smooth like a silk. We cannot have want we want all the time, that's because its good for the other racers too.

Like what I said, I am not taking sides. Pls. everyone lets just help one another by suggesting not complianing.

BTW: Calm down! Hypertension is bad for us..

[Walt]

Just to clarify, I am sitting here typing with a smile on my face. I still do like running the races, and I'm not planning on stopping any time soon. I just want to make it fun for me again... that's why I started this in the first place. And I want to maximize everyone else's fun at the same time.

When I hear that people aren't going to come back for this reason or that reason, it doesn't make me mad, it makes me sad. I am trying so hard to do my best, yet I can never make everyone happy. I really like Mike and Nexus... I consider them friends. I am saddened that they are saying they aren't going to race at my track. I'm saddened that anyone would say that they aren't going to race at my track. But I've got people saying they won't race again with a radio impound, and people saying they won't race again without one. I believe that this is what is called an impass.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by Walt
Impound: I don't like it any more than anyone else. It's a HUGE pain in my rear! I have to baby sit all those transmitters all day long. But I don't see any other way. People still leave their transmitters on and people still turn them on during other races. Even when I threaten to kick people out.

There are so many reason why radio get glitch.......not necessary by other radio........I've seen cars with radio equipment covered with fuel, dirt and grease......that can cause radio mailfunction.

Can we do a VOTE on Sunday drivers meeting...first thing? In that way.......ppl against the rule can speak up, and ppl support it can show up........and ppl (like me) don't care.......they will follow whatever YOU (at the end) decision.......simple as that.

For those whos against the rule........I have to say, that is the SOLUTION of NO SOLUTION, if we have to make sure RADIO GLITCHING problem is no longer a problem, we have to start SOMETHING.........radio impound have been used for many tracks, and if that is a bad idea, no IFMAR/ROAR or any major racing will adopt that idea.........so I believe that is the LEAST that we can do.

About damage radio, missing and other concern, I don't want to waste my time again, WALT mentioned that 100 times already....I will leave my $300 radio on TOP of the driver stand wtih no question ask.........honestly, I think that is SAFER........last SUNDAY, I kept my eye on my cars/radio all the time when there were severl BMX kiddo hanging around my pit while I am marshelling...........IF i have to keep my eye marshelling MY PIT instead of track outside( which I should keep my eye on the track, not my radio/cars).......I am doing a BAD job already.

Honestly, I would rather have WALT impound my car as well....then I can go to lunch, pee, and do whatever and have WALT to baby sit all my stuff..........the pressure is actually ON WALT...not us (even though they are not responable on losing stuff....but still, I don't think Walt would love to hear 20 ppl screaming they lose their m8 radio and their 705....)

We have the rights to express what we want....but for the track owner, they make their call at the end, because THEY HAVE TO...I just want them to actually execute the final discission BASE on the most ppl voted for, instead of running their own rules....we don't necessary need to follow IFMAR/ROAR or whatever rules, we just want to have the best rules that FIT to the TINLEY/HTOP tracks....

Walt....how many ppl ACTUALLY complaint about radio glitch on last SUNDAY...? and what class are they in...? (you can PM me on that.....)

[Euge]

Originally posted by Walt
Sounds like I have my first volunteer. Euge, did you just sign up to sit at the scoring table and take care of this? If so, here's what you just signed up for:

hehehehehehe
I've never been to Tinley. I have no idea how bad or good it is over there. Having been to other tracks, people have for the most part followed the rules. The way you make it sound, things are a bit out of control at tinley if all you're doing is running around. If it's that out of control, I'm sure you're doing whatever you think is best to get things under control.

[Walt]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
Walt....how many ppl ACTUALLY complaint about radio glitch on last SUNDAY...? and what class are they in...? (you can PM me on that.....)

I'd say that there were as little as 5 or 6 people all day complaining about radio problems. Of the three 'big' problems (marshalling, finding transponders, radios on), it was the smallest by far. Not marshalling is the biggest by far. Not being able to find transponders falls somewhere inbetween.

[chicago rc]

I think I could have read 'War & Peace' in the time it took me to catch up on this thread!

All I can say is this, I ran my track at Harper for 2 years. When it got to the point where I had no chance to race myself it no longer made sense to have a track. Running around trying to resolve every complaint from the racers left me no time to race so why do it? It is NOT for the money! Your arguments for a radio impond all say, "but I need my radio in my pit area" and I say if it HAS to be turned off what's the difference. It might get stolen? Do any of you put your stuff in your car and lock the doors at any time during the race day? I doubt it.

You guys have to realize that Walt is doing US the favor, our $10 entry fee is nothing compared to the time and money he has put in to this track for our enjoyment. He is the race director, and a veteran R/C racer let's not forget. Let him make the rules and we can follow them. If they are really stupid rules he will figure it out quicker than most would and make the appropriate changes.

It's easy to sit here and think of how simple it is to marshall after you race, return your transponder, leave your radio off, but on race day when things are hectic and we all get in the 'Race Mode' way of thinking we are all guilty of breaking the simplest of rules.

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[Rookie Solara]

Brian..........when are you going to get back to the "ON-ROAD" scene...? Yeah, for me....off-road does not count........and most of the time you where with me, I smell DNS and DNF.....:D

[Walt]

For those that have not heard, Tony's knee is bothering him a lot the last couple of days. He probably won't be able to make it this Friday to the RCNASCAR race, and he couldn't make it to the micro race yesterday.

Anyway, xxxMike: are you planning on running oval tomorrow night? I hope so, because right now its you me and Tony on that team, and Tony probably won't make it. Plus, I think you have the extra 'Terry Labonte' body.

If not, is there anyone else who wants to give it a try on my team (and Mike, can you get that body to me if you aren't going to race)?

[kakolitoy]

I want to know Walt.

How many people were having glitches last Sunday?

Are those 5 or 6 people having glitches while racing or practice?


Are those people have the same channel?

What class?

Does it happen every weeK or every race?

[xxx mike]

I need to get my cars fixed, which I will make a point of doing tonight. Assuming I can get the parts, I will race tomorrow in the oval nascar race. If you guys want the body back, and want a different back up driver, I will give it back but I'd like to actually sell it back for what I paid for it. It's still in the plastic and hasn't been mounted yet, so it shouldn't have depreciated that much yet.

I'll post again later on after I get get out to the hobby shop and see if they have the things I need. Really it's just a few basic parts.. a front bumper and a upper shock bushing... I also need another PCM reciever since I robbed one of the TC3's to get the Super ready to run. I fear buying those darn things..

Whatever happens, I will get back in touch with you tonight. Email me your phone number if you want and I'll call you after I return from the hobby shop and see if I have my cars fixed tonight. If I can't get the stuff I need, I'll bring the body tomorrow at Tinley for you.

[xxx mike]

I got the parts, so I will be able to race friday night.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by xxx mike
I got the parts, so I will be able to race friday night.


Yehey!!!!

Triple x is back on the track
:D

[xxx mike]

I just said that I was going to sit out the sunday regular race.. I still have the enduro to run on Sunday night, and I still have the nascar team to help out as needed.

This time I will actually have time to use my video camera to record some races! Maybe I will bring the super and try it out in practice also. I don't have pictures of it for you, but it's not anything fantastic... Regular old super nitro, with a MT-12 and single speed.. no fancy centax or any expensive looking aftermarket aluminum stuff. Not running the regular sunday race will also save my car for the Enduro.. I usually break somthing just from dumb driving, so the less I drive it before the enduro the more likely it will still be be together when it's time to race.

BTW, the nascar NTC3 is ready to rock. Electronics are all installed, gears replaced, bumper and shock bushings installed.. I am just about to take it for a test spin with the new body for the first time. Everything looks good though, so I will be ready for tomorrow.

I think I have HPI slicks, but they might not be on HPI rims.. is that okay?

[TRF Drive Hard]

Can we have an endurance race? made up of teams... driver & pit crew:D

[chicago rc]

Why are you guys always asking for stuff that is already there!? You can join our 2.4 hour endurance race in Tinley Park this Sunday the 25th at 5pm (after the day of regular racing ends).

There is one team that can take on a 3rd driver still or you can enter your own team of up to 4 drivers. It is a great race, we have run it several times in the past. www.chicagorc.com/enduro for all the details. Give it a try, it's a lot of fun and not as difficult as people might think (more strategy & paying attention than just hardcore racing).

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[Walt]

xxxMike: If anything, I am the backup driver for Friday nights moreso than you. Tony's knee is injured and I have not heard yet if he'll be able to make it out tonight, so that leaves me and you. I still want to be on the team with you and Tony, I just thought that maybe you didn't want to be on the team anymore. Sounds like everything is cool (except that I'll have to borrow your painted body... I didn't know that was your body, I thought Tony painted up the bodies and had just given one of them to you for fit up... I supplied him with a body to paint also, for all knew, that one could have been it, but I guess not).

I ran last week with my NTC3 and here's what I did as far as set up. I ran the HPI 'B' compound tires (the required tires), with firm inserts in the front and medium inserts in the back. The only set-up change I made was to dial in about 5 degrees of camber on the outside wheels (right side), both front and back, maybe a little more on the back than the front. I did this based on tire wear patterns after my first few laps of practice and qualifying. After that, the car handled fairly well (although not quite up to where some of the other guys were), and the tire wear looks pretty even.

And yes, you can run any rims, we just have a tire rule (26mm HPI slicks).

See you out there tonight. Frank will be there early to start setting up. I can't head out there until about 5:45 when my wife gets home to take over baby-watching duties, but I will be there.

[TRF Drive Hard]

Originally posted by chicago rc
Why are you guys always asking for stuff that is already there!? You can join our 2.4 hour endurance race in Tinley Park this Sunday the 25th at 5pm (after the day of regular racing ends).

There is one team that can take on a 3rd driver still or you can enter your own team of up to 4 drivers. It is a great race, we have run it several times in the past. www.chicagorc.com/enduro for all the details. Give it a try, it's a lot of fun and not as difficult as people might think (more strategy & paying attention than just hardcore racing).

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

Well not all of us can go to tinley park;)

[chicago rc]

I would say that unless people in this hobby are willing to drive at least an hour to get to the good races & race tracks we will never have the kind of racing we see in other parts of the country.

I am not picking on you, for all I know you do not drive or you live in Peoria or something. As part of the Chicago R/C Club I would be willing to help organize car pools or give rides within reason to help make for some better racing. I am sure others would do the same.

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[TRF Drive Hard]

Its not that i dont have a ride... maybe... and ya i dont drive:p but i dont have the luxary of having the weekends off... i work full time at my job which requires me to be available anytime... believe me, if i had a chance to race at tinley i would... but right now HTOP is the scene for me since it is my first race season, i wanna keep it simple for now;)

ted


btw, it would be real great to meet all you guys who are in chicago and are into this hobby and car pooling is the next best step for those who are willingly to go out there way to bring others racers into the scene;)

[Dropkicked]

WOO HOO!!!

We'll load up the Partridge Family bus and hit all the Illinois tracks!!

[kakolitoy]

I call shot gun!!!!:D

[kakolitoy]

Good luck for all the drivers that are participating on the endurance race.

PLs update us on Monday. We are flying tonight going to NY for my bro's GIG. I will just check this forum for updates.

www.Onedayoldband.com

[Nexus]

OK...even with all this i may race on Sunday at Tinley. Team Primitive is back! heleol (euge/nexus). the electric class is finally heating up...where are those brushless cars i heard some people saying they have?


kakolitoy: i understand rules and following them...not sure if you knew but i work for the chicago police dept. :D


hopefully this weekend runs smoothly without to much arguing.

i do agree with Rookie....alot of glitching does come from improperly set-up cars. antennas, low rc batts, a bunch of things can cause glitching in a car but an easy answer is to blame someone else turing on their radio.

honda's big monster TC...oh man is that thing crazy on the track.

whatever the solution is i'll go with it.

lets all stop complaining and start racing!!!

[PtCruiser2003]

If everyone is starting a car pool to the races. I want in. I am the only person on this whole entire site that is racing at hobbytown St. Charles. I want to join in the serious racers. I might not be serious as you all but if I get to meet the mysterious HauntedMyst......

[TRF Drive Hard]

HM is a bear... he's cuddley... friendly... you can take him home too!!! just dont feed him after midnight;)

[Rookie Solara]

Here is the steps....HTSC, then HTOP, then TINLEY, then NATIONAL, then INTERNATION IFMAR AND ROAR...........then NASCAR, then INDY CARS, then F3000, then F1.............then you will be standing next to Michael Schumacher and make ONLY 25 million a year......just a little change.

That is my goal, I am not kidding......for the next 15-20 lives.

[TRF Drive Hard]

Today i was up at Stanton Hobby racing my FF01 with a couple of friends... the track isnt all that but hey, met a few people:) just some fun in the sun:D

[Nexus]

Chicagoland Raceway...Tinley.

Just got back from racing today!

walt/tony/race directors:

looks like the rules you put in place today worked really well. i didn't hear any glitching problems and the marshalling went smoothly as well.....the power of $10 is working :P helolol

i really like the computer/station set-up under the drivers stand as well...leaving our cars after the race on your table was perfect.

overall everything worked great, the weather was awesome....now watch out because i think i'm getting a NITRO soon :eek:

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by Nexus
overall everything worked great, the weather was awesome....now watch out because i think i'm getting a NITRO soon :eek:

That will be a WASTE if you are NOT running NITRO.....I know, one more fast guy to worry about and beat, but again, I rather race with fast and challenging ppl instead of running by myself.

However, this is the question.......TEAM AE, Serpent, Kyosho, Trinity or.....Mugen.

Not to mention the new R40 from HPI which I am very interested to see...(btw, our NTC3 sold in like 15 minutes this morning, so I think you need to look some place else....may be ebay?)

[kakolitoy]

Thanks again for another great Sunday. Eventhough I still have a jet lag (yesterday I was still little drowsy), I had fun @ your track. I told my G.F. I am off yesterday and that is the right time to hit Tinley park. I was tired from the trip, but when I saw the track and a great weather. I was awake and felt like I had 2 shots of Espresso from Maggiano's. Most racer that I know were happy about rules you made yesterday. I was saving my T.C. for the enduro and my brother called that he will arrive @ 7 p.m. O hare (United T 1). We were @ Manheim and Lake when he called again. He said his flight was cancelled (it was re schedule by his G.F. They want to stay in New Jersey overnight). That sucks, one team pick me up to race w/ them and I save my TC for nothing.

Hopefully, ChicagoRc will sponsor another enduro race this year.


Drop: Sorry I hit your car.

[Dropkicked]

No Problem. Like I said, you might have saved me from an engine rebuild. It was running really hot. I'm pretty easy going about accidents on the track. Just about everyone (in super class) is pretty courteous on the track, and I don't think anyone took a hit because of pure recklessness yesterday.

Walt: I liked the track layout yesterday. It was a bit tighter, and a bit longer, but once I got used to it it was a blast. I hope everything ran a little smoother for you yesterday.

My car: I started breaking the car down last night and found my problem right away. My clutch had more or less exploded. Pieces all over the inside of the clutch bell. I think I'm going to rebuild my engine anyway though. It's running 260 degrees, still spewing oil out the pipe, and bogs in the mid range. :confused: I'm giving it one more week.

[Nexus]

Rookie Solara:

yea...there really isn't much competition at Tinley for electrics. my buddy euge was the only other fast electric out there and he plans to switch to nitro's also! :D

i plan to get a NTC3 since i already have all the springs, threaded shocks, and it's layout/tuning is similar to the electric TC3.


now engines...i have no idea about nitro engines. from what i've been reading it seems O.S Engines make good power, are reliable, and easy to tune for a new guy.

how is that new .12 TR?

and can someone explain how foam tires are rated? i understand rubber tires...sorex, takeoffs and their ratings...but foams have different 'shores'?, plaid? purple? what's all that.

[xxx mike]

The shore and color dots are all ratings for hardness (shore). The different tire companies use different ways to rate the tires. Ellegi (GRP tires) uses the shore numbers, along with most others, but some choose to use the color dots as a hardness rating. TRC is one of them that uses dots... purple I think is somewhere around a 40 and a double purple is probably around a 45. You'll find people running a variety of different tire compounds based on how the cars suspension is set up. Even with all the variables though, most people run somewhere between 35-45 shore on the nitros.

If you are going to buy a new engine, I don't think there is anything wrong with the .12TR, but I like the novarossi engines more. I've got a few MT-12s now and I actually sold my TR this sunday at the track (didn't plan on using it anymore).

[Dropkicked]

Nexus,

Watching you and Euge race was definitely entertaining. Waiting for each other to keep the head to head action going was great.

The lower the shore # the softer the tire. As far as the colors go I couldn't tell you. I'm sure someone will ellaborate though. For engines, I think most of the fast guys at Tinley are running Italian engines (Rossi, Nova, etc.). O.S. engines are known for making good power and being reliable, and a lot of people run O.S. carbs on Novarossi's and other high end engines. I just don't know how well they will hold up against the high dollar "race" engines though. You do have the advantage of being a good driver, and knowing your cars well, so that may make up for lack of engine to a point.

Welcome to Nitro.

Drop

[Euge]

Walt, Tony, etc.,

Great racing program sunday! It was my first time to Tinley, and I had a blast. It would have been more fun if there were more competition in electric besides Nexus, but like he said.....my first Nitro car is out there at the store somewhere. I can almost hear it calling my name, "Euge..........Euge.............." It's scary.

Anyway, I think the chairs with the numbers for marshalling was an excellent idea. You can easily see who is and isn't marshalling. And there's no question where he's supposed to be.
I think I marshalled the incorrect corner for the main, only noticing this post-race. My car number was 4 for the three qualifiers, so I marshalled chair 4. My number changed for the main to number 2, so that means that I should have marshalled chair number 2 rather than going to the same corner I had been going to all day, right? I only realized this after the race.

I think the $10 penalty and ejection consequence was an effective deterent against people not marshalling. I didn't have problems with glitching during the raceday either. The only crappy thing that happened is that after racing was done and I was out on the track for practice, someone in the pits decided to turn on their radio. I realize the race day was over, but I think someone decided the rules were over as well. I was pretty pissed because my car decided to stop running and started acting funny. Thank god it didn't go full speed into a barrier (I had a mod motor in there for practice). It just sucked because when my car started to act funny, seconds later, someone in the pits yells out, "Someone have channel 87?!?!?" Yeah, I'm up on the drivers stand, driving my car, with the clip on my radio. He then had the gall to come up the drivers stand and ask me to find him and give him the clip when I'm done.
In all fairness, however, that particular driver may not have been the culprit. There may have been a third channel 87 guy out there. I asked him if he turned on his radio in the pits, and he said no, that he had just noticed the clip was gone. So, I apologize if that guy is on this board and I sound rude in reference to him and he's innocent.

Anyway besides that incident after racing was over, the race day went really smoothly. My compliments to all those who organized and ran it.

[Euge]

Originally posted by Dropkicked
Nexus,

Watching you and Euge race was definitely entertaining. Waiting for each other to keep the head to head action going was great.

hehehehehehehhehe thanks dropkicked. Nexus and I were cracking up on the drivers stand, talking trash to each other the whole time. It was a blast.

[Nexus]

dropk..

to me it's more fun racing against someone close to your skill level then just blowing them away...that's why with Euge there I would wait if we got caught up or vice versa. it makes things more exiting....wheel to wheel!


hey...i didn't get my foam tq and 1st place plaque? :cool: :P


xxxmike...do you think for a newbie nitro a O.S .12 TR would be a good motor or should i get something else?

[T-Racer]

Nexus I never write much in this columm but if you are looking for a right motor for you car. The Rossi Pixcey Black is the Best. All the hot shoe from around the country are running. the two fastest guys at our track ESPO and ALEXANDER run them. The motor, the closes to a tubo allowed but legel. the second motor is RB. Both are rear exhaust motors. I now i'm going to get some flac about who is the fastest so you guys cool your jets. You no you want to beat them and you might beat them before the end of the season. I glad all you guys had a good time on Sunday.
Even Drill Sargent Walt said he was Happy.

Tony
T-Racer

[xxx mike]

I've never owned a pixi so I can't tell you much about it... As far as novarossi MT-12 vs. OS TR... Obviously the TR can keep up, the guy on Mark's enduro team with the blue body TC3 was running one and he kept up. I've had both, and with the way that I tune engines, the TR was fast enough, but to get it really snappy like the MT-12, I'd have to run it would get hot. From owning both, I think the MT-12 has a little bit of a power edge, and I worry about it less. I know it's going to be fast every time, and I know it's not going to overheat or flame out. Either way, you will be good to go... both are the same price, but my vote would go to the MT.

I've also had the RB X12 3 port, standard.. Actually, I still have it I just don't run it. It dosn't seem to have the same low end snap that the MT has, so it's just sitting around as a backup. Maybe it's not tuned as close as the MT12, but so far I really prefer that MT.

Don't be scared of the novarossi motors because people might say they are harder to tune. I really think they are easier to tune! The needles are less sensative on novarossi slides then most any other carb I've tried to tune. A small adjustment really makes a small change (instead of a big change). Or if you want, start off with a Novamega MS 5 port... that will probably be the next engine I try. It's not ROAR legal, but who cares about ROAR rules at Tinley park? :)

[mab_man20]

Man everyone's going nitro!!!

If nexus and euge both switch and kitt and rutt dont come out i may have to switch just to have some competition!! Its a big investment though.

On the other hand the new NTC3 FT came out.....:drooolllll:

Just to think about it....

Car $250
Engine $150-200?????
Starter box $100
glow igniter $30
reciever battery $30
gas $30
fuel bottle $5
Tires $40 per set (how long does a set last?)

What else am i missing?? Keeping in mind that i already have everything i need to race electric. (i.e. charger and radio)

[kakolitoy]

.12 Motors. here is my review. I probably tried almost every good motors out there except for the Rossi pixi. This is based on my experience and some review of other racers from different forum.


Os motors (Japan)- Very reliable, easy to tune, Parts availabilty is great, fair in torque and low end power, $ 150 to $170.

RB motors(France)- Very good in vaporization, Parts availabilty is good, Tempiremantal in tuning (means diffenrent ambient temp diffent setting that sucks, except .21 and .15), Great in top and low end power, tough P/S. It does last long on the P/S, $150 to $300 (Rb x12 t Rody modifed). I do not recommend modified motors because you cannot see the power on the track.

Picco motori(Italy)- Very reliable, easy to tune, Parts availabilty sucks, Has great high and low end power, very tough parts, You can use this motor for 7 gallons and still have good power and life in it especially .21. $170 to $200

Collari Innotec(Italy)- :) One of the fastest motor I saw in IL. The driver was Ray goff w/ a Kyosho Vone RR and collari innotech. Tremendous power in High and low end. However, really suck in tuning. Parts availability is ok. Very Tempiremental. Needle adjustment would not answer the problem. I need to feel and hear the motor to determined if it is rich or lean. $180 to $200.

Novamega (Netherlends) motors-Loud, Very good in vaporization, One of the hardest to tune, very Temperimental, Very good power in top and low end. Tremendous power in a small and big tracks. Parts avilability is great. $190 to $220.

Novarossi( Italy)- Honestly, I sold about 8 of this motors. All were Rs 12 6 S5 and 2 S3. In my opinion, it was one of the motors that are really easy to tune. At least five drivers in Tinley is running this motor last Sunday. They were not the fastest guy but they are fast. Parts availabilty sucks, Power is great. $200 to $220.

JP Modified Noavrossi(France)- I do not recommend, too expensive and I cannot see the power on the track or practice area. I feel like this motor is the same w/ my Novarossi S5. I sold it right away in ebay. $250 to $300

Hope this helps :)

BTW: This is my own opinion and experince w/ this motors. Walt may say its a pick not all Novarossi' are good. That is really true. Out of 10 2 maybe a sucky motor. At least I tried @ least 2 of each motor up there except for JP, and collari so I can leave my experiment ok. If anyone has a review w/ a specific motor and does not match my experince. PLS. UNDERSTAND THIS STATEMENT IS MY OWN OPINION AND EXPERIENCE. THANK YOU.

[Nexus]

mab.

Factory Team NTC3? I didn't think they sold one...i thought it was just upgrades you could buy.


Nitro's peeps.

How much would a NTC3 roller with an O.S .12 TR and OFNA starter box w/ glow plug power panel....be worth?

it is in really good condition...from the looks of things.


Is buying a NTC3 RTR for $200 worth it? I have extra metal gear servos i could swap out and my MX3 electronics.

[Dropkicked]

We just brought my son's birthday party to an end. ANYBODY who feels like it and races in chicagolad, preferably, TINLEY, but HM, and MabMan, are invited, ah hell, just call. 815-834-9127. We're drinkin beer, got a bonfire going, etc. etc. everyone's invited..... we're new to the neighborhood so we, don't care.

NO BS, If you want to hang out, throw bean bags/horse shoe, etc,etc CALL.

[Nexus]

1 engine i was looking for feedback on was...

Team Orion WASP .12 ROAR
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXCJZ5&P=7

i've read some pretty good things about it...isn't it made by picco or some Italian company

[Kaffieen_Kraze]

Nexus,
I'll probably be knocked around a bit for suggesting this, but you might want to look at HPI's .12SS engine.
I've been running mine for a season and 1/2 with out any problems. Haven't had to do any maintenance work on it what so ever. I just put one of these in my GF's RS4 3, along with a CVEC and the thing is to fast...as in you would not be able to control it to fast. If you are looking for a less expensive engine, this might be an option. Oh and since its HPI you know that parts avalibality is very good.
Just adding my little bit to the discussion.
Kraze

[chicago rc]

A recap of Sunday's 2.4 hour enduro is now posted at www.chicagorc.com. We had a great time and congrats to Howard, Walt, Jim, and Albert on pulling off the win at the very end. It was within one lap for over 300 laps!

A 2nd race has been scheduled for Saturday June 21st at Venture Raceways in Libertyville. Get your teams info to me as soon as possible - Team Name, Radio Channels, car types, and driver names.

3-4 drivers per team required, $10 per person so entry fees are either $30 or $40 per team.

Brian
www.chicagorc.com

[Euge]

Originally posted by mab_man20
Man everyone's going nitro!!!

If nexus and euge both switch and kitt and rutt dont come out i may have to switch just to have some competition!! Its a big investment though.

There was some decent electric racing at Venture saturday. But it just isn't the same during the summer. Not as many guys running. I'll race whatever the majority of people race. If everyone decided to start racing Radio Shack Zip Zaps, I'd probably pick one of those up. okay......maybe not. :P

Anyway, I decided to sell my motorcycle to help pay for some stuff around my new house. There will probably be some money left over to invest in a nitro car! woo hoo! I'm sad to see my motorcycle go, though. I had lots of fun with it.

My soon-to-be sold motorcycle (http://www.iit.edu/~siaeuge/r6/two.jpg)

[Walt]

I don't like to think of myself as a drill sargent (per Tony), and this Sunday, I didn't have to act like one. I can't believe how much smoother everything ran this week versus last week. Unbelievable difference!

The week before, I bet only 5 guys went out to marshal voluntarily all day long... this week, only 2 guys forgot to marshal all day long, and they both paid the $10 to get back in AND appologized for not being out there on time. Now that's the way it should be.

We decided at the last minute to try one more time to run without a radio impound, and it seemed OK. I think that warning that we'd have people walking around checking, and having the cars 'impounded' right after each race made a big difference. We also had the transponders returned this Sunday. I'm going to keep the scoring table where it was from now on. That worked out great.

I really want to thank everyone for their input on this forum last week. It helped me to figure out what to do to get this to run smooth. I'm back to being a very happy race director/fellow racer (now if I can just get my NTC3 to handle right... I had NO steering out there this Sunday... terrible understeer, but I'll work on it).

It is too bad that we had so few electric guys out there this Sunday. I know there is a group of like 3 or 4 younger guys that race electric that didn't make it out this past Sunday, but I also know at least 3 or 4 that shelved their electric cars for the summer and are now running nitro.

By the way, for those that weren't out there this Sunday, our nitro touring class had 28 entries... not bad at all. And it sounds like we'll be picking up some more good drivers in the nitro touring class as the electric guys continue to defect. Remember, you've got all winter to drive the electric car, so it's not like you're putting it away forever.

As for the foam plaques, Tony was injured all week, so I didn't even consider asking him to make the awards for Sunday. Once he's all better, we'll probably start giving out the little foam plaques again.

I'm already looking forward to next Sunday! Thanks again to all that helped me make some rules decisions last week, and of course to everyone that came out to the track to make this Sunday our best race day yet (and they just keep getting better).

[kakolitoy]

Especially, the endurance race.

[Walt]

I just sent all the results to my brother for posting on our site (www.chicagolandrc.com), and I also sent the enduro results to Brian so he can put them on his site if he chooses to do so.

I finally broke down and decided to purchase high speed internet access for my home so I'll be able to get these results up faster maybe as soon as next week.

[kakolitoy]

Your replies are fast and you were using 56 k. Or, I would say using you computer @ work and not doing your work HHEHHEHE.

Faster connection is always great, especially if you race online and play online games such as Quake, Counter Strike, NBA Live, Madden etc. Fast connection is good for downloading free movies, games, software, music etc. You know what, I should race you online so I can beat you. That is the only way I can beat you, a slow connection Hehhehehhe.

Walt do not take it seriously I am just playing :) But seriously would like to race on line. Common give me a shot hehheheh!

Duratrax Real Race G2

[Walt]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
Your replies are fast and you were using 56 k. Or, I would say using you computer @ work and not doing your work HHEHHEHE.

Faster connection is always great, especially if you race online and play online games such as Quake, Counter Strike, NBA Live, Madden etc. Fast connection is good for downloading free movies, games, software, music etc. You know what, I should race you online so I can beat you. That is the only way I can beat you, a slow connection Hehhehehhe.

Walt do not take it seriously I am just playing :) But seriously would like to race on line. Common give me a shot hehheheh!

Duratrax Real Race G2

I have a really fast connection here at the office, but I am restricted in what I can do, and I can't FTP from here. I need to do that from somewhere else, and all I have is dial up at home (until this Thursday at least).

I have Real Race, but I don't know what version. I really don't like it that much... don't know if it's my computer or the controller, but it does not hold trim well at all... after racing for about 5 mintues, the car is pulling terrible to one side, so bad that turing the wheel all the way the other way barely makes it go straight. Makes it no fun to use.

[kakolitoy]

Does yours has the calibration? If you have the wheel controller it should be the same as mine. So far, I do not have any problems yet. If you think the Game port controller is the problem (the one that came w/ the kit), I kept my receipt you can send it back to Hobbico Service. Let them fix it or replace it w/ a new one. My G.F. bought me the game last November of 2002. I still have about six months for the warranty. I never had that kind of symptoms before. I race online on the winter time to quench my thirst of nitro racing in the break season.

Mine just work out fine. I also made a Tinley track (The last race we had last year). Their is a guy there named Harold and he is the fastest guy and so impossible to beat. I treat him like Rookie because its almost the same name and driving skills like Rookie.


Before I forget, I modified one of my computers (the one that has the game). I changed the memory to 512, Video card to 128, and sound card from creative (Audigy 2) because we installed the 6.1 digital speakers for better quality and surround sound from the computer to the T.V

[Walt]

I do follow the calibration method in Real Race, but it just drifts really fast, and there is (unfortunately) no easy way to recalibrate once you're racing (should be a way to let go of the controls and then hit a key to tell the software the controls are in neutral, recalibrate).

I have a feeling it's something drifting in my computer, but I'm not sure. I really don't have the time anymore to play video games anyway.... maybe when winter comes I'll have time again.

[Serpent Impact]

15 Realistic On and Off-Road 2WD & 4WD Vehicles:
Associated RC10GT Plus Dazzler
_ Dirtball DuraTrax Axis
DuraTrax Evader ST DuraTrax Maxium BX
DuraTrax Maxium ST DuraTrax Nitro Quake
DuraTrax Street Force FastStrike
HPI Nitro MT Omega Force GS
Questor Tamiya Terra Crusher
Xtacy

Where Serpent?

[Serpent Impact]

kakolitoy

What is ur IP address or Game name for Counter Strike.
Have u been to this server: www.eclserver.net

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
15 Realistic On and Off-Road 2WD & 4WD Vehicles:
Associated RC10GT Plus Dazzler
_ Dirtball DuraTrax Axis
DuraTrax Evader ST DuraTrax Maxium BX
DuraTrax Maxium ST DuraTrax Nitro Quake
DuraTrax Street Force FastStrike
HPI Nitro MT Omega Force GS
Questor Tamiya Terra Crusher
Xtacy

Where Serpent?

They are right....Serpent is definitely NOT REALISTIC......$8 for one steering knuckle only work on either LEFT or RIGHT...Right steering knuckle cost more then the left one....No ON/OFF switch for the receiver? Use those "can't race more then 45 minutes" AAA batteries? Take forever for them to ship the parts....etc

Now, how can you call Serpent REALISTIC?

And my question is.....where is NTC3?

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
15 Realistic On and Off-Road 2WD & 4WD Vehicles:
Associated RC10GT Plus Dazzler
_ Dirtball DuraTrax Axis
DuraTrax Evader ST DuraTrax Maxium BX
DuraTrax Maxium ST DuraTrax Nitro Quake
DuraTrax Street Force FastStrike
HPI Nitro MT Omega Force GS
Questor Tamiya Terra Crusher
Xtacy

Where Serpent?

No serpent

I used the big car looks like a super nitro. I forgot the name something Omega. I change the motor to .21 and set it up little stiff infront like my serpent. Actually, it handles pretty good I am just a lap behind Harold in 3 min. heat.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
kakolitoy

What is ur IP address or Game name for Counter Strike.
Have u been to this server: www.eclserver.net .

I used to be Kakolitoy (my name @ home) my youger bro is (KOKOK).

Now, my name is Serpent 705. I suck in counter strike for some reason I lag after 15 min.

I never been there. Hey can you give me a password? Hey Serpent Impact do u need Cheating death for that site. I already downloaded Cheating Death in UNITEDADMIN.com but i still not running in my system. Help would be great.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Rookie Solara
They are right....Serpent is definitely NOT REALISTIC......$8 for one steering knuckle only work on either LEFT or RIGHT...Right steering knuckle cost more then the left one....No ON/OFF switch for the receiver? Use those "can't race more then 45 minutes" AAA batteries? Take forever for them to ship the parts....etc

Now, how can you call Serpent REALISTIC?

And my question is.....where is NTC3?

NO NTC3 also, but there were a Harold Character and impossible to beat. This car is like a robot. Never make a mistakes. very Very consistent and powerful. he drives an Omega that looks like a Super Nitro.

[Serpent Impact]

I don't host at eclserver, is Cheating death for the host only? Can player install it and kick hacker( I think is for host, just asking). What password??

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
I don't host at eclserver, is Cheating death for the host only? Can player install it and kick hacker( I think is for host, just asking). What password?? .

Some host required cheating death, and they will kick you out w/out it because you can cheat. Some host will give you a password to get in and some you have to pay them to get you a password. I usually get in the "Ah the Pressure." and some European host.

Hey! what is your name in the C.S.? I might see you there, look for you, and start killing you w/ my knife hehehehehehh.

I

[Serpent Impact]

sExY_EM1
Clan sExY at http://eclserver.net/stats/index.html
no passworf need for this server
Here IP address 69.17.20.55:27015

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
sExY_EM1
Clan sExY at http://eclserver.net/stats/index.html
no passworf need for this server
Here IP address 69.17.20.55:27015

I think I have seen you before!!, but I know you were not sexy there hheheheheh!!

I will check out your clan and what is needed to get in. I will do it now.

[kakolitoy]

Don't u know that

TiMMY H from Libertyville (Venture) plays w/ u. Timmy is one of the great young drivers right now in the Electric RC business. This kid is amzing in the snowbird.

[Serpent Impact]

Don't u know that

TiMMY H from Libertyville (Venture) plays w/ u. Timmy is one of the great young drivers right now in the Electric RC business. This kid is amzing in the snowbird.

What u talking about????

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
What u talking about???? .

On that host I checked the stats.

I saw TIIMMMMAAYYY that is him.

not bad impact you are @ 106 w/ 94 kills.

Hey I cannot find the server I would like to get in there. I am in C.S. right now.

[Serpent Impact]

What ur screen name??
sExY_Doc is my brother.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Serpent Impact
sExY_Doc is my brother.

I know it sounds familiar, but I have not seen any sexy people in the CS they all look the same. Both look like terrorist.

I have seen sexy doc name before. Impact I pm you. I need info to get in that host.

"Serpent 705." is my screen name.

I have the time in world for 2 weeks. I just graduated last Friday @ 6 p.m.

I will go back to school in 2 weeks. hehehhe I want to have fun as much as I can.

[kakolitoy]

Serpent Impact!!

[mab_man20]

Nexus: I saw an ad for the NTC3 factory team in RCCA. I may have just imagined it, but ill look again to be sure.

Thanks for the engine info.

Is there anything else i need??

[wrxdan]

I got that itch again..no not that type of itch.... With these EVOs and STi runing around I really want to do an uppipe and downpipe to the WRX. Someone please take control of my RC stuff before I do something regrettable:confused:

Dan

[Euge]

Originally posted by T-Racer
Nexus I never write much in this columm but if you are looking for a right motor for you car. The Rossi Pixcey Black is the Best.

T-Racer (and all other Nitro aficionados),

is this the engine you were talking about?

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEDA7&P=0

I don't know jack about nitro. Also, I see all these engine sizes and is it safe to assume to race 1/10th Nitro TC, you have to get a .12 engine?

What else should I look for in an engine? side exhaust vs. rear exhaust? rotary carbs vs. slide carbs?

[Walt]

Originally posted by Euge
I don't know jack about nitro. Also, I see all these engine sizes and is it safe to assume to race 1/10th Nitro TC, you have to get a .12 engine?

What else should I look for in an engine? side exhaust vs. rear exhaust? rotary carbs vs. slide carbs?

At Tinley, we are not currently enforcing any engine rules in the nitro touring car class, but other tracks do, and ROAR enforces the rules at the regionals/nationals/etc., so you might as well get a legal engine. That means .12 displacement, 3 ports, regular glow plug.

I think that the Pixy engine is a little bit pricey, and I have yet to see any advantage from that engine. Any of the $165-$190 Novarossi based engines will suit you just fine. Just like xxxMike, I have had nothing but good luck with the MT-12 version of the Novarossi engine. I have had one 'lemon' from Novarossi, but the other engines I've owned from them have been OK.

The location of the exhaust doesn't make any power difference, but people think it does, so now they are all trending towards rear exhaust. I think that slide carbs are better because the design of the carb allows for a simple mechanism to be used to help adjust the fuel/air ratio between idle and open throttle. Slide carbs don't have such a simple, straightforward way of accomplishing the same thing.

My recommendation: Novarossi based, slide carb, ROAR legal, rear exhaust (about the only way you can get them now anyway), no pull starter. Specific recommendation would be the MT-12 flavor of the Novarossi engine.

[Euge]

Originally posted by Walt
My recommendation: Novarossi based, slide carb, ROAR legal, rear exhaust (about the only way you can get them now anyway), no pull starter. Specific recommendation would be the MT-12 flavor of the Novarossi engine.

Thanks Walt. I definitely want to get a legal engine because I will probably race at different venues.
I'm searching the web for info on the MT-12. Is this pretty much what you're talking about? (I wish there were a picture)

https://www.ssl-stormerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/seekpart.pl?pn=MT12RES

Also, what type of crankshaft should I look for? I hear about SG crankshafts, standard shafts, threaded shafts, etc. I'm considering getting a NTC3. I'm assuming the type of crankshaft will depend on what type of car you've got, right?

[Walt]

Originally posted by Euge
Thanks Walt. I definitely want to get a legal engine because I will probably race at different venues.
I'm searching the web for info on the MT-12. Is this pretty much what you're talking about? (I wish there were a picture)

https://www.ssl-stormerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/seekpart.pl?pn=MT12RES

Also, what type of crankshaft should I look for? I hear about SG crankshafts, standard shafts, threaded shafts, etc. I'm considering getting a NTC3. I'm assuming the type of crankshaft will depend on what type of car you've got, right?

Yes, that's the engine I'm talking about (decent price you found there too I might add). The NTC3 kit includes the parts needed to use either a standard (also called threaded) crankshaft OR the SG (also called pilot shaft) crank. I'd get the pilot shaft one, all else being equal. If you get the standard crank, you just have to screw on a piece that makes the shaft 'look' like an SG shaft, and then that's just one more part that can come loose and that can have a little run out in it (not perfectly straight).

However, having said that, when I purchased my NTC3 I happened to own several standard crank engines already because that's all that fit in the HPI cars I own, so someone please correct me if there is some problem with running the SG shaft MT-12 engine in the NTC3, as I have never actually done it.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Euge
T-Racer (and all other Nitro aficionados),

is this the engine you were talking about?

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEDA7&P=0

I don't know jack about nitro. Also, I see all these engine sizes and is it safe to assume to race 1/10th Nitro TC, you have to get a .12 engine?

What else should I look for in an engine? side exhaust vs. rear exhaust? rotary carbs vs. slide carbs?

Do not buy this, its to expensive on what is really worth!!!
I rather have a

Novarossi Mugen MR12 latest Version of the Novarossi Mugen MT12.

Mr12 legal 3 port non turbo is $190 to $200. That is good enough. This motor was one of the fastest motor in 2003 winternats. Even NTC3 had a hard time catching up. The driver was using a Mugen MTX 3 w/ Mugen Novarossi MR 12.

hope this helps.

[Euge]

Originally posted by kakolitoy
Mr12 legal 3 port non turbo is $190 to $200. That is good enough. This motor was one of the fastest motor in 2003 winternats. Even NTC3 had a hard time catching up. The driver was using a Mugen MTX 3 w/ Mugen Novarossi MR 12.

where is a good place to order a MR12 or similar engines? (if I went with that)
I'm having a hard time finding any info on it. I'm not neccessarily looking to get the latest and greatest engine since I have yet to drive a Nitro car. I'm not exactly looking for a beginner level engine either.

Since I'm barraging you guys with Nitro questions, is there really any difference in the pipes out there or will any 'tuned' pipe do?
Fantom Racing says they use Steel pipes because they resonate better, keeping a more constant backpressure and that a steel exhaust will keep exhaust gases hotter, resulting in smoother combustion. Does any of this sound accurate to you nitro guys?

[Rookie Solara]

Just some opinion about picking engine.........if you have lots of money to blow and know how to tune engine like Aaron/Espo....get JP or whatever that is $300 and more....

If you are not one of those ppl....set your bugget to $150-$180 engine.......and I can garantee you cannot tell the different compare to those 3 5 port turbo and modified engine.......cause at TINLEY, the straight is still not LONG enough for you to tells the different, and for the rest of the track.....all engines are the same.....but if your engine doesn't have any low-end, you are gonna be the last one finished the race.....

OS-TR, that engine will definitely my pick for new on nitro, OS is very well known on needle setting....temperature does not play a big piece of interfrenance on OS engine, so once you have that engine set, you are probably good to go for the whole season, and the performance of that engine is definitely good enough to race those fast guy (including me, yes, I can garantee I do pretty much the same with the OS-TR engine...might be even less trouble then my Nova mega)....cheap $150.

MR-12 MT-12....same thing, MR-12 is the newer modlel, and you guy should get MR-12 instead....newer is better, MT-12 is four years old, defintiely the BEST all around engine, but for the same price, I would use the new one.....$160-180 range

Sirio 12.......lots of ppl saying good thing about that engine, I would get one if I need a ROAR engine, just to see that 1.4 hp 36,000 rpm performance, also, cheap $155.

Nova Rossi Nova Mega base engine (excluding MR/MT-12).....that shoudl be your NEXT engine for next season or 1 season after....don't JUMP to these engine yet, they are NOT really as good as you HEARD from other people.......I personally experienced a $200 LEMON on my hand, which I am trying to tackling down where the world is the problem..........oil everywhere on the engine after 2.4 race....and running like 280 degrees.....a little high but those OIL........god knows where is that come from, and my engine is only 2 weeks old.....if you like challenge and frustration, get Nova Rossi or Nova Mega.

Last.............get REAR exhaust SLIDE CARB.......I have to disagree with WALT about the no diff. between rear and side..........if you look from the TOP of the engine, REAR exhaust has the direct FRONT TO REAR flow of the exhaust air system.....however, on the side exhaust....the flow is go toward to the BACK of the engine case, then bounce back to the SIDE WALL of the case (either left or right) then bounce toward to the exhaust (side) opening....the direction is kinda like a number "4"........compare to rear exhaust "1"...rear exhaust will have the edge......but I am not 100% sure better flow means better performance or not....but I just know rear exhaust has the better flow then side exhaust...

Same idea....SLIDE is more direct air flow (either straight UP or DOWN flow)....compare to rotary (kinda zic-zac on the flow of air)

One thing for sure.......those FLOW concept does reflects to the HIGH SPEED performance (rear exhaust with slide carb) so, most on-road ppl are choosing REAR exhaust and SLIDE carb.......but on OFF-ROAD......top speed is really something not too imporant, on the other hand, you really want to maintain lots of LOW-END power.....so side exhaust and slide carbs are mainly used.

SG crank and Standard........very important, but it doesn't chance the performance of the engine....it is important cause it depends on WHAT car are you choosing.....cars like SERPENT/Mugen/Yokomo.....they all need SG crank engine (someone can verify Mugen/Kyosho/Yokomo for me, I am only 100% sure about Serpent must use SG crank)......cars like HPI can ONLY use standard or short crank (I learned my lesson on SNRS4).....AWESOME car like NTC3 can use both.....even though the rest of the car's engineering are horrible, they mannaged to designe ONE good feature of this car....

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by mab_man20
Nexus: I saw an ad for the NTC3 factory team in RCCA. I may have just imagined it, but ill look again to be sure.

Thanks for the engine info.

Is there anything else i need??

I think if you look at the NTC3 box, it is called "TEAM KIT" since day one............damn American, I am sure they will charge extra $50 when they add "FACTORY" in front of the "TEAM kit" next time when they release the new ntc3.

For you and Nexus......don't waste your time on RTR, there are 2 reason..........

(1)....1/2 of the stuff from the RTR will be replaced after the first day of racing....especially for you 2 experienced slow electric racer....LOL....(on the other hand, more business for Al's or Serpent Impact)

(2).......everytime I see you holding that RTR radio on the driver stand......I will point and laugh at you, I can promise you that...

Really....get the kit and the right engine to start.

[kakolitoy]

Originally posted by Euge
where is a good place to order a MR12 or similar engines? (if I went with that)
I'm having a hard time finding any info on it. I'm not neccessarily looking to get the latest and greatest engine since I have yet to drive a Nitro car. I'm not exactly looking for a beginner level engine either.

Since I'm barraging you guys with Nitro questions, is there really any difference in the pipes out there or will any 'tuned' pipe do?
Fantom Racing says they use Steel pipes because they resonate better, keeping a more constant backpressure and that a steel exhaust will keep exhaust gases hotter, resulting in smoother combustion. Does any of this sound accurate to you nitro guys?

Info:

Ashfordhobby.com
Brucknerhobbies.com
gasrccar.com

check for feedbacks:

http://www.mugenseiki.co.jp (make sure you to Japan so you can see the motor).
www.novarossi.com

Pipes any good pipes out there is good enough. I used to use Novarossi, Rb, and Novamega pipes (all are expensive) and they break and deform easily. Now, I just use a Paris Pipe. I use the paris because its very very tough and can take hits and not breaking it. Its very durable pipe, I am not sure about NTC3 I know there are some great pipes out there for this car. I heard RDlogics is cheap and tough. I also put a A.C. and clamp. This combo worked great. I never pop my manifold and pipe again. Some people will say its extra weight in the car, but I did not see any drag to the left side of the car. If I take the whole assembly off Manifold and Pipe. Its like a one piece pipe, its very very solid. The clamps holds the two very well. No leaks and air leaks. I have been using this pipe for almost 2 years and still alive compared to those expensive pipes. I paid $35 for this pipe and still running good.

[HauntedMyst]

Walt,

I need to run some practice laps on the outdoor track. Is it still open for practice every night?

[Euge]

thanks to all of you for the valuable nitro info. I will check out those sites, as well.

[Rookie Solara]

Originally posted by HauntedMyst
Walt,

I need to run some practice laps on the outdoor track. Is it still open for practice every night?

No.....but I will let Walt to tell you when will they keep the track at the parking lot permenantly.

[Nexus]

i'm on my way now to buy a NTC3 with a O.S .12 TR HELEOLOL!!!


RookieS:
(2).......everytime I see you holding that RTR radio on the driver stand......I will point and laugh at you, I can promise you that...


give me a weekend or two with a NTC3 and i'll start laughing at you! HELEOLOL j/k let the games begin.

[kakolitoy]

I am sorry I cannot leave a message when I play in C.S.. I am sorry for the late reply. I get nervous when I type and play @ the same time. I tried to type and I got shot on the head.

[Dropkicked]

it seems that someone's got their super nitro on ebay... Am I mistaken or is that xxxmike's? Wish I'd known sunday, I'd have taken a bunch of parts off your hands.