Austin 7 Racing Checklist
A Big Welcome
Most of us try not to take it too seriously. Whilst we enjoy the thrill of close racing our safety and that of our fellow competitors is paramount. This checklist is intended as a helpful guide. Please be aware that competitors must review Motorsport UK’s Year Book (MUYB) still referred to as the ‘Blue Book’ to ensure your cars are compliant. Your car and apparel will be inspected at scrutineering. Please remember that the scrutineers are there to help and guide you.
If you are a novice, you might like to have your car inspected by fellow racers prior to your first outing. You do not want to be failed for something really silly!
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(Photo by Alan Beastall)
You and Your Cars
Race Licence – A Licence for racing is mandatory. If making an application for the first time you should obtain a novice race driver ‘Go Racing Driver Pack’, which sets out what you need to do to take your ARDS test - https://www.motorsportuk.org/get-started/starter-packs/). The ARDS is fun in itself.
Medical – When you apply for your Licence having undertaken your ARDS the form will advise you on whether you need a medical, eye sight test etc.
Preparing Your Car
We would advise following the eligibility rules of the VSCC since if your car is eligible with them it will be approved by the 750 MC, Bert Hadley series and eligible for the current European races.
Battery
The general guideline is that the battery should be in a sealed container if it is located in the cockpit. If you have a sealed gel type battery then it can be sited anywhere. The idea being if the vehicle rolls, you will not want battery acid dripping on you.
Carburettors
The return spring or equivalent must have a secondary spring return. If the one fails, the other needs to kick in.
Catch Tanks
1 litre capacity for radiator and 2 litre for oil. Ideally the catch tanks should have some means of allowing one to see whether, or not, they have fluid in them. A cola bottle is a favourite for water catch tanks!
Fire Extinguishers
A compliant 2.4 litre capacity or equivalent. It must be ‘in-service’. This means that they must have been professionally serviced within a two year period. Check MUYB.
Firewall
There must be a secure firewall between the engine and the driver/passenger. Most cars have a natural barrier in the bulk-head. The scrutineers look for either a tight seal or close gaps. Use a silver foil tape to close any gaps.
Kill Switch
You must fit a ‘kill’ switch and preferably on the outside of your car so that anyone can quickly see where it is to shut the ignition and battery down.
Lock Wire
To be used on all drain plugs ie engine, gear box and rear axle. See Oil Drips. Also, if you have a quick release fuel filler this should be made secure. Lock wire, ‘R’ clip etc.
Oil Drips
You must check the seals of all oil plugs engine, gearbox and differential. No drips please for obvious reasons.
Rain Light
Must be fitted to the rear of your car and within the prescribed centre line and at the right height. Check MUYB. Road going sports cars can use high intensity bulbs within their rear side lights.
Tow Point
Establish a point/place on your car whereby marshals can attach a tow rope. A towing eye for Vintage cars is not required, but a ‘Tow’ decal (see below) should be applied. The MUYB will guide you as to the best position.
Transponder & Bracket
Transponders and bracket available from the respective Clubs.
Wheels
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Check that all spokes are tight. Run a pencil around the spokes and in theory they should ‘ping’. Also use lock tight or other steel wheel nuts. Brass wheel nuts are not permitted.
Apparel & Safety Wear
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Body Amour – again, recommended.
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Helmet – a full face version is recommended and must meet current MS UK guidelines.
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Race Boots and Gloves – must be compliant.
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Race Suit - must be compliant with MUYB.
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Underclothing & Balaclava – these are recommended.
Decals
These are required for the following and can be bought most easily from Ebay:
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Fuel tap indicator to shut off fuel flow assuming you have a fuel tap.
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On / Off Triangle to indicate where your ‘Kill Switch’ is located.
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On / Off Signs for your secondary ignition source e.g. on your dashboard.
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Orange disc needed either side of fuel filler indicating the use of methanol.
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Race numbers are generally provided at the track. Generally, you will need 3 sets. If you have a small car then two sets are permitted. However, the numbers must be clearly visible by the marshals, time-keepers and Clerk of the Course as you are going around the track.
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Yellow Square with black cross placed at the rear of your car to indicate you are a novice.
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Tow point indicating where rescue marshals are to attach their tow rope. Refer to MUYB for advice on the optimum location.
Time To Have Fun!
Once you have gone through the process of getting your Licence, buying your kit and preparing your car the hard bit is done. You can then focus on having some real fun!