How to Prepare Your Vehicle for the Track in Cookeville, TN

Are you interested in unleashing your sports car’s full potential on a closed course? Launch off the starting line confidently when you properly prepare your Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro at Cumberland Customs. We also have a checklist for you to review to prioritize your safety while tackling your best lap time. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team to receive a detailed response.

Tires

Traction is non-negotiable whether you're hitting the track or traveling to Cane Creek Park, and that’s where performance tires come into play. When you visit our custom body shop, you’ll have your choice from performance and track tires, and your decision boils down to your specific model’s mechanical output. This is precisely why it’s so important to check your Owner’s Manual and cross reference speed ratings. We have a variety of different brands as well, so you can choose the manufacturer that piques your interest. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to customize your car’s handling by mounting your new tires on a range of wheel sizes. Once we’re done professionally mounting and balancing your tires, we can tune your suspension to amplify your vehicle’s handling on Route 70N.

Driver Safety

With your car ready to go, it’s imperative you take your own protective gear into consideration. After all, reaching high velocities can put you in dangerous situations. A SA2020-rated helmet is the bare minimum, as this gear can withstand heavy impacts. From there, optional equipment includes a pair of driving gloves, a fire-resistant suit, and driving shoes. These requirements can vary based on the closed course you’re visiting, so make sure to check with the track ahead of time. Lastly, you’ll want to remove loose items from the cabin to ensure nothing obstructs your foot while accelerating. If you have any questions about driver safety, contact us.

Inspection

Once you’re suited up, you’ll need to complete a full-scale inspection of your vehicle. This includes checking your brake pads, tire treads, and wheel torque. We also recommend assessing your car’s fluid levels, since coolant will regulate the powertrain’s temperature at high speeds. You’ll also want to check for leaks, since tracks will not let you drive if you have oil leaking on the pavement. When you arrive at the course, it’s important to take a sighting lap. This consists of learning the track's curves and bends at appropriate speeds. This will allow you to remember upcoming cornering maneuvers so you can properly brake ahead of time. Lastly, bring water. This step is oftentimes overlooked, but a long afternoon of cruising can be physically demanding. Before you swing by our dealership, make sure to take a look at our Tire Packages.