Ballast in ZX3s

[Ted7rns]

Quick heads up on some weight issues we seem to be having on the ZX3 Spec Cars.

It seems that the balance is somewhat off in the ZX3s. So, we are looking into allowing ZX3 drivers to add ballast to the right rear corner of the car. Under the current rules ballast can only be bolted within the front passenger compartment. We might allow ZX3 (and ZX5s) to add between 15-30lbs in the right rear corner. Right now we have a problem getting any tire heat in the right rear at all and the balance might be off a little. There doesn’t seem to be a problem in the sedans but we are also watching them as well.

Ballast must be made of solid metal, and must be installed securely. All ballast must be secured using at least one (1) 3/8-inch grade-5 bolt, two (2) ‘fender washers’, and a locking nut system for every fifteen (15) pounds of weight. Example: A seven (7) pound block requires at least one (1) bolt system as described herein. A thirty 30 pound block requires at least a two (2) bolt system.

The Min weight with the driver of all cars and engines are 2600lbs.

[BUR_ZX3]

wise move! Good to hear.

Remind me, battery relocation back there is prohibited, no?

[Ted7rns]

You can move the battery. Mine is back there, but we're still looking for more weight.

http://us.a2.yahoofs.com/users/43e13...whlZEBEAzpw35O

[FocusAZ1]

Ted, if I run with NASA (Spec or HPDE) can I have my battery relocated to the rear of the car without a remote cutoff switch?

[Ted7rns]

Relocating the battery is fine in both HPDE or SF. But, you'll need a Master Switch in SF no matter where the battery is located.

[Scott/CA/TX]

Originally Posted by Ted7rns

You can move the battery.

I'm sure I'm overlooking it but where in the rules is battery relocation allowed?

Scott

[Ted7rns]

Originally Posted by Scott/CA/TX

I'm sure I'm overlooking it but where in the rules is battery relocation allowed?

Scott

It's in the CCRs

11.4.9 Battery
The battery shall be securely fastened to the car. No Bungee cords or rubber cords may
be used to function as the sole hold down mechanism. An electrically non-conductive
material must cover the positive battery terminal. Any battery located inside the driver’s
compartment should be fully covered and firmly secured to the chassis (or tub) in a
marine type battery case. True dry cell batteries may be mounted without a surrounding
case, however a case is still recommended.

15.8 Master Switch
An electrical master switch is recommended on all cars, and required on some, as listed
in the class rules. It shall be mounted so that it is easily accessible from the outside. If
mounted outside the cockpit, it should be mounted in an area where it is least likely to be
damage (i.e. cowling near wipers). The switch shall cut all power except to the on-board
fire system and any other life support / medical device. The switch location must be
clearly marked. Any marked switch must function as per this rule, or the indication decal
must be removed.

Spec Focus Rule
23.17 A Master Switch cutoff is required. The switch must meet specifications set forth in the NASA CCR.

[FocusAZ1]

Thanks Ted...crazy through response.

[Scott/CA/TX]

Thanks Ted. I suspected that it was referenced elsewhere and I haven't had time to wade thru the CCR yet. I have enough trouble keeping the GCR straight!

[recar]

Ted, Your battery is in your hatch. Where is your master switch located?

[Ted7rns]

Originally Posted by recar

Ted, Your battery is in your hatch. Where is your master switch located?

The master is normally by the passenger of driver side window so it's easy for a safety worker to turn it off.

[FocusAZ1]

If I located my cut-off switch in the vacated spot on the back hatch where the wiper assemble was would that be acceptable?

[Ted7rns]

Originally Posted by FocusAZ1

If I located my cut-off switch in the vacated spot on the back hatch where the wiper assemble was would that be acceptable?

I never seen anyone put it in the rear of the car, except drag racers... But, you can do that. I normally see them within arms reach of the driver. You never know when you might have to shut it off yourself. Just make sure it's clearly marked.

[68 Touring Car]

Originally Posted by FocusAZ1

If I located my cut-off switch in the vacated spot on the back hatch where the wiper assemble was would that be acceptable?

Do you really want it where it can get hit? also it is a very good idea to have it located where the driver can turn off the power incase you are in trouble and a corner worker can not get there in time. or the are not any corner workers at a track day?

[Ted7rns]

You really want it near you... You want the corner workers to move towards you first and stay ther... not to run towards the back of the car to turn the switch off. Plus since most cars are near the drivers, that is where the Corner workers will look first.

Also the rules states it should be in an area where it can't be damaged. It could be in there rear.

[recar]

Anyone have a photo of the master switch installed on the cowl?

[FocusAZ1]

I checked out several cars this weekend and the location that they used. I see your points about having the switch near by the driver, and that makes good sense. I've got some revised ideas for locations now...thanks.