RACE CAR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What brands of race cars can I order from Performance Auto?

At Performance Auto, we can order Shaw open-wheel Modifieds and Rocket Chassis Late Models.

How do I square the front end of my modified / stock car?

With the car hanging on jack stands, using an "X" pattern measure from the center of the pitman arm on the steering box shaft to the grease zerk on the center link where it connects to the idler arm. Then measure from the grease zerk on the bottom of the frame side on the idler arm to the opposite grease zerk on the center link. These measurements should be roughly 23" on a metric framed stock car or modified. This measurement will vary a 1/16" to an 1/8" depending on parts manufacture etc. 

What are some tips to keep a Ford 9" floater housing from leaking?

First, make sure you have a good vent on your housing so it will not build pressure internally. Next, make sure you have inner axle seals. Use either ALL 72099 or ALL 72100. Snout seal are also a good step in the right direction. Depending on what axles you use we offer two seals. Use PEM GNSSW5 for gun drilled axles and PEM GNSSGN for solid axles. Keep in mind when using inner axle seals, you must grease your hub bearings. 

What are bearing spacers?

Bearing spacers are adjustable sleeves used in the front and rear hubs on race cars. These will protect the bearing from being over tightened and will help reduce drag in your race car. 

Do I need to add Zinc to my racing oil?

Typically, when using a purpose made racing oil it will already have a high zinc additive package. Racing oils like Lucas Oil and Penngrade (Brad Penn) will already have plenty of zinc and it is not recommended to add zinc to them. Some zinc additives might not mix with the existing zinc additive package and will actually cause more harm than good. 

How do I set valve lash on a solid lift camshaft?

First, you need to identify which style cam and lifter you have. Some classes like an IMCA Sport Mod, IMCA Stock Car and IMCA Modified open engines will allow a solid flat tappet cam. To set solid camshaft valve lash roll the engine over until the exhaust valve just starts to move. When the exhaust valve starts to open you will set the intake valve lash on the rocker arm. To set exhaust valve lash, roll the engine over until the intake valve completely opens and starts closing. Then, adjust exhaust valve lash. Consult with your engine builder or cam card for specs on where lash should be set at. Lash of .016" is the most common for circle track applications. 

How do I set valve lash on a hydraulic lift camshaft?

First, verify that it is a hydraulic camshaft. These camshafts will use a lifter that is spring loaded and uses oil pressure to keep them "Pumped Up". To set Intake valve lash with a hydraulic camshaft, start by rolling the engine over until the exhaust valve just starts to open. Adjust the intake rocker arm until there is zero lash. You will then need to pre load the lifter. A common practice is a 1/4 turn of the adjuster nut. To set Exhaust valve lash, you will need to roll the engine over until the intake valve opens completely and just starts to close. You will then adjust the nut on the exhaust rocker arm. As always, consult your engine builder or cam card to verify valve lash.