The Van Deimen made it’s maiden voyage with me this weekend at SFR SCCA’s final race of the season at Thunderhill Raceway. It sure was nice to join up with my Group 4 brethren once again after a year’s absence from them. Following a week long flog to get the car ready, my buddy Art and I took it up for a test day and to get a new logbook issued. Lots of little issues every session – oil leaks, hydraulic leaks, electrical gremlins, etc, but at least the chassis and drivetrain “seemed” pretty solid. SCCA Tech made getting a new logbook issued for this car a pain in the butt (who would think that Halon fire bottles are now illegal?!?), but that’s the price to play I guess.
Racing however proved to test the car’s limits, with overheating issues occurring after a few laps each session. But while we were on track, we were at least able to keep the FC leaders in sight for a couple of laps. First time out with a new car is always a test of skill, patience, and yeah, your wallet. Hopefully next time out will be a bit better…
Photos by Privateer Racing
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