Buckle up for your first track day. This cheat sheet covers the essentials to get your Civic Type R ready for the circuit. Start with a thorough inspection: check lug nuts for proper torque, inspect brake pads and fluid levels, and remove unnecessary items to reduce weight.
Tires and pressures: track sessions put intense heat into your tires. Choose a performance summer tire or semi-slick rated for track use. Start with pressures around 38 psi cold and adjust after each session—hot pressures in the mid-40s psi work for many drivers. Always check for even wear and ensure lug nuts are tightened to factory specs (94 lb-ft / 127 Nm).
Brakes: Upgraded pads and high‑temperature fluid can dramatically improve braking performance. Consider track‑oriented pads with a higher friction coefficient and install braided stainless steel brake lines for better pedal feel. Bleed the system with a DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid rated for high temperatures and check pads before every session.
Fluids and cooling: On track, oil temperatures rise quickly. Ensure your oil and coolant are at the correct levels and consider a higher viscosity oil if ambient temperatures are high. For longer sessions, an upgraded oil cooler can help maintain stable temperatures.
Safety gear: Bring a helmet meeting Snell SA2020 or FIA standards. Check your seatbelts and seats for proper fitment; a harness bar and harness can provide better support but must be installed correctly. Always attend the drivers’ meeting and familiarize yourself with track rules, flag signals, and passing procedures.
Final checks: Torque wheels to spec, verify tire pressures, top off fuel, and pack tools, spare fluids, and a tire pressure gauge. With careful preparation, your track day will be safer and more enjoyable.