356 Race Car

[steve wright]

I watched the full video of the race from inside our car. very interesting viewing. The driving from Ian and I was obviously more controlled than last year, which I put down to experience but also a few basic chassis modifications, so this will be where out attention on the car goes next. But more importantly its obvious we both just need seat time and tuition. I looked at my race and I could see when I strung a few good corners together it all flowed which translated to noticeably quicker progress, but I wasn't doing it consistently or with any purpose. That's where the real focus needs to be!

[sladey]

Fantastic stuff Steve. I love reading your race reports - will be even better with pictures though

[Lightweight_911]

Great result - makes all the effort/expense over the winter worth it.

Where else are you racing after Snetterton ?

[steve wright]

We're at Brands in 6 July where the pit girls are in attendance (I'm trying to get t-shirts made up so if anyone knows a really good t-shirt manufacturer please let me know), I might try and get to the Silverstone Classic as part of the pre-63 GT race there but that's dependant on family commitments, then it's Oulton Park 24/25 Aug, back to Brands on 28 Sept, then the finals at Silverstone on 19 Oct. Not as busy as last year but we're missing Spa and a couple of others due to work and family commitments.

[steve wright]

Here's the only photo I have from the weekend but it's a good one: in the scrutineering bay, everyone looking pensive. Mr Robert Barrie looking on with a concerned expression with his lovely Lotus behind him, while Mr Philip Basil keeps his back to the camera to maintain anonymity. I'm scratching an itch on the back of my shoulder, never an easy task and an especially difficult one in a race suit I've decided is too short, while our little 356 is about to be "inspected". After a year racing no dramas are expected, although we got told to put yellow tape on the live battery terminal. I can handle that sort of stuff for scrutineering!

[Pandora]

nice new bonnet clips I see!

[john ruston]

What is quickest time for 356 at Silverstone G P circuit?

[Mike Smith]

John,

I think you need to ask Bill Stephens - even if it is not him Anita will know

[steve wright]

The fastest time I could find was Bill's son Will, in their 356C at 2:48.2 on the GP circuit with Vale eased for historic cars. This was via MST Timing, but there may faster times set at events I couldn't find online. So that's 6 seconds we need to find....

[neilbardsley]

The fastest time I could find was Bill's son Will, in their 356C at 2:48.2 on the GP circuit with Vale eased for historic cars. This was via MST Timing, but there may faster times set at events I couldn't find online. So that's 6 seconds we need to find....

There is quite a difference between an A and C surely? Disc brakes, stronger engine etc can't be easy to match? Mind you given that you have done so far another 6 seconds doesn't seem impossible!

[steve wright]

Neil, because the 356 wasn't homologated some of the common mechanical components can be interchanged. So for example later SC engines, 741 gearboxes, B drums, etc can all be used. What can't be used in an early car is disc brakes because they were a different specification. This in effect means the cara are probably closer than you think. The two big differences are weight (the C is significantly heavier) and as you highlight, brakes. The other big difference from Bill's car is a full rollcage, more development and a lot more experience. I've learnt since I started racing that the component that contributes the most to how fast a car is, is the driver

[neilbardsley]

Thanks Steve for the explanation.

is the driver

Funny that I came to the same conclusion when I was racing triathlon/duathlon, somewhat competitively, it was me not that bike that was at fault

[john ruston]

I am aware that a 42/43 was done with a drum break car last year in Pre 63 but wondered if this was quickest.


So know that there are major problems with drum brakes at these speeds.Heat and brake shoes!

Would expect a 40/41 this year assuming dry.

The Donnington lap times in Pre 63 were interesting.

[one-two]

2.40 in a drum-braked 356 would be super-impressive. Wouldn't put it past you though!

[Bootsy]

I'll be coming to Snetterton just after lunch on Saturday - the 3 hour race starts at 3pm Steve?

Thomas