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Car Racing Parts and Equipment Guide for Beginners

Photo by Hebert Santos

Introduction

If you’re into car racing, there are many different things that you need to consider to be a successful racer. Several different parts and pieces like these go into your car, and they can make a huge difference in how it performs out on the track. In this article, we’ll discuss some of these important items so that you know what to look for when purchasing new parts for your car:

Car Racing Tires

Raceworks hose is one of the most popular tires in the car racing industry. It is known for its durability and performance, making it an ideal choice for those looking to get the most out of their car racing experience. Raceworks hose has been used by professional racers for years, and now it is available to everyday drivers as well. The tire is designed to provide maximum grip on a variety of surfaces, allowing drivers to make sharp turns at high speeds with confidence. Raceworks hose also offers superior handling in wet conditions, giving drivers the confidence they need when racing in inclement weather. With its advanced technology and superior performance, Raceworks hose is becoming one of the most sought after tires in car racing today.

Oil Coolers

Oil coolers are used to cool the engine oil. They maintain the temperature of the engine oil by removing heat from it. The main purpose of an oil cooler is to transfer heat from the hot engine oil back into your radiator, where it can be removed from your vehicle’s cooling system by a fan or electric pump, which then circulates air through your radiator and condenser core.

Oil coolers are made of metal and plastic, with aluminum being one of their most common materials. They’re often painted black so they don’t stand out too much on an engine bay that may already have several other black pieces installed there like brake calipers or fuel lines. Oil coolers can be installed in front of your radiator or on top of your engine, depending on what type you buy (there are both types).

Engine Dress-Up Kits

If you’re looking for an easy way to customize your car, engine dress-up kits are a great option. Engine dress-up kits come in many different styles and designs, so you can choose one that matches your car’s style. Some examples include chrome, carbon fiber, and satin.

The difference between a carbon fiber kit and a chrome one is that the former will have darker shades of black while the latter will have lighter shades of silver or white coloration. The cost of these depends on their size, but they usually range from $40-USD 60. Installing them depends on whether they come with instructions or not; if they do, then installation should be pretty straightforward as long as there aren’t too many steps involved!

Performance Brake Pads

Brake pads are an essential safety item. They’re the only thing that stops your car. So it’s important to keep them in good working order by replacing them regularly before they reach their wear limit.

When you buy performance brake pads for your car, it’s important to get high-quality ones. Not all performance brake pads are created equally, and not all will perform the same way under stress or heat; some may be more prone to warping than others, and some may have inferior materials that won’t last as long as others. Having a good brand of performance brake pads on board can help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place!

Fender Flares

Fender flares are wide, flat parts that are attached to the side of your car and extend beyond its body. They provide extra protection for your vehicle when you hit something or go through debris. The fenders can be made out of plastic or metal, depending on what type of material your car needs and what style you’re looking for.

Fenders are essential if you want to keep your vehicle safe while racing at high speeds on the track. They help prevent damage that can occur from hitting something like mud or gravel while driving down a dirt road or even potholes on roads with less traffic in urban areas where there is more congestion than in rural settings where fewer people live together but still enjoy driving fast cars for recreation purposes, like most people do here in America!

Car Racing Seats

A racing seat is the most essential part of your race car. It’s important to get a seat that is both comfortable and safe because you’ll be spending many hours in it.

A good seat will be able to support your back and keep it straight while also being soft enough to prevent pressure points on your body. You should also make sure that it has adjustable lumbar and headrest supports that can be moved up or down depending on how you like them set up at different times of the day (or night). Finally, make sure that the material used for the cover is fire retardant so that no matter what happens if something catches fire in your car—or someone else’s—your driver’s safety isn’t compromised by melting fabric!

You need to buy the right parts and equipment to be a successful car racer.

If you’re a beginner, there are certain parts and equipment that you need to buy if you want to be successful. These include:

  • A car. This is obvious, but it’s important to note that some cars will be better suited for racing than others, so you must choose one carefully.
  • Tires. You’ll need several sets of tires to compete in different types of races. For example, if there’s an off-road track nearby where you live and your tires aren’t designed specifically for off-road driving then they won’t work on such tracks because they won’t grip the surface properly—and this could cause serious damage or even injuries! But don’t worry about this; just make sure that whatever tire company makes their products have been around for at least 10 years with no complaints from their customers (and preferably 20).

Conclusion

I hope this guide on car racing parts and equipment has helped you understand what you need to be a successful racer. Now go out there and start building your dream car!

Frankie Muniz Takes on 2023 ARCA Menards Series Championship in Rette Jones Racing No. 30 Ford Mustang

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (Jan. 11, 2023): Global television, film star and professional motorsports athlete, Frankie Muniz, today announced that he will race the No. 30 Ford Mustang for Rette Jones Racing and compete for the ARCA Menards Series championship beginning at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway on Feb. 18, 2023.

“It’s with the utmost excitement, optimism and gratitude that I’m joining Rette Jones Racing for the full ARCA Menards Series schedule this year,” said Muniz.

“Ever since childhood, it’s been my dream to pursue racing in NASCAR, and it was important for me to partner with a team that aligned with my long-term objectives and vision while providing every opportunity imaginable to grow mentally and physically as a full-time race car driver.

“I look forward to not only demonstrating my ability on the track and just how serious how I am in progressing in my racing career, but also showing my son and family what it is to chase your dreams and re-invent yourself.”

The much-celebrated actor of “Malcolm in the Middle,” “Agent Cody Banks” and “Dancing with the Stars” fame, among other notable projects in the entertainment world, was engaged in months of discussions with various stakeholders across the NASCAR world in advance of signing with the team co-owned by Motorsports veteran Terry Jones and former ARCA championship crew chief Mark Rette.

“We are very excited to welcome Frankie Muniz to the Rette Jones Racing family for the full 2023 ARCA Menards Series schedule,” offered Rette. “Over the years, we’ve prided ourselves on working with new drivers who have quickly adapted to the diversity of the ARCA Menards Series and without a doubt, we believe Frankie can do the same.”

“It is not going to be easy, and there will be a learning curve – but with his passion, focus and commitment along with the capabilities of our team, we believe we are going to put him in a position to contend for multiple wins in 2023.

“Furthermore, we’re excited that, because of Frankie’s profile, new audiences and fans will be introduced to the sport and Rette Jones Racing.”

Jones, a former competitor in the ARCA Menards Series shares the same enthusiasm as Rette about Muniz’s outlook for 2023.

“2023 is set up to be one of the most memorable seasons for Rette Jones Racing since our inception in 2016,” he said. “Without a doubt, we believe in Frankie’s ability and commitment and with Mark’s leadership we believe that he will quickly adapt on track and contend for a championship in his rookie season.”

For the 2023 ARCA season, Rette Jones Racing will continue its longtime partnership with Ford Performance but upgrade its fleet to include the Ford Mustang beginning at Daytona.

“Ford is pleased to welcome Frankie Muniz to our performance family. Frankie is not only a successful actor but also a skilled and enthusiastic racer,” commented Mark Rushbrook, global director, Ford Performance Motorsports.

“He is dedicated to continue growing as a professional stock car racer, and we believe he will make a valuable contribution to the ARCA program at Rette Jones Racing.”

Teams of the ARCA Menards Series are gearing up for the yearly preseason test at Daytona International Speedway this weekend. Muniz will address the media on Friday, Jan. 13, 2023, from noon to 1:00 p.m. Eastern via video teleconference.

For more information, or to request an interview with the athlete, contact Athlelo Group at adelara@athelogroup.com.

For more on Frankie Muniz please visit munizracing.com, like him on Facebook (FrankieMuniz4) and follow him on Instagram (@frankiemuniz4) and Twitter (@frankiemuniz).

For more on Rette Jones Racing, please visit RetteJonesRacing.com, like them on Facebook (Rette Jones Racing) or follow them on Instagram (@RetteJones30) and Twitter (@RetteJones30).

About Rette Jones Racing:

Headquartered in Mooresville, North Carolina, Rette Jones Racing (RJR) was founded in 2015 with the intent of building a successful racing operation built around the fundamentals of hard work and a never-give-up attitude.

Owned by racers Terry Jones and Mark Rette, RJR plans to field a full-time entry in 2023 in the ARCA Menards Series, while also planning to field vehicles in the ARCA Menards Series East respectively.

The winning ARCA team also offers technical and setup intel as part of its technical alliance partnership program.

Signs That Your Car’s Suspension Set-up Needs Repair

Photo by Gustavo Fring

Introduction

Your car’s suspension setup is what makes it possible for you to drive smoothly and safely on the road. If your suspension is damaged, you might notice things like an uncomfortable ride or unusual sounds coming from your car. If these problems persist over time, they can lead to costly repairs down the road. While some of these issues might not seem too serious at first glance, it’s best to inspect your vehicle for any visible damage before it becomes something more serious.

Uneven wear in your tires

If your car is making noises, shaking, or riding unevenly, it’s possible that you need car suspension repairs. In addition to tires wearing unevenly (if this is the case), several other signs can indicate a problem in your vehicle’s suspension setup:

  • The steering wheel shakes when you drive on bumpy roads
  • You have difficulty keeping control of the car when making turns
  • The ride feels harsh or rough

It’s hard to turn your steering wheel.

It’s also important to note that if you’re having difficulty turning the steering wheel, it might not be your suspension. If this is the case, your car’s alignment may need readjusting. This can happen for several reasons:

  • Your tires are worn out or misaligned
  • Your vehicle has a bent rim or some other issue with your tire
  • You have an issue with the suspension system itself (this is rare)

Your car pulls to one side of the road.

A car that pulls to one side of the road is usually caused by a problem with the alignment. The tires are not aligned properly, meaning that they’re not pointing in the same direction and/or parallel to each other. This happens when parts of your suspension set-up are worn out or broken, causing them to move around and misalign as you drive down the road.

The shocks on your car are leaking fluids.

If you see that your car is leaking shock fluid, this can be a sign of damage to the shock. It could also be a sign of a damaged seal, piston, or shaft.

If you’re not sure what’s going on with your shocks, have them checked out by an expert as soon as possible.

You can visibly see damage to your suspension.

You can visually inspect your car’s suspension by checking for damage to the shocks, springs, struts, and other parts of the system. You should also check for signs of wear in the tires. Cracks in the bodywork could be another indication that something isn’t right with your ride’s suspension system. It’s important to keep an eye out for leaks as well—if you notice a puddle or pooling under your car when it sits still for any period of time, this is cause for concern.

You hear a clunking noise when you drive over bumps or around corners.

That clunking noise you hear when you drive over bumps or around corners is usually caused by worn suspension parts. Your car’s shocks could have lost their ability to dampen shockwaves and absorb the impact of bumps in the road, which means that you’ll feel every bump in your suspension.

When that happens, it’s time to replace the parts before they damage other components like struts or springs. If you’re not sure what kind of suspension is on your vehicle, take it to a mechanic who will be able to inspect it for you.

Your car feels loose and wobbly at highway speeds.

Think of your car’s suspension system as the part of the car that keeps you from having to drive on eggshells. This system is made up of springs and shock absorbers, which help keep the tires of your vehicle in contact with the road at all times. When spring breaks, it can cause some serious problems for your car.

If you notice that your vehicle seems loose and wobbly when driving on highways, this may be an indication that something isn’t right with its suspension set-up or alignment.

Your car’s body sags or sits too low.

If your car’s body sags or sits too low, this can be a sign that your springs need to be replaced. Springs are the main component of suspension systems, and they’re responsible for supporting the weight of your vehicle and its passengers. They also help keep your tires properly aligned with the road surface. If these components wear out over time, it can lead to serious problems with control and safety.

If you notice that your car seems to be leaning to one side when parked on flat ground, this could be another indicator that its springs are worn out. In addition to creating a potentially dangerous driving experience by causing uneven weight distribution across different wheels during acceleration and braking maneuvers, uneven suspension systems also cause excessive tire wear and increased fuel consumption due to the additional friction created by misalignment between axles and tire treads.

You can easily inspect for some of these problems yourself, but it’s best to have a professional inspect your vehicle if you suspect an issue with the suspension

  • You can easily inspect for some of these problems yourself, but it’s best to have a professional inspect your vehicle if you suspect an issue with the suspension.
  • You should have your car inspected at least once a year.

Conclusion

While it’s tempting to try and save money by doing the work yourself, we recommend that you have a professional inspect your vehicle if you suspect an issue with the suspension. These are complex systems that require careful diagnosis and repair work so that they perform their job properly—and if you don’t know what you’re doing, then it’s easy for things to get even worse! It’s always best to let someone who knows what they’re doing take care of this kind of problem so that they don’t end up costing more money down the road.

Bijoy Garg Joins Jr III Racing in VP Racing SportsCar Challenge

Chris Green | ChrisGreenPhoto.com

Mooresville, NC (11 January 2023) – Rising open wheel talent Bijoy Garg will join Jr III (“Junior-Three”) Racing for four rounds of the new IMSA VP Racing SportsCar Challenge (VPSC) driving the No. 3 S2 Cyber Ligier JS P320. The new IMSA championship will feature two 40-minute sprint races each weekend that will see two classes in action with fields comprised of both LMP3 prototypes and GS-class machines. The first-ever VPSC race will take place at Daytona International Speedway as part of the Roar Before the 24 event January 20-22.

Garg’s move to Jr III Racing will be one of several firsts for the 20-year-old California native as he will make his sports car debut as well as turn his first-ever laps at the fabled Daytona International Speedway. Garg is also slated for Jr III Racing’s VPSC entry at Sebring International Raceway, Lime Rock Park, and Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta as he builds his racing resume to include multi-class competition in 2023.

“I feel confident about what we can accomplish this season,” said Garg. “I’m looking forward to developing in the LMP3 car and as a racer in general. Before Daytona, I was able to get more test laps in the car, giving me a better opportunity to fully understand the car and all the little things this car does versus an open-wheel car.”

Garg started racing go-karts and made his professional racing debut in 2020 with the US F4 Championship alongside a select schedule of outings in the USF2000 Championship. Garg competed in the 2021 and 2022 USF2000 Championship seasons, racing his way to two podium finishes with DEForce Racing in 2022.

“We are excited to have Bijoy join the team,” said Billy Glavin III, owner of Jr III Racing. “I think he’s a great young talent with a lot of potential. We were able to get some testing in for Bijoy before we head down to Daytona, so he was able to get some time behind the wheel to get him more comfortable in the car. Overall the whole team is excited for the first VP Racing SportsCar Challenge race.”

Jr III Racing will also return to IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar competition in the LMP3 class starting with the Sebring 12 Hour event in March as the Charlotte-based team continues to diversify its professional racing offerings in parallel with a continually growing roster of client programs that focus on vintage competition.

Round 1 of the VP Racing SportsCar Challenge will kick off at Daytona on Friday, January 20th. The weekend will feature two 40-minute races with the first on Saturday January 21st at 2:05 PM ET and the second on Sunday January 22nd at 12:20 PM ET. Both races will have live coverage available on Peacock TV.

RFK Announces Team-Wide Partnership with Esperion Therapeutics; Includes Primary Partnership for Brad Keselowski at the ’23 Daytona 500

NASCAR Champion Brad Keselowski to Run No. 6 NEXLIZET (bempedoic acid and ezetimibe) Ford in Famed Daytona 500

CONCORD, N.C. (Jan. 11, 2023) – RFK Racing has announced that Esperion Therapeutics, a Michigan-based pharmaceutical company, has partnered with the team for a multi-year agreement pursuant to which Esperion will promote two cholesterol lowering treatments – NEXLIZET (bempedoic acid and ezetimibe) and NEXLETOL (bempedoic acid). NEXLIZET will be featured on Keselowski’s No. 6 Ford at this year’s Daytona Speedweeks, including the famed Daytona 500 on February 19. NEXLETOL will be featured throughout the season on Chris Buescher’s No. 17 Ford.

Headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Esperion discovers, develops, and commercializes innovative medicines and combinations to lower cholesterol, especially for patients whose needs aren’t being met by current treatment options.

“We’re thrilled to have Esperion, a company that is making waves in the pharmaceutical industry, on board with us,” said Steve Newmark, President of RFK Racing. “We look forward to working with Esperion to create engaging content around their two products in NEXLIZET and NEXLETOL and showcasing their debut on the No. 6 for the famed Daytona 500. We’re thankful to the team at Esperion and can’t wait to introduce them to the sport in a big way in 2023.”

In addition to the Daytona 500 (Feb. 19, 2:30 p.m. ET, FOX), Esperion will serve as a primary on the No. 6 Ford at the All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway (May 21, 8 p.m. ET, FS1) and RFK’s home track at Michigan (Aug. 6, 2:30 p.m. ET, USA).

The brand will serve as a primary on the No. 17 at Las Vegas (March 5, 3:30 p.m. ET, FOX), Martinsville Spring (April 16, 3 p.m. ET, FS1), and Martinsville Fall (Oct. 29, 2 p.m. ET, NBC).

“We’re excited to partner with RFK Racing to increase brand awareness, and this sponsorship provides ample opportunities for community engagement and education to their large and diverse consumer base to advance awareness about the benefits of lowering LDL cholesterol and improving cardiovascular health,” said Sheldon Koenig, Esperion’s President and CEO.

Keselowski enters his second season at RFK and 14th full season in the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS). With 35 Cup wins to his credit, he is set to make his 500th Cup start in 2023. Buescher, now in his fourth season back with RFK, embarks on his eighth full-time season of Cup competition.

At Daytona and Michigan combined, Keselowski has 19 combined top-10 efforts, including a win in the 2022 Duels where RFK swept the season-opening exhibition qualifying races. At the two-mile Michigan facility, he has top-10s in half of his all-time starts in his home state.

Coming off a victory in the historic Bristol Night Race, Buescher will carry the NEXLETOL banner at another short track in Martinsville, in addition to the race at Las Vegas.

The 2023 NASCAR season unofficially kicks off with the Clash at the Coliseum (8 p.m. ET, FOX) on Sunday, Feb. 5, in Los Angeles. Coverage of Daytona 500 week begins on Wednesday, Feb. 15, with full-field qualifying, followed by the Duels on Thursday, and a pair of practice sessions set to take place Friday and Saturday.

About Esperion
Esperion works hard to make our medicines easy to get, easy to take, and easy to have. We discover, develop, and commercialize innovative medicines and combinations to lower cholesterol, especially for patients whose needs aren’t being met by the status quo. Our entrepreneurial team of industry leaders is inclusive, passionate and resourceful. We are singularly focused on managing cholesterol so you can improve your health easily. For more information, please visit esperion.com and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/EsperionInc.

About RFK Racing
RFK Racing, in its 36th season in 2023, features an ownership lineup pairing one of the sport’s most iconic names, Jack Roush, along with NASCAR Champion, Brad Keselowski, and Fenway Sports Group owner John Henry. Roush initially founded the team in 1988 and it has since become one of the most successful racing operations in the world, propelling him to be the first NASCAR owner to amass three hundred wins and capturing eight championships, including back-to-back NASCAR Cup titles in 2003 and 2004. Keselowski, a former owner in the NASCAR Truck Series, brings to the team a championship mindset himself having won the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. In 2007, Roush partnered with Henry, who also owns Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox, English Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., and the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins, to form Roush Fenway Racing. Off the track, RFK is a leader and proven winner in NASCAR marketing solutions, having produced multiple award-winning social media, digital content and experiential marketing campaigns. Visit rfkracing.com, and follow the team on all social platforms @rfkracing.

Fr8Auction Celebrates Eighth Great Year Supporting Front Row Motorsports

The Asset Liquidation Firm to Partner with McDowell and Smith in 2023

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (January 11, 2023) – Fr8Auctions, a staple partner of Front Row Motorsports (FRM), today announced its continued support of the organization for its eighth consecutive season. The Atlanta, Georgia-based asset recovery business has been one of the longest-tenured and loyal partners to FRM and has supported its growth into a winning and championship team.

Fr8Auctions began its partnership with FRM with support of its No. 34 team before supporting Georgia-native David Ragan during his tenure racing the No. 38 Ford. Now, for the second consecutive season, Fr8Auctions.com will partner with both the 2021 Daytona 500 champion, Michael McDowell and the 2022 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, Zane Smith.

“We are thrilled to continue our support of FRM, Michael and Zane as they both build on their huge successes of 2022,” said Marcus Barela, Founder, Fr8 Auctions. “It was awesome to be part of the championship year with Zane, and watching Michael run his best statistical season in Cup to date only excites us more for what is coming this season for him and that team.”

Fr8Auctions, the leading asset recovery organization in the Southeast, will adorn the No. 34 Ford Mustang in both their home state and at marque NASCAR Cup Series events in 2023, starting at The Clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on February 5.

Along with The Clash, Fr8Auctions.com will join McDowell’s No. 34 car at both the Atlanta Motor Speedway events, the All-Star race at the North Wilkesboro Speedway, and finally the regular-season finale at the Daytona International Speedway.

“This is a big milestone to be celebrated and admired,” said McDowell. “Fr8Auctions has been a loyal supporter of Front Row Motorsports and have been a critical part of our growth. It is great to have their continued support because we can’t continue to get better without their support. We have bigger goals this season and Fr8Auctions.com will get us started in the right direction at The Clash and be with us all season.”

Smith and the Ford F-150 team will run the Fr8Auctions.com branding at the Fr8 208 at the Atlanta Motor Speedway in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series on Saturday, March 18. Smith hopes to bring Fr8Auctions.com a win at their home track.

“We really want to get the Fr8Auctions.com Ford into victory lane at Atlanta during their race event this year,” said Smith. “That is a goal that we have this season. Also, they were one of the biggest supporters of our program last season, and I am excited to have Fr8Auctions.com with us as we chase our second championship together.”

Fr8Auctions partners with freight lines, distribution companies, and consumer product-based businesses to help sell excess, discontinued or damaged inventory outside of traditional distribution channels. Utilizing industry leading merchandising techniques, product presentations, and a competitive bidding environment, Fr8Auctions offers both their partners and buyer’s opportunities to maximize returns on their investments. Buyers can also access online (sealed bid) auctions to bid on the thousands of pallets of merchandise, which can range from gas grills to ceiling fans and cleaning products.

In addition, Fr8Auctions also supports The Brave Like Wyatt Foundation.

The Foundation was established in 2019 to honor the memory of Wyatt Hatcher, who loved life and loved superheroes. He was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and had a heart transplant before his second birthday. The transplant allowed Hatcher to enjoy nine more years of life and had even beat cancer. However, the chemotherapy medication had damaged the donor heart and Hatcher passed in January of 2022. The Brave Like Wyatt mission was then born to help ease the burden of families dealing with similar circumstances by contributing to community resources, providing financial assistance for household bills, travel and when needed, funeral expenses.

“It is also really special to be able to continue our support of the Brave Like Wyatt Foundation,” added McDowell. “The motorsports community has always been about giving back and supporting others in need. Nobody defines that better than Marcus Barea (founder, Fr8Auctions.com) and his team.”

You can learn more at www.bravelikewyatt.com.

For more information about Fr8 Auctions, visit www.Fr8Auctions.com and follow Fr8 Auctions on Twitter at @fr8auctions and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Fr8Auctions.

About Front Row Motorsports

Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a winning organization in the NASCAR Cup and Craftsman Truck Series. The team is the 2021 Daytona 500 and 2022 Craftsman Truck Series champions. The team was founded in 2004 and is owned by successful entrepreneur, Bob Jenkins. FRM fields the No. 34 and the No. 38 NASCAR Cup Series teams along with the No. 38 Craftsman Truck Series team from its Mooresville, N.C. headquarters. Visit teamfrm.com and follow FRM on social media: Twitter at @Team_FRM, Instagram at @team_frm and Facebook at facebook.com/FrontRowMotorsports.

New Look for a New Era


Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Autosport Rings in GTP New Year in Konica Minolta Blue and Black Livery

Brownsburg, Ind. (January 11, 2022) — Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Autosport unveiled their full-season livery for the No. 10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-06 set to make its GTP debut at the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship’s season opener, the Rolex 24 at DAYTONA, later this month at Daytona International Speedway.

“Our partnership with Andretti Autosport is a fantastic way to kick off the new season and the new era of GTP racing,” said Wayne Taylor, six-time winner of the historic 24-hour endurance event. “It is exciting to see our black and blue livery accenting the new lines of the Acura ARX-06 hybrid. Since our partnership with Konica Minolta began in 2014, our team has become well known by fans and drivers alike for our black and blue livery. Black has always been an intimidating color on track, especially when it is coming up behind you in your mirrors. What a great race this is going to be!”

Commemorating Konica Minolta’s ninth year partnering with the team in America’s pinnacle sports car series, the fan favorite blue and black livery of the No. 10 Acura ARX-06 will also sport the tech company’s signature green leaf, a symbol of Konica Minolta’s commitment to achieving Carbon Minus status by 2030, twenty years ahead of its initial goal. With the introduction of the LMDh hybrid technology, Konica Minolta joins IMSA and its stakeholders as the first in North America to embrace electrified technology in race competition.

“Our partnership with Wayne Taylor Racing is near and dear to my heart, and along with Acura we have very strong synergies, with similar cultures, desires and goals, the most important being our commitment to sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint,” said Michael Mathé, Chief of Operations and Sales Enablement, Konica Minolta. “Going hybrid is something we have wanted to do for quite some time, and we are proud to be a leader in making the series more environmentally friendly.”

The Roar Before the 24, the qualifying event for the 2023 Rolex 24 at DAYTONA, runs January 20th-22nd with qualifying at 1:25 p.m. ET on the 22nd. Full coverage can be streamed on IMSA.TV starting at 1:20 p.m. ET. Practice for the Rolex 24 is set to begin on Thursday, January 26th. Green flag for the legendary endurance race waves on the 28th at 1:40 p.m. with live coverage on Peacock for the full 24-hour cycle, alternate coverage on USA Network, and the final hours and victory celebrations available on NBC starting at 12:00 p.m. ET on the 29th.

ABOUT KONICA MINOLTA
Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. is reshaping and revolutionizing the workplace to achieve true connectivity through the Intelligent Connected Workplace. The company guides and supports its clients’ digital transformation through its expansive office technology portfolio, including IT Services (All Covered), intelligent information management, managed print services and industrial and commercial print solutions. Konica Minolta has been included on CRN’s MSP 500 list nine times and The World Technology Awards named the company a finalist in the IT Software category. Konica Minolta has been recognized as the #1 Brand for Customer Loyalty in the MFP Office Copier Market by Brand Keys for fifteen consecutive years, and is proud to be ranked on the Forbes 2021 America’s Best-in-State employers list. The company received Keypoint Intelligence’s BLI 2021 A3 Line of The Year Award and BLI 2021-2023 Most Color Consistent A3 Brand Award for its bizhub i-Series. Konica Minolta, Inc. has been named to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for nine consecutive years and has spent four years on the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World list. The company recognizes 150 years in global business in 2023. Konica Minolta partners with its clients to give shape to ideas and works to bring value to our society. For more information, please visit us online and follow Konica Minolta on Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter.

The No. 10 Konica Minolta Acura ARX-06 effort and Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Autosport is supported by an outstanding lineup of partners including Harrison Contracting Company, Acura Motorsports, Honda Performance Development and Hammer Nutrition.

Petty GMS changes name, brand and announces Jimmie Johnson’s new number

INTRODUCING: LEGACY MOTOR CLUB

STATESVILLE, North Carolina (Jan. 11, 2023) – NASCAR team owners Maury Gallagher, Jimmie Johnson and team ambassador Richard “The King” Petty announced today the organization will officially change its name from Petty GMS to LEGACY Motor Club moving forward. LEGACY M.C. is home to two full-time NASCAR Cup Series teams featuring rookie Noah Gragson in the No. 42 Chevrolet and Erik Jones in the No. 43 Chevrolet as well as a part-time entry for seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Johnson.

“Just over a year ago, I had the opportunity to acquire Richard Petty Motorsports in the NASCAR Cup Series,” said Gallagher. “We made great strides throughout the 2022 season – winning the Southern 500 with Erik at Darlington and bringing Noah into the team for 2023. With the addition of Jimmie in an ownership role, we knew change was inevitable with his experience and knowledge. Our goal is to win races, win championships and to represent our partners by performing at the highest level. The new image of LEGACY M.C. is something that will allow us to stand out and foster a team environment that breeds success.”

Johnson unveiled the team’s new name and logo on NBC’s “TODAY” show Wednesday morning in New York City.

“After brainstorming about the new name of our team, Maury and I recognized the opportunity to do something special and different. We felt it was important to have a name (LEGACY) that honored the past and acknowledged the future. The term ‘Motor Club’ is a nod to car clubs of the past. LEGACY M.C. will be an inclusive club for the automobile racing enthusiast. I am excited to be a part of a story so rich in heritage and look forward to creating a new legacy in this sport outside of the racecar.” said Johnson.

“As we were all talking about creating a new name for the team, we looked at Jimmie, myself, and Dale Inman – that’s 22 championships – so there couldn’t be a better name to fit our race team than LEGACY. The “Motor Club” is a perfect fit because we want our fans to pull for the whole team.” remarked Petty.

“When I see the No. 42 & 43 cars, no matter who the driver was, is currently, or could be in the future, I want our fans to remember the Petty history that comes with them, and that history will continue to be made with LEGACY M.C.”

Additionally, Johnson also answered the much-anticipated question of which number he would compete with in 2023. The 83-time NASCAR Cup Series winner will campaign a limited driving schedule in the No. 84 Chevrolet, starting with the DAYTONA 500 on Feb. 19. Johnson will announce the remainder of the races that he is scheduled to compete in at a later date.

“I’m looking forward to a new era in the No. 84 Chevrolet with LEGACY M.C. and getting a shot to drive the new Next Gen car this season,” said Johnson.

The NASCAR Cup Series season will begin in Los Angeles, California at the LA Memorial Coliseum on Sunday, February 5th for the Busch Light Clash at the Coliseum. Tune-in to FOX at 8:00 PM ET as LEGACY Motor Club makes its highly-anticipated official on-track debut in the exhibition race ahead of the 65th-annual DAYTONA 500.

ABOUT LEGACY MOTOR CLUB:

LEGACY Motor Club is a team that competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, owned by Maury Gallagher, Jimmie Johnson, and Team Ambassador, Richard Petty. LEGACY M.C. operates two full-time entries, the No. 42 Chevrolet of Noah Gragson and the No. 43 Chevrolet of Erik Jones. The team also fields a third part-time entry, the No. 84 Chevrolet, for Johnson’s limited racing schedule.

LEGACY M.C. operates alongside GMS Racing, which fields three full-time entries in the NASCAR Truck Series. Since the formation of GMS Racing in 2012, Gallagher, along with one of the NASCAR garage’s most accomplished figures, Team President, Mike Beam, built a victorious organization, capturing the 2016 and 2020 NASCAR Truck Series championships, the 2015 ARCA Racing Series championship, as well as the 2019 & 2020 ARCA East championships, accumulating over 65 wins across six national racing circuits.

For the last 75 years, the iconic Petty family name has been synonymous in NASCAR, spanning four generations. Over the course of his driving career, Richard Petty forever enshrined himself as “The King”, earning 200 wins and seven NASCAR Cup Series championships. GMS Racing entered the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021, later acquiring Richard Petty Motorsports to form Petty GMS. The team was rebranded to LEGACY Motor Club in 2023 with the addition of Johnson, another seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, to the ownership structure. As a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for the automobile racing enthusiast, fostering a team environment that will breed success for years to come. LEGACY M.C.’s vision is to honor the rich history of its past and acknowledge future of the sport with some of today’s most iconic drivers.

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4 Symptoms of a Bad Car Intercooler

Photo by Călin Răzvan

Introduction

When you’re driving and you notice that the engine temperature warning light is on, your car might have a bad intercooler. That’s because the intercooler like these Ford Ranger intercoolers is what keeps the air that enters the engine cool enough for it to operate properly. If this component isn’t working well or if it’s damaged, then your vehicle could overheat and even seize up during operation. Fortunately, several signs indicate when an intercooler is causing issues with your car’s performance—and knowing what these symptoms look like can help you decide whether or not it’s time to have your car repaired by a professional mechanic:

The engine temperature warning light comes on

If the engine temperature warning light comes on, it means that the vehicle is overheating. The light is usually red and located in the instrument cluster. If you see this warning, pull over immediately and turn off your car. This can be dangerous if not treated quickly, so it’s best to let a professional look at it instead of trying to fix it yourself.

The vehicle can’t accelerate any faster at high speeds

One of the most common symptoms of a bad car intercooler is that the vehicle can’t accelerate any faster at high speeds. This can be a problem for both fuel efficiency and performance, as the engine needs to be cooled down for it to run properly. The intercooler is responsible for this cooling process; if it isn’t working properly, your vehicle may not be able to accelerate at high speeds or may even stall if you try accelerating too quickly while driving on an incline.

There is smoke coming from under the hood

Smoke from the engine compartment is a common symptom of a bad intercooler. Many people believe this to be the only sign, and if there’s smoke, replace the intercooler. But smoke does not always indicate a failing air-to-air or air-to-water intercooler; it can also be an indication of other problems with your vehicle. Smoke coming from under the hood may have been caused by something as simple as an exhaust leak. Check all exhaust hoses for cracks and leaks, including those between manifolds and cats and between turbochargers and downpipes/catalytic converters (if fitted). If you find any leaks in these areas, you’ll need to take action immediately before they become worse or cause more serious damage.

If all else fails and you still suspect that it’s an intercooler problem despite having ruled out everything else above.

There is a loss of power when driving

If you experience a loss of power when driving, it could be caused by a faulty intercooler. A faulty intercooler can also cause your car to overheat and stall out.

If you suspect that your intercooler is broken, check for the following symptoms:

Other possible causes for a loss of power include a faulty turbocharger; bad spark plugs or wires; or an improperly cleaned air filter

These are all signs that your intercooler needs to be repaired.

Other symptoms that indicate a bad intercooler include:

  • A decrease in the car’s fuel economy
  • Unusual noises from the engine compartment or cabin
  • Lack of power when accelerating from a stop or going up hills

Conclusion

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to take your car in for a checkup. You don’t want to wait until the damage is too big to fix, because then fixing it could be very expensive.

6 Things You Should Avoid When Using A Rental Car

Photo by Pixabay

Renting a car can be a great way to get around while on vacation or even for business. It’s convenient and often quite affordable, but if you don’t take the right precautions there could be hidden costs or dangers that come with it.

To make sure your rental experience is smooth and hassle-free, here are six things you should avoid when using a rental car. 

Be without insurance coverage

Even if the rental company offers its insurance policy, it may not cover everything in case of an accident or other damage to the vehicle – so always double-check and get some additional coverage before hitting the road.

Additionally, insurance coverage such as no-fault and liability coverage is necessary to protect you from any legal implications should the worst happen. If you find yourself in an accident when using a rental car, this coverage will minimize the financial burden and potential legal issues. Or, if you have personal car insurance, be sure to check that it covers rental cars as well.

Ignore the fine print of your agreement

Make sure to read through the terms and conditions of your rental agreement before signing any documents. Some companies may charge additional fees for things like an extra driver or additional mileage. Knowing exactly what costs are associated with your rental car ahead of time will help you stick to your budget and avoid any unexpected charges.

For instance, some rental companies may require a security deposit, so be sure to have it ready when you pick up the vehicle.

Additionally, be sure to check the return policy of your rental agreement. Most companies have a specific window for when you can return the car, and if you’re not careful, there may be additional charges or fees incurred if you fail to meet this timeline.

Neglect maintenance 

Before you drive off with your rental car, check it over for any stubborn stains, dents, or scratches as these can result in additional fees once you return the car because of wear and tear charges. Be sure to inspect the car thoroughly before signing off on the rental agreement as well. Make sure all dashboard warning lights are off and that there’s adequate fuel, oil, and coolant in the car. 

You can also ask the rental company for a maintenance checklist to make sure that everything is in good working order before you get behind the wheel. This document will also come in handy if you do incur any extra fees when returning the car.

Drive recklessly or break the rules of the road

This may seem obvious, but it’s important to remember when using a rental car: drive responsibly and obey all traffic laws. Not only is this essential for your safety, but rental companies may charge additional fees if you’re caught breaking the law or have an accident while in their care. 

Always keep track of the speed limit and watch for any road signs that could affect your trip. For instance, some cities have toll roads that require payment when using them – be sure to plan your trip accordingly, so you’re not caught off guard.

Leave valuables in the car 

It goes without saying, but never leave any valuable items in a rental car. This includes items like laptops, jewelry, or expensive electronics – as these can often be targets for theft. Even if you’re just making a quick stop at the grocery store, it’s best to take your items with you when exiting the vehicle or place them in the trunk, locked glove compartment, or under the front seat. However, most rental companies should have a safe or lock box available for customers to store valuables during their trip.

This is important to remember not only for your safety but also because the rental company won’t be liable should any items go missing while in their care. 

Drive with expired documentation 

Before hitting the road, make sure that all necessary documents like your driver’s license and car insurance are up to date and valid. Without a valid license, you won’t be able to rent a car in the first place. Not all rental companies will accept international licenses, so it’s important to check ahead of time and have a valid license from your home country on hand if necessary.

Some rental companies may also require additional documents such as proof of insurance or credit card information. Be sure to bring all necessary paperwork with you when renting the vehicle, otherwise, you could be charged extra fees or your reservation may be canceled.

Renting a car can be an easy and affordable way to get around, but it’s important to remember that there are certain things you should avoid when using one. From additional mileage fees to leaving your valuables in the car, these tips will help you stay safe and keep your rental costs down.

Be sure to check all documents before renting the vehicle – such as driver’s license and insurance information – as well as inspect the car for any damages or wear-and-tear.