September 24, 2012

CCSCC Autocross - 09/22-23

This past weekend I had a chance to take the WRX out to an autocross for the first time in a few months. With the recent move, it was difficult to set aside the time to go out for an event. Now that I'm pretty situated, I was able to look into upcoming events and link up in my old stomping grounds.

The event was hosting by the Champaign County Sports Car Club (CCSCC). The event was CARmageddon 2012, which was a two-day event consisting of some great competition. CCSCC has been around for more than 50 years, with some of the most dedicated members I've ever encountered. The club is having an amazing year, posting record numbers at just about every event this year.

The WRX engine and braking felt great both days of the event. Acceleration was exactly what I had hoped out of the mighty little 68HTA turbo, and the brake did a great job of slowing the car down when I mashed on them. The newest addition to the brakes setup is a TIC MBC Brace, which provided a day/night difference in pedal feel and brake response. No more "wet sponge" feel when hitting the brakes. One thing that still needs attention is the car's suspension. With the corner speed capabilities of the vehicle and RS3's, I really need a higher spring rate and better damping. The obvious choices for upgrade are AST and JRZ. Although, the premium cost of JRZ Suspension may be a little bit hard to justify for the AutoX WRX at this time. AST 4150's will probably be the weapon of choice for the 2013 season.

Another thing that hurt my performance at the event was the rear swaybar. When we replaced the old Perrin endlinks with Kartboy, I decided to put the rsb at the stiffest setting. This was my first event with it like this, and the car was far too tail happy. I believe I spun the car 6 times over the course of the weekend... Anyone who is an avid autocrosser knows that you just can't be competitive when you're flushing half of your runs for something like this.

Anyway, enough rambling and onto some pictures... Thanks to Kevin V. from the Illinois Auto Club for taking these.



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