Preparation of technique in any format of sport is the key to success. However, for the F400 this aspect is even more important, because the races are conducted for endurance. In such conditions, you need to be ready not only directly for the launch, but also for the maintenance that may be required in an emergency.
The closest type of race to be completed is the F200 race. However, it only has a hundred laps, compared to 400 in the F400. In some variations, classic races are limited to just a few laps, for example, for training or amateur skating.
Highlights, maintenance and differences:
• Hard tires are used, so some of the two-stroke setups don’t work at all;
• The mass of equipment can be significantly larger than other classes – 185 kilograms, this is the norm;
• Four-stroke motors are heavier, at low speeds they have increased torque, but they are not high-revving like two cycles;
• Two-stroke races are fast, usually no more than 20 minutes. On four, we can fight for leadership for several hours, a maximum of 9.
Preparing the card for arrival
Check the reliability of fixing all bolted connections, nuts. At the same time, use new hardware, if replacement is necessary, as the old ones may have scuffs and wear that will not allow you to securely tighten the parts. By the way, hardware needs to be replaced at least once a season.
Safety deserves special attention, so check your brakes carefully. Pads that are less than a quarter old must be replaced. Bleeding is done every 4 races, and the master cylinder once every 2. The pad / disc clearance is adjusted immediately, as soon as the pedal travel feels like it begins to increase. During the race, this parameter indicates overheating of the brake fluid. Pumping is done with Dot 4 or Dot 5.1, but by no means 5. For four-strokes, hard pads are more suitable.
Bearings are required to be checked before departure: hub, cross and axial. At the slightest sign of wear, they must be changed, since 0.2-2 seconds can be lost per circle due to each dangling element.
The steering column must be in perfect working order. If you work on worn-out control units, then you can lose up to 5 seconds per circle, struggling with the resistance of the steering wheel.
Check the wheels more often, health may depend on their reliability. The axles must always be securely stretched.
Check the condition of the engine, it must be securely fixed on the platform. In this case, you need to set it in such a way that the chain sag fits into the range of 8-12 mm.
The accelerator cable must be replaced every 4-6 matches. In this case, a special stopper must be installed on the pedal, which limits the pedal travel. Failure to do so may damage the carburetor.
Change the fuel hose in a timely manner, as it gradually dries out and becomes brittle. The filter is subject to renewal 1-2 times per season.
Make sure that the entire hitch is securely fastened. This applies to spoilers, bumpers and overlays that can injure pilots and damage equipment by flying out at speed.
Also make sure you have weight brackets at three different points on the chassis. They must be flat, not thinner than 3 mm and more than 30 mm wide. As a rule, they are placed at the rear bearing, in the area of the seat and the junction of the motor with the radiator on the chassis.