Time Attack 2023 Round 3 & 4 – Brands Hatch
Preparing for the Battle
After an inspiring performance at Cadwell Park, the stakes were high as we prepared to tackle the legendary Brands Hatch circuit. Before hitting the track, we knew some crucial modifications were required to optimize the car’s performance. Our skilled team got to work, installing a new breather system, replacing a faulty turbo-to-manifold V band clamp and even adding a gold wrap to the intake pipe to combat rising temperatures. With meticulous checks complete, we were ready for the track.
Round 3 Warm Up
Returning to Familiar Territory as the engine roared to life, anticipation filled the air. The Brands Hatch Indy circuit, a familiar stomping ground, beckoned us with its twists and turns. Our strategy was simple, warm up, reacquaint ourselves with the track, and gradually build momentum. Within no time, we found ourselves settling into a comfortable rhythm, posting an impressive lap time of 52.405. This not only secured us the top spot in our class but also hinted at the untapped potential of our revitalized engine.
Practice
With warm-up complete, it was time to push our boundaries further. Lap after lap, we experimented with different techniques, seeking that extra edge that could shave off precious seconds. Everything seemed to be going according to plan until the session’s end, when an unexpected oil leak from a ruptured oil line to the oil cooler left us side-lined. Despite the quick thinking and the support of our fellow competitor, Ronnie at AMD Tuning, the only option was to perform an Oil cooler delete.
Qualifying
We entered qualifying with a well-thought-out strategy. Aware of the absence of our oil cooler and soaring track temperatures, we aimed for maximum results with minimal laps. Our calculated approach paid off handsomely, as we swiftly secured pole position in our class with a 52.468. With each passing lap, we watched the live timing, ensuring our grip on the top spot remained unshakable. Mission accomplished!
Final
As the final race approached, our team was brimming with confidence, buoyed by our previous successes. However, fate had a different plan in store. Just moments before the session, disaster struck when our clutch pedal disappeared, threatening to dash our hopes of victory. Undeterred, with only minutes to spare, Jonny decided to run the final session with a single gear and no clutch pedal. Opting for 3rd the car was bumped down the pitlane and off we went. Ultimately securing a remarkable second place in our class, just a tenth of P1, a testament to our unwavering determination.
Round 4 Warm Up
The next day dawned with renewed expectations. However, we actually sat warm out as we waited on a delivery of parts to fix the clutch pedal. With the session well underway our new (used) clutch master cylinder arrived. We also re-mounted the turbo before the start of the next session.
Practice and Qualifying
Despite a few lingering concerns about our oil cooler or lack of it and clutch pedal, we persevered, determined to maximise the cars potential. A short run to save the cars resulted in a blistering lap time of 52.249, securing the top spot in our class. The subsequent qualifying session followed a similar pattern, with a calculated approach yielding a respectable 52.477 lap time and another pole position in our class.
Final
With victory within our grasp, we embarked on the final runs, ready to push the limits once more. However, fortune played its hand again, and our clutch pedal vanished once again. Time was running out, and a daring solution was needed. Reverse bleeding the clutch system, we managed to salvage a clutch pedal for perhaps one last lap! despite the pressure Jonny completed a scintillating flying lap time of 51.783, securing the class win by a commanding margin and even setting a new personal best at Brands Hatch!
Looking Ahead
With rounds 3 and 4 concluded, we reflect on the weekend’s rollercoaster of emotions. Despite the obstacles faced, our team showcased incredible resilience, emerging as leaders in the club 2WD championship at the halfway mark of the season. As we prepare for the next round at Oulton Park on July 22nd, we remain committed to resolving the clutch issue and ensuring our car is in peak condition for the upcoming challenges.