Strip Grip Application Procedures

 

As you begin your Racing Season….

Step-1: Clean Track Surface

 

                   Step-2:  Seal the Track

 

                             Step-3: Apply STC Traction Compound

 

Step-4-6:  Maintain and Enjoy!

 

While every track has different performance characteristics, or personality, below is a suggested starting point for track preparation and traction compound application that has delivered terrific performance in testing, developmental trials, and the beginning of this 2006 race season!

 

Step 1:  Strip the race surface of old rubber, dirt, oils, and other contaminants that could interfere with the application of STC.  If you do not have your own method for this cleaning process, we suggest a product such as those from Saric Solutions.  Their contact information is included.  A clean racing surface at this step will reward you with greater grip when the track preparation process is completed.  You will want to be sure and clean the track from ”wall-to-wall”, as there can be significant build-up of debris outside the groove.

 

 

Step 2: Seal the track’s newly cleaned surface for the season.  Done properly, a single sealing can last an entire season.  To seal a track, we suggest mixing five parts (80%) STC with one part (20%) Methanol, then apply an even coat across the surface of the track with application device of choice.  We suggest an agricultural type sprayer for even distribution.    If pulling spray equipment, pull speeds approximately 12-18 mph will allow for adequate coverage. 

 

Many factors will require you to modify your coverage volume, such as the following:  wind speed, track density, type of track surface, size of applicator nozzle, and distance from nozzle to track. 

(Note:  A #7 brass nozzle held approximately 18” from track surface work well.)

 

Application should begin between the water-box and starting line, and extend through the final point of acceleration.  Remember to take STC from “wall-to-wall” as having STC on the track will not ensure a safe pass, but could assist a car out of the groove, regain directional stability.

 

This treatment should cure in 2-3 days, and will provide a sealed track on both concrete and asphalt surfaces alike.

 

Step 3: Apply STC traction compound.

 

Note: Because all tracks performance characteristics are different, we suggest you apply STC gradually, to find the optimal level of adhesion your desire.  In addition to track physical characteristics, there are also climate, humidity, altitude, and other non-track related factors that will have to be adjusted to achieve the optimal level of adhesion and grip.

A baseline to begin your application process with is a ratio of 50% STC diluted with 50% Methanol. 

 

“Top-Fuel’ers” and “Pro-Mods” may prefer a ratio nearer 70% STC and 30% Methanol.  Do not exceed 80% STC-20% Methanol due to enhanced adhesive strength of STC.

 

Pro-Stocks may perform better at a ratio of 60% STC and 40% Methanol.

 

While you certainly can “dial-in” your track for a particular application, you will certainly notice an increased level of adhesiveness at each level of concentration. 

 

Experimenting with different ratios will enable you to find the optimal mix of STC for your track.  You will certainly want to keep in mind this increased level of adhesion, and how this will affect your event.

 

 

Step 4:  Track maintenance

Once operational, your facility will be the ultimate dictator of the frequency of track maintenance.  Some tips for this include:

1.        Remove loose rubber, dirt, sand or other foreign objects from the race surface

2.      You can reapply STC on starting lines, or after oil-downs

 

Note: A 50% STC and 50% M.E.K (METHYL ETHYL KETONE) works well for spot repairs and starting line prep, although, Methanol can be used as well.

3.       “Bald-Spots” Some tracks may be prone to the development of bald spots.  In this case, “misting” or “fogging” the problem area with a 50%-50% mixture of STC and MEK or Methanol and a light cover of Gold Dust or similar product.  Lightly rub-in the Gold Dust or substitute with a broom, and reapply STC in a light.  Track surface should be ready to race on within 5-15 minutes, depending on track temperature.

 

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