One Week Out: Prep & Paperwork
- Entry & Credentials: Confirm registration, licenses, and numbers.
- Safety Gear Check: Inspect helmet, jacket, HANS, suit, and on-board air (if equipped).
- Spare Parts & Fluids: Plugs, belts, oil, fuel, filters, gaskets, loader/shoes (jet), props/gears (v-drive), tools, tie-downs.
- Data & Logs: Fresh logbook pages; weather app/barometer ready.
Arrival Day: Pit Setup
- Layout: Safe clearances around the boat; fire extinguishers visible; fuel stored correctly.
- Rigging Check: Control cables, steering stops, throttle return, electrical connections, battery health.
- Tech Inspection: Be early; fix notes immediately. Keep your rulebook handy.
Qualifying Strategy
- Pass 1 – Baseline: Conservative tune to confirm systems and steering. Note ET, RT, speed, water conditions.
- Pass 2 – Adjust: Use plug reads and data (EGTs, AFR if fitted) to refine fuel and timing. Check RT.
- Pass 3 – Index/Bracket: If classed, set a realistic dial-in. Aim for repeatability, not hero runs.
Turnaround Between Rounds
- Hot Check: Oil level/condition, fuel, belt tension, hose clamps, steering and throttle sweep.
- Plugs & Filters: Quick read, swap if questionable.
- Record Everything: Weather (temp, humidity, DA), water state, RT/ET, and any handling notes.
Racecraft in Bracket/Index Classes
- Staging Discipline: Consistent bulb depth = consistent RT.
- Drive the Stripe: Know where your competitor is; lift if you’re ahead and flirting with breakout.
- Dial-In Honesty: Set a number you can back up—sandbagging often backfires.
Pit Etiquette & Team Flow
- Clear roles (driver, crew chief, fuel, safety, starter).
- Tools back where they belong—every time.
- Keep pathways open for emergency crews and neighbours.
- No smoking in the pit area.
Post-Event Wrap
- Debrief with the team: what worked, what didn’t.
- Service lists for the shop: fluids, bearings, hardware, cracked gelcoat checks.
- Archive logs—your next baseline starts here.