Interested in getting into drag racing? Our last article provided a broad overview of the sport, from the different vehicle classes to interpreting the lights on the “Christmas Tree.” Now that we understand the basics, let’s take a look at the steps necessary to pass tech inspection and what drivers should expect when participating in a drag event.



Many of the requirements for passing tech inspection might seem obvious, but are crucial in preventing mishaps on the track. Jeff Sipes is the director of marketing, special events and media for Bandimere Speedway in Morrison, Colorado and has compiled this checklist to ensure all drivers come prepared. Nevertheless, he notes that at least one driver per event doesn’t pass tech inspection, usually for multiple infractions. The NHRA, as well as track-specific insurance requirements, dictate the rules for drag racing.



Bandimere Speedway has been Colorado’s premier drag racing track for over 50 years and is one of the few “super-tracks” in the nation, along with Texas Motorplex and Houston Raceway Park. Known as “Thunder Mountain” in NHRA circles, Bandimere is located in Morrison, Colorado, at the foot of the Hogback leading up to the Rocky Mountains. The track underwent a major renovation in 1988 and now seats approximately 23,500 spectators. The Mopar Mile-High Nationals at Bandimere is the longest running national event sponsorship in the history of the NHRA - 2009 marked the 30th anniversary.

Vehicle Requirements

The condition of your vehicle is paramount to a successful day at the strip, and will decide whether or not the tech crew deems it suitable for racing. First and foremost, make sure your car isn’t leaking any fluids – this includes engine oil, coolant or transmission fluid. The track surface must remain clean and dry for the safety of all competitors. Overflow catch cans are required for radiators and can be homemade using a hose and a soft drink can.



Missing or broken battery tie-downs are perhaps the most common reason for failing tech inspection, not to mention the cheapest. Kits can be purchased at most major auto parts stores for under $5 and take about 15 minutes to install. In a pinch, Bandimere will supply heavy-gauge wire to fix a broken tie-down. Any car with a relocated battery, even from the factory, must have a clearly-marked master cut-off or “kill” switch. Push/pull switches must push to the “off” position. Keep in mind that this switch must actually kill a running vehicle. Every competitor is also required to have at least one rear light installed which is visible to the starter.



The driver’s compartment must be sealed to protect the driver from flames, fumes and fluids; holes in the firewall can be easily filled with sheet metal screws or grommets. A rear bulkhead of .024-inch steel or 0.32-inch aluminum is required if a battery, nitrous bottle or fuel cell resides in the trunk. Make sure the bulkhead fits tightly and use a sealer to fill in any gaps. Carbureted vehicles must have a hood that covers the carb or an air cleaner capable of containing a backfire.



As with any vehicle, tire tread depth is critical to performance and safety; the condition of the sidewalls should also be checked. Ensure that all lug nuts are properly torqued before each pass. Remember that to pass tech, the wheel stud must enter the lug nut past the wheel at least the same depth as the wheel stud is wide.



Needless to say, brakes are absolutely essential to safe racing and must be up to the task in order to pass tech. Since they can be difficult to examine without first removing the wheel, Jeff recommends checking the condition of your pads, rotors and lines before race day.



Nitrous oxide bottles 10 pounds or larger must have a certification, required for all pressurized bottles – aluminum bottles are good for five years and steel bottles for 10 years before recertification is necessary. Bandimere offers a nitrous filling station, but is unable to fill out-of-date bottles.



The interior of a vehicle is one area that is often overlooked in terms of driver safety. Door panels are required on the driver’s door and roll bars must have padding anywhere your head or body might contact it during a crash. Removing anything sharp from the interior is also a smart idea. Plastic, mounted fire extinguishers are not allowed, as they can break loose in the event of an accident.



Finally, clean out your car and wash off any exterior dirt and grime, if possible. Not only does this make it easier on the tech inspectors, it removes any extra weight and keeps the track surface clean.

Driver Requirements

Now that your vehicle is squared away, let’s discuss what is required of the driver. The first and most basic provision is a valid state driver’s license or current NHRA Competition License. If you forget it, your day is over before it’s begun.

At Bandimere Speedway, competitors younger than 18 must have a current-year Minor Release Form completed in order to race or enter restricted areas.



An NHRA-approved helmet is mandatory for all cars running 13.99 seconds or faster in the quarter mile and is an item often missing at inspection. Make sure your helmet is SNELL or SFI certified; M2005, M2010, SA2005 and SA2010 are current SNELL standards. Make sure your helmet is not out-of-date and remember that DOT ratings are irrelevant in drag racing. Bandimere Speedway has a limited number of rental helmets available on a first-come, first-served basis.



Clothing choice may not seem important, but offers extra protection and in some cases, could save your life. A shirt and pants are required of all racers, regardless of E.T. If your car runs quicker than 11.49, you will need additional layers. Jeff recommends anyone quicker than 11.49 should purchase the NHRA Rulebook, as the regulations become more complicated the faster you go.



Drivers must display their permanent or temporary competition number on the front, rear and passenger side of their vehicle.



Remember that the tech inspectors are your friends! Your safety is their first concern. Now that you are prepared to pass tech inspection, you can enjoy the exhilaration of ripping off a perfect pass down the strip.



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