Im working in the Indianapolis area for a few months and found out about .25 midgets. My 6 year old son was here for 10 days to visit and we went to Mini Indy for Novice day. I dont know who was more excited him or me.
Im thinkin' were gonna jump in with both feet!
We live in Western NY and there doesnt seem to be anything within about 3 hours of us but thats not gonna slow us down. I grew up workin on race cars from limited lates to late models. I havent been around it except for going to watch in 20 years.
I'm gonna need lots of advise on used chassis and engines. What to look for and what to stay away from.
I already see I dont want to get caught up in the QMA and USAC battles. We are going to do this for family fun and spend some good times together.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Chip
Chip,
I am going to give you some advice that I wish someone would have given me when we started at Mini-Indy 4 years ago. Do not jump in with 'both feet'!!!!!! Take your time and do it right.
I jumped in with both feet when my son got started. I bought a car that was OK, with a motor that stunk.
Your driver is young. You will not be racing for points at the Novice level. Before you buy anything, stop by Mini-Indy for a couple of club races and talk to people. Find out who has fast cars for sale. I wish I had done that.
If you are going to run at Mini-Indy I would recommend a Stanley '07 Honda-Only car. Those cars are darn near idiot proof. Believe me, my son won the Senior Honda championship at Mini-Indy in 2007, no thanks to me. It was all car and his ability to drive it.
I just sold both of mine but you might be able to find someone in the area that is selling one. If you can get one hook up with Jason Thomas or Wes Spillers. They are good guys that will help you out and they both know alot about Stanleys. Another guy I would recommend is Josh Travelsted. He has a young driver and knows Stanleys inside and out.
Ask around and find a good motor for sale. You are better off paying a couple hundred extra for a good motor now then trying to sell a dog later and buy a new one.
Once again....ASK LOTS OF QUESTIONS!!!!! The majority of the people at Mini-Indy are good folks and will be glad to help you out. That is the beauty of QM racing at the club level.
Most importantly enjoy the experience. We loved our four years at Mini Indy and hope to get back soon to watch some racing. Like much in life, it goes by too fast.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Phil Heil
513-373-5505