First step is to unload all of the equipment and cars. We need access to the cart that carries the Kiwi Tile. Kiwi Tile is a fantastic invention consisting of .33 meter squares of a very hard mesh plastic that connect together endlessly. We carry our tile pre-assembled in 3 tile by 5 tile sections on a cart that was fabricated specifically for this application. When the tile is off loaded, the cart becomes our fuel cart. Multi-functionality at its best! The tile is carried section by section into the proper spot and snapped together to form one very large working surface. This surface makes jacking up the car, rolling around on a creeper, and just about every other task much simpler and cleaner. Sometimes we can be paddocked on grass, gravel, or just plain old dirt and the Kiwi Tile makes life wonderful.
Next up is setting up the framework for the transporter awning. The rafter poles hook to the side of the trailer and are connected at the outer ends by poles.
Next comes the actual awning fabric. Ours (and most other race teams) was sewn by Larsen Sails in Santa Cruz California. They used to be a top sail maker for boats but have switched to sewing transporter awnings for teams in every major racing series. The awning consists of a top main awning cover, side curtains for all three sides, and a hospitality area awning. Once the main awning is pulled through the track on the roof of the trailer it is secured to the rafter poles and raised into place. The smaller hospitality awning is then set up in similar fashion. It connects to the main awning. Once the awning is up it is very vulnerable to damage from winds. We carry 1200 pounds of weight to tie to the awning poles, 100 pounds on each pole, plus we tie the whole apparatus to any conveniently located truck, building, car, etc. if available.
This is what the finished set up looks like. The hospitality area is to the right with the half wall privacy panels in place. We can fit and work on up to five cars at the same time. In this instance we displayed three cars for Fontana Nissan and ran the race car out of the fourth and fifth spots. Outside of the awning we use crowd control poles to keep all of the bikes, scooters, and quads neatly organized in one place.
Working on the cars out of the weather and sun makes all the difference. Spectators can easily view the cars and talk to the crew.
The hospitality area is used to entertain guests and sponsors as well as feed the crew. It is a great place to take a break and sit down with a cold drink. We can seat sixteen. We serve three meals a day here instead of going to the snack bar or having to wait in line at Denny's at six in the morning.
I hope you enjoyed your tour of the Fontana Nissan Racing truck and trailer. See you at the races!
Posts
