Drag Racing Discussions > Front Engine Dragsters

Chute Deployment for First Timer

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dusterdave173:
OK
I am a rookie FED pilot--though have drag raced for over 25 years.
I have 6 laps on my new FED
I have a match race this Sat--going to be lots of fun so I was thinking about opening my Chute even though we are only running the 1/8th so folks will get the best show possible.
Thing is...I have never opened a chute on anything before
I have packed it several times--my controls are adjusted and work good
How do I do it--what do I expect--what to watch out for--when to let her rip?????
I expect calm weather No wind if weather report is good

Do I stay in it and pull it right at the stripe or???
A little advice from the pros please

Thanks!!!!!!

rooman:
You can drive into it or pull it as you step off the gas. As you are only running 1/8th mile it won't open hard but make sure your shoulder belts are tight anyway (they should be that way all of the time). The first time I pulled the chutes while I was making the runs for my NT/F ticket I was going around 190 mph and with a pair of 12 foot chutes that will get your attention right now!
Make sure that you have enough speed to make it to the turnout and once you are clear of the track pull up as soon as possible so that you don't drag the pilot chute too much-they take more of a beating than anything else.
Roo

Oldschool:
Pull at the line,no big deal. The first time I pulled my chute on an Altered running mid 8's. Got out of shape ,ready to turn over,pulled the chute and straighten the car out. It saved me that day, but no big deal.

janjon:
This not offered as advice from a pro by any means, just my little experience. Mine goes through the lights at about 125, and if I pull the handle right at the line there's what seem like a goodly part of a second before feeling it slow the car down; so you could let it out a bit before the finish line. At that speed it is not an eye-opening experience. Barely a car-straightening tool either.

JrFuel Hayden:
It also depends on the size of the chute, and how the chute is set-up. The bigger the chute the bigger the hit or the more MPH the bigger chute is needed. That's why NHRA has a rule any car that runs, or can go over 200 mph must have two chutes. 
The set-up deal is the closer to the car where the chute lines come together, the softer the hit or the slower the speed you are going. The closer to the chute where lines are attached the bigger the hit or needed with higher MPH or the heavier race car. Because the chute is catching more air.
Ya, you are right, EVERYTHING has to be tuned to work together.
Remember you need to wash the chute once in a while or more often if you are dragging thru the dirt more often. And carry a spare pop chute, they wear-out from dragging on the track/ ground.
Have Fun !

Jon

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