Build time

[BlewBYu]

Experienced racers: How many hours would you say you took to build cars when you first entered the NPWDRL? How long does it take you to build them now? How much time (days) before a race do you try to give yourself to build a car?

I want to enter the MA Nationals, just trying to get an idea about time-frame.

 

[Kinser Racing]

I probably spent 20+ hours building a car when I started. Now I can do one in 2 1/2 hours. I don't paint.

 

[BlewBYu]

Kinser, evidently based upon what you've accomplished, painting is not necessary.

 

[HurriCrane Racing]

In the beginning it took about 20-24 hours. Now I can build a car in about half that but don't be in a rush.
It's not about making cars fast, it's about making fast cars.

I still paint my cars is using wood fenders. I don't paint if using gee fenders. The gee fenders will save you HOURS of work.

 

[BlewBYu]

In the beginning it took about 20-24 hours. Now I can build a car in about half that but don't be in a rush.
It's not about making cars fast, it's about making fast cars.

I assure you that I do not try to hurry through. I am asking the question to simply get an idea how long to allot myself as a race nears.

 

[Obsessedderbydad]

As much time as you need. You're the only one that knows your skill set and how much time it'll take you. Most guys on here are quick b/c they have the process down. I'll tell you right now it takes me 4-6 days to complete a car from start to finish. Something about having a 1mo old and 2 yr old slows down my process for some reason.

 

[HMH Racing]

For me the "actual car build" can be done fairly quickly, as always the proper tools cut this time down. It's the wheel and axle prep that takes the most time for me.

 

[BulldogRacing]

For me the "actual car build" can be done fairly quickly, as always the proper tools cut this time down. It's the wheel and axle prep that takes the most time for me.

+1 Although I would take as much time as needed if I had a different speed tip in mind to try out. As I'm learning the building is getting quicker and my focus goes on other things as building becomes more second nature. I've also been leaving jigs and tools set up which used to take time to set up, I'm taking over more and more space that used to belong to the wife.

 

[GravityX]

The biggest part of my time on a build is setting up the drilling process. Next is cutting the weight pockets, followed by wheel bore prep. All told, I'm into a build for about 3-4 hours starting from scratch. It could be quicker, but I'm a perfectionist.... I think! LOL