TE/AE Autocross Rules
Approved March 19, 2005
1 Introduction
TE/AE encourages participation in the Club’s Autocross events for a fun exhibition of our car’s sporting character. Autocross is a “grassroots” level motor sport using a mini road course outlined by cones (sometimes called pylons) on a parking lot. Cars compete against the clock – and thus the other competitors. The Club does cheer your support since…
- Our cars are more fun to DRIVE than to just look at.
- Autocross competition is a long-standing tradition within TE/AE.
- You can get an adrenaline surge while exploring your car’s performance envelope in a safe & controlled environment.
- You can compare your driving skills against your peers in “like” vehicles; or even share the same car.
- Show off your car’s acceleration, cornering and braking prowess.
- Spectators get to see some burning rubber / power oversteer (by the Tigers) without the cops being bothered, and frequently see the Alpines record even quicker times.
The general philosophy used in the development of these guidelines was to inspire participation of all members and to differentiate classes by those things that make the most difference in autocross performance.
2 General Rules
The general TE/AE approach to Autocross is based on developing rules specifically for the variety of Sunbeams owned by members of TE/AE, using SCCA rules as a reference. If you are not familiar with autocrossing, a visit to the www.autox4u.com web site could be informative and interesting. This example site includes specific “novice” explanations, definitions, and details.
Autocross is a driver (only) sport. Passengers are only permitted for “practice & training” runs – if they are included at a specific event. Final safety approval, rules definitions, allowable noise levels, and any other event decisions are made by the Autocross Event sanctioning organization, if available, with concurrence of the TE/AE Autocross chairperson.
There are always “seasoned” competitors on hand to assist or instruct - just don’t beat them too early in the day.
2.1 Joint event with other clubs (TBD)
2.2 Conducting an Event
The following guidelines are to be used by the TEAE United Autocross committee if an Autocross Event sanctioning organization is not available.
2.2.1 Equipment Required (TBD)
2.2.2 Announcing (TBD)
2.2.3 Course Layout (TBD)
2.2.4 Event Liability
As long as we are insured by J.C. Taylor the following will apply. All club-sponsored events are automatically covered regardless of when or where they take place. Club sponsored events can include racing with the exception of any type of side-by-side racing. There is no automobile liability. The policy is strictly for club liability. Any car that would cause damage to someone or something would be covered under its own car insurance first. Our club policy would cover if we were brought into a claim above and beyond the car owner's insurance.
2.2.5 Entry Form (TBD)
2.2.6 Flagging
- Green This flag displayed at the start of the race. Your race is under way.
- Red There is extreme danger. Come to a controlled stop on the side of the track.
2.2.7 Timing and scoring (TBD)
2.2.8 Post Race Inspection (TBD)
2.2.8.1 Protests (TBD)
2.2.9 Posting Results (TBD)
2.2.10 Event Officials (TBD)
2.2.10.1 Race Chairman
2.2.10.2 Starters
2.2.10.3 Communications
2.2.10.4 Timer and scorer
2.2.10.5 Vehicle Technical and Safety inspectors
2.2.10.6 Results Poster
2.3 Driver Qualifications
A valid operator’s license is required. A learner’s permit will not be accepted.
2.4 Technical Inspection
2.4.1 Vehicle Classification
Cars will be classified at the time of registration. Because of time restrictions, cars cannot be closely inspected for compliance to the rules, so it is expected that the owners and drivers will read the description of the classes and will honestly declare the class that their car belongs in. The car class will be included with the registration number for the car. Questions as to the classification of cars will be directed to the Autocross Chairman for the event. Any protests that cannot be settled by the Autocross Chairman may be brought to the TE/AE Board of Directors.
2.4.2 Vehicle Mechanical Condition
The driver/owner is responsible for making sure there are no visible fluid leaks, no loose items anywhere in the car and that the brakes and tires are safe. The driver/owner is also responsible for the safe and secure mounting of such things as wheels, seat belts, roll bars, battery, camera mounts and other items to be verified by a safety inspection.
Safety inspectors may jack the front wheels of each car to insure it has tight wheel bearings, suspension and steering. For cars with wire wheels, the wheel spokes and hub splines will be closely inspected for tightness. Inspectors will check to make sure the seats and body panels are securely mounted and that the hubcaps, trim rings and wheel covers have been removed. They will check in the trunk to make sure the battery is secure and items such as the jack, tools have been removed. The spare tire may be left in if it is properly secured. Saftey inspectors will make sure that driver and passenger helmets are DOT approved. Loaner helmets may be available for people who do not have one.
2.5 Practice and Walking the Course (TBD)
2.6 Posting Results (TBD)
2.6.1 At the event
Competitors’ lap time information will be clearly posted during the event.
2.6.2 After the event
2.7 Awards (TBD)
2.7.1 Determination of Winners
2.7.2 Number of awards
2.7.3 Trophies
3 Vehicle Classes
3.1 Tiger
3.1.1 Stock Tiger
3.1.1.1 Description of Class
This Autocross class is intended to interest owners of stock Tigers who are attempting to maintain their cars as close to original as possible for Concours judging, to race against other stock Tigers with equally stock engines, suspensions, tires and bodies.
Tigers may be updated to the Mark II level. Only “Rootes Approved” accessories, LAT options or equivalent aftermarket parts and modifications to improve reliability and drivability that are not considered performance items in an Autocross will be allowed. Typical Items that are allowed are as follows; clock, mirrors, sun visors and cooling improvements such as radiator, fans, coolers, shrouds, vents and scoops. Safety modifications and replacement service items such as tires, spark plugs and wires, distributor cap, coolant hoses and clamps, filters, mufflers, tail pipes, bolts, etc. will not be considered as modifications. The Rootes Sunbeam 260 and 289 Workshop and Handbook manuals shall be the official reference for stock intent.
Items that will be considered as performance modifications include headers, performance cams, higher compression heads, limited slip rear axle, etc.
3.1.1.2 Body
The body assembly shall be complete with all parts and major components as originally produced at the factory. Fenders and rear wheel openings shall remain unmodified. Additional clearance may be added to the front valence panel for tire clearance. A roll bar is allowed. Lap seat belts are required and shoulder belts are allowed. Roll bars, lap belts and shoulder belts must be attached with grade 5 or better bolts and local reinforcement to the body.
3.1.1.3 Engine
The engine must be a stock Ford V8 of 260 or 289 cubic inch displacement with a two or four barrel carburetor/manifold and stock exhaust manifolds. A rebuild re-bore of a maximum of .060 inches oversize is allowed. The engine must be in the stock location.
3.1.1.4 Transmission
Transmissions must be the Borg-Warner T-10 or Ford Top Loader four-speed with either a “narrow or “wide” ratio.
3.1.1.5 Rear Axle
Only the stock Salisbury axle with a 2.88:1 Ratio and open differential may be used.
3.1.1.6 Wheels
Stronger wheels than stock are recommended. They may be made of any material. The maximum wheel size is 5 1/2" X 13". LAT70’s, or equivalent, are allowed.
3.1.1.7 Tires
Any DOT approved tire with visible tread and a Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) tread wear rating of over 140 may be used. DOT approved race tires may not be used (race tires being defined as having UTQG tread wear rating of 140 or less).
3.1.1.8 Front Suspension
The complete stock suspension with its attachment points and geometry must be maintained. The crossmember, suspension arms and fulcrum pins may be reinforced for safety reasons. Improved pivot bushings and replacement shock absorbers may be used. Ride height and alignment adjustments shall conform to specifications in the Sunbeam Tiger Workshop Manual. The crossmember, suspension arms and fulcrum pins may be reinforced for safety reasons.
3.1.1.9 Rear Suspension
Springs, attachment points and geometry must remain stock. Mk I Tigers may be updated to the Tiger Mk II panhard rod geometry. Replacement shock absorbers may be used.
3.1.1.10 Steering
The rack and pinion, steering arms and resulting geometry must be stock.
3.1.2 Street Prepared Tiger
3.1.2.1 Description of Class
This class is intended for Tiger owners who have added that personal touch to their cars. They may upgrade their Tigers to improve the appearance, drivability, performance, handling and safety without modifying the basic body structure and suspension geometry. Powertrain components may be replaced with those that are more commonly available than stock, from high production Ford Motor Co. vehicles, such as the Mustang or after market suppliers. A Tiger in this class must retain its identity, thus major sheet metal, and/or radical engine or suspension modifications are not appropriate. All “Rootes Approved” accessories, LAT options or equivalent aftermarket performance enhancements are allowed as follows; clock, mirrors, sun visors, cooling improvements such as radiator, fans, coolers, shrouds, vents and scoops, large oil sump, rear axle traction bars, a four barrel Intake manifold, a four barrel carburetor, high performance cam, limited slip rear axle, differential plate cover, rear disk brakes and exhaust headers and pipes.
Safety modifications and replacement service items such as tires, spark plugs and wires, distributor cap, coolant hoses and clamps, filters, mufflers, tail pipes, bolts, etc. will not be considered as modifications. The Rootes Sunbeam ‘260 and ‘289 Workshop Manual shall be the official reference for those areas that must remain stock.
All cars in this class must be legally registered and licensed to drive on public streets.
3.1.2.2 Body
The body assembly shall be complete with all parts and major components as originally produced. Fenders and wheel openings shall remain unmodified except for rolling back the inner lips for tire clearance. Additional clearance may be added to the front valence panel for tire clearance. A roll bar is allowed. Lap seat belts are required and shoulder belts are allowed. Roll bars, lap belts and shoulder belts must be attached with grade 5 or better bolts and local reinforcement to the body. Both driver and passenger seats are required, but they may be replaced with any type seat.
3.1.2.3 Engine
The engine must be a Ford V8 of 260, 289, or 302 cubic inch displacement. A rebuild re-bore of a maximum of .060 inches oversize is allowed. The engine must be in the stock location. Aluminum blocks are not allowed. Induction systems are limited to single or multiple carburetors or fuel injection. Turbo chargers, blowers, nitrous oxide systems, etc. are not allowed.
3.1.2.4 Transmission
Automatic transmissions or alternate manual transmissions (e.g. T-5 5 speed) are allowed.
3.1.2.5 Rear Axle
The stock Salisbury axle must be used. It may have any available ratio with open, limited slip or locked differential.
3.1.2.6 Wheels
Stronger wheels than stock are recommended and any material is allowed. The maximum wheel width of 7 inches is allowed. Wheels of any diameter may be used.
3.1.2.7 Tires
Tires may be of bias or radial construction and be approved for street use by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The only modifications allowed to tires are having treads shaved or trued.
3.1.2.8 Front Suspension
Any springs, anti-roll bars, pivot bushings and shock absorbers may be used provided they attach at the stock mounting points. Wheel caster and camber may be adjusted within the available range of unaltered crossmember and upper fulcrum pin locations. Stock tapered spacers must be used between the frame and the crossmember. The ride height may be altered. The bump stops may be removed. The crossmember, suspension arms and fulcrum pins may be reinforced for safety reasons.
3.1.2.9 Rear Suspension
Leaf springs, the panhard rod, and LAT or equivalent rear axle traction bars attached at the stock LAT mounting points shall control the axle geometry. The panhard rods on Mk I Tigers may be updated to the Tiger Mk II geometry. Spring rates, shock absorbers and ride heights may be altered. The bump stops may be removed. Rear anti-sway bars are not allowed. The suspension geometry may not be altered with an improved panhard rod location and no additional control arms or rods are allowed.
3.1.2.10 Steering
The rack and pinion, steering arms and resulting geometry must be stock.
3.1.3 Modified Tiger
3.1.3.1 Description of Class
This class is intended to allow the creative Tiger owners, who desire to modify their cars to high performance levels, to compete against other modified Tigers. This class includes competition cars as well as highly modified Tigers. The rules of this class allow substantial modification of the body structure, powertrain and suspensions. Major Ford V8 engine modifications are allowed. Parts may be removed or eliminated to reduce weight. Modified Tigers must retain a wheelbase of 86 inches, an overall length of 156 inches and the basic appearance and silhouette of a Tiger.
3.1.3.2 Body
The body assembly may be anything from completely stock, with all parts and major components as originally produced, to full tube construction with composite skin. The body must have the appearance and silhouette of a Tiger. There should be reasonable effort to maintain stock body contours. The fenders may be altered with flares. Replicas made of alternate materials may replace items such as lights and bumpers.
A roll bar is allowed. Lap seat belts are required and shoulder belts are allowed. Roll bars, lap belts and shoulder belts must be attached with grade 5 or better bolts and local reinforcement to the body. The driver seat may be replaced with a racing seat. A passenger seat is not required.
3.1.3.3 Engine
The engine must be based on the Ford small block V8, iron or aluminum block. The engine must be in the stock location. There is no limit to the bore and stroke. Any induction system such as multiple carburetors, fuel injection, turbo charging, super charging and nitrous oxide are allowed. Any exhaust system may be used but vehicle exhaust levels must conform to the noise restrictions set for that event. There are no other limitations.
3.1.3.4 Transmission
Manual or automatic transmissions may be used. The transmission (and clutch, if equipped) must be bolted to the engine block in the conventional manor. There are no other restrictions as to the type of the transmission used.
3.1.3.5 Rear Axle
The rear axle may be solid or part of an independent suspension system. Any final drive ratio and/or limited slip or locked differential is permitted.
3.1.3.6 Wheels
Stronger wheels than stock are required and any material and size is allowed.
3.1.3.7 Tires
Any size, type or construction is allowed. Racing tires are allowed.
3.1.3.8 Front Suspension
There are no restrictions. Any modifications or the use of complete suspension systems are allowed.
3.1.3.9 Rear Suspension
There are no restrictions. Additional torque arms or links may be added. The suspension may use a solid live axle or be an independent.
3.1.3.10 Steering
There are no restrictions. For instance, the rack and pinion and steering arms may be replaced to improve the Ackerman geometry.
3.2 1959 to 1967 Alpine
To assure the fairest classification of all cars, for the purpose of these autocross rules only, Alpines with Ford 8 cylinder engines will follow the Tiger classification rules and compete in the Tiger autocross classes.
3.2.1 Stock Alpine
3.2.1.1 Description of Class
This Autocross class is intended to interest owners of stock Alpines who are attempting to maintain their cars as close to original as possible for Concours judging, to race against other stock Alpines with equally stock engines, suspensions, tires and bodies.
Alpines may be updated to the Series V level. Only “Rootes Approved” accessories or equivalent and modifications to improve reliability and drivability that are not considered performance items in an autocross will be allowed. Typical Items that are allowed are as follows; clock, mirrors, sun visors and cooling improvements such as radiator, fans, coolers, shrouds, vents and scoops. Safety modifications and replacement service items such as tires, spark plugs and wires, distributor cap, coolant hoses and clamps, filters, mufflers, tail pipes, bolts, etc. will not be considered as modifications. The Rootes Alpine Workshop Manual shall be the official reference for stock intent.
3.2.1.2 Body
The body assembly shall be complete with all parts and major components as originally produced at the factory. Fenders and rear wheel openings shall remain unmodified. Additional clearance may be added to the front valence panel for tire clearance. A roll bar is allowed. Lap seat belts are required and shoulder belts are allowed. Roll bars, lap belts and shoulder belts must be attached with grade 5 or better bolts and local reinforcement to the body.
3.2.1.3 Engine
Any stock Alpine four-cylinder engine of 1492, 1592 or 1725cc. displacement may be used. Weber carburetors may be used. A rebuild re-bore of a maximum of 0.060 inches oversize is allowed.
3.2.1.4 Transmission
Any stock Alpine four-speed manual, four-speed manual with overdrive or automatic may be used.
3.2.1.5 Rear Axle
Stock axles with a 3.89:1or 4.22:1 ratio and open differential may be used.
3.2.1.6 Wheels
Steel hub and spoked wheels are limited to stock 4 1/2" X 13". Stronger wheels than stock are recommended and any material is allowed. If spoked wheels are used, the driver must carefully inspect the spokes and splined hubs for tightness before each run.
3.2.1.7 Tires
Any DOT approved tire for use on the 4 1/2" X 13" wheel with visible tread and a Uniform Tire Quality Grade (UTQG) tread wear rating of over 140 may be used. DOT approved race tires may not be used (race tires being defined as having UTQG tread wear rating of 140 or less).
3.2.1.8 Front Suspension
The complete stock suspension with its attachment points and geometry must be maintained. The crossmember attachment to the frame must remain stock. The crossmember, suspension arms and fulcrum pins may be reinforced for safety reasons. Improved pivot bushings and replacement shock absorbers may be used. Ride height and alignment adjustments shall conform to specifications in the Sunbeam Alpine Workshop Manual. The crossmember, suspension arms and fulcrum pins may be reinforced for safety reasons.
3.2.1.9 Rear Suspension
Springs, attachment points and geometry must remain stock and no additional control arms or rods are allowed. Replacement shock absorbers may be used.
3.2.1.10 Steering
Recirculating ball and stock geometry must be used.
3.2.2 Street Prepared Alpine
3.2.2.1 Description of Class
This class is intended for Alpine owners who have added that personal touch to their cars. They may upgrade their Alpines to improve the appearance, drivability, performance, handling and safety without modifying the basic body structure and suspension geometry. An Alpine in this class must retain its identity, thus major sheet metal, and/or radical engine or suspension modifications are not appropriate. All “Rootes Approved” accessories or equivalent and aftermarket performance enhancements are allowed as follows; clock, mirrors, sun visors, cooling improvements such as radiator, fans, coolers, shrouds, vents and scoops, large oil sump, limited slip rear axle, rear disk brakes and exhaust header and pipe.
Safety modifications and replacement service items such as tires, spark plugs and wires, distributor cap, coolant hoses and clamps, filters, mufflers, tail pipes, bolts, etc. will not be considered as modifications. The Rootes Sunbeam Alpine Workshop Manual shall be the official reference for those areas that must remain stock.
All cars in this class must be legally registered and licensed to drive on public streets.
3.2.2.2 Body
The body assembly shall be complete with all parts and major components as originally produced. Fenders and wheel openings shall remain unmodified except for rolling back the inner lips for tire clearance. Additional clearance may be added to the front valence panel for tire clearance. A roll bar is allowed. Lap seat belts are required and shoulder belts are allowed. Roll bars, lap belts and shoulder belts must be attached with grade 5 or better bolts and local reinforcement to the body. Both driver and passenger seats are required but they may be replaced with any type seat.
3.2.2.3 Engine
Any stock Alpine four-cylinder engine of 1492, 1592 or 1725cc. displacement may be used. Weber carburetors may be used. A rebuild re-bore of a maximum of 0.040 inches oversize is allowed.
3.2.2.4 Transmission
Any stock Alpine four-speed manual, four-speed manual with overdrive or automatic may be used.
3.2.2.5 Rear Axle
Stock axles with a 3.89:1or 4.22:1 ratio and an open, limited or locked differential may be used.
3.2.2.6 Wheels
Stronger wheels than stock are recommended and any material is allowed. The maximum wheel width of 7 inches is allowed. Wheels of any diameter may be used.
3.2.2.7 Tires
Tires may be of bias or radial construction and be approved for street use by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The only modifications allowed to tires are having treads shaved or trued.
3.2.2.8 Front Suspension
Any springs, anti-roll bars, pivot bushings and shock absorbers may be used provided they attach at the stock mounting points. The crossmember attachment to the frame must remain stock. Wheel caster and camber may be adjusted within the available range of unaltered crossmember and upper fulcrum pin locations. The ride height may be altered. The bump stops may be removed. The crossmember, suspension arms and fulcrum pins may be reinforced for safety reasons.
3.2.2.9 Rear Suspension
Leaf springs attached at the stock mounting points shall control the axle geometry. Spring rates, shock absorbers and ride heights may be altered. The bump stops may be removed. Rear anti-sway bars are not allowed. The suspension geometry may not be altered with an improved panhard rod location and no additional control arms or rods are allowed.
3.2.2.10 Steering
Recirculating ball and stock geometry must be used.
3.2.3 Modified Alpine
3.2.3.1 Description of Class
This class is intended to allow the creative Alpine owners, who desire to modify their cars to high performance levels, to compete against other modified Alpines. This class includes competition cars as well as highly modified Alpines. The rules of this class allow substantial modification of the body structure, powertrain and suspensions. Major engine modifications or swaps are allowed. Parts may be removed or eliminated to reduce weight. Modified Alpines must retain a wheelbase of 86 inches, an overall length of 156 inches and the basic appearance and silhouette of an Alpine.
3.2.3.2 Body
The body assembly may be anything from completely stock, with all parts and major components as originally produced, to full tube construction with composite skin. The body must have the appearance and silhouette of an Alpine. There should be reasonable effort to maintain stock body contours. The fenders may be altered with flares. Replicas made of alternate materials may replace items such as lights and bumpers.
A roll bar is allowed. Lap seat belts are required and shoulder belts are allowed. Roll bars, lap belts and shoulder belts must be attached with grade 5 or better bolts and local reinforcement to the body. The driver seat may be replaced with a racing seat. A passenger seat is not required. The jack and tool kits shall be removed.
3.2.3.3 Engine
Any piston engine of no more than 6 cylinders or rotary engine swap is allowed. The front face of block or rotor housing must be located at the stock location. Any induction system such as multiple carburetors, fuel injection, turbo charging, super charging and nitrous are allowed. Any exhaust system may be used but vehicle exhaust levels must conform to the noise restrictions set for that event. There are no other limitations. Alpines equipped with V8 engines must compete in the appropriate Tiger classes depending on other modifications.
3.2.3.4 Transmission
Manual or automatic transmissions may be used. The transmission and clutch, if equipped, must be bolted to the engine block in the conventional manor. There are no other restrictions as to the type of the transmission used.
3.2.3.5 Rear Axle
The rear axle may be solid or part of an independent suspension system. Any final drive ratio and/or limited slip or locked differential is permitted.
3.2.3.6 Wheels
Stronger wheels than stock are required and any material and size is allowed.
3.2.3.7 Tires
Any size, type or construction is allowed. Racing tires are allowed.
3.2.3.8 Front Suspension
There are no restrictions. Any modifications or the use of complete systems are allowed.
3.2.3.9 Rear Suspension
There are no restrictions. Additional torque arms or links may be added. The suspension may use a solid live axle or be an independent.
3.2.3.10 Steering
There are no restrictions.
3.3 Other Stock Rootes Vehicles
This Autocross class is intended to interest owners of stock Rootes vehicles besides 1962 to 1967 Alpines and Tigers to compete against other stock Rootes vehicles, with basically stock engines, suspensions, tires and bodies. Safety modifications and replacement service items such as spark plugs and wires, distributor cap, coolant hoses and clamps, filters, bolts, etc. will not be considered as modifications. If these Rootes vehicles have been modified beyond the intentions stated, as declared by the owner/driver, it will be encouraged to run in the Autocross but it will not be eligible for a trophy.
3.4 Other Non-Stock Roots Vehicles and Replicas
If other Non-Stock Rootes vehicles or replicas have been modified beyond the intentions of Section 3.3, as declared by the owner/driver, they will be encouraged to run in the Autocross but it will not be eligible for a trophy. Some examples would be Lister replicas, or Rootes vehicles with a large block V8 or an extended wheelbase.