Engine maintenance is the foundation of your racing program. A solid maintenance plan isn't just about keeping your engine running; it's about ensuring it's running at its peak. Without a proper maintenance routine, you'll spend race weekends firefighting instead of fine-tuning for speed. This can make a huge difference between winning and just participating. Even the best driver in the world can't overcome a car that's constantly breaking down. Follow our nine helpful maintenance tips to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently on race day and beyond.

1 | Make Regular Oil Changes

Regular oil changes are a cornerstone of any engine maintenance program. Contaminants like dirt, metal shavings, and carbon deposits inevitably accumulate in the oil, accelerating engine wear and diminishing performance. For optimal lubrication and protection, follow your engine manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals. Use premium engine oil from leading racing brands such as Driven, Comp Cams, and VP Racing for the best results.

2 | Choose High-Quality Oil Additives and Filters

As part of your engine maintenance, prioritize the use of quality oil additives and filters. Oil additives are formulated to withstand the extreme temperatures and pressures encountered in racing. They effectively reduce friction and enhance wear protection, prolonging engine life.

Invest in top-tier oil filters from reputable brands like Moroso Performance or Canton Racing Products. These filters excel at removing contaminants so that clean oil circulates throughout the entire engine.

Remember to always consult your engine manufacturer's recommendations for the appropriate oil viscosity and type to maximize engine performance and longevity.

3 | Maintain the Coolant System

Maintaining a well-functioning cooling system is paramount to engine care. Engine overheating can have severe consequences, so regular checks are necessary. Monitor the coolant level and condition frequently. If the coolant appears discolored or low, replace it with a first-rate coolant and antifreeze mixture.

Conduct thorough inspections of hoses, belts, and the radiator for any signs of leaks or damage. Addressing these issues promptly will help prevent overheating and safeguard your engine's health.

4 | Clean the Air Filter

As an essential engine maintenance tip: maintaining a clean air filter is crucial for optimal race car performance. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, leading to decreased power and increased fuel consumption.

To prevent this, perform regular air filter maintenance throughout the racing season. Use appropriate cleaners and oils to remove dirt and debris. Alternatively, during winter prep, thoroughly clean or replace your air filter. This proactive approach keeps your engine operating at peak performance without the drag caused by clogged filters.

5 | Inspect and Replace Spark Plugs

Spark plugs, though small, are critical components within your engine. They play a pivotal role in the ignition process, igniting the air-fuel mixture for combustion. As part of your engine maintenance routine, regularly inspect spark plugs for signs of wear or damage, such as electrode erosion or carbon buildup.

Replace worn or damaged spark plugs promptly to maintain optimal ignition and engine performance. When selecting replacements, opt for spark plugs from reputable racing brands like Champion, NGK, and Autolite.

6 | Check Engine Valves

Engine valves control the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber, and subsequently, the expulsion of exhaust gases. Over time, engine valves can wear, accumulate carbon deposits, or even suffer from heat damage.

Our helpful engine maintenance tip is to regularly inspect engine valves for signs of wear, carbon buildup, and valve seat damage. For optimal engine performance, replace worn or damaged valves with top-tier replacements. Behrent's Performance Warehouse offers a wide selection of reliable valves from trusted manufacturers like DART Machinery and Edelbrock.

7 | Examine the Timing Belt or Chain

Regular inspection of the timing belt or chain is important for engine maintenance. These components synchronize the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft so that the valves open and close at the correct time.

Timing belts and chains are subject to wear and tear. A worn or broken timing belt or chain can lead to catastrophic engine damage, such as bent valves or piston damage.

Inspect the timing belt or chain regularly for signs of wear, such as cracks, fraying, or excessive slack. Adhere to the manufacturer's recommended replacement intervals to prevent costly engine repairs.

8 | Fix Damaged Gaskets and Seals

Gaskets and seals play a major role in maintaining a tight seal within the engine, preventing leaks of oil, coolant, and combustion gases. Damaged gaskets and seals not only result in fluid leaks but also contribute to a noticeable loss of engine power. Regularly inspect seals and gaskets for signs of leaks or damage. Promptly replace any damaged components with premium options from leading racing brands like Holley Performance Products.

9 | Choose the Right Tools for the Job

Having the right tools for the job is vital when it comes to maintaining your engine. A good set of wrenches and sockets are invaluable for basic engine maintenance tasks. For more advanced work, such as valve spring replacement, specialized tools like valve spring compressors and testers are necessary. Using the correct racing tools will help you complete tasks efficiently and safely, reducing the risk of damage to your engine.

Race cars exhibit remarkable diversity, from coil spring to leaf spring suspensions, disc to drum brakes, and four to eight-cylinder engines. But, the core principles of engine maintenance remain constant across all platforms. By diligently following a well-defined maintenance program, drivers and teams can optimize performance and maximize their chances of success.

For all your engine maintenance needs, trust Behrent’s Performance Warehouse to provide high-quality parts and expert advice to keep your race car engine running at peak performance.