Racing fluids and additives make a drastic difference in a race car. Synthetic, semi-synthetic, and conventional racing fluids and additives improve performance and protect moving parts to keep the car running in top shape mile after mile. Explore our helpful guide and learn about racing fluids and additives that support transmission, engine, brake, steering, and fuel systems.

Racing Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is necessary in all cars, but it’s the lifeblood of drag and other high-performance vehicles. If a car runs out of transmission fluid, you’ll know it: the car won’t go into gear and will barely move, which can ruin a day on the track—maybe even an entire season. Transmission fluid not only cools moving parts, it lubricates bearings and metal components inside the gearbox to stop them from grinding down and stalling. Automatic transmission fluids also provide hydraulic pressure and friction to make internal parts work together. Choose between automatic and manual fluid based on the race car transmission type for smooth shifts, lap after lap.

What’s the difference between conventional and synthetic racing transmission fluid?

Much like racing engine oils, the difference between conventional and synthetic transmission fluid starts with the base oil. Conventional transmission fluid begins with a mineral oil base refined from petroleum. Though synthetic racing transmission fluid also starts with a mineral base, it’s further refined, broken down, and altered for purity.

What is the best transmission fluid for drag racing?

The best racing transmission fluid features a synthetic base oil with dynamic thermal stability, ideal for the high-heat generated race cars. Synthetic racing transmission fluid holds steady under the extremes, prevents overheating, and reduces friction in the moving parts. Some of the best transmission fluid brands include Maxima and Red Line.

What do transmission fluid additives do?

Transmission fluid additives soften up seals, plug leaks, lubricate moving parts, and reduce engine-damaging wear. Since transmission fluid gets hotter as a car runs further and faster, additives are required to stabilize the fluid’s protective abilities. Racing additives work together with the regular transmission fluid in the car to eliminate hard shifts.

Racing Brake Fluid

Racing brakes get hot naturally by running in extreme conditions, but when they overheat, they suffer from fade after a few laps. Sometimes overheating means there’s an issue with the brake pads, but more often than not, it’s the brake fluid. Race car brake systems require high-quality fluids designed for efficiency, and most racing brake fluids are formulated with high wet and dry boiling points so they don’t burn up or evaporate.

What does the DOT rating mean on racing brake fluid?

The United States Department of Transportation created the DOT rating on brake fluid to represent the different boiling points. The higher the DOT rating on the brake fluid, the higher the boiling point. Other differences in DOT racing brake fluids include:

• DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5.1 are glycol-based fluids.
• DOT 5 is a silicone-based brake fluid.
• DOT fluids 3, 4 and 5.1 can be mixed and used interchangeably.
• DOT5 is not compatible with glycol-based fluid.

What is the best brake fluid for racing?

The best racing brake fluid depends on what the car needs. Choose a fluid with the right viscosity for the braking system, a high boiling point, and some type of corrosion-prevention additives. Stick with top racing brands, including Allstar Performance, Wilwood Racing, and Performance Friction, for the best results.

What DOT brake fluid for racing?

DOT4, DOT5, and DOT5.1 brake fluids provide good balance on the track. Keep in mind DOT5 is silicone-based, while DOT4 racing brake fluid is glycol-based. Choose DOT fluid by boiling points as follows:

• DOT 4 brake fluid carries a minimum dry boiling point of 446°F (230°C) and a wet boiling point of 311°F (155°C).
• Both DOT 5 and DOT 5.1 brake fluid have a minimum dry boiling point at 500°F (260°C) with a wet boiling point of 356°F (180°C).

Racing Power Steering Fluid

A low level or complete lack of power steering fluid not only makes it nearly impossible to control a car, it also damages the power steering pump. Power steering fluid pressurizes and reduces temperature in the steering system for improved handling of a race car. When the steering is smooth, it makes a world of difference in on-track capabilities. Made with non-oil-based synthetics, the best power steering fluids are engineered for newer vehicles and racing applications. Driven and Jones Racing Products make racing power steering fluid that reduces drag and offers consistent response.

Racing Shock Absorber Fluid

Support racing shocks and springs and keep everything tight at high speeds with shock absorber fluids. Suspension fluids and shock absorbers prevent drifting around corners, hard steering, rough riding, and bouncing after hitting bumps. Choose a heavy, thick viscosity racing shock absorber fluid for dirt tracks and hot weather—go for a light, thin viscosity on asphalt, pavement, and colder temperatures. Count on FOX, Maxima, and Bilstein shock absorber fluids for consistent and predictable behavior over long runs and extreme temperatures.

Racing Engine Coolant Additives

Racing engine coolants and additives protect against extreme heat and tough conditions on the track. The best racing engine coolants and additives contain wetting agents and water. Wetting agents reduce the surface tension on water so it makes better contact with the cylinder head to absorb heat. High quality water combined with reliable wetting agents provide the best possible coolant to prevent engine overheat on the track. Some engine coolants from trusted racing brands contain corrosion, foaming, and rust prevention additives.

Is engine coolant the same as antifreeze?

No, engine coolant is not the same thing as antifreeze. Unlike antifreeze, engine coolant is not glycol-based. Coolant with a glycol base is prohibited from asphalt tracks due to the slipping hazard it creates if it spills. Non-glycol-based engine coolant is suitable for any type of track.

Racing Fuel Additives

Boost torque, extend fuel economy, and reduce engine build-up with fuel additives. Racing fuel additives clean systems and prevent sludge and corrosion that cause lag. From fuel stabilizers to octane boosters, racing additives make a difference in how well a race car holds up over time.

What is the purpose of fuel fragrance?

The purpose of fuel fragrance is to cover up strong exhaust odors that irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Fuel fragrance additives are safe for racing engines and won’t harm fuel delivery systems, carburetors, sensors, or catalytic converters. Fuel fragrance additives do not increase or decrease power.

Behrent’s Performance Warehouse carries racing fluids and additives to support your race car from engine to exhaust. Browse the options to keep your running smooth and cool on race day.