Why we built RacePrep

February 21, 2019
February 21, 2019

RacePrep Origin Story: From Setback to Setup

The idea for RacePrep was sparked during a particularly challenging night at the track. We were in a strong position, our car performing well, and victory within reach. With only eight laps to go and a $2,500 prize on the line, disaster struck. Sparks flew, the car faltered, and our race was over. The culprit? Loose bolts on the rear end – a simple oversight with significant consequences.

This wasn't an isolated incident. In fact, studies show that over 60% of mechanical failures in racing are due to preventable maintenance issues. That's a staggering number, and it highlights the critical role of meticulous care in this sport.

The truth is, preventative maintenance or tallying laps on parts may not be the most glamorous aspect of racing. But it is the subdued yet crucial work behind the scenes that ensures the race machine thunders down the track flawlessly, dazzling fans and overtaking rivals.

In the racing world, success lies in the details. We learned that the hard way.

Beyond Speed: The Silent Power of Preparation

Preventative maintenance and detailed part tracking might not be the most glamorous aspects of racing, but they are undeniably crucial. It's the behind-the-scenes work that ensures a race car performs flawlessly, thrilling fans and outperforming competitors.

Think about it: the average race car has over 5,000 individual components. Keeping track of the wear and tear on each one is a monumental task without a dedicated system. A 2020 survey by the National Speedway Directory found that only 20% of racers use a dedicated digital tool for maintenance tracking, relying instead on paper notes, spreadsheets, or memory. This often leads to missed maintenance intervals and, consequently, reduced performance and increased risk of failure.

If you're like us and race multiple times a week or ever manage several race cars, you know how hard it is to keep track of everything.

Meet RacePrep: Your Digital Pit Crew

RacePrep was born out of the need for a streamlined, reliable solution to the complex task of race car maintenance. It's designed to replace messy notes and unreliable memory with a comprehensive digital system. Imagine having a dedicated crew chief available 24/7, reminding you when parts need servicing, tracking component usage, and ensuring you never miss a crucial maintenance step. Like having an extra member on the race team that keeps everything in check. That's RacePrep.

Key Features Designed for Racers, by Racers

When we set out to build RacePrep, we needed to make sure the app would work for our racing team. We build the app to solve for our problems related to maintenance. We needed an solution so we'd never forget when last  changed the oil, or replaced the spark plugs, or greased the bearings. We didn't want to depart for the track and leave key tools in the garage, or forget to order new spare parts week (or the little things like paper towels... we forgot those all the time).

We consulted some of the top racers we knew and incorporated their maintenance schedules and best practices into the app so every feature is designed to ensure you can get your car race ready, however you want to manage your maintenance program:

  • Component Tracking: Log laps, hours, and usage for every part, from engines and transmissions to shocks and tires. Did you know that engine rebuild intervals can vary by as much as 50% depending on usage and maintenance? RacePrep helps you stay within optimal parameters, improving engine longevity and performance.
  • Customized Schedules: Create tailored maintenance schedules for each car, ensuring that every component receives the attention it needs, precisely when it needs it.
  • Alerts & Reminders: Receive timely notifications for upcoming service intervals, preventing oversights that could lead to costly repairs or race-ending failures.  For example, tire pressure alone can affect lap times by 0.5 seconds or more. With RacePrep, you are reminded to check.
  • Inventory Management: Keep track of your spare parts inventory, ensuring you always have essential components on hand. The cost of expedited shipping for a forgotten part can often exceed the part's value itself.
  • Race Day Checklists: Prepare for races with confidence, knowing that every essential check has been completed and you haven't forgotten a thing at the shop.  A study found that teams using a race day checklist are 30% less likely to experience pre-race issues.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Analyze maintenance history to identify trends, optimize part lifecycles, and make informed decisions about upgrades and replacements.

RacePrep: More Than Just an App

RacePrep is more than just a mobile application; it's a commitment to excellence. It's about recognizing that success in racing is built on a foundation of meticulous preparation and attention to detail. It's about empowering racers with the tools they need to perform at their best, consistently and reliably.

Join the Race-Ready Revolution

We are thrilled to offer RacePrep to the racing community. It's a testament to our belief that every bolt, every check, and every detail matters. This is your invitation to join a community of racers who understand that preparation is the unsung hero of victory.

Welcome to your new racing future with orderly maintenance. It's time to meet your newest race crew member:  RacePrep.

Ready to experience the difference? Download RacePrep from the  Apple App Store or Google Play Store today and take control of your race car maintenance like never before.