How to Launch a Car in a Drag Strip

Last Updated: October 8, 2020

This is an elementary guide on how to properly launch a manual, rear-wheel drive (RWD) car. The process of launching the car is possibly the most important part of a drag race. Improper launches can result in a significant loss in time and terminal velocity at the end of the run. Different types of cars require specialized strategies for optimum performance. For this guide, a car with rear wheel drive configuration is assumed. Anyone can learn from this guide but only experienced drivers and enthusiasts should follow the instructions provided below.

Steps

Assumption: The slicks have already been warmed up to operating temperature through a “burn-out” (keeping the car stationary and spinning the driving wheels).

1
Depress the clutch once the car is ready at the starting line.^{[1]
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2
Shift transmission to first gear.

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3
Maintain engine revolutions per minute (rpm) to about 50% of the maximum engine range (for example, if red line is at 6500 rpm, maintain at ~3200 rpm).^{[2]
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4
Wait for the signal lights to turn green.
5
Once green, move clutch to fully engage, modulating throttle input (gas pedal position) to balance rear wheel spin.^{[3]
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6
Shift appropriately during the proper shift points and move up the gears.^{[4]
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7
At the end of the strip, SLOWLY apply the brakes and follow directions away from the track.

Warnings

DO NOT perform these stunts on the street.

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Drag racing is DANGEROUS! ALWAYS wear proper protection gear.

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Make sure ALL loose material in the car is secured properly.

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The instructions presented are extremely detrimental to the health of the car. Repeated attempts can cause damage to the transmission or engine or both.

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ALWAYS follow directions from the track safety crew.

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