500 Mile Check Sheet

[Theshandman]

My Mk4 assembly manual, Rev 4Z, dated July 2021 has an Appendix B called "Race Car check sheet" that suggests items (minus specs like torque) that should be checked prior to a race. My build is not going to be a race car but even still there are a number of appropriate items in that list that should be checked. I wonder if that list is overkill or limited in scope. Does anyone have or can point to a good first 500 mile check list for a non-race car? Maybe just common sense is the best way to proceed checking everything starting from front to rear while referencing subassembly manufacturer's recommendation. Huh. I just answered my question. :)

[Avalanche325]

You are not using it as a race car, but it pretty much is one.

You should do a complete "nut and bolt" on the suspension. Check the torque on every suspension component. I do mine annually. I use a Sharpie and mark the fastener when checked.

Driveshaft.
Headers, and sidepipes.
Intake.
valve covers.
Diff cover.

...and of course all fluids. Speaking of that, I would change the oil and filter.

[AA-ron]

I'm a newbie, and not the best to give advice, but I just turned 500 miles on mine so I thought I'd share. Make sure you check all of your cooling line clamps. I have high quality T-clamps on all my hoses and pretty much every one of them needed to be tightened during that first 500 miles. I'm happy to report that once tightened, I haven't had to go back and re-tighten.

[rthomas98]

Do the full race check list now matter how you drive it. Remember these are open cockpit rocket ships that you built in your garage. Being overly cautious on ensuring it stays together is not a bad thing. Plus helps you to further get to know your car as it settles.

[Theshandman]

Good input, all. Thanks.