Sooo I started playing a PC driving "simulator" called iRacing. I had heard about it before but never really thought it was anything other than Forza for PC. I was wrong.
First thing that drew me in was it had NJMP as an available track. I had heard that iRacing was supposed to be very realistic, but I had no idea how good it was. When I first started, I was driving like I would in Forza and I could not complete a lap without going 4 wheels off every lap. It took a long time to get it, but eventually I learned I had to treat it like a real car. Start slow and work your way faster and braking later, etc. The tracks are all laser scanned and they are really true to real life (at least NJMP and VIR).
I really think this will help me at least a little in my driving. I have learned a lot about how to steer the car with the throttle and brakes.
I am using a Thrustmaster T500RS steering wheel and pedals. I started out with the wheel clamped to a backwards step stool but that was not working so I welded up a "rig" out of scrap metal I had lying around and an old FD seat.
Using an old iPhone as a digital dash.
I started out driving the Spec Miata cup car and as a result I ended up driving Lime Rock a lot… I have learned to LOVE Lime Rock, such an awesome track! Reminds me a bit of NJMP Lightning, but so much better.
At the very least, this will be a great tool to use before going to a new track to get familiar with it before my first track day there.