If you have a MINI and have always thought about taking it out on the track or even competing in racing events then there are certain modifications you are going to need to keep you safe out of the track.
Requirements for MSA Racing
As with any competitive sport, to compete certain specifications need to be met. Motorsport UK provides its list of requirements on their website, it’s important to note that these regulations may vary depending on the race series or competition.
MSA Requirements state that any vehicle has to have a roll cage fitted, this roll cage must be constructed to MSA specifications, which can be found in the Motorsport UK handbook. Padding also needs to be fitted to any areas of the roll cage where the driver’s head might come into contact with the cage. Our Track Safety Packs include a Safety Devices Bolt-in Roll cage; these are the perfect addition to any MINI that is being used out on the track. Undoubtedly, they are one of the most recognisable parts of any track car and their purpose is to protect the driver/passenger if the car rolls. They strengthen the car’s roof and prevent it from caving in, in the event of a crash. Roll cages like the ones from Safety Devices will also help to reduce chassis flex, which will offer less body roll and give the driver more direct steering.
MSA regulations also state that they recommend drivers to use an approved race seat that offers additional safety features (head supports) etc. To go with the race seat, a minimum of a four-point harness is required, it is worth noting that most FIA approved harnesses have an expiry date so be sure to check the date of yours. A Cobra Sebring Racing Seat is also offered in our Safety Packs. These are FIA approved entry-level seats that can accommodate a 4, 5 or 6 point harness. They provide head and shoulder protection whist being comfortable when paired with the Schroth racing harness, which is also included in our pack; they make for the perfect race set up. The Schroth 4-point racing harness uses Schroth’s ASM (Anti-Sub Marining) technology, which is, known to have safety advantages over other 4-point harnesses on the market. Their 4-point design stops the occupant from sliding underneath the lap belt during frontal impacts and their push-button release buckle keeps them road legal.
An external electrical cut off switch must also be fitted to the vehicle and the switch must be clearly marked and stop ALL electrical circuits when pressed. The Lohen Track Safety Packs an electrical cut off switch, which meets the requirements of the MSA regulations. Fire Extinguishers are another of the MSA regulations required for racing, they must be plumbed in but size and type vary so check the handbook. When it comes to seats, there is a wide variety to choose from. All vehicles being raced need to be fitted with a towing eye at the front and rear. These are just a few of the MSA requirements, a full list can be found in the Motorsport UK handbook. Also included in our safety pack is a LifeLine Fire Extinguisher, this is fully plumbed into the vehicle fi you choose to get this kit fitted at Lohen.
While the Lohen products included in this package aren’t on the MSA spec list for racing, they do have some safety features. When fitting a full roll cage and race seat, the OEM doors usually cause an obstruction and prevents the doors from closing. The Lohen Door Cards eliminate this problem; they create a neat finish and prevent debris from entering the internals of the door. They also help to protect the driver and passengers arms getting trapped in the event of a crash. The Lohen Drivers Footplate provides a flat floor and footrest for those stripped out and track cards.
The MSA regulations are subject to change and do not apply to every race event, be sure to check that your vehicle meets the relevant regulations before starting. All the regulations the MSA put together have been put in place to keep you and other competitors safe out on the track, so ensure you meet the requirements otherwise you won’t be able to race.
What’s included in the Lohen Track Safety Packs?
The Lohen Track Safety Packs are suitable for both Generation 1 and Generation 2 MINIs, and can either be shipped to you or fitted in our workshop. Our Track Safety Packs provides all the equipment you need to meet the MSA regulations that are stated above. A full breakdown of our kit and fitting details can be found further down.
Both the Generation 1 and 2 Kits include the following:
– Safety Devices Full Bolt-in Roll Cage
– Lohen Door Card Set
– Schroth 4-Point Racing Harness
– Lifeline Fire Extinguisher
– Odessey Battery
– Sparco Steering Wheel
– Interior & Exterior Engine Stop Button
– Interior & Exterior Fire Extinguisher Button
Fitting Details
If you are not handy with a spanner then do not worry, we can provide a fitting service that will get your MINI race ready within 6 days and whilst the work is being done we can provide you with a courtesy car if you require.
Fitting at Lohen includes fully stripping the car out, fitting of all the parts listed above as well as the removal and coding of the airbags, as well as the full install and plumbing in of the fire extinguisher. If needed we can keep your car road legal so you can drive it to and from the track, simply let us know and we will ensure your MINI is just as fun on the road.
For more information or to book your MINI into our workshop for this Track Safety Pack then contact our sales team on sales@lohen.co.uk or 01785 859999.