Competition looking for sled pulling info

[RabidRam]

I am thinking about breaking into sled pulling. This will be ONLY for fun with NO INTENTION WHATSOEVER of hangin' with the big boys. If I get into it, I would probably only pull locally maybe once or twice a year. I just wanna blow smoke and give 'er some hell. I've tried several different options using the Search feature on this site, but nothing came up with what I am looking for. Can somebody please direct me to a post/web site that will teach me about pulling. I'm talkin' basic stuff... truck set-up, rules, what gear to pull in, things to watch out for, etc...



TIA,



Dave

 

[PSU-CE]

Good topics, tips, and alot of rules are posted on www.truckpulls.com and there is also a good schedule although they are mostly western PA/eastern OH pulls, but the rules page will give you an idea of what you will typically need to meet.



My opinion on:

Truck Set-up -> stiff suspension in the rear (typically stock will be good enough for a few pulls) don't worry about the front suspension, add weight for whatever weight class you are pulling in, for only a few pulls a year an all season tire will be your best bet

Gear selection-> probably 3rd gear low range (depending on gears, clutch, power, etc. )

Things to watch out for-> while your pulling try not to hop or bounce (causes damage); your exhaust temps may get high but a pull typically doesn't last long enough to do any damage; avoid ruts, wet spots, loose spots, etc. in the track; funny noises from the truck during and after you pull



These are a few of what I think are the basics.



Dave

 

[Big P]

On a side note, how much do the pulling sleds usually weigh?

 

[JGheen]

Originally posted by Big P

On a side note, how much do the pulling sleds usually weigh?

They vary depending on the weight class you are running in. Obviously the heavier, more pumped rigs will run in modifed and super stock classes. But the sled has the same weight on it for every one(I think they may add weight), it's just how fast the weight comes up to the front of the sled. They set up the sled so that the weight runs up the rack faster for the big dogs and slower for the lower classes, obviously giving them more of a chance to pull the sled farther cuz the weight has not reached the front of the sled as soon. I think I explained that right, anyone else got an explaination. I personally have only been in 2 pulling events that weren't all huge or anything but that was the understanding I got from pulling and spectating.

 

[csutton7]

sleds usually weigh 40k and up... . chris

 

[Moose Truck]

Originally posted by Big P

On a side note, how much do the pulling sleds usually weigh?

Big P, Here is an event's URL in Southeast CT, at the Brooklyn Fair. I am planning to go and watch, with the kids. I live over on the other side of Waterbury, and would be more than willing to cheer you on. Regards, Moose





http://www.brooklynfair.org/premium.html:

 

[csutton7]

www.dieselpullers.com --note though all rules don't apply to all venues, but you'll get the basic idea of what you will need to do to comply---chris

 

[csutton7]

as for truck setup I don't think there's a website that has that layed out--you'll just have to get some guys to respond---first off will the SB clutch you have work--you better call Peter to find out---good set of ladder bars will help also---other than that your truck looks set up, unless you're talking bigger turbo and more fuel--lockers front and rear are good also---tires and tire pressure----chris

 

[Sled Puller]

A lot of variables. Some classes/sleds will need weight added to it for the Diesels vs the gas trucks.



Did anyone mention the spikes they like to stick down on the Diesels? LOL



Around here, 8000lb, 500-600 hp Diesel street trucks, will lay the SMACK on 6500 lb 500+Ci NON streeted gas trucks. Its fun to see their faces. The sled operator will most always drop the spikes or jump the weight box a gear to pull us, vs them.