SCCA Time Trials

1. A hole may be added through the bodywork to route a remote reservoir for shocks/struts and hose to a remote mounting location. Such holes may serve no other purpose.

2. Any steering wheel may be used. An alternate steering wheel assembly—including all mounting hardware—which replaces an airbag-equipped wheel is not required to have an airbag. An alternate wheel is not required to have a horn button.

3. Any shift linkage may be used.

1. Accessories, gauges, indicators, lights and other appearance, comfort and convenience modifications including pedal cover kits, alternate shift knobs and paddles which have little or no effect on performance and/or handling and do not materially reduce the weight of the car are permitted. Delayed shutdown devices such as a “turbo timer,” which perform no function while the car is in motion, are permitted. This does permit the installation of an additional mirror (e.g., Wink®). The addition of small holes for attachment hardware for cosmetic modifications is implicit (e.g., holes for fasteners to mount additional gauges).

2. The driver and front passenger seats may be replaced with the following restrictions.

A. The seating surface must be fully upholstered.

B. The top of the seat, or an attached headrest, may not be below the center of the driver’s head.

C. The seat shall be securely mounted, so as to provide fore/aft and lateral support.

D. Passenger seat must be either OE or match the requirements for the driver’s seat.

3. Alternate steering wheels are allowed, provided the outside diameter is not changed by more than 1-inch from the standard size. Steering wheels with an integral airbag may not be changed unless Safety Levels 2 or 3 Standards are met.

4. Short shift kits which only change the length of the shift rod attached to the gear shift knob may be installed. Kits which change other linkage, mounting brackets and/or tension through springs are expressly disallowed.

5. A hole may be added to interior body panels, the engine compartment, the trunk, and/or a strut bar to provide access to the adjustment mechanism on a shock absorber. The hole may serve no other purpose and may not be added through the exterior body panels.

6. Any item that cannot be held permanently in place by factory-installed fasteners may be removed.

7. Spare tires, tools and jacks may be removed. Any fastening hardware and/or other pieces that can no longer be firmly secured in the absence of the spare tire may be removed, if necessary, to ensure compliance with safety inspection requirements.

8. Data acquisition systems (including video cameras) and the accompanying sensors are allowed but may serve no other purpose during a run than real-time display and data recording.

9. With the addition of Safety equipement, the following allowances apply:

A. If the vehicle is equipped with at least a 4-point roll bar, driver’s seat, and restraints meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards:

1. Rear seats carpet and trim behind the seats may be removed.

2. Sunroofs, moonroofs, and similar roof-mounted panel cartridges may be replaced by an alternate solid panel serving no other purpose. Attachment is unrestricted but must be secure.

3. Airbags may be removed.

4. Airbag-equipped steering wheels may be replaced or have the airbag removed.

5. Convertible soft tops and related structure and brackets may be removed.

B. If the vehicle is equipped with a minimum 6-point roll cage, driver’s seat and restraints meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 3 Standards, all interior carpet, trim and passenger seats other than the factory dash may be removed.

1. Front hoods, engine covers, trunk lids and hatches not containing glass, front fenders, rear fenders not part of chassis structure (unibody), front and rear bodywork, and side skirts may be replaced with factory parts or exact duplicates in order to facilitate allowed modifications.

2. Vehicles with removable hardtops may use an exact replica hard top including one made of of alternate materials. Replacement pieces must be able to use OE hinges and latching mechanisms as standard.

3. Factory rub strips may be removed.

4. OE “pop-up” headlights may be replaced with static headlights, provided the replacement units are intended for automobile use on public roads as a primary means of illumination, and retain high and low beams as originally provided by the manufacturer. Minor repositioning of the headlights can accommodate the alternate headlight, but the unit may not be relocated, and the repositioning may serve no other purpose. All associated hardware may be removed, replaced or modified.

5. Fenders may be rolled but not flared, but no material may be added or removed, pinch-welds may not be expanded, nor may the general shape and contour of the fender be modified.

6. Commercially available bodywork cladding, molding, trim, accessories, lights and other appearance modifications including flexible “chin lips,” which have little or no effect on performance and/or handling and do not materially reduce the weight of the car are permitted. The addition of small holes for attachment hardware for cosmetic modifications is implicit (e.g., holes for fasteners to mount side skirts).

This allowance – seemingly grey for any SCCA traditionalists – is to encompass exactly what it says. Cosmetic items. This is intended to allow mass-produced aftermarket items which resemble what a factory accessory catalog or auto-parts store accessory isle might have. Meaning, this allowance is for items which may look like performance parts but do not change anything which could affect warranties by increasing stress/improving performance.

1. Addition or removal of spoilers, splitters, spoilers, single-element rear wings, bumper covers, valances, side skirts, convertible hard tops and scoops/vents is allowed provided that:

A. The removal of parts matches a production model of that generation classed in Sport Category. (eg., You may not remove parts unless a model of that vehicle was available without the part or parts.)

B. It is a production part which is standard or optional equipment of a model of the vehicle classed in Sport Category.

C. It is listed in the vehicle manufacturer’s accessory catalog for that vehicle for normal highway use. This may not allow for parts sold through a manufacturer’s performance catalog (e.g., Ford Racing, HPD, Mazdaspeed, Mopar Performance, Mugen, NISMO, SPT, TRD, etc.).

D. All allowed parts must be installed as directed by the manufacturer. Exact replicas, including weight, from alternate sources are also permitted.

E. Updated parts, replacement parts, or any other changes by the manufacturer documented in the parts catalog or other manufacturer documentation as superseding the original part number used when manufactured are considered to be standard parts.

F. Wings and Spoilers are subject to the following restrictions unless the vehicle is in the same class:

1. The part may not be adjustable.

2. The unit (wing, supports and end plates) may not be constructed by more than three primary pieces. (E.g., a wing with separate wing element, end plates and supports as in a Cayman GT4 or Camaro ZL1 1LE would not be allowed on a lower-class Cayman or Camaro.)

2. Factory emblems, mud flaps, bolt-on front valance lips/spoilers and fog lights (except those integral to a headlight or turn signal) may be removed. Rear wings may be removed so long as the vehicle retains any federally-mandated third brake light.

3. Hood straps or fasteners may be added.

4. Cars may add one (1) rear trailer hitch. The resulting weight addition is allowed. The hitch may serve no other purpose. Factory tie downs and cosmetic pieces (e.g., diffusers) may be modified or removed to facilitate hitch installation. Complete or partial removal of the hitch is allowed for competition, provided it does not result in a reduction in weight compared to the unmodified standard configuration.

5. Tow bar brackets may be installed but may serve no other purpose.

6. Tow hooks and tie downs may be added, modified or replaced. Addition of tow hooks and tie downs are permitted, and location is unrestricted. Non-standard tow hooks shall serve no other function.

1. Any width or diameter wheel and wheel spacers may be used provided it complies with the following:

A. Non-metallic wheels must be certified/approved from an appropriate, recognized standards organization. (e.g., FIA, SFI, SAE, TUV, etc.)

B. Wheel spacers are permitted.

C. Wheel studs, lug nuts, valve stems (including pressure-relief types) and/or bolt length may be changed. Wheel bolts may be replaced with studs and nuts, but the number of fasteners may not be changed.

D. Tire pressure monitoring sensors may be removed.

E. Centerlock/spline drive/knock-off type hubs may be converted to lug-type hubs.

2. There are no wheel weight restrictions in Tuner Category.

1. Any width or diameter wheel and wheel spacers may be used provided it complies with the following:

A. Non-metallic wheels must be certified/approved from an appropriate, recognized standards organization. (e.g., FIA, SFI, SAE, TUV, etc.)

B. Wheel spacers are permitted.

C. Wheel studs, lug nuts, valve stems (including pressure-relief types) and/or bolt length may be changed. Wheel bolts may be replaced with studs and nuts, but the number of fasteners may not be changed.

D. Tire pressure monitoring sensors may be removed.

E. Centerlock/spline drive/knock-off type hubs may be converted to lug-type hubs.

F. Aftermarket, accessory-catalog or non-standard OE wheels shall meet the minimum wheel weights determined by the following formula and multiplier.

Example: For a 15-inch diameter by 7.5-inch width (15x7.5) wheel: 15 + 7.5 = 22.5, then multiply 22.5 x 0.48 which = minimum weight of 10.8 lbs. for any 15x7.5-inch wheel.

1. Tires must meet the eligibility and use requirements of the Sport Category, but do not have to meet Sport Category width limits.

2. Tuner Tire Width Limits

Tires shall have a section width up to and including the following (mm):

3. Cars in Tuner Classes 2–5 and are otherwise legal for Tuner Category may bump up classes based on tire size. Cars in Tuner 1 with oversized tires will go into their appropriate Prepped or Max Category class.

Tires must meet the following requirements to be eligible for use in Sport Category. No tire model will be eligible for Time Trials competition until it meets all requirements of this section. Tire models not meeting the requirements by January 1st are not eligible for Time Trials competition until after the Time Trials National Championships of the year.

1. Specification

A. Minimum UTQG Treadwear Grade of 200.

B. Minimum molded tread depth of 7/32 inch as specified by the manufacturer.

C. Listed in a current year or prior two years of the “Tire Guide®” and/or the “Tread Design Guide®” (www.tireguides.com).

D. US Department of Transportation (DOT) approval.

E. Tires must be designed for highway use on passenger cars.

2. Eligibility Requirements:
The following are prerequisites before a tire can be used in competition at National Time Trials Events.

A. Tire availability: Tires are considered available when competitors can take possession through retail channels. Pre-orders are not considered available.

B. Tires must be equally available to all competitors. Tires that are in short supply do not specifically violate this section. Extensive shortages may result in the tire being placed on the exclusion list until supply is replenished. Tire variations differing from standard specification, delivered only on a limited basis, or only to selected competitors may not be used.

C. Tire models must have tires available in at least four (4) rim diameters and in at least six (6) sizes which meet these requirements.

D. Material Change: Tires which previously met the eligibility requirements that undergo a significant compound change, tread pattern change, or other significant redesign reset the requirement for eligibility described in this section.

E. A tire model which was previously allowed by these rules continues to be eligible for competition until specifically disallowed.

F. Reintroduction: Models that were once discontinued will be considered a new model once reintroduced and must meet all the requirements of this section.

3. Tire Size Limits
Tires are limited to the OE section width, or have a section width up to and including the following (mm):

Cars in Classes 2–6 and are otherwise legal for Sport Category may bump up classes based on tire size. Cars in Sport 1 with oversized tires will go into their vehicle appropriate Tuner Category class.

4. Tire Use

A. Scored Sessions
Unless a “wet session” is declared by event officials, vehicles must run on the same set of tires for all scored competition rounds, and the tires should be marked with a stamp on grid of the first competition. Tires may also be replaced at the discretion of the Technical Chief in cases safety issues such as damage or excessive wear. (Entrants are warned that damage caused by deliberate abusive handling or deliberate shaving should not be given a replacement allowance.)

B. Unscored Sessions
Vehicles are required to practice on tires which are legal for scored sessions in their class, but do not have to be the same set.

5. Other

A. Tires may be shaved evenly and parallel to the axis of rotation, but may not otherwise be siped, grooved or modified.

B. Tires must have a minimum tread depth of 2/32nds at two (2) points 180 degrees apart.

C. No recap and/or retread tires may be used.

D. Excluded tires: Tires may be excluded for, but not limited to, low volume production, extensive availability limitations and specialty design.

E. The tire must not appear on the following exclusion list, which may be altered at any time by the Time Trials Board (TTB) upon notification of membership.

- Kumho V720 ACR (less than minimum molded tread depth)

- Vitour Tempesta P1

1. Non-standard brake rotors may be used provided they are of equal or larger dimensions. Nominal reductions in rotor thickness or diameter in common big brake kits are permitted.

2. Aluminum rotor hats are allowed.

3. Cars originally equipped with solid (non-vented) rotors may utilize vented rotors.

4. Brake calipers and mounting brackets may be replaced provided they bolt to the standard locations and the number of or surface area of pistons is equal to or greater than standard. A functioning emergency brake of the same type, operation, and actuation as OE must be present. Drum brakes may be replaced with disc brakes of a diameter equal to or greater than the inside diameter of the standard drum. Such conversions must be bolted, not welded, to the axle/trailing arm/upright and must include an integral, redundant emergency brake. Changes to backing plates/dust shields/brake lines to accommodate these changes are permitted but may serve no other purpose.

5. Air ducts may be fitted to the brakes and changes may be made in the body/structure for their use. Ducts or holes may serve no other purpose. Backing plates and dirt shields may be modified or removed.

6. A single brake master cylinder brace may be added provided it is bolt-on and serves no other purpose.

1. The make and material of brake pad/shoe linings (friction material) may be changed.

2. Non-standard brake rotors may be used provided they are of equal or larger dimensions (diameter and thickness) and match the OE design and are constructed of the OE or heavier materials. Thickness includes the individual plates of a vented rotor, as well as the overall dimension. The diameter for replacement rotors is measured at the minimum outside dimension. Cross-drilled and/or slotted brake rotors may be fitted provided all such voids are within the disc area and comprise no more than 10% of that area.

3. Brake lines may be substituted with alternate DOT-approved flexible brake lines.

4. Alternate brake bleeder fittings (e.g., Speedbleeders®) are permitted. They may serve no other purpose.

5. Standard anti-lock braking systems (ABS) may be electrically disabled but may not be removed or altered in any other way.

6. Brake Rotors and Calipers may be swapped to OE option package configurations from the same model and generation of car, providing the rotor width and diameter are of equal or larger sizes and the number of caliper pistons is the equal or greater. The allowances from 1–5 also apply to option package swaps.

7. Air ducts may be fitted to the brakes and changes may be made to option-package lights, splash shields, backing plates, dirt shields and removable trim pieces to facilitate instillation and routing but not parts like bumper-covers. The intent is that altered parts are easily put back to “stock” or not cosmetically visible. Ducts or holes may serve no other purpose. Control arm mounted brake ducting, or air scoops, may also be fitted, providing they serve no other purpose.

Steering rack bushings may be replaced but must attach in the factory location(s) without additional modification or changes. Steering rack position may not be changed. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited. This does not allow shimming or otherwise relocating the steering rack.

1. Shocks and Strut Replacement Allowances:

A. Any shock absorbers may be used.

B. Shock absorber mounting brackets which serve no other purpose may be altered, added, or replaced, provided that the attachment points on the body/frame/subframe/chassis/suspension member are not altered. This installation may incorporate an alternate upper spring perch/seat and/or mounting block (bearing mount). The system of attachment may be changed.

C. The number of shock absorbers shall be the same as standard.

D. No shock absorber may be capable of adjustment while the car is in motion, unless fitted as original equipment.

E. MacPherson strut equipped cars may substitute struts and/or may use any insert. This does not allow unauthorized changes in suspension geometry or changes in attachment points (e.g., affecting the position of the lower ball joint or spindle). It is intended to allow the strut length changes needed to accommodate permitted modifications which affect ride height and suspension travel.

2. The following additional allowances apply to cars originally equipped with separate spring and shock absorber assemblies.

A. Coil springs may be relocated so they encircle the body of the shock absorber in a “coilover” configuration.

B. Coil spring perches may be modified, added, or replaced and their position may be adjustable.

C. Additional bolt holes may be drilled for coilover assembly mounting brackets. This does not permit any modifications to the frame or unibody beyond the allowed mounting holes.

Springs must be of the same type as the original (e.g., coil, leaf, torsion bar, bellows) and except as noted herein, must use the original spring attachment points. This permits multiple springs, if they use the original mount locations. Coil spring perches originally attached to struts or shock absorber bodies may be changed or altered and their position may be adjustable. Spacers are allowed above or below the spring. Coil springs may incorporate spring rubbers. Suspension bump stops may be altered or removed.

Substitution or removal of sway bars (at one or both ends of the car) and supporting hardware (brackets, end links, bushings, etc.) is permitted. Tow hooks may be removed for the instillation of sway bars.

Strut bars are permitted with all types of suspension, subject to the following constraints:

1. A 2-point strut bar may be added, removed, modified, or substituted, but only with another 2-point strut bar.

2. A triangulated (3-point) strut bar may be removed, modified, or substituted; substitution may be with either a triangulated or a 2-point strut bar. The connection to the chassis (e.g., firewall, bulkhead) must be in the standard location.

3. Lower suspension braces must be attached to the lower suspension pickup point locations on the chassis within 2 inches (50.8mm) in any direction of the actual suspension attachment to the chassis.

4. Except for standard parts, no connections to other components are permitted. Additional holes may be drilled for mounting bolts. Only “bolt-on” attachment is permitted. Interior trim panels may be modified to allow installation of strut bars. Holes or slots may be no larger than necessary and may serve no other purpose. This does not permit any modifications to the frame or unibody beyond the allowed mounting holes.

1. Ride height may only be altered by suspension adjustments, the use of spacing blocks, leaf spring shackles, torsion bar levers, or change or modification of springs or coil spring perches. This does not allow the use of spacers that alter suspension geometry, such as those between the hub carrier and lower suspension arm.

2. Suspension bushings may be replaced with bushings of any materials (except metal) if they fit in the original location. Offset bushings may be used. In a replacement bushing, the amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited unless there is a solid metal bushing as an OE part for the specific year/make/model. This does not authorize a change in type of bushing (e.g., ball and socket replacing a cylindrical bushing) or use of a bushing with an angled hole whose direction differs from that of the original bushing. If the standard bushing accommodated multi-axis motion via compliance of the component material(s), the replacement bushing may not be changed to accommodate such motion via a change in bushing type, for example to a spherical bearing or similar component involving internal moving parts. Pins or keys may be used to prevent the rotation of alternate bushings but may serve no other purpose than that of retaining the bushing in the desired position.

3. The following allowances apply to strut-type suspensions. Adjustable camber plates may be installed at the top of the strut and the original upper mounting holes may be slotted. The drilling of holes to perform the installation is permitted. The center clearance hole may not be modified. Any type of bearing or bushing may be used in the adjustable camber plate attachment to the strut. The installation may incorporate an alternate upper spring perch/seat and/or mounting block (bearing mount). Any ride height change resulting from installation of camber plates is allowed. Caster changes resulting from the use of camber plates are permitted.

4. Camber bolts may be installed providing these parts use the original, unmodified mounting points and meet the restrictions specified in Sport Category. Caster changes resulting from the use of camber bolts are permitted.

5. Camber kits (also known as camber compensators) may be installed. These kits consist of either adjustable length arms or arm mounts (including ball joints) that provide a lateral adjustment to the effective length of a control arm. Alignment outside the factory specifications is allowed. The following restrictions apply:

A. On double/unequal arm (e.g., wishbone, multi-link) suspensions, only the upper arms OR lower arms may be adjustable, but not both. Non-integral longitudinal arms that primarily control fore/aft wheel movement (e.g., trailing arm(s) or link(s) of a multi-link suspension) may not be replaced, changed, or modified.

B. On arm-and-strut (MacPherson/Chapman) suspensions, the lower arms may be adjustable OR other methods of camber adjustment as allowed by the previous sections may be used, but NOT both.

C. The non-adjusting control arms for vehicles having integral bushing/arm assemblies may be replaced subject to the following restrictions.

a. Arm length must remain the same as OE.

b. The part may not be adjustable.

c. The replacement arms must attach to the original standard mounting points. All bushings must meet the requirements of this section. Intermediate mounting points (e.g., shock/spring mounts) may not be moved or relocated on the arm. The knuckle/bearing housing/spindle assembly cannot be modified or replaced.

d. Any allowed arm must be commonly available (or have been available) at SCCA supporting partner Tire Rack, for regular retail sales and without custom order. Parts do not have to be sourced from Tire Rack, but they must be as they would have come off the shelf there, or the part must be on a specific approval list.

e. If you believe there is a commonly available retail unit which otherwise fits the intent of these Rules but is not available at Tire Rack you may write in for specific approval of that brand and model.

6. On swing or trailing arm suspensions, the main arms may not be modified or replaced, but lateral locating links/arms may be modified or replaced.

7. Front wheel drive (FWD) cars with rear beam axles may use shims between the rear axle and hubs.

8. The replacement arms or mounts must attach to the original standard mounting points. All bushings must meet the requirements of Tuner Category Rules. Intermediate mounting points (e.g., shock/spring mounts) may not be moved or relocated on the arm, except as incidental to the camber adjustment. The knuckle/bearing housing/spindle assembly cannot be modified or replaced.

9. Changes in suspension geometry are not allowed except as incidental to the effective arm length change.

Note: Many modern suspension designs known by other names, actually function as double A–arm designs. These include the rear suspensions on 1988-on Honda Civic/Integra, Chrysler/Plymouth/Dodge Neon, BMW E36, and most “multi-link” and are covered by the double/unequal arm rule.

10. On strut-equipped cars, the strut’s lower integral mounting bracket, for attachment to the upright or spindle, is unrestricted provided it attaches to the standard location. Any resulting change to the position of the strut centerline is allowed. Such brackets shall serve no other purpose. This does not allow for changes to the integral steering arm on cars that have the steering arm integrated with the strut body.

11. Changes in alignment parameters that result directly from the use of the allowed components are permitted. For example, the dimensional changes resulting from the use of a cylindrical offset bushing that meets the restrictions of Tuner Category Rules are allowed, including those resulting from a change in the pivoting action to:

A. About the mounting bolt, or

B. About the bushing itself.

12. Subframe mount bushings may be replaced but must attach in the standard location(s) without additional modification or changes. Subframe position may not be changed. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited unless there is a solid metal bushing as an OE part for the specific year/make/model on a trim level classed in Tuner Category.

13. The following list is Solid Axle Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) Suspension Allowances:

A. Addition or replacement of suspension stabilizers (linkage connecting the axle housing or De Deion to the chassis, which controls lateral suspension location) is permitted.

B. Traction bars or torque arms may be added or replaced.

C. A Panhard rod may be added or replaced.

D. The upper arm(s) may be removed, replaced, or modified and the upper pickup points on the rear axle housing may be relocated.

E. The lower arms may be replaced or modified and the lower pickup points on the rear axle housing may be relocated.

F. Differential covers and attaching hardware may be replaced.

G. Methods of attachment and attachment points are unrestricted but may serve no other purpose (e.g., chassis stiffening). This does not authorize removal of a welded-on part of a subframe to accommodate the installation.

The following non-adjustable control arms not available at Tire Rack are allowed in SCCA Time Trials Tuner Category:

There are no models listed at this time.

Longitudinal (fore-aft) subframe connectors (SFCs) are permitted with the following restrictions:

1. They must only connect previously unconnected boxed frame rails on unibody vehicles.

2. Each SFC must attach at no more than three (3) points on the unibody (e.g., front, rear, and one point in between such as a seat mount brace or rocker box brace).

3. SFCs must be bolted in place and not welded.

4. No cutting of OE subframes or floorpan stampings is permitted. Drilling is permitted for mounting bolts only.

5. No cross-car/lateral/triangulated connections directly between the driver’s side and passenger’s side SFCs are permitted. Connections to OE components such as tunnel braces or closure panels via bolts are allowed and count as the third point of attachment. No alteration to the OE components is permitted.

6. SFCs may not be used to attach other components (including but not limited to torque arm front mounts or driveshaft loops) and may serve no other purpose.

Except for those with electric and hybrid powertrains, Tuner Category vehicles may do everything allowed in Sport Category plus the list below.

1. OE traction control systems may be electrically disabled, but not removed or altered in any other way.

2. The make, model number and size of the battery may be changed, but not its voltage.

3. Relocation of the battery or batteries is permitted but not into the passenger compartment. If the battery is relocated and the original battery tray can be removed by simply unbolting it, the tray may be removed or relocated with the battery. Holes may be drilled for mounting or passage of cables. Longer or shorter cables may be substituted to permit relocation.

4. The number of battery or batteries may not be changed from standard. The area behind the rearmost seat is not considered to be within the passenger compartment. The area under the rearmost seat is within the passenger compartment.

5. Holes may be drilled in the firewall to permit passage of electrical wiring. It should be no larger than necessary to facilitate allowed modifications in this section and shall serve no other purpose.

6. Any starter, generator or alternator may be used in the original position. An alternator or generator must have an electrical output (including amperage) equal to or greater than the original equipment unit. Any generator or alternator pulley and belt of the same type as standard may be used.

7. Electrically driven fans are allowed. Flex fans are not allowed.

1. The make of spark plugs, points, ignition coil and high-tension wires is unrestricted including spark plug wires having an in-line capacitor. Substitution or addition of ignition coil mounting brackets is permitted, provided they affix to the original standard location and serve no other purpose. (Modification of the distributor cap for the purpose of installing allowed non-standard components is not permitted.)

2. On cars made prior to January 1, 1968, any ignition system using a standard distributor without modification may be used.

3. Ignition settings may not be mechanically adjusted outside factory specifications.

4. Additional battery hold-down hardware may be added to supplement the standard equipment in order to meet safety inspection requirements. It may serve no other purpose.

5. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) may be disabled. Altering the signal to the TPMS is permitted.

6. On cars without the ability to turn off anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control and/or traction control (ESC/TC) from the manufacturer, modifications to defeat the ABS/ESC/TC are permitted. These modifications are limited to altering the inputs to the ABS/ESC/TC processor (e.g., removing fuses, unplugging yaw or steering angle sensors, altering signals, etc.) and may serve no other purpose. Any codes or error lights resulting from ABS/ESC/TC modifications are permitted.

7. On cars equipped with computer-aided gear selection or “skip-shift” features from the manufacturer, modifications to defeat the skip-shift feature are permitted any may serve no other purpose.

8. On cars with electronically-controlled exhaust pipe valving downstream of the catalytic converter, devices may be added to satisfy the PCM/ECU provided the OE component is still installed. Such devices shall perform no other function.

9. The addition of electrical grounding cables and associated distribution blocks/terminals is permitted. Holes may be drilled for mounting only. This does not permit the use of electrical enhancement components such as condensers, voltage controllers, etc.

In addition to the Sport Category allowed modifications, the following modifications may be made to Tuner Category ECU/engine controls:

1. For all model years, the following allowances apply:

A. The standard PCM/ECU may be re-programmed without restriction.

B. Fuel pressure regulator(s) may be replaced in lieu of electronic hardware or software alterations. It is not permitted to mechanically alter the fuel pressure regulation AND make other hardware or software changes to engine operation.

C. Ignition timing may be set at any point on factory-adjustable distributor ignition systems.

D. Alternate computer control modules may be used whenever an equivalent change to the conventional system is allowed. For example, alternate computer module control of ignition settings or fuel injection is allowed.

2. 1995 and older vehicles, in addition, may replace the standard PCM/ECU without restriction.
3. Boost may be controlled through a mechanical boost controller.

1. OE traction control systems may be electrically disabled, but not removed or altered in any other way.

2. The engine management system parameters and operation of internal combustion engines may be modified only via the methods listed below.

A. OE ECU software may be reprogramed, but no changes to the factory ECU hardware are permitted.

B. Any OE OBD2 or newer communications port functionality must remain.

C. The Check Engine Light (CEL) or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be disabled via software.

D. Only OE sensors may be used for engine management.

E. Ignition timing may be set at any point on factory adjustable distributor ignition systems.

In addition to the Sport Category allowed modifications, the following modifications may be made to Tuner Category vehicle intakes:

1. Intercoolers
As utilized only on engines originally equipped with forced induction, induction charge heat exchangers (also known as “intercoolers” or “charge air coolers” [CACs]) are unrestricted in size and configuration and are subject to the following restrictions: 

1. Air-to-air CACs and radiators for air-to-liquid CACs must be cooled only by the atmosphere except for standard parts.

2. Body panels, fascias, or structural members may not be cut or altered to facilitate CAC installation.

2. Charge Pipes
Charge pipes may be modified or replaced. Replacement charge pipes may delete or block off factory pipes designed to enhance intake sounds (“noisemakers”). Modification or deletion of vehicle components (e.g. plastic shrouds, wheel well liners) to permit routing of alternate charge pipes is not allowed.

3. Compressor Bypass Valves
Compressor Bypass Valves (CBVs), blow-off valves, and pop-off valves may be replaced or modified.

1. The air intake system up to, but not including, the engine inlet may be modified or replaced.

A. The engine inlet is the throttle body, carburetor, compressor inlet, or intake manifold, whichever comes first relative to the intake flow.

B. The existing structure of the car may not be modified for the passage of ducting from the air cleaner to the engine inlet. Holes may be drilled for mounting.

C. Emissions or engine management components in the air intake system, such as a PCV valve or mass airflow sensor, may not be removed, modified, or replaced, and must retain their original function along the flow path.

1. Engine cooling radiators may be replaced or added with alternate parts subject to the following restrictions:

A. Radiator core dimensions (width, height, thickness) cannot be smaller than the standard part.

B. Radiator must mount to OE radiator mounts.

C. Fluid capacity and dry weight of the radiator must be no less than that of the standard part. Installation of an alternate radiator may serve no other purpose (e.g., to allow a cold air intake passage).

D. The installation of water expansion tanks is allowed. A water expansion tank is the container which catches overflow coolant.

E. Thermostats may be added or substituted. A thermostat is a device which controls the passage of water.

F. Modifications necessary for additional radiators must be the minimum required for installation.

1. Engine Service Limits

A. Engines may be rebored to the manufacturer’s first standard overbore, not to exceed 0.020 inch (0.508 mm). Sleeving is allowed to repair to the standard bore. Only OE-type standard or first overbore pistons of the same configuration and of the same or greater weights are permitted. No interchange between cast and forged pistons is allowed.

B. Valve seats and guides in older engines originally designed for leaded fuel may be only substituted with alternate components if the dimensions are the same as those of the standard components.

1. Limited Slip Differentials (LSD): Any mechanical LSD unit is permitted. Final drive ring and pinion gears may be replaced with alternate parts, provided the final drive does not change.

2. Any mechanical shift linkage may be used.

3. Any clutch disc and pressure plate of stock diameter and design may be used, provided that they can be bolted directly to an unmodified stock flywheel.

4. Alternate flywheels are permitted. Flywheel material shall be the same type as OE and the ring gear diameter must be the same as the OE flywheel.

5. Any transmission mount is allowed provided it attaches only to the original mounting points, does not relocate the transmission (other than incidental to changes in compliance material), and weighs no less than the OE mount. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited. All components between the transmission and the mounting structure are considered to be part of the mount assembly.

6. Differential mount bushings may be replaced but must attach in the standard location(s) without additional modification or changes. Differential position may not be changed. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited.

7. Electronic Transmission/Differential Control

1. The Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may be re-programmed. This allowance only applies to modification of transmission behaviors and does not extend to re-programming any other components.

2. Electronic differentials may be re-programmed. This allowance only applies to changing differential behaviors and does not extend to re-programming any other components.

1. Transmission and differential coolers and lines may be added.

2. Shifter bushings may be replaced; non-metal bushings may not be replaced with metal bushings.

1. Exhaust manifolds, headers, downpipes, and associated EGR tubes may be replaced with alternate units. Exhaust exit may be relocated provided it meets safety requirements. Relocation of the oxygen sensor on the header is permitted. Exhaust heat shields which cover only, and attach solely to, these parts may also be replaced, removed, or modified. All other exhaust heat shields may be modified the minimum amount necessary to accommodate allowed alternate exhaust components. Mounting brackets/hardware which serve no other purpose are considered part of the exhaust components.

2. Catalytic converters – Any catalytic converters are allowed, provided they meet the following restrictions.

A. Catalytic converters must attach within 18” (457.2 mm) of the original unit.

B. Multiple catalytic converters may be replaced by a single unit.

C. The inlet of the single replacement converter may be located no further downstream than 18” (457.2 mm) along the piping flow path from the original exit of the final OE converter.

D. The extents of an OE converter are defined by the expansion chamber in which the catalyst is contained, regardless of placement within larger exhaust sections.

E. Replacement converters must have a minimum catalyst density of 100 cells per inch and minimum substrate length of 3” (76.2 mm).

Note: The SCCA does not encourage or condone the breaking of laws governing pollution control systems or the alteration of street-driven vehicles contrary to state and Federal laws regarding their use. It continues to be the responsibility of the individual to comply with such state and federal laws.

1. Any part of the exhaust system beyond (downstream from) the last catalytic converter, if so equipped, may be substituted or removed provided the system exits the car in the original location and meets safety requirements.

2. Vehicles equipped with exhausts that exit in multiple locations may change to a single outlet in any of the original locations.

3. Stainless steel heat exchangers are permitted only if the physical dimensions and configuration remain unchanged.

4. Modifications of any type, including additions to or removal of, the catalytic converters, thermal reactors, or any other pollution control devices in the exhaust system are not allowed and the system must be operable.

5. Replacement catalytic converters must be OE if the vehicle has not exceeded the warranty period as mandated by the EPA. Converters must be of the same type and size and used in the same location as the original equipment converter(s). This does not allow for a high-performance unit. If the vehicle has exceeded the warranty period, replacement catalytic converters must be OE-type.

6. Exhaust hangers which are welded on the car are considered part of the body and may not be changed or removed.

1. Oil pans, oil-pan baffles, windage trays, oil pickups and differential covers may be modified or substituted with the following restrictions:

A. Addition or modification of crankshaft scrapers is not allowed.

2. Engine oil, transmission fluid, differential fluid and power steering fluid coolers may be added or substituted (including oil to coolant heat exchangers), but may not serve any additional purpose.

3. Oil accumulators and associated hardware may be installed given it serves no other purpose. If any portion of the oiling system is inside the driver compartment, the vehicle and driver must meet safety level 2 standards at a minimum.

1. Any oil filter may be added if not originally equipped. Canister-type oil filters may be replaced with a spin-on type filter using a minimum amount of hardware and connecting lines.

2. Any oil or grease, including synthetic, is permitted.

3. Coolers and lines may be added for lubricating and hydraulic-type fluids (i.e. not fuel).

4. The installation of oil catch tanks or oil separators is allowed provided the function of the PCV system remains intact.

5. Cars with combustion chamber oil injection systems (such as those in rotary engines) may supplement the standard engine lubrication with additional oil supplied through the standard fuel delivery system.

The following external engine components may be changed or replaced, with the listed restrictions:

1. Any accessory pulleys and belts of the same type (e.g., V-belt, serpentine) as standard may be used. This allowance applies to accessory pulleys only (e.g., alternator, water pump, power steering pump and crankshaft drive pulleys). It does not allow replacement, modification, or substitution of pulleys, cogs, gears or belts which are part of cam, layshaft, or ignition drive or timing systems, etc. Any crankshaft damper or pulley may be used. SFI-rated dampers are recommended. Supercharged cars may not change the effective diameter of any pulley which drives the supercharger.

2. Any engine mount is allowed provided it attaches only to the original mounting points, does not relocate the engine (other than incidental to changes in compliance material), and weighs no less than the OE mount. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited. All components between the engine and the mounting structure are considered to be part of the mount assembly.

1. Engine “dress-up” items such as chrome dipsticks and non-standard filler caps are permitted, provided they serve no other purpose.

2. Upper engine shields made of plastic material, the purpose of which is to hide mechanical components in the engine compartment, may be removed if they have a solely aesthetic and/or acoustic function.

3. Silicone replacement hoses are permitted as alternate components provided they meet standard parameters with regard to size, shape, location, and performance equivalence.

Where a car is out of production and the manufacturer is either out of business, stocks no parts or no longer has a required part, a part of any origin but as similar as possible to the original may be substituted.

1. The entrant must be prepared to show documentary evidence that one of the three circumstances above applies and that the substituted part is as similar as possible under the circumstances.

2. Substitute parts which provide improvements in performance (e.g., superior gearing, lighter weight, better camshaft profile, etc.) are not permitted under this allowance.

1. Sport and Tuner Category vehicles will use fuel which is “Federally approved for use on public highways.” This does not allow racing-type fuels which are available at service station pumps.

2. Fuels comprised of more than 15% ethanol may only be used when specified by the manufacturer for regular road use (e.g., in the owner’s manual for flex-fuel vehicles, not including emergency situations).

3. Propane or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel may be used in any category provided that the following conditions are met:

A. The tank must be located in a safe location on the car and be firmly and securely mounted. This does not permit the cutting of vehicle sheet metal (e.g., the trunk floor) for tank installation.

B. The tank must conform to Federal and local container standards and have an emergency relief/cut-off control.

C. For use of propane or CNG as a fuel, no changes to the induction system of the engine may be made with the exception of the necessary fuel lines to the carburetor or fuel injection. There may also be no other engine parts changed.

D. The entire system must meet local ordinances covering the use and transmission of compressed gas.

E. Propane or CNG may not be used in combination with another fuel.