28th August 2023
Pitlane Development CAREERS 1

CAREERS – HOW TO BECOME A RACE MECHANIC

CAREERS - HOW TO BECOME A RACE MECHANIC

Race mechanics are the unsung heroes of motorsport. They are responsible for ensuring that high-performance vehicles run at their peak, handling everything from routine maintenance to emergency repairs during races. Their work can involve engine tuning, suspension adjustments, brake replacements, and troubleshooting technical issues—all under tight deadlines and intense pressure. In short, race mechanics combine precision, speed, and problem-solving skills to help their team cross the finish line first.

The Job Description: What Does a Race Mechanic Do?

Before pursuing a career, it’s essential to understand the day-to-day responsibilities of a race mechanic. Here’s a general overview:

Qualifications:

  • Level 2 or 3 IMI, BETC in Motor Vehicle Engineering

  • Level 2 or 3 National Motorsport Academy

  • HNC/HND Motorsport Engineering

Job Roles:

  • Comprehensive understanding of vehicle systems: powertrain, brakes, suspension, etc.

  • Knowledge of vehicle setup and performance tuning

  • Basic fabrication and machining skills

  • Comfort working both trackside and in the workshop

  • Assist with logistics: loading trucks, setting up garages or awnings

  • Track and maintain records of car part usage

  • IT skills, especially Excel

  • Ability to read and interpret CAD drawings

Personal Traits/Experience:

  • Exceptional attention to detail and timekeeping

  • Ability to work to tight deadlines

  • Flexible approach to working hours

  • Comfort discussing engineering solutions

  • Positive attitude and willingness to help

  • Willingness to travel

Race mechanics are a vital part of the team, and their contribution is key to every race’s success.

Education: Building a Solid Foundation

A strong technical background is essential. Many race mechanics study motorsport or mechanical engineering at college. Motorsport engineering courses focus on subjects such as:

  • Engine rebuilding

  • Suspension and braking systems

  • Electrical systems

Some courses allow specialisation in areas like engine tuning or fabrication, while others cover a broader overview of motorsport mechanics and general engineering principles. Most programs include a 1–2 week industry placement—so it’s a good idea to start reaching out to local race teams early.

Additional hands-on experience can be gained by interning or volunteering with local motorsport teams during holidays or in free time.

Colleges offering motorsport engineering courses include:

  • National College of Motorsport

  • Brooklands College

  • Myerscough College

  • Wiltshire College

  • Boston College

  • Bridgewater & Taunton College

  • East Surrey College

  • Brighton Northbrook College

Networking: Building Your Industry Connections

In motorsports, connections matter. While skill is essential, knowing the right people can open doors. Here’s how to start building your network:

  • Attend motorsport events and engage with teams and mechanics. Handing out CVs in person is far more effective than sending emails.

  • Join online forums or social media groups like Facebook and LinkedIn to discuss experiences and seek advice from professionals.

  • Attend trade shows and events for in-depth discussions with motorsport experts.

Building relationships early can lead to internships, work placements, and eventually full-time roles.

Constant Improvement: Staying Ahead

Once you have the education and experience, the journey doesn’t stop. Motorsport is an ever-evolving industry, and staying current is critical.

  • Read industry magazines and publications

  • Attend trade shows to learn about new technologies

  • Pursue additional training if needed to improve your skills

Always be curious and proactive about learning. Motorsport is highly competitive, and the best mechanics are the ones who continually evolve with the industry.

WHATS IN A RACE MECHANICS TOOL BOX?

What Is In A Mechanics Toolbox?

A motorsport toolbox typically contains a range of tools and equipment to help mechanics maintain and repair race cars at both the factory and at circuit. The specific tools required can vary depending on the type of motorsport vehicle you are working and the level of competition. We have compiled a list that can be used by anyone looking to build up a starter kit that will get you ready to work in motorsport. Tooling can be expensive so its important to remember that you don’t have to buy everything at once.

The Toolbox:

Prior to buying tools, you need to first find somewhere to store them! A motorsport toolbox needs to be ergonomic, lightweight, rugged and a ideally, lockable. A good staring point would be to look at the cases supplied by GT line. A couple of examples are listed below:

ATOMIK 215 PTS – STARTER OPTION

Technologically advanced, injection moulded, high thickness Polypropylene tool case. This material makes the case extremely resistant against chemical corrosion, shock, high and low temperature. The injection technique ensures constant material thickness, even in the corners.

General features:
– 2 metal lid safety support stays
– 2 metal locks with keys
– 3 metal hinges for maximum strength
– bottom area with adjustable/removable dividers
– ergonomic handle, rubber coated grip
– address label 
– document area
– can accommodate up to 3 tool pallets

NEW MEGA WHEELS PEL – MID RANGE

General features:
– HDPE roto-molded case with built-in rubber feet
– 2 metal lid safety support stays
– 2 TSA accepted locks
– telescopic handle and large wheels provided with ball bearings
– ergonomic handle, rubber coated grip
– single steel hinge, riveted in several points to assure high resistance
– large base area for tools, power tools, accessories and spare parts
– stack-ability
– document wallet
– 2 small component boxes

V-ROCK TURTLE PEL – HIGH RANGE

General features:

• Two ergonomic handles with rubber coated grip

• Telescopic handle and new Ø 120 mm wheels provided with sealed ball bearings
• Large base area for tools, power tools, accessories and spare parts
• New gas pressurised lid supports
• Document wallet
• 2 TSA accepted locks
• 3 small component boxes (Art. WL01 + WL02)
• stack-ability

Tooling recommendations:

Type of Tool Description
Sockets/extensions A socket set is essential for removing and tightening nuts and bolts.
Typically 4.5mm too 24mm.
1/4 drive, 3/8th and 1/2 Inch would be ideal.
Deep sockets can also come in handy.
Allen Key and TORX sockets would also be ideal.
Impact sockets will be required for power tools and to torque wheels.
1, 3 and 6 inch extensions, 1/4 drive to 1/2.
Ratchets A set of wrenches in various sizes are necessary for loosening and tightening bolts and nuts in tight spaces.
1/4 drive, 3/8th and 1/2 Inch would be ideal.
You will notice the difference between a high and low quality. High quality ratchets will have more teeth.
Spanners Spanners help you get in those hard to reach places a socket won’t reach.
Used for quickly checking the tightness of suspension components.
6 – 24mm would be ideal. (Sets are normally 8 – 19mm)
Pliers A variety of pliers, including needle-nose pliers, diagonal cutters, flush-cuts and lockwire pliers can be useful for gripping, cutting, and twisting.
A set of mole grips would also be ideal if you have a stuck bolt or damaged bolt head.
Screwdrivers A set of screwdrivers in different sizes and types, including Phillips and flathead, will be required for removing screws and fasteners.
Zeus clip driver would also be ideal for single seaters.
Torque wrench A torque wrench is used to tighten bolts to a specific torque setting, ensuring that they are not over-tightened or under-tightened.
1/4 drive, 3/8th and 1/2 Inch would be ideal but 3/8th is a good start.
Allen/TORX Keys Allen keys are essential for removing and tightening cap/button head fixings.
TORX keys are essential for removing and tightening TORX head fixings.
Wera do high quality sets for a reasonable price.
Be careful when using ball end allen key on tight bolts, they can snap relatively easily.
Setup equipment Ruler.
Fishing wire.
Tyre Pressure gauge.
Tyre Inflator.
Diagnostic tools
(Vehicle specific diagnostic tools should be supplied by the team)		 Multimeter.
Circuit tester.
Electrical Tooling
(More niche tooling should be supplied by the team)		 Basic wire crimpers. (Ring terminals, ferrules, etc)
Wire strippers.
Odds, sods and nice to have’s A portable work light.
Magnet on a stick.
Notepad and pen.

Helpful starter kits:

Consumables:

    • Duct tape & cable ties – These items can be useful for making temporary repairs or securing loose parts.
    • Paint Pen/Tyre chalk – Marking up tyre sets
    • Lockwire
    • Electrical tape
    • Basic electrical terminals

Top Tips:

    • For the tool case, buy the biggest and best one you can afford. It may seem empty at first but it will quickly fill up.
    • Lots of tool manufactures have lifetime guarantee on their tools. Therefore, if it breaks, it get replaced free of charge.
    • Halfords have trade cards are available to save you money on tools.
    • Start by purchasing the essentials and then work your way through the list.
    • Make friends in the team that are willing to lend you tools when your starting out.
    • Speak to your colleagues and find out what the priority tools are for your current role.
    • Power tools like drills, guns and grinders can be added at a later date.

Overall, a well-equipped motorsport toolbox should contain a comprehensive selection of tools and equipment, enabling mechanics and engineers to diagnose and repair a wide range of mechanical and electrical issues that can occur during a race event.

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