To be successful on the track, a racing vehicle has to be fast and reliable, but more significantly drivable. Drivability begins with driver comfort. If the driver can’t reach or operate the vehicle’s controls properly, he cannot be expected to race competitively.

Understanding the importance to properly position the driver and all-important controls, the Banks Sidewinder D-MAX Type-R crew determined placement of the driver controls shortly after the completion of the chassis and determination of engine location.

The procedure for positive drivability begins with seat placement. The seat location is selected with regard to clearance inside the structure of the tube chassis. Adequate headroom, arm and legroom, as well as proper access for entrance and egress are musts. The ideal position places the driver as far back as possible, and as close to the center of the vehicle as transmission and driveshaft tunnel permit. This helps the weight balance of the truck while it simultaneously provides left elbowroom and removes the driver from proximity to the left side cage beams. Lastly, the elevation of the seat is set along with any desired recline angle.

Once seat location is finalized, the driver is placed in the seat and pedal and steering wheel locations are determined. Transmission shifter location is also set. With these key items located to suit the driver, construction of the vehicle continues. Other environmental considerations, such as convenient location of switches and placement of instruments for optimum visibility, will be determined near completion of the vehicle.

If multiple drivers are used, as will be the case for endurance racing, consideration must be given to different driver sizes. Here the procedure was to position the controls for the largest driver. Custom form-fitting inserts are placed in the seat for other drivers so they can properly orient them to the controls. This is common practice in endurance racing where multiple drivers must be accommodated.