How NOT to Do a Burnout

Is it really better to burn out than fadeaway? Not when you own a Corvette….

We are not going to tell any Corvette owner what they should or should no do with their ride. For most, owning a Corvette is seeing a longtime dream finally come to fruition. And driving a cool car or truck makes you want to really test it out, maybe even push its limits. Within reason. That’s why we love driving fast, taking the scenic route, track days, and yes–doing burnouts.

Burnouts have often divided the Corvette community. We’ve seen this discussion play out in our own Forums on occasion. One side says, “Why would you do that to your ‘Vette?!” While the other side counters with “What’s the point of owning a Corvette if you don’t rattle the asphalt?”

Done correctly, a burnout is rip-roaring, tire screeching, rubber-melting fun. And it is one heck of a retirement party for old tires. Again: when it is done safely and when it is performed by people who know what they are doing.

We came across a video on You Tube by Jeff Young that demonstrates how NOT to do a burnout.

In the quick clip we don’t get a lot of information. It is a C7 Corvette Z06 and it is cherry: black, sleek, beautiful. So yes, this is going to hurt.

First mistake is location, location, location. The Corvette driver seems to be on a suburban street. Nope. Parking lots or closed course is the best place for newbies, and seasoned burners alike. Less risk of hurting anyone. Plus, you want the space. The balder the tires, the more that rear end is going to fishtail.

Mistake number two, when you smell smoke (or something) that is definitely not rubber: it is your clutch. Stop!

There’s a few things that likely went wrong here. One mistake is not turning off traction control. Next, you want to start on 1st gear. Rev to a solid RPM of 3500 to 4000. Next, a little fancy footwork as you release clutch while applying the brake lightly. You get into the groove, and then smoke ’em if you’ve got ’em.

It’s always great to try new things, but with your ‘Vette consult a pro first. Chances are that if sense something is off, it is! Stop.

A burnout has to be precise in execution, or else you are looking at a lot more damage than new tires. Check out the video and let us know if you have or would do a burnout in your Corvette.

Photos: You Tube

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