BANKING
The slope of a track, usually in the turns, that measures from the inside of the pavement up to the outer wall. The higher the banking, the quicker the cars can enter the corners.

DRAG
Drag is determined by a combination of several factors. How much "drag" a car has determines the efficiency of its aerodynamics. If a car has too much drag, it can reduce horsepower and speed.

DOWNFORCE
The amount of pressure put on the car which helps it to grip the surface of the track. The more downforce created, the better the car stays in line and handles.

LOOSE (or OVERSTEERING)
A car is said to be loose when the rear of the car seems to want to overtake the front. This is felt most often when trying to enter or exit a turn.

MARBLES
Excess bits of rubber and debris which collect at the top of the track, next to the wall. "Marbles" can cause serious handling and traction problems if enough builds up on the surface of the tires or collects in the grill on the front of the car.

PUSH
When two cars, running nose-to-tail, cut through the air, the airflow coming from the car in front does not flow over the car behind in the same way. As a result, the air "pushes" down on the hood of the rear car and causes problems in handling.

RESTRICTOR PLATE
An aluminum plate which sits atop the intake manifold. This plate restricts the amount of air and fuel through the carburetor through four small holes, which in turn reduces speed and horsepower.

STAGGER
Stagger refers to the difference in distance around, or circumference, of the left side and right side tires. Usually on a stock car, the left side tires are smaller to aid in making left turns around the track.

STICKERS
The term that crews use to refer to brand new tires, which still have the factory stickers attached.

SCUFFS
Tires which have some wear, but are still usable.

TIGHT (or UNDERSTEERING)
Tightness occurs when the front tires are not sticking to the track as well as the rear tires. This causes the car to want to continue straight, rather than turn smoothly.