Chevrolet Corvette C6.R - C6.R Exposed!

The C6.R sits in the paddock area, outside the mechanics' bay, waiting to be evaluated and restored to optimal racing condition by the Corvette Racing crew.

All of the C6.R's body panels are easily removable and can be replaced if damaged. The hood, fenders, doors, quarters, and hatch come off for routine maintenance after qualifying, although the front and rear bumpers/fascias usually remain on the car.

Each C6.R engine bears a number on its intake manifold corresponding to the car it powers. Here, we see the engine assembly for the No. 4 car. Engines are typically rebuilt every three or four race weekends, depending on the length of the events. Major components, such as blocks and cylinder heads, are inspected and reused. Other components, such as pistons, valves, and springs, are replaced as needed.

Chevy Racing communications official Rick Voegelin shows us where the half-dollar-sized restrictor goes inside the C6.R's air-intake system. Both air-inlet tubes have restrictors. The restrictor size currently mandated by ALMS rules measures 31.3 mm.

Members of the C6.R crew thoroughly examine the Vette's mechanical, electrical, suspension, ride, frame and body, and computer systems after every race.

The C6.R's carbon-carbon brake rotors measure 13 inches in diameter in the front and 12 inches in the rear. Rotors will last through a 24-hour race with proper cooling. They cannot be resurfaced. And get ready for this: They cost $3,500 each. That's the price of a base Corvette convertible in '58. What would Zora think?

The front fascia of the C6.R houses three separate cold-air intake systems. The center intake cools the radiator. The engine-air intakes are next, while the outer intakes cool the front brakes.

On-track testing showed that cockpit temperatures in the C6.R could reach as high as 117 degrees F. This custom A/C system pumps cool, purified air through carbon filters, dropping that temp to around 80 degrees. It adds only 35 pounds to the car's race weight .10The C6.R uses a coil-near-plug system that is similar in concept to that of many production vehicles. The coils are mounted at the front of the engine for accessibility.