Transponders

Well, there's no shortage of things to purchase to get started in racing. I need to get myself a transponder for the race car. Any suggestions on what and where to buy? Only thing I've heard is that I want direct-wire as opposed to removable.

There really is only one (AMB) and the price is the same everywhere unless you buy used. I've read that there may be issues with re-registering a used one (mostly access to the lap times on the AMB web page). The price difference between brand new and used was so small when I was shopping I just coughed up the cash for new. BTW, they are much smaller than they look in photos.

I picked up a used one and had to register it for $50. It will show the old driver's lap times from old events which was no big deal for me. I saved close to $100 otherwise I would have just bought a new one.

Though most people prefer the hard wired model, there's really nothing wrong with the rechargeable ones, especially if you find a good deal on one. The only disadvantage is that you must remember to make sure it is charged (and installed) in the days leading up to a race weekend; just one more thing to remember. The charge generally lasts about five days. The advantage of the rechargeable model is that it can easily be swapped between vehicles, though that may not apply to you.

The batteries seem to last quite well. I bought a used rechargeable model five years ago and have had no problems with it so far.

-Chris R.

I have a hard wire one. I installed it in 2002 and have not touched it since. I often forget it is there, but I always get my lap times. Unless you really need to move it from car to car hardwired is the way to go.