Competitors Guide to MSA Scrutineering Requirements
Listed below are some of the points you, the competitor must address when preparing a car for racing. They are a guide only and do not form a complete list of the MSA regulations.
Roll cage – the roll cage must be constructed to the exact details found in the MSA Yearbook. Padding should also be fitted in any area where the drivers head may come in contact with the system. The protection will only be approved by scrutineers if the car attachment areas are also of sound construction
If you have already fitted a roll cage which does not conform with the MSA yearbook then it can be certified by the MSA as suitable for equivalent resistance to the MSA defined loadings.
Sunroofs – if your car has a sunroof then this will need to be removed and replaced with a steel plate that is welded onto the roof.
Cut Off Switch – an external electrical cut off switch must be fitted to the vehicle. The switch must be clearly marked and stop ALL electrical circuits when operated (this includes the alternator).
Fire Extinguishers – a plumbed-in system is required. For the size and type required in your vehicle, see the MSA Yearbook.
Seats – standard seats can be used for racing, providing that they are bolted in place and cannot be moved. A head restraint (head rest) must also be fitted but this can be a separate fixed item (in this instance it is normally attached to the roll cage). If there is any suggestion that the seat or the seat mountings may fail under load then the car may be rejected from scrutineering.
We recommend that drivers use an approved race seat which offers additional safety advantages such as full head support, as well as providing additional support for the driver throughout the race.
Seat Belts – a minimum of a four point harness is required. It is also worth noting that most FIA approved harnesses have an expiry date.
Lighting – all cars are required to carry brake and rear lights. In addition high intensity (fog) rear lights must be fitted to both sides of the car or one central light. This means that if your car has one fog light at the rear as standard, you will need to fit one in the middle of the car (normally in the back window).
Glass Sun Roofs – are not permitted.
Chassis – you must ensure that all holes leading from engine bay and boot are filled to prevent the passage of flame or liquids into the driver’s compartment.
Braking Systems – duel circuit brakes or single system with a working handbrake are required.
Tyres – tyres must come from list “A” in the MSA Yearbook and have at least 1.6mm of tread depth.
Fuel – only ‘pump fuel’ is permitted. Octane boosters also may not be used.
Towing Eyes – all vehicles must be fitted with a towing eye at front and rear.
Silencing – all cars must be within MSA limits for noise which is currently 105d(b)A.
Oil Leaks – any oil leaks or a defected oil system which fails to control oil from the engine breather may result in rejection.
For comprehensive information on the specific requirements for car racing, please read the General Competitors Safety and Race Cars section of the MSA Competitors Year Book (blue book).