Tachometer: The instrument on the dashboard used to measure the number of revolutions per minute the engine is turning. Because there are no speedometers in race cars, drivers use the tachometer to monitor their speed, especially on pit road.
Taking the Air: This occurs when one car pulls up behind another taking the flow of air off the spoiler. This affects the downforce of the lead car making it loose. The lead car then must slow down allowing the second car to pass.
T-bone: When two cars wreck and one of the cars hits the other in the door. The two cars make a T shape.
Tech: Slang for a technical inspection. To tech a car, or to go through tech.
Technical Inspection: NASCAR's inspection of the race car to ensure that it is within the guidelines set by the sanctioning body and meets all NASCAR mandated rules. This is done to "ensure a level field."
Tight: Handling condition where a car has developed a "push" and feels like it doesn't want to turn. A tight car usually puts extra pressure on the right front tire.The front wheels lose traction and moves up the track toward the wall. The opposite of "loose."
Track bar: A lateral bar that keeps the rear tires centered within the body of the car. It connects the frame on one side and the rear axle on the other.
Transporter: The 18-wheelers that take cars and to get fixed after wrecks. Cars are placed in the top section, while the lower half is used for workspace.
Tri-oval: A racetrack that has a 'hump' or 'fifth turn' in addition to the standard four corners. Not to be confused with a triangle-shaped speedway which has only three distinct corners.
Turn a Lap: When a driver makes one full circle around the racetrack.
Underneath: Getting in on the inside of a driver's quarter panel, accidentally or otherwise, to make a pass.
Victory Lane: After winning, the driver proceeds to an area of the racetrack grounds designated as Victory Lane for official ceremonies such as interviews, photos and presentation of the trophy and winnings. The ultimate destination of any race car driver.
Warm-up: The laps taken on the track prior to the race used to warm up the tires, transmission, engine fluids and other components of the race car before the start of the event.
Wedge: Also known as cross weight. The balance of the weight on each corner of a race car adjusted diagonally (Example: Left rear to right front). By taking out (lowering) the wedge - understeer or push can be alleviated.
Wheel Base: The length between the front spindle center line and the rear axle center line. A Winston Cup car has a wheel base of 110 inches.
White Flag: The flag shown to the race leader and the pursuing drivers telling them that there is one lap to go before the end of the race and the finish line. This final lap is almost always one of the most exciting as lead drivers will battle out for lead position!
Wrench: The one who wields the magic wand of the garage - the wrench! Slang for a mechanic.
Yellow Flag: The caution flag used to slow down the racers in the case of a crash, debris on the course (like car parts), slick fluids on the track or the weather has become a factor with rain. The cars remain in their racing positions behind the pace car until it is determined that it is safe to resume the race.
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