What are the people called who change the tires in NASCAR?

You’ve probably wondered, while watching a NASCAR race, who those incredibly fast and efficient people are that change the tires during pit stops. What exactly are they called?

They are known as the “tire changers,” and they’re a critical part of a NASCAR team’s pit crew.

In This Article

In this article, you will get a detailed explanation of what a tire changer in a NASCAR pit crew does, how they train for such a high-stress role, and why they are essential to a team’s success on the track.

A Detailed Explanation of NASCAR Tire Changers

Tire changers in NASCAR are not just your average mechanics; they are specialized professionals trained to perform under immense pressure. The seconds it takes for them to change a tire can make the difference between victory and defeat for the entire team.

The Role and Responsibilities

A tire changer’s primary job is to remove and replace the tires on the race car as quickly and efficiently as possible. They typically work in pairs, one on the front tires and one on the rear, to ensure the process is completed in the shortest time possible. Tire changers are also responsible for making sure the lug nuts are tightly fastened, as failure to do so can be disastrous during the race.

Training and Skillset

Given the high-stakes nature of the job, extensive training is required. Tire changers usually undergo rigorous physical and mental conditioning to cope with the stress and physical demands of the role. Many even come from athletic backgrounds to cope with the physicality of the job, which includes heavy lifting and quick movements. Training programs often include exercises that mimic real-race scenarios, and even the tools used for practice are designed to be as realistic as possible.

Importance to the Team

A pit stop is more than just a pause in the race; it’s a coordinated ballet of activities that, when executed flawlessly, can save valuable seconds and gain positions on the track. The tire changer is crucial in this process because any delay or mistake can cost the team those hard-earned positions, and in some cases, even the race.

Here’s everything else you need to know to appreciate the nuances and complexities of this vital role in the world of NASCAR.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a Tire Changer?

For tire changers, the day starts long before the engines roar to life on the race track. The morning is often spent reviewing the strategy with the crew chief and other pit crew members, including the jack man and gas man. During this time, they’ll go over any specific instructions or adjustments needed for that particular race.

Preparation and Equipment Check

Before they get down to the wire, tire changers conduct a thorough check of all their equipment—air guns, lug nuts, and of course, the tires themselves. Ensuring everything is in top-notch condition is crucial for a successful pit stop. These professionals often fine-tune their air guns to match their preferences, optimizing for speed and reliability.

How Do Tire Changers Train?

We’ve already touched on the intense training regimes, but it’s worth diving deeper into the specifics. After all, the stakes are incredibly high, and there’s no room for error.

Simulation and Drills

Training sessions often include various drills that mimic the conditions of an actual race. This could involve noise simulation to emulate the race-day atmosphere or practicing tire changes with a stopwatch running to measure efficiency. Some teams even go as far as using virtual reality setups to practice pit stops in a controlled environment where variables can be adjusted at will.

How Much Do Tire Changers Make?

While the excitement and adrenaline are definitely part of the allure, it’s also a job that pays well, especially if you’re good at it.

Compensation and Benefits

According to various sources, experienced tire changers can earn between $80,000 and $120,000 per year, with additional performance bonuses that can significantly boost their income. These figures can vary based on the team’s budget and the tire changer’s experience and performance. Benefits often include travel accommodations, as the NASCAR season involves multiple races across different states.

How to Become a Tire Changer in NASCAR?

For those looking to step into this exciting world, the path is challenging but incredibly rewarding. The opportunity to work in a high-stakes environment with a crew of talented individuals can make this career extremely fulfilling.

Qualifications and Experience

While a formal degree isn’t required to become a tire changer, mechanical aptitude and a high level of physical fitness are musts. Many tire changers have backgrounds in mechanics or have worked in other motorsports before transitioning to NASCAR. Others have athletic backgrounds that provide the physical conditioning necessary for the role.

The Recruitment Process

The recruitment process is often team-specific. Some teams have their own training academies or programs that scout for potential talent. Others might hire through references or previous motorsport experience. However you slice it, getting your foot in the door often requires networking, skill, and sometimes a bit of luck.

Are There Female Tire Changers in NASCAR?

The motorsport world has long been dominated by men, but the landscape is slowly changing. There are indeed female tire changers in NASCAR, and their numbers are gradually increasing.

Breaking the Gender Barrier

Women like Brehanna Daniels have made headlines for breaking into the male-dominated world of NASCAR pit crews. These women undergo the same rigorous training and face the same high-stakes conditions as their male counterparts, proving that when it comes to changing tires in NASCAR, skill and efficiency are what truly count.

What are the people called who change the tires in NASCAR? – Final Thoughts

By now, you’ve gotten a comprehensive look into the life of a tire changer in NASCAR—from their daily routines to training regimes, and even how much they earn. These are the unsung heroes who make those seconds count in a race that could be won or lost in the blink of an eye. The next time you watch a NASCAR race and marvel at the lightning-fast pit stops, you’ll know exactly who to thank. So here’s to the tire changers, the men and women who literally keep the wheels turning in the fast-paced world of NASCAR.

What are the people called who change the tires in NASCAR? – Frequently Asked Questions

Is a formal degree required to become a tire changer?

No, a formal degree is not required, although mechanical aptitude is a must.

How many tire changers are in a pit crew?

Typically, there are two tire changers in a pit crew—one for the front tires and one for the rear.

Do tire changers only work in NASCAR?

While this article focuses on NASCAR, tire changers also work in other forms of motorsports.

How many tires are changed during a typical pit stop?

Generally, all four tires are changed during a typical pit stop.

How long does a pit stop usually last?

A good pit stop in NASCAR can be as quick as 12-16 seconds.