Loose Tools Motorsports

The Experience

Throughout my life, I’ve spent several weekends at the track, from watching my father take a Porsche driving course to working hands-on with a family-owned race team. While I didn’t fully realize the impact these earlier experiences would have on me at the time, I now see how they helped shape my passion for motorsports and speed.

As I became more involved in the motorsport community in recent years, I attended the 43rd VARAC Vintage Grand Prix presented by eBay Motors from June 16–18, 2023, at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. While exploring the paddock, admiring everything from vintage racers to modern production cars—and even some Formula 1 machines—one car and team stood out to me the most: a race-prepared 1971 Datsun 240Z owned and run by Loose Tools Motorsports.

I was immediately drawn to the 240Z, not only because I’ve long wanted one as my own project car, but also because of its incredible history. The owner, Neil Young, shared the car’s journey—from being purchased off the lot in the 70's, to burning down, and then being rebuilt as a dedicated race car. After expressing my admiration for the car and talking with the team, we exchanged contact information. We stayed in touch, and the following year, they invited me to join them as a crew member for the weekend.

A Hands-On Weekend in the Paddock

Jumping at the opportunity, I took a few vacation days, packed my gear, camped in my car, and immersed myself in the fast-paced world of vintage racing. Working alongside the Loose Tools Motorsports team, I helped prepare and maintain both their race cars—the 240Z and a 1971 Crosslé 20F open-wheel racer—throughout the event.

My responsibilities included:

• Running pre-race checklists and ensuring both cars were in race-ready condition.

• Assisting with repairs and troubleshooting mechanical issues.

• Learning from experienced racers and mechanics in the paddock.

The weekend started with challenges. The 240Z experienced significant engine issues, including a cracked head gasket, a faulty alternator, and timing issues. With limited resources and a tight deadline before practice and qualifying, the car was almost sidelined. However, thanks to help from neighboring teams, resourceful problem-solving, and sheer determination, we sourced a used head gasket, a backup alternator, and received timing expertise from a neighboring racer.

Working late into the evening, we rebuilt the engine just in time for race day. The car not only made it to the track but secured multiple podium finishes in different class races—a testament to the team's perseverance and problem-solving under pressure, and the helpful nature of other drivers and race teams at such an incredible event.

Lessons Learned & Looking Ahead

Being hands-on with the Datsun L-series engine gave me valuable insights into the car I hope to build myself one day. While I wouldn’t call myself an expert just yet, I now have a much stronger understanding of engine troubleshooting, tuning, and repair—knowledge that will be invaluable for my future project car.

Beyond the technical experience, this weekend was a reminder of what makes motorsports so special—the camaraderie, the problem-solving, and the relentless pursuit of performance. The energy of the paddock, the dedication of the teams, and the shared passion for racing made it one of the most enjoyable and rewarding weekends I’ve ever had.