Best way to add some weight to the car/ NASA AI

[Vettel-ish]

Planning on running NASA AI next year and need to add around 150 pounds to my car.

Shooting for 3550 pounds and 390 hp to fit the class. See below.



6.1. American Iron (Power)The “American Iron” (AI) class has a strict 9:1 (9 pounds of vehicle weight per eachhorsepower) weight to power ratio limit and 8.5:1 (8.5 pounds of vehicle weight per eachfoot-pound) weight to torque ratio limit as measured at the rear wheels. All cars that compete inthis class may have less power and/or more weight than the specified ratios permit, unlessspecified in the Table 6.1 below. The absolute minimum weight for an AI car is 2900 poundswith driver.NOTE – See Section 7.9 (Brakes) for power rating adjustments per the following tableTable 6.1ABS TYPE POWER LEVELNONE 8.5:1 HP / 8.0:1 TQ ratioAny OEM ABS (Except 2005+ Ford) 8.75:1 HP / 8.25:1 TQ ratioAny OEM ABS 2010+ 9.0:1 HP / 8.5:1 TQ ratio2005+ Ford ABS Only 9.0:1 HP / 8.5:1 TQ ratio

 

[Apex3V]

Lead bricks bolted in strategically is the most straightforward way to add weight. Also running a traditional cool shirt system is an easy way to add driver comfort and weight. When all else fails just hit the concessions stand lol

 

[TeeLew]

Lead bricks bolted in strategically is the most straightforward way to add weight. Also running a traditional cool shirt system is an easy way to add driver comfort and weight. When all else fails just hit the concessions stand lol

This. I'd recommend the location of the lead be on the floor directly ahead of over the rear axle on the right hand side. With that amount of weight, be sure to put very sturdy mounts with large surface backing plates welded in.

 

[GAR944]

Means you can also run a full fuel tank every session and do your numbers on fuel burn and weight loss.
The other one would be full size battery or bigger mounted down low and secure. It kinda like a lead block but has the benefit of keeping the car running longer if you kill an alternator.
Additional cooling capacity for whatever you may think may be marginal.
The joys of actually looking to add weight is you can fix potential problems and get a 2 for one deal.

 

[MX621]

Why not detune to run 3400lbs?

 

[blacksheep-1]

lol... I think this is the first time I've ever seen anyone wanting to add weight to a Mustang.
Srsly though, lighter weight and detuning is usually a better option, less driveline wear including engine reliability, now if the engine is already built, then I understand,

 

[Vettel-ish]

Why not detune to run 3400lbs?zTYH

Why not detune to run 3400lbs?

This is the route I will go!

 

[steveespo]

Fuel cell in the trunk if AI allows. 30 gallon cell will provide about 120 ballast full leaving 10 gallons for a typical sprint race.

 

[Adam Ginsberg]

Fuel cell in the trunk if AI allows. 30 gallon cell will provide about 120 ballast full leaving 10 gallons for a typical sprint race.

If you’re going to run heavy and need ballast, do THIS ^.

AI does indeed allow for a fuel cell - section 5.9 of the 2025 AI rules, coupled with sections 15.4, 15.4.1, 15.4.2 and 15.4.3 of the NASA CCRs.

Building the containment box for a fuel cell is not considered ballast, thereby giving you room for actual ballast if needed.

That said, the suggestion by @MX621 and @blacksheep-1 is wise. Tires, brakes, suspension, chassis and your wallet will thank you.