- Welcome to WCMA Forum.
Western Canada Motorsport Association
Recent posts
#1
General Announcements / Planning a Salalah road trip n...
Last post by howardprescott - Today at 05:29:08 AMPlanning a Salalah road trip next month, need a Sharjah mechanic who'll take the pre-trip check seriously
I'm taking the family down to Salalah in a few weeks and my 2014 Santa Fe has been sitting a bit more than usual lately, so I want someone to go over the cooling system, belts, and fluids properly before we hit those long desert stretches, but I don't fancy paying Dubai inspection rates for what should be a fairly straightforward check. A few guys at work keep telling me to skip the city altogether and head into Sharjah where the labour is cheaper and the shops aren't rushing to push you out the door, but none of them could name a specific place, just vague hand waving about the industrial area. I'm honestly trying to find the best car mechanic service Sharjah has for a proper pre-trip once-over, the kind who will actually pressure test the radiator and not just glance at the hoses and call it done, because breaking down halfway with two kids in the back is my nightmare scenario. If anyone has a shop they trust for preventative checks and general servicing on a Hyundai, please point me in the right direction, I'd rather drive out now and build a relationship with someone decent than panic later.
I'm taking the family down to Salalah in a few weeks and my 2014 Santa Fe has been sitting a bit more than usual lately, so I want someone to go over the cooling system, belts, and fluids properly before we hit those long desert stretches, but I don't fancy paying Dubai inspection rates for what should be a fairly straightforward check. A few guys at work keep telling me to skip the city altogether and head into Sharjah where the labour is cheaper and the shops aren't rushing to push you out the door, but none of them could name a specific place, just vague hand waving about the industrial area. I'm honestly trying to find the best car mechanic service Sharjah has for a proper pre-trip once-over, the kind who will actually pressure test the radiator and not just glance at the hoses and call it done, because breaking down halfway with two kids in the back is my nightmare scenario. If anyone has a shop they trust for preventative checks and general servicing on a Hyundai, please point me in the right direction, I'd rather drive out now and build a relationship with someone decent than panic later.
#2
General Announcements / Hissing noise after shock serv...
Last post by howardprescott - Today at 01:24:06 AMTook my 2018 GT to a Dubai Mustang Shock Absorber Service last weekend to swap out the rear shocks because they were leaking, and the car feels planted again but now I've noticed a faint hissing sound from the rear when I go over bumps, almost like air escaping. The shop said it might just be the new shocks settling in, but I'm a little paranoid because I've never heard that on any other car I've owned. Has anyone else experienced this after a shock replacement on their Mustang, or should I take it back to have them check for a loose fitting? Just want to make sure it's not something that'll get worse.
#3
General Announcements / Can a dead battery on an E Cla...
Last post by howardprescott - Yesterday at 05:08:00 AMI'm trying to figure out if I'm throwing money away here. My 2016 E350 sat for about five weeks while I was out of the country, and when I came back the battery was completely flat – not even enough power to pop the trunk. I hooked up a smart charger I borrowed from a friend and let it charge for about 24 hours. The charger said "full" but when I tried to start the car, it cranked slowly a couple times then went back to clicking. Does that mean the battery is damaged beyond repair? A mechanic told me that Mercedes batteries don't like being fully discharged and once they go below a certain voltage, the internal chemistry gets messed up and they'll never hold a full charge again. But another guy said I just need a more powerful charger to "desulfate" the battery. I'm confused. I've been searching for Mercedes Benz Battery Repair Dubai and it seems like most places just replace rather than repair. Has anyone successfully brought a deeply discharged Mercedes battery back to life? Or am I just delaying the inevitable and should just buy a new one? Trying not to spend money I don't need to, but also don't want to get stranded somewhere.
#4
SoloSport Discussion Board / Re: WCMA 2016 Solo Championshi...
Last post by Elizabsnell - April 26, 2026, 09:05:24 PMThis is a high-quality article with comprehensive and engaging content. I admire the author's ability to express ideas concisely while still conveying a great deal of interesting insight. papa's games
#5
Events / Re: WSCC Track Day #9
Last post by Elizabsnell - April 26, 2026, 09:03:43 PMI am very impressed by the article's presentation style. The points are logically organized and easy to follow, allowing readers to quickly access the key information. clash royale
#6
General Announcements / My car AC blows cold air only ...
Last post by mathanery - April 13, 2026, 08:27:06 AMI need some help understanding what is wrong with my car's air conditioning. I have a 2016 Nissan Altima and I live in Abu Dhabi where the heat is no joke. The AC works great when I am driving on the highway or moving fast. Cold air comes out strong. But when I stop at a traffic light or when I am parked with the engine running, the air gets warm. Not hot, but not cold enough. As soon as I start moving again, the cold air comes back. A friend told me that this could be a problem with the cooling fan. He said when the car is moving, air flows through the radiator and AC condenser. But when stopped, the fan should turn on to pull air through. If the fan is broken, the AC will get warm at stops. Does that sound right? I have been searching for auto AC fixing services Abu Dhabi to get this checked. Has anyone else had this problem where the AC only works when driving? What was the problem and how much did it cost to fix? Is it safe to keep driving the car like this? I worry that something might overheat. Also, is there a way to test if the cooling fan is working myself? I can open the hood and look, but I don't know what to look for. Please share your experiences. Any advice would really help me. I cannot survive another Abu Dhabi summer with an AC that only works half the time. Thank you to anyone who responds.
#7
Parts & Services / The Importance of Gate Mainten...
Last post by mathanery - March 05, 2026, 01:57:15 AMGates are an important part of many homes and businesses. They help protect the property, add privacy, and improve the appearance of the entrance. However, many people forget that gates need regular care to stay in good condition. When a gate is not maintained properly, small problems can grow into serious damage. This is why regular maintenance is important and can help reduce the chances of needing gate repair san diego services in the future.
Early Maintenance Prevents Bigger Problems
Most gate issues start as very small problems. A loose bolt, a squeaky hinge, or a slightly misaligned gate might not seem serious at first. Because of this, many homeowners ignore these early signs. Over time, however, these small issues can turn into larger problems that require expensive repairs.
For example, if a hinge becomes loose and is not tightened, the gate may begin to lean or sag. This extra pressure can damage the frame and affect how the gate opens and closes. Regular maintenance allows homeowners to fix these minor problems before they become costly repairs.
Keeping the Gate Moving Smoothly
A gate should open and close easily without making loud noises or getting stuck. When the moving parts of a gate are properly maintained, the entire system works more smoothly. Hinges, rollers, and tracks should be cleaned and lubricated regularly to prevent friction.
If these parts are ignored, they may become rusty or worn out. This can make the gate difficult to move and put extra strain on the structure. Regular maintenance keeps the gate operating smoothly and reduces stress on the system.
Protecting the Gate from Environmental Damage
Outdoor gates face constant exposure to sunlight, rain, wind, and dust. Over time, these environmental conditions can damage the materials used in the gate. Metal gates may develop rust, while wooden gates may crack or weaken.
Routine maintenance helps prevent this kind of damage. Cleaning the gate, checking for early signs of rust, and applying protective coatings can help preserve the material. These simple steps can keep the gate strong and attractive for many years.
Maintaining Automatic Gate Systems
Many modern gates include automatic features such as electric motors, sensors, and remote control systems. These features make it easier for homeowners to access their property. However, these systems also require regular inspection to ensure they work properly.
Dirt, debris, or worn-out components can affect how the automatic system operates. If these problems are not addressed early, the gate may stop functioning completely. Routine checks can help identify issues before they lead to major mechanical failure and the need for professional gate repair san diego services.
Improving Safety for Family and Visitors
A damaged or poorly maintained gate can create safety risks. If the structure becomes weak or unstable, it may suddenly move or fall. This could cause injuries or damage vehicles entering the property.
Regular maintenance helps keep the gate stable and secure. By inspecting the hinges, support posts, and locking systems, homeowners can make sure everything remains safe and reliable.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Gate
Installing a gate is a valuable investment, so it makes sense to take care of it. With proper maintenance, a quality gate can last for many years without needing major repairs. Small tasks such as cleaning, tightening bolts, and lubricating moving parts can make a big difference.
Instead of spending money on large repairs or replacements, regular maintenance helps protect the original structure. This allows homeowners to enjoy a strong and reliable gate for a longer time.
Conclusion
Taking care of your gate is one of the best ways to avoid expensive repairs and unexpected problems. Regular maintenance allows you to find small issues early and keep all parts working properly. It also protects the gate from weather damage and keeps automatic systems running smoothly.
By spending a little time on routine maintenance, homeowners can extend the life of their gate, improve safety, and save money in the long run. A well-maintained gate not only protects the property but also keeps the entrance looking clean and welcoming.
Early Maintenance Prevents Bigger Problems
Most gate issues start as very small problems. A loose bolt, a squeaky hinge, or a slightly misaligned gate might not seem serious at first. Because of this, many homeowners ignore these early signs. Over time, however, these small issues can turn into larger problems that require expensive repairs.
For example, if a hinge becomes loose and is not tightened, the gate may begin to lean or sag. This extra pressure can damage the frame and affect how the gate opens and closes. Regular maintenance allows homeowners to fix these minor problems before they become costly repairs.
Keeping the Gate Moving Smoothly
A gate should open and close easily without making loud noises or getting stuck. When the moving parts of a gate are properly maintained, the entire system works more smoothly. Hinges, rollers, and tracks should be cleaned and lubricated regularly to prevent friction.
If these parts are ignored, they may become rusty or worn out. This can make the gate difficult to move and put extra strain on the structure. Regular maintenance keeps the gate operating smoothly and reduces stress on the system.
Protecting the Gate from Environmental Damage
Outdoor gates face constant exposure to sunlight, rain, wind, and dust. Over time, these environmental conditions can damage the materials used in the gate. Metal gates may develop rust, while wooden gates may crack or weaken.
Routine maintenance helps prevent this kind of damage. Cleaning the gate, checking for early signs of rust, and applying protective coatings can help preserve the material. These simple steps can keep the gate strong and attractive for many years.
Maintaining Automatic Gate Systems
Many modern gates include automatic features such as electric motors, sensors, and remote control systems. These features make it easier for homeowners to access their property. However, these systems also require regular inspection to ensure they work properly.
Dirt, debris, or worn-out components can affect how the automatic system operates. If these problems are not addressed early, the gate may stop functioning completely. Routine checks can help identify issues before they lead to major mechanical failure and the need for professional gate repair san diego services.
Improving Safety for Family and Visitors
A damaged or poorly maintained gate can create safety risks. If the structure becomes weak or unstable, it may suddenly move or fall. This could cause injuries or damage vehicles entering the property.
Regular maintenance helps keep the gate stable and secure. By inspecting the hinges, support posts, and locking systems, homeowners can make sure everything remains safe and reliable.
Extending the Lifespan of Your Gate
Installing a gate is a valuable investment, so it makes sense to take care of it. With proper maintenance, a quality gate can last for many years without needing major repairs. Small tasks such as cleaning, tightening bolts, and lubricating moving parts can make a big difference.
Instead of spending money on large repairs or replacements, regular maintenance helps protect the original structure. This allows homeowners to enjoy a strong and reliable gate for a longer time.
Conclusion
Taking care of your gate is one of the best ways to avoid expensive repairs and unexpected problems. Regular maintenance allows you to find small issues early and keep all parts working properly. It also protects the gate from weather damage and keeps automatic systems running smoothly.
By spending a little time on routine maintenance, homeowners can extend the life of their gate, improve safety, and save money in the long run. A well-maintained gate not only protects the property but also keeps the entrance looking clean and welcoming.
#8
General Announcements / Re: Sad News - Barry Fox
Last post by Lyonssa - February 01, 2026, 07:20:12 PM@Crazy Cattle 3D
That's really sad news. Barry Fox... a name I remember well from back in the day. He always had a daring style on the track. Reminds me of the intensity and fun you find trying to navigate those tricky turns, even if it is only virtual.
That's really sad news. Barry Fox... a name I remember well from back in the day. He always had a daring style on the track. Reminds me of the intensity and fun you find trying to navigate those tricky turns, even if it is only virtual.
#9
SoloSport Discussion Board / 2025 National Solo Committee H...
Last post by Sue Wilson - November 10, 2025, 10:11:31 AMPlease see attachment for which helmets are approved for 2026
#10
General Announcements / 2025 WCMA Spec Miata Champions...
Last post by Richard Dekker - November 06, 2025, 02:02:08 PMNovember 2025 — The Western Canada Motorsport Association (WCMA) is very pleased to provide the 2025 Spec Miata Championship results for the Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) 2025 Spec Miata Contingency Program.
The summer racing season concluded with a demanding six-race-event season. Thirty-one points races plus one exhibition race were contested on Alberta's two race tracks over four weekend events at RAD Torque Raceway (RTR) south of Edmonton as hosted by the Northern Alberta Sports Car Club on June 21/22, July 26/27, August 23/24, and September 20/21 plus one weekend event and a single-day event at Rocky Mountain Motorsports Park (RMM) north of Calgary as hosted by the Alberta Race Car Association on July 5/6 and September 6.
Mazda Canada Inc.'s Spec Miata Contingency Program, in its third year supporting WCMA, is set to pay out $5,000 in total to the up to the top 10 eligible drivers in the 2025 WCMA Spec Miata championship, with the winner receiving $1,200, second $1,000, third $800, decreasing on down to 10th receiving $100. To be eligible, competitors must have finished a minimum of 50 percent of the season's individual races with this year's threshold being 16 races out of the season's 31, posing a significant increase over the 2023 and 2024 seasons at 24 and 21 races respectively. At its conclusion, four competitors accumulated sufficient chequered flags by the season finale to be eligible for the Contingency Program funds.
We congratulate the 2025 WCMA Spec Miata Champion Steve Begg, runner up Juston Kewin, and third place Mark Burrough. Begg, of Strathcona County, AB, finished 30 races, amassing 1625 points in his #56 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Kewin, of Fort St. John, BC, finished 30 races with 1452 points in his #505 1996 Miata, and was awarded the WCMA Rookie of the Year award. Series veteran Burrough, of Edmonton, AB, completed all 31 points races with 1385 points in his #18 1990 Miata. Wild Rose Miata Club member Burrough is one of the three founding drivers of the WCMA Spec Miata class from 2012. Additionally, 15-year-old Clayton Sherman, of Calgary, AB, finished fourth with 780 points, collected in 17 race finishes in his #35 1999 Miata, and is the last driver eligible for the Spec Miata Contingency Program's support.
In total, 11 drivers contested the 2025 WCMA Spec Miata series. Several drivers had individual race wins, but the season came down to consistency. Outside of the four drivers eligible for the Spec Miata Contingency Program, five drivers concluded the season with 10 race finishes, thus only one race weekend shy of being eligible, proving how grueling the long 2025 season was, as many competitors were unable to enter enough events due to financial or time constraints. WCMA has recognized these challenges and will be fielding a less hectic schedule for 2026. The trophies and 2025 Spec Miata Championship title were presented at the WCMA annual general meeting on October 18 in Calgary, Alberta.
Steve Begg - 1991 Miata - 1625 points
Juston Kewin - 1996 Miata - 1452 points
Mark Burrough - 1990 Miata - 1385 points
Clayton Sherman - 1999 Miata - 780 points
Zac Burke - 2002 Miata - 600 points
Chris Saunders - 1999 Miata - 586 points
Dan Shute - 1990 Miata - 519 points
Scott Sherman - 1999 Miata - 435 points
Robin Saunders - 1992 Miata - 434 points
Matt Beaubien - 1990 Miata - 300 points
Jay Esterer - 1999 Miata - 71 points
Spec Miata, comprised of the first two generations of Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA and NB), is the most popular road racing class in the world. It's very affordable and highly competitive throughout the entire field, offering many opportunities to grow the driver's speed and racecraft. Between the various sanctioning bodies and series in Canada and the USA, there is not a more raced car in all its four generations than the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
One of the oldest retailed Miatas, VIN 108 (which makes it the 19th Miata to be retailed from new), originally sold in Winnipeg, MB in 1989, also races in Alberta in both Vintage and GT4 classes. Several other Miatas, all former Spec Miatas, run in GT4 class and in Endurance races. Combining RX-7s, RX-8s, MX-6s, and MX-5 Miatas, Mazdas occasionally account for half the field in a combined closed-wheel race in Alberta, in addition to Mazda-powered Formula Continental open-wheel racers.
About Mazda Canada Inc.
Proudly founded in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda has a history of sophisticated craftsmanship and innovation, and a purpose to enrich life-in-motion for those it serves. By putting humans at the center of everything it does, Mazda aspires to create uplifting experiences with our vehicles and for people.
Mazda Canada Inc. is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer service, and parts support of Mazda vehicles in Canada. Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, MCI has a nationwide network of 163 dealerships.
Mazda Canada Inc. has supported the WCMA Spec Miata championship series with its current Spec Miata Contingency Program for three years, commencing in 2023. WCMA very much looks forward to another exciting partnership with MCI in 2026!
The summer racing season concluded with a demanding six-race-event season. Thirty-one points races plus one exhibition race were contested on Alberta's two race tracks over four weekend events at RAD Torque Raceway (RTR) south of Edmonton as hosted by the Northern Alberta Sports Car Club on June 21/22, July 26/27, August 23/24, and September 20/21 plus one weekend event and a single-day event at Rocky Mountain Motorsports Park (RMM) north of Calgary as hosted by the Alberta Race Car Association on July 5/6 and September 6.
Mazda Canada Inc.'s Spec Miata Contingency Program, in its third year supporting WCMA, is set to pay out $5,000 in total to the up to the top 10 eligible drivers in the 2025 WCMA Spec Miata championship, with the winner receiving $1,200, second $1,000, third $800, decreasing on down to 10th receiving $100. To be eligible, competitors must have finished a minimum of 50 percent of the season's individual races with this year's threshold being 16 races out of the season's 31, posing a significant increase over the 2023 and 2024 seasons at 24 and 21 races respectively. At its conclusion, four competitors accumulated sufficient chequered flags by the season finale to be eligible for the Contingency Program funds.
We congratulate the 2025 WCMA Spec Miata Champion Steve Begg, runner up Juston Kewin, and third place Mark Burrough. Begg, of Strathcona County, AB, finished 30 races, amassing 1625 points in his #56 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Kewin, of Fort St. John, BC, finished 30 races with 1452 points in his #505 1996 Miata, and was awarded the WCMA Rookie of the Year award. Series veteran Burrough, of Edmonton, AB, completed all 31 points races with 1385 points in his #18 1990 Miata. Wild Rose Miata Club member Burrough is one of the three founding drivers of the WCMA Spec Miata class from 2012. Additionally, 15-year-old Clayton Sherman, of Calgary, AB, finished fourth with 780 points, collected in 17 race finishes in his #35 1999 Miata, and is the last driver eligible for the Spec Miata Contingency Program's support.
In total, 11 drivers contested the 2025 WCMA Spec Miata series. Several drivers had individual race wins, but the season came down to consistency. Outside of the four drivers eligible for the Spec Miata Contingency Program, five drivers concluded the season with 10 race finishes, thus only one race weekend shy of being eligible, proving how grueling the long 2025 season was, as many competitors were unable to enter enough events due to financial or time constraints. WCMA has recognized these challenges and will be fielding a less hectic schedule for 2026. The trophies and 2025 Spec Miata Championship title were presented at the WCMA annual general meeting on October 18 in Calgary, Alberta.
Steve Begg - 1991 Miata - 1625 points
Juston Kewin - 1996 Miata - 1452 points
Mark Burrough - 1990 Miata - 1385 points
Clayton Sherman - 1999 Miata - 780 points
Zac Burke - 2002 Miata - 600 points
Chris Saunders - 1999 Miata - 586 points
Dan Shute - 1990 Miata - 519 points
Scott Sherman - 1999 Miata - 435 points
Robin Saunders - 1992 Miata - 434 points
Matt Beaubien - 1990 Miata - 300 points
Jay Esterer - 1999 Miata - 71 points
Spec Miata, comprised of the first two generations of Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA and NB), is the most popular road racing class in the world. It's very affordable and highly competitive throughout the entire field, offering many opportunities to grow the driver's speed and racecraft. Between the various sanctioning bodies and series in Canada and the USA, there is not a more raced car in all its four generations than the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
One of the oldest retailed Miatas, VIN 108 (which makes it the 19th Miata to be retailed from new), originally sold in Winnipeg, MB in 1989, also races in Alberta in both Vintage and GT4 classes. Several other Miatas, all former Spec Miatas, run in GT4 class and in Endurance races. Combining RX-7s, RX-8s, MX-6s, and MX-5 Miatas, Mazdas occasionally account for half the field in a combined closed-wheel race in Alberta, in addition to Mazda-powered Formula Continental open-wheel racers.
About Mazda Canada Inc.
Proudly founded in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda has a history of sophisticated craftsmanship and innovation, and a purpose to enrich life-in-motion for those it serves. By putting humans at the center of everything it does, Mazda aspires to create uplifting experiences with our vehicles and for people.
Mazda Canada Inc. is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer service, and parts support of Mazda vehicles in Canada. Headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario, MCI has a nationwide network of 163 dealerships.
Mazda Canada Inc. has supported the WCMA Spec Miata championship series with its current Spec Miata Contingency Program for three years, commencing in 2023. WCMA very much looks forward to another exciting partnership with MCI in 2026!