For a person who is far from the topic of racing, the action taking place at the pit stop looks almost like magic. Up to fifty people manage to fully service the car in a second. All this thanks to the clearly rehearsed actions of the team.
Standard actions during the race are brought to automatism and are supported by modern electronics. The on-board computer monitors the fuel level and, as soon as it drops to a conventional level, sends a signal to the filling station. The same information is given to the pilot, who makes a preliminary circle and drives into the pit stop. By this time, a filling complex is already ready there, and a set of fresh wheels has been placed in electric heaters.
In the first one and a half seconds, two mechanics lift the car, and four unscrew the wheels. At the same time, a filling complex is connected to the gas tank. Another mechanic shows the driver a lollipop sign with the side that shows the brake signal. Another second is spent on removing the wheels. In 3, 5 seconds after the arrival of the car, other wheels are already installed on it. Two tenths of a second is required to screw the fastener. Immediately after that, the mechanics take a step back and raise their hands, indicating that they have removed the wrenches, and the car itself is set on the ground. At the fifth second, the mechanic turns the lollipop with the other side with a signal for first gear. At the 6, 5 second mark, the refueling cable is disconnected from the car (all this time, fuel was pumped through it at a speed of 12 liters per second). The pilot starts and leaves the pit lane at the tenth second.
Replacement of parts may delay service. The steering wheel is unfastened with a special button in two seconds. The front wing is changed in eight seconds, the rear one in one and a half to two minutes. On-board computer - in a minute, engine hood - in about two or three. If the car suddenly stalls, the mechanic in the back will use the air starter.
