The VERY FIRST thing you should do is get yourself a copy of the NHRA rulebook. The rulebook will go a long way towards explaining the safety and competition rules for your car. In terms of an outlaw car, and I'm talking about the typical heads-up outlaw classes, you're going to need to be running in the low eights to be competitive. At that ET & speed, safety is paramount. The tech inspectors will be real sticklers about safety items such as the cage (needs to be certified), brakes, belts, seats, etc for your own protection.
Depending on where you're located, you could also seek the help of a local speedshop or race team that runs Outlaw. They can give you alot of 'been there, done that' type of help.
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Jeff Chambers
Trophy Stock #3
11.86 Seconds / 113.8 MPH
Chambers Racing Team