rFactor 2 - Game Guide and F.A.Q.

[Matheus Machado]

rFactor 2 - Frequently Asked Questions
& Game Description

Last update: 18.03.16
Build: 1052

Table of contents:

1 Game Introduction


2 Basics - Click Here
2.1 Hardware requirements
2.2 Game installation
2.3 Launcher
2.4 Game performance characteristics
2.5 Supported input devices, presets
2.6 Game development
2.7 Feature list
2.8 Official car & track list
2.9 Game pricing


3 Game Configuration - Click Here

3.0 Main screen
3.0.1 Series
3.0.2 Track/car
3.0.3 Session settings
3.0.4 Options

3.1 Display
3.1.1 Circuit Detail
3.1.2 Player Detail
3.1.3 Opponent Detail
3.1.4 Texture Detail
3.1.5 Texture Filter
3.1.6 Special Effects
3.1.7 Shadows
3.1.8 Shadow Blur
3.1.9 Soft Particles
3.1.10 Rain Drops
3.1.11 Road Reflection
3.1.12 Environment Reflection
3.1.13 Visible Vehicles
3.1.14 Message Center
3.1.15 Units
3.1.16 Heads Up Display (HUD)
3.1.17 Default View
3.1.18 Mirrors
3.1.19 Steering Wheel
3.1.20 Vertical Field of View (FOV)
3.1.21 Auto Detail FPS
3.1.22 Download Custom skins
3.1.23 Wait For All Plugins to Load
3.1.24 Transparent Trainer
3.1.25 Lead Time

3.2 Controls
3.2.1 Steering Rate
3.2.2 Speed Sensitivity
3.2.3 Look Ahead
3.2.4 Exxagerate Yaw
3.2.5 Head physics
3.2.6 Head Vibration
3.2.7 Force Feedback type
3.2.8 Car specific FFB Multiplier
3.2.9 FFB Smoothing
3.2.10 Steering Wheel Range
3.2.11 Vehicle Set
3.2.12 FFB Minimum Torque
3.2.13 Buttons and Inputs assignment

3.3 Audio
3.3.1 Number of Effects
3.3.2 Spotter Detail
3.3.3 Spotter Lap Times
3.3.4 Speaker Configuration
3.3.5 Volume Sliders

3.4 Video Resolution
3.4.1 Video Driver
3.4.2 Resolution
3.4.3 Refresh rate
3.4.4 Anti Aliasing
3.4.5 Sync
3.4.6 FXAA
3.4.7 Window
3.4.8 Widescreen HUD
3.4.9 Multi View
3.4.10 Stretch UI

3.5 Plugins/Difficulty
3.5.1 Custom Plugin Variables
3.5.2 Invulnerability
3.5.3 Steering Help
3.5.4 Braking Help
3.5.5 Opposite Help
3.5.6 Spin Recovery
3.5.7 Auto Pit Lane
3.5.8 Auto Reverse
3.5.9 Stability Control
3.5.10 Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
3.5.11 Traction Control
3.5.12 Auto Shifting
3.5.13 Auto Clutch
3.5.14 Damage Multiplier
3.5.15 AI Multiplier
3.5.16 AI Agression
3.5.17 AI Limiter

3.6 Replay
3.6.1 Record Replays
3.6.2 Replay Fidelity
3.6.3 Record Hot Laps
3.6.4 Instant Replay

3.7 Showroom / User Interface / Onscreen Display


4 The Driving - Click Here

4.1 HUD
4.1.1 The Info
4.1.2 How to use the pit menu
4.1.3 Keyboard shortcuts
4.1.4 Suggested add-ons

4.2 Realroad

4.3 Temperature

4.4 In game telemetry and spectator mode

4.5 Driver Swaps


5 Modding
5.1 How to install mods
5.2 Cars and Tracks
5.3 Plugins


6 The garage menu - Click Here

6.1 Main screen (Standings)
6.1.1 TV screen
6.1.2 Chatbox
6.1.3 Weather overview
6.1.4 Session standings

6.2 Garage
6.2.1 Setups
6.2.2 General
6.2.2.1 Gears
6.2.2.2 Steering
6.2.2.3 Aerodynamics
6.2.2.4 Fender Flare
6.2.2.5 Engine

6.3 Suspension
6.3.1 Springs
6.3.2 ARBs (Anti Roll Bars)
6.3.3 Toe
6.3.4 Torque split

6.4 Chassis
6.4.1 Caster
6.4.2 Weight distribution

6.5 Advanced
6.5.1 Tyre Pressures
6.5.2 Compound
6.5.3 Camber
6.5.4 Brakes

6.6 Settings


7 Server setup - Click Here
7.1 Admin shortcuts and commands


8 Common Add-ons setup - Click Here
8.1 Trackmap by Fazerbox


9 The RACEDEPARTMENT rFactor 2 Racing Club - Click Here
9.1 What is it?
9.2 How does it work?
9.2.1 Event threads
9.2.2 What do I need to race?
9.2.3 Sign up & sign out
9.2.4 Premium
9.2.5 Servers
9.2.6 Teamspeak
9.2.7 After the race
9.3 Racing Club Rules


10 Errors and Troubleshooting - Click Here
10.1 Alt+Tab Crashing
10.2 Cars invisible online
10.3 Game not saving setups and plugin layouts
10.4 I feel the car has no grip at all
10.5 My FFB stopped working
10.6 There are no servers in the server list


Disclaimer
If there is a mistake, please contact the me (author) via PM so I can correct it. The intention of this guide is help to ease rF2 learning curve and providing equal information to everyone. And by no means it is a representative of the game creators, therefore it isn't a priority to keep it up to date and 100% accurate.

 

[Matheus Machado]

Changelog:
13.03.16 - First release, still lots of work to do.
18.03.16 - Update to base content and formatting

1 Game Introduction
rFactor 2 is the latest iteration of Image Space Incorporated customer sims. It is considered to be the natural successor of rFactor 1, featuring noticeable improvements, including the first interpretation of a dynamic track in racing sims: Realroad.
The game is acknowledged to be one of the best simulators in the market, combined with a estabilished netcode and online managing features, it is one of most versatile sims currently.
It relies heavily on third party content regarding cars. The default ISI track lineup is also very good, complemented by high quality third party add-ons. Although, most of the game mod database still needs work as it's been ported from old sims who couldn't provide as much as current hardware can handle.
The game is friendly regarding hardware if full grids aren't experienced, although a high end machine is necessary to get the best experience out of the sim. It is also very driver sensitive, meaning it needs care updating drivers and system configurations. A wheel and pedal set is also highly reccommended for a good experience.


2 Basics
Section for overview of basic info about the sim

2.1 Hardware Requirements
Official requirements:

Minimum:
- 2.8 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo or 3.0 GHz AMD Athlon II x2 or better
- Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or 10, with latest Service Packs
- 4GB RAM
- nVidia GTS 450 or AMD Radeon 5750
- 1GB Video Memory
- DirectX 9.0c
- 10GB free HD space
- DirectX compatible sound card
- Broadband internet connection

Recommended:
- 3.0 GHz Intel i5 or 4.0 GHz AMD FX or better
- Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or 10, with latest Service Packs
- 8GB RAM
- nVidia GTX 760 or AMD 7870
- 2GB Video Memory
- DirectX 9.0c
- 50GB free HD space
- DirectX compatible sound card
- Broadband internet connection

2.2 Game installation
There two game install options. One is from Steam, the other is standalone.
Steam works just like any other game, click install and it should do everything for you.
Standalone versions have a installer which has no content to be installed, meant to be added by the user according to his needs. It is possible to run multiple intallations adding different paths for the core and data files, chosen in the installer.

2.3 Launcher

rF2 uses the launcher as a base to manage all the game content and profile management. The most important areas are the driver profile where you set your name and the packages utility, where all the content is installed.


2.4 Game Performance Characteristics
The game is made to be bottlenecked by the CPU, meaning that the GPU should be at full utilization. It is possible to check if it is working like intended by pressing ctrl-c while in game.

The green bar represents GPU utilization and should be full at all times. The purple bar represents CPU utilization and should never reach full usage. The thin lines below are a histogram to represent the speed the physics calculation is being done. Ideally it should be at the left, reaching the middle at a worst case.

2.5 Supported input devices, presets
rF2 supports every wheel and gamepad available, with default presets for the most popular brands and controller types. Although it is reccommended to set it up according to your personal preferences and needs. The game supports preset saving so you can easily load your configurations.

2.6 Game development
rF2 receives constant updates, especially in the game core, with bug fixes coming almost in a monthly basis. The core of the game and the actual content is updated separately.

2.7 Feature list
In general:

• In depth car setups, using scientific units.
• Dynamic track surface, using rubber build up accordingly to where the drivers go (realroad)
• Full day/night cycle along with dynamic weather.
• Tyres: accurate wear curve, degradation (blistering, graining, overheating), flat spotting (vibration), visible tyre flex and damage.
• Modding tools (cars & tracks)
• Damage model: engine (accumulative), gearbox, visual, suspension, steering collumn, aerodynamics, overheating.
• Pit stops
• Multitude of driving aids
• Dedicated server client with advanced admin commands and setup options
• Soft objects
• Multiple LODs (Level of Detail) for cars, display is draw distance dependant
• Plugin support for extra features and streaming options

Singleplayer

• Practice mode
• Race mode
• Resume race from replay
• Configurable AI behaviour
• In depth parameter setup for track conditions

Multiplayer

• Online mode
• Lan mode
• Extensible server configuration and administration options
• Live stewarding
• Spectator mode
• Driver swaps
• Resume from server crash / disconnection
• Server client included

2.8 Official Car / Track list
Can be found here:
CARS
TRACKS
updated by ISI new build.

2.9 Game Pricing
rFactor 2 is currently rated as 44$ for a standard version of the game and 84$ for lifetime online access.
It is also possible to buy the game from steam for $31.99 with no online access. The platform offers both the yearly and lifetime subscription services separately.

 

[Matheus Machado]

3 Game configuration
Overview of game menus.

3.0 Main screen

3.0.1 Series
Where you select what series you will filter the content with, there is also an option to show everything.

3.0.2 Track/Car
Where you select your track and car combo.

3.0.3 Session Settings
Where you set everything for the race weekend, from track rubber to race duration, everything is there!

3.0.4 Options
Where you have access to all the settings menus described below.

3.1 Display

3.1.1 Circuit Detail
Sets the amount of track detail rendered (crucial objects are maintained), Helps on GPU utilization and saves memory.
3.1.2 Player Detail
Sets the amount of detail rendered in the player car, helps in cockpit detail and isn't a very big hit on framerate, considerable impact on memory depending on the amount available.
3.1.3 Opponent Detail
Sets the amount of detail rendered in the other players or AI cars, helps in overall car detail, has a very big hit on framerate, considerable impact on memory, unless you have 8GB plus of GPU memory it isn't reccommended to use ultra away from screenshot taking sessions.
3.1.4 Texture Detail
Sets the detail of the game textures, considerable impact on GPU fo both FPS (framerate) and VRAM (video memory).
3.1.5 Texture Filter
Sets the amount of texture filtering, usually anisotropic filtering. See here for more information on what it does.
3.1.6 Special Effects
Set the amount of post processing of the image, usually glare effects.
3.1.7 Shadows
Sets the quality of shadow rendering, big hit on FPS and it is known to cause stuttering in HIGH and ULTRA. Leave it on medium at a maximum.
3.1.8 Shadow Blur
Blurs the edges of the shadows. Leave it off to avoid stutters.
3.1.9 Soft Particles
Simulates dust particles to create sun occlusion effects. Can be buggy on all parameters, test and see what is better in your case. Off is the safest way to go.
3.1.10 Rain Drops
When it rains, rain drops can appear or not. It is controlled by this parameter.
3.1.11 Road Reflection
Sets road reflection on or off. Can be a massive FPS hit and is known to cause some rare bugs where the surface will look like a mirror.
3.1.12 Environment Reflection
Sets environment reflection rendered at cars' surface on or off. Can be a massive FPS hit.
3.1.13 Visible Vehicles
Sets teh amount of vehicles to be rendered, massive FPS hit on high numbers.
3.1.14 Message Center
Sets the in game message center on or off while driving. RD only allows server messages so leave it on.
3.1.15 Units
Metric/Imperial Switch
3.1.16 Heads Up Display (HUD)
Sets the in game overlay on or off.
3.1.17 Default View
Default view while driving.
3.1.18 Mirrors
Sets mirrors on or off. Can also be done using 3 on the keyboard while driving.
3.1.19 Steering Wheel
Sets the mode of the graphical steering wheel.
3.1.20 Vertical Field of View (FOV)
Fov setting. Adjust according your setup, you can get the values from ProjectImmersion by MrPix.
3.1.21 Auto Detail FPS
Automatically adjust your graphics settings on the fly, doubtful if it actually works.
3.1.22 Download Custom skins
Enable custom skin downloading from the server. Leave it on as it enables automatic skin sharing.
3.1.23 Wait For All Plugins to Load
It forces the game to wait for every plugin to load in single player mode, off causes no problems.
3.1.24 Transparent Trainer
Enable/disable ghost car.
3.1.25 Lead Time
Sets the default lead for the ghost car.

 

[Matheus Machado]

3.2 Controls
rF2 control settings overview

3.2.1 Steering Rate
Affects digital controllers (buttons and keyboards). It sets the amount of time it takes to get to full steering lock.
3.2.2 Speed Sensitivity
Decreases steering lock at higher speeds
3.2.3 Look Ahead
Game camera will turn towards where the apex, higher = more head movement.
3.2.4 Exxagerate Yaw
It sets the camera to a different rotation speed than the car, e.g. if the car oversteers to the left the camera will turn to the right faster than the car in a positive value or slower in a negative value.
3.2.5 Head physics
Moves the head of the driver across a set of parameters involving inertia.
3.2.6 Head Vibration
Sets the amount of vibration accordingly to the car's vibration.
3.2.7 Force Feedback type
Sets the feedback accordingly to what you use as a controller (wheel/gamepad).
3.2.8 Car specific FFB Multiplier
Reduces/Increases the amount of FFB output in the car. Used to avoid clipping (higher output than the wheel can handle) or increase FFB force.
3.2.9 FFB Smoothing
Smooths the peaks and valleys of the FFB curve, generating a more smooth output, while causing loss of detail.
3.2.10 Steering Wheel Range
Sets the amount of steering rotation for the wheel. Can be overriden by profiler settings if allow game to change settings is unchecked.
3.2.11 Vehicle Set
Sets automatically steering wheel range adjust according to vehicle on or off.
3.2.12 FFB Minimum Torque
Sets a minimum output value for FFB. Useful to remove deadzones in wheel response like in G25/7. Use a FFB tester like this one to find the optimal value.
3.2.13 Buttons and Inputs assignment
There are sliders to set deadzones and button mapping options in the other settings. Each setting does what it says its specific usability depends if the car/rules allow it.

 

[Matheus Machado]

3.3 Audio
General audio settings overview.

3.3.1 Number of Effects
Sets the amount of effects rendered at the same time, just change it if you have audio issues.
3.3.2 Spotter Detail
The amount of detail the spotter (voice giving information about position, other drivers and laptimes) gives you on the race.
3.3.3 Spotter Lap Times
Wether or not the spotter tells you your laptimes
3.3.4 Speaker Configuration
Switches between different types of audio outputs according to your playback sound system.
3.3.5 Volume Sliders
Controls the volume output according to each description.

3.4 Video Resolution
Menu for general display options.

3.4.1 Video Driver
What video card to use, useful for multiple GPU setups (mobile computers).
3.4.2 Resolution
Sets in game resolution.
3.4.3 Refresh rate
Sets the screen refresh rate, usually the same as your monitor.
3.4.4 Anti Aliasing
Sets the anti aliasing mode. It is in levels meaning accordingly:
Level 1 = 2x [2x Multisampling]
Level 2 = 2xQ [2x Quincunx (blurred)]
Level 3 = 4x [4x Multisampling]
Level 4 = 8x [8x CSAA (4 color + 4 cv samples)]
Level 5 = 16x [16x CSAA (4 color + 12 cv samples)]
Level 6 = 8xQ [8x Multisampling]
Level 7 = 16xQ [16x CSAA (8 color + 8 cv samples)]
Level 8 = 32x [32x CSAA (8 color + 24 cv samples)]
3.4.5 Sync
Turns on VSync or not. It gets rid of screen tearing while increasing input lag.
3.4.6 FXAA
Post Processing anti aliasing method. Very small performance hit, but makes the image blurry.
3.4.7 Window
Sets the rendering mode for the game. Full screen causes crashes when alt+tab is pressed. Borderless and windowed eliminate the problem, while it can provoke performance drops and input lag. Test and see what fits best.
3.4.8 Widescreen HUD
Whether or not to activate 16:9 HUD.
3.4.9 Multi View
Triple screen adjustment setting.
3.4.10 Stretch UI
Triple screen adjustment setting.

 

[Matheus Machado]

3.5 Plugins/Difficulty
Menu to adjust difficulty settings for the game.

3.5.1 Custom Plugin Variables
Whether to turn on or off a specific plugin.
3.5.2 Invulnerability
Turns damage on/off
3.5.3 Steering Help
Helps to turn your car into the right way (AI path). Overrides your wheel inputs doing so.
3.5.4 Braking Help
Automatically brake your car or modulates brake power.
3.5.5 Opposite Help
It makes sure that your current steering lock (including any speed sensitivity or other setting) is enough to point in the direction the car is going. If you already use a large steering lock, it's quite possible that it doesn't need to do anything, so it doesn't.
3.5.6 Spin Recovery
Increases grip when spinning the car to prevent a spin.
3.5.7 Auto Pit Lane
Controls the car in the pit lane automatically.
3.5.8 Auto Reverse
Automatically engages reverse.
3.5.9 Stability Control
Brakes certain wheels to keep the car neutral.
3.5.10 Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
Prevents wheel lock up from braking.
3.5.11 Traction Control
Prevents wheelspin from excessive power output to the tyres.
3.5.12 Auto Shifting
Shifts the gears automatically.
3.5.13 Auto Clutch
Operates the clutch automatically. Also enables auto blip and lift.
3.5.14 Damage Multiplier
Sets how agressive damage is applied to the cars.
3.5.15 AI Multiplier
Sets how fast the AI is.
3.5.16 AI Agression
Sets how agressive the AI is.
3.5.17 AI Limiter
It controls the amount of spread between AI, with 0 being a natural spread and 100 being artificially bunched up AI.

 

[Matheus Machado]

3.6 Replay
Replay Logging settings

3.6.1 Record Replays
Whether or not to record replays.
3.6.2 Replay Fidelity
Sets the amount of parameters recorded into the replay file.
3.6.3 Record Hot Laps
Whether or not to automatically save hot laps separately
3.6.4 Instant Replay
Sets the amount of time as default in the pit spectate screen instant replay.

3.7 Showroom / User Interface / Onscreen Display
Alternate between different HUD designs.

 

[Matheus Machado]

4 The Driving
General info about the basic stuff related to driving

4.1 HUD
Consists of all the info that is projected in the screen, mainly the LCD, where you can alternate between different info and use assigned keys to change options in the pit menu.

4.1.1 The Info
Split times - Shows current split times
leaderboard - Current leaderboard and gaps
pit menu - Sets the pit stop options on the fly
vehicle status - Shows damage in the vehicle
driving aids - What aids are activated
extra info -
clock - Time and general race info
penalties - Penalties unserved.

4.1.2 How to use the pit menu

Use the assigned keys to navigate the menus and select whatever you like.

Repair damage levels can be bodywork only and everything, which can perform extensive repairs.

Fuel is the amount of fuel added in the car. It is possible to change that by putting false in the player.json file using the following lines:

"Relative Fuel Strategy":true,
    "Relative Fuel Strategy#":"Show how much fuel to ADD, rather than how much TOTAL fuel to fill the tank up to (note: new default is true)",

F/R tires are the tires selected for the pitstop, no change means the car won't have new tires after the pit stop.

Front/Rear DF adjusts the wing values of the setup during the pit stop, considering the car supports it.

Driver is used to select another driver for a driver change which is explained below.

Grille adjusts the setup value of the radiator opening during the pit stop.

FL/FR/RR/RL adjusts the tire pressure values for the tires during the pit stops.

Stop/Go selects whether the penalty will be served or not during the pit stop. Not selecting that option won't clear the penalties you received.


4.1.3 Keyboard Shortcuts
The shortcuts can be changed with key binding. These are the default values.

Driving Aids

• F1 - Steering help

• F2 - Opposite lock

• F3 - Braking help

• F4 - Stability control

• F5 - Spin Recovery

• F6 - Invulnerability

• F7 - Auto shifting

• F8 - Traction control

• F9 - Anti Lock brakes

• F10 - Auto Pitlane

• F11- Auto Clutch

• F12 - Screenshot

General Functions

• Ctrl+F - [FPS & GPU] resource utilization Press once for FPS counter, again for GPU bar, once more for both.
• Ctrl+C - [CPU] resource utilization Green is for Graphics, Purple is for Physics.
• B - FFB Reset handy when entering grid before green flag and no FFB - bind it now!
• G - Enable/Disable Hardware Plugins.
• Tab - drivername/ping on/off.

On-screen adjustments

• 3 - Mirrors on/off & Virtual Mirrors on/off
• 4 - Track bar on/off
• 5 - Dash o'meter on/off
• 6 - LCD toggle

Camera Functions

• Insert - Toggles 3 main race views.
• Home - Toggles multiple car angles.
• Page Up - TV Cam behind car Multifunctional: When using TV Cam you can toggle most of the num-pad keys for different angles or functions:
  7 = zoom out
  0 = zoom in
  8 = tilt up
  9 = tilt down
  4 = rotate left
  6 = rotate right
  5 = center behind car
• U - Releases any camera (free-move, use your mouse)
• Delete - removes mouse pointer in free-move.
• End - Toggle track side camera's
• Page - Down Pit lane Cam
• Minus - num-pad will select cars upwards replay or live
• Plus - num-pad will select cars downwards in replay or live
• enter - num-pad will jump back to your own car.
• V look - left when in cockpit usually re-assigned to a more logical place (wheel)
• N look - right when in cockpit usually re-assigned to a more logical place (wheel)

Additionally you can alter the way the cockpit is placed in-game (wheels & suspension/just wheels) in your userdata/player/player.PLR:
Partial Cockpit View="0" 0=normal cockpit view, 1=wheels & suspension only, 2=wheels only

Replay Controls

• Enter - press for full screen in replay window.
• Arrow - UP Halt replay release to continue
• Arrow - Down Slow-motion
• Arrow - Left Slow down replay
• Arrow - Right Fast forward replay
• Spacebar - Pause replay press again to continue
• R - Start replay whilst driving in single player

4.1.4 Suggested add-ons
Trackmap By Fazerbox
Adds a variety of overlay options, fully customizable and stable.

Deltabest by Cosimo
iRacing style deltabar to compare against your best lap.

4.2 Realroad
Game feature who simulates the rubber build up on the track. A rubberred track can make a lot of difference in car handling and pace. You can press ctrl-x to accelerate time and let the AI rubber up the track for you.

4.3 Temperature
Another feature who influences a lot car behaviour. Setup adjustment is necessaty to adjust between different conditions and get optimum results.

4.4 In game telemetry and spectator mode
If you click expand in the standings you can see detailed laptimes in a full screen timing monitor. It is also possible to watch other drivers in fullscreen pressing the button fullscreen in the standings pit monitor.

4.5 Driver Swaps
One driver joins the server as spectator. Click the name of his teammate at the standings, press the passenger select button. Then the driver requests a pit stop and select his teammate as driver. If it is succesful, when the driver pits a countdown timer should appear telling when he loses control.


5 Modding
General guide about modding

5.1 How to install mods
There are two ways of installing mods. One of them is to join a server with getmod enabled. Then the server will tell if you have all the content and if you haven't you just have to click "get missing components" and it will be automatically installed.
The second way is downloading package files (.rfcmp), dropping them into the Packages folder (located where you asked to install the game data), loading up the launcher and installing them using the package utility.

5.2 Cars and Tracks
They are usually downloadable via server or .rfcmp files.

5.3 Plugins
They are different to install, they go into the rF2 root folder (usually located in program files). Most of the time instructions on how to install it are in a notes file inside the download. Just make sure to enable the plugin as it won't work instead.

 

[Matheus Machado]

6 The garage menu
Overview of the pit box menus

6.1 Main Screen (Standings)

6.1.1 TV screen
It is where all the action is shown, you can use the same replay shortcuts to navigate in it. Also, you can select the car you are spectating by clicking on the drivers' name shown in the standings. It can go full screen by pressing fullscreen.

6.1.2 Chatbox
It is where you can type messages and admin commands inside the game. Just click the black rectangle and start typing.

6.1.3 Weather overview
Shows the weather info for the current session. In SP it shows the slots for each time of the race.

6.1.4 Session standings
You see driver times there and your current classification in the section. Save real road saves the amount of rubber currently in the track for SP use and add ai adds new computer controlled cars.
The expand button will give a more detailed look of the laptimes as shown here:

6.2 Garage
Opens up the setup menu for the car.

6.2.1 Setups

Shows up the fuel strategy, notes and saving directories part of the setups.

6.2.2 General

6.2.2.1 Gears
Sets the gear ratios for the car, a orange graph is drawn showing the gear curves accordingly to the setup values.

6.2.2.2 Steering
Steering Lock - Amount of degrees of car's wheel rotation measured from a straight wheel, directly influences responsiveness and tire wear.
Pump - Differential setting noticed in hydraulic systems that basically acts as a universal lock. It changes the amount of fluid going through the diff, therefore affecting its resistance.
Power - Controls the amount of diff lock during acceleration, adjustable on LSD diff systems.
Coast - Opposite as power, Controls the amount of diff lock during braking / throttle lifts.

6.2.2.3 Aerodynamics
Sets the amount of downforce in the car. Higher = more downforce.

6.2.2.4 Fender flare
Controls the size of debris deflectors, more = more protection but higher drag, meaning less speed.

6.2.2.5 Engine
Rev Limiter - Controls the rpm limit in your car, useful to control fuel flow and engine temps.
Radiator size - Controls the radiator opening of your car, less = more speed and more heat. Use according to cooling needs.
Boost mapping - Setting that controls engine overload, use with caution.
Brake mapping - Controls idle gear for the car, less = more engine braking.

6.3 Suspension

Menu for setting the suspension of the car, the symmetrical tick box sets whether or not changes will be applied on both sides.

6.3.1 Springs
Third
Acts as a suspension of the suspension, operates the same way as the other springs.
Front/Rear
Spring Rate - General stiffness of the springs, measured in N/M.
Bump - Controls the dampers stiffness on upwards suspension movements (hitting a kerb).
Rebound - Controls the dampers stiffness on downwards suspension movements (exiting a kerb).
Fast/Slow setting - Fast controls minor movements, such as chassis effectis, slow is more related to actual road effects, generally stronger and longer movements.

6.3.2 ARBs (Anti roll bars)
Controls the amount of car rolling, makes the car stiffer with higher values and softer at lower values.

6.3.3. Toe
Sets the alignment offset against the center of the wheels, used to induce certain car behaviour or tyre wear.

6.3.4 Torque Split
Sets the amount of power that goes to each axle of the car, widely used in modern LMP1s.

6.4 Chassis

Sets extra chassis adjustements the main ones being:

6.4.1 Caster
The angle betweeen the suspension and the center of the wheel.

6.4.2 Weight distribution
Sets the weight distribution of the car. Very important to the car's general behaviour.

6.5 Advanced

6.5.1 Tire pressures
The amount of air that goes in the tire, has to be set up to achieve the optimum contact patch.

6.5.2 Compound
Selects the tire compound to be used. Softer = faster in most cases. But it comes with increased tire wear.

6.5.3 Camber
Adjustment of the angle between the wheels and the ground, useful to have more grip through corners.

6.5.4 Brakes
Brake bias - Balance of brakes, useful to control unwanted lockups and brake temps.
Duct Blanking - Amount of opening in the brake air ducts, more = more ventilation and less temp, use it to control the brake temps.
Max pedal force = Maximum force applied to the brakes, useful to control unwanted brake lockups.

6.6 Settings

Menu to adjust some game settings while on track, limited options available, being only included the ones that don't need a game restart.

 

[Matheus Machado]

7 Server setup

7.1 Admin shortcuts and commands.
Below there is a list of the possible commands to be applied by race stewards:

/admin [take over administrator (wrong or no password = stop being administrator)] when set in mp.ini logging in as admin cancels user-voting
/vote yes [same as pressing YES button]
/vote no [same as pressing NO button]
/ping [same as pressing button]
/w [whisper to given player - can be just the first few letters of player's name if they are unique]
/whisper [same functionality as "/w" ] whispers are not seen by other users

/callvote nextsession [proceeds to next session (practice to qual, for example)]
/callvote nextrace [proceeds to next event in dedicated server track list]
/callvote event [proceeds to given event (such as "24 Hours of Toban" or "Spa")]
/callvote restartrace [restarts the race]
/callvote restartwarmup [client request to go to the beginning of warmup]
/restartwarmup [admin/server command to go to the beginning of warmup]
/callvote restartweekend [goes back to practice]
/callvote addai [adds 1 AI]
/callvote add5ai [adds 5 AI]

/callvote kick [kick specified player out of race]
/callvote ban [bans specified player from server] When a driver was banned you can find their entry in Userdata/bans.txt. simply remove or add ip's.
/dq drivername [disqualifies driver]
/undq drivername [removes an unwanted DQ]
/restartwarmup [encase drivers disco just before the race] server will remember qualifying positions! Even works when race already started

/editgrid [admin command to move the specified player to the given position on the grid - note that you should do the grid from first to last or you may fail to achieve the expected results] or use a batch file
/batch [used to execute batchfile commands]
/setmass [admin/server command to apply a penalty mass (0-255 kg) to the specified player with immediate effect, lasting for the rest of the weekend]
/racelength [] [admin/server command changes the race length for the next race: =0 sets a % length race, =1 sets a -lap race, =2 sets a -minute (timed) race, =3 sets a -lap and -minute race]
/changelaps [admin/server command to adjust the number of completed laps (-10 to +10) to the specified player for the purpose of allowing live stewards' input into the game's scoring system]
/addpenalty [admin/server command adds a penalty to the given player. The following are valid values for : -2=longest line, -1=drive-thru, 0-60=stop/go penalty number of seconds]
/subpenalty [admin/server command removes a penalty from the given player. The following are valid values for : 0=remove one stop/go penalty, 1=remove one drive-thru penalty, 2=remove one longest line penalty, 3=remove all penalties]

/throwyellow [] [admin/server command starts a full-course caution for the given number of laps (must be at least 2). If laps is not given, normal randomized value will apply]
/clearyellow [admin/server command nds a full-course caution as soon as possible, regardless of the planned number of laps]

/shutdownserver [admin command tells a dedicated server to exit immediately]
/set upload [change upload speed (works on own machine only, administrator can't change server's upload at this time)]
/set download [change download speed (same as above)]
/set nagle <0 or 1> [can only be done on server - specifies whether questionable Nagle TCP algorithm is used]
/set warp <0.1 - 3.0> [in future, will affect voicechat. The warp connotation comes from the period of time to take in between sending each voice packet. 1.0 is the default]

 

[Matheus Machado]

8 Common Add-ons setup
8.1 Trackmap by Fazerbox
After installing and enabling the plugin in rF2, it is possible to bring up the configuration menu using alt+space, where you use the arrow keys and enter to navigate it and set it the way you like it.
Once in the layout edit you can use the mouse to move the different info apps and use enter to toggle them on or off.

 

[Matheus Machado]

9 The RACEDEPARTMENT Racing Club
9.1 What is it?
Our Racing Clubs, including the rFactor 2 one, are casual events, where a driver's classification and lap times don't really matter. What matters is to have a good racing experience in a controlled environment, that is to drive on a password protected dedicated server and to have clear racing rules that everybody has to adhere to. Drivers are expected to avoid L1/T1 incidents, unnecessary contact, pay heed to blue flags and give each other room to maneuver on the track.

9.2 How does it work?
9.2.1 Event threads
US, EU and AUstralian events are posted here. Their organizers post them several days or a week in advance to give potential participants plenty of time to adjust their schedule and do some practice, if they wish. Further, the organizers take care to provide clear rules for that specific event or general rules inherent to their region or to the organizer itself. Please read them carefully - you automatically agree to them, if you sign up for a particular event.
In general, you are free to participate in events in any region. Please refrain to mention lap times in the event threads - people may get discouraged by seeing them and comparing them to their own, hence creating a perception of competition, that is not in the vein of a Racing Club.

9.2.2 What do I need to race?
To be eligible to participate, you just have to give a read on the rules, be a premium member (or ask for a freemium membership), and you are set!

9.2.3 Sign up & sign out
You sign up by writing a clear "sign me up" message in the event thread. Beware of the time till no further sign ups will be accepted, if there is one. If you do need to sign out, please do so in time as well. Further details are provided in the particular event thread.

9.2.4 Premium
Here at RACEDEPARTMENT, a premium membership is available. For 10€ or your regional equivalent per year, you get to race in our clubs and leagues, access to our Teamspeak server, Paddock club (special premium member forum), and also get driving lessons in our premium driver academy.

9.2.5 Servers
Most RD servers are located in the Netherlands. We also have a 24/7 server - for more information - click here.


9.2.6 Teamspeak
It is strongly encouraged to be present in teamspeak or even mandatory for many events. Doing so, serves a multitude of objectives: a place to be on the same page during the event, to pick up important information, to pass a lapping situation savely, to simply converse with one another and to build a sense of community.
Password and login details - click here (only accessible for licensed members).

9.2.7 After the race
You are free to share your event experience in the corresponding thread afterwards. If you have a disagreement with another driver or want to clear an incident, please do that via PM first - if you are still not satisfied, you can write and submit a report about it to the event organizer or to a staff member.
For more information about incidents and proper incident reporting - click here.

9.3 Racing Club Rules
Our general racing rules - click here

 

[Matheus Machado]

10 Errors and Troubleshooting
Section for common errors and bugs in the game. Will be updated accordingly.

10.1 Alt+Tab is Crashing the game
Alt+Tab crashes during full screen come from d3d9.dll. Caused by certain plugins like Trackmap in the"rFactor 2\Bin32" or "rFactor 2\Bin64" folder.
Once you remove the offending plugin and d3d9.dll it shouldn't crash anymore.
A workaround for this issue is setting the game rendering to borderless or windowed mode.

10.2 Cars are invisible online
Usually it is related unmatching network settings. Change those before joining the server and see what value works.

10.3 Game is not saving setups and plugin layouts
Run the game in administrator mode. Right click>Properties>Compatibility>Tick run as administartor.

10.4 I feel the car has no grip at all
Probably there is no rubber in the road yet, call out some AI cars on track and press ctrl-x, or wait until the track rubbers up.

10.5 My FFB has stopped working
It is a somewhat common bug while pitting or changing sessions. Press the force feedback reset key and it should work.
Also, changing steering wheel rotation in the profiler while in game will cease the FFB until the game is restarted.

10.6 There are no servers in the server list
Restart the game a few times and it should show up. Sometimes there is a bug in the matchmaking.

10.7 The game stutters and behaves weirdly
Clear the CBash and shaders folders on your UserData/Log directory. It should help solving the problems, although it isn't a 100% guaranteed fix.