Tire selection can make or break your setup in dirt late model racing. The National Late Model Tire (NLMT) compound lineup—specifically the NLMT 2, 3, and 4—offers versatility across changing track conditions. But with that versatility comes complexity. Knowing when to run the NLMT 2 vs. NLMT 3 on the left rear and right front, and NLMT 3 vs. NLMT 4 on the right rear, is critical to maximizing grip, longevity, and speed.
This blog dives deep into compound characteristics and where each excels.
Understanding NLMT Compounds
-
NLMT 2 (Softest)
Quick to heat up and provides maximum initial grip. Best on wet, tacky, or cold tracks. -
NLMT 3 (Medium)
A balance between grip and durability. Versatile on a variety of surfaces. -
NLMT 4 (Hardest)
Built for abrasive, slick tracks where longevity is key. Requires heat to activate.
Left Rear & Front Tires: NLMT 2 vs. NLMT 3
When to Choose NLMT 2
- Track Conditions: Heavy moisture, early in the night, or post-rain conditions.
- Surface: Tacky or soft clay where tires can dig in.
-
Usage:
- Left Rear: NLMT 2 allows the tire to flex and bite, aiding corner exit traction.
- Front Tires: Helps with steering response on sticky tracks.
Pros:
- Rapid heat-up
- Excellent early grip
Cons:
- Can blister or wear quickly in a dry main event
- Overheats on rubbered-down or dry-slick surfaces
When to Choose NLMT 3
- Track Conditions: Drying surface with slight abrasiveness or when the track starts to slick off in hot laps/qualifiers.
- Surface: Transitioning from tacky to dry-slick.
Use Case:
- Left Rear: Improves consistency over a long run without sacrificing too much grip.
- Front Tires: Maintains bite through corners while withstanding more abuse from harder braking zones.
Pro Tip: On a borderline surface, many crews will run NLMT 3 on the LR in the feature for durability and still stick with NLMT 2 on the RF to maintain corner entry control. Mindful that once the NLMT 3 fires it is possible to over work the NLMT 2 on the RF.
Right Rear Tire: NLMT 3 vs. NLMT 4
When to Run NLMT 3
- Track Conditions: Mild slick but not abrasive.
- Time of Night: Heat races or features on tracks that are worn but not taking rubber yet.
Ideal When:
- You're chasing grip and the track isn’t tearing up tires.
- You need good forward drive and the track isn’t locking down.
Watch Out:
- NLMT 3 may start to feather or wear unevenly if the track is heavily abrasive.
When to Run NLMT 4
- Track Conditions: Black slick, abrasive, high-speed surfaces that shear rubber.
-
Indicators:
- Marbles appearing
- Edge wear on softer tires
- Long green-flag runs forecasted
Why It Works:
- NLMT 4 resists heat cycling and chunking, allowing for more consistent lap times.
- Once heated, it can match the grip of a 3 but with extended life.
Drawbacks:
- Takes longer to reach optimal temp
- Slower on initial restarts unless surface friction helps heat quickly
Summary: Track Condition Matrix
| Track Condition | RF | LR | RR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tacky / Heavy Moisture | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Slightly Slick | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Dry-Slick | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Abrasive / Rubbered-Up | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Cold Night Start | 2 | 2 | 3 |
| Daytime Feature | 3 | 3 | 4 |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right compound is a balancing act of temperature, wear resistance, track evolution, and driver feel. The NLMT series offers a controlled platform, but understanding how to leverage each compound based on corner placement and track state is a competitive edge. Start soft when in doubt, but always watch for wear and adapt. Over time, a consistent compound logbook and tire durometer readings post-race will sharpen your decision-making.
*** Variables, such as type of dirt, banking, and driving style, that would need to be considered when choosing the right tire for you.
Got a question about how your setup responds to certain tire combos? Drop a comment below or reach out—we’ll break down the data together.
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