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How to Setup Simhub for Iracing

New to iRacing? Learn how to setup SimHub for iRacing step by step. Perfect for beginners: dashboards, overlays, and shakers for clearer feedback and calmer races.

If you’re new to iRacing, learning how to setup simhub for iracing is one of the fastest ways to get clear, customizable feedback without buying extra hardware. SimHub adds smart dashboards, overlays, shift lights, fuel tools, and optional bass shakers to help you drive more consistently and confidently.

Quick Answer

“How to setup simhub for iracing” means installing SimHub, connecting it to iRacing’s live telemetry, then choosing simple dashboards or overlays for essentials like delta, fuel, and shift lights. For beginners, it gives clear, real-time cues so you can avoid guesswork, settle your nerves, and build consistency fast.

What This Guide Covers

  • What “how to setup simhub for iracing” really means
  • Why new iRacing drivers benefit from SimHub
  • Step-by-step setup (dashboards, overlays, optional shakers)
  • Common beginner mistakes and easy fixes
  • A 10‑minute practice drill you can run today
  • When to ask other iRacing drivers for quick feedback

What SimHub Does in iRacing (Plain English)

  • Simple definition: SimHub is a companion app that reads iRacing’s telemetry (live car and track data) and shows useful info on screens, tablets/phones, LEDs, and bass shakers.
  • Analogy: It’s like upgrading your car’s dashboard so it tells you exactly what you need to drive smoother—fuel, lap delta, flags, shift lights—without clutter.
  • Where it shows up: You run SimHub alongside iRacing. You’ll use SimHub to pick dashboards/overlays, then place them on a second monitor or over the game (borderless windowed). It also serves web dashboards to your phone/tablet on Wi‑Fi.

Why This Matters for Rookies

  • Less overwhelm: Instead of digging through iRacing black boxes mid‑race, you get a clean, always‑visible dash (delta, fuel, gear, flags).
  • Fewer mistakes: Simple shift lights and brake lock/traction cues help you avoid spins and off‑tracks that hurt Safety Rating.
  • Consistency = pace: A steady delta and fuel target keeps you focused on repeatable laps, not chasing ghosts.
  • Smarter practice: SimHub’s data helps you spot where you’re losing time so practice feels purposeful.

If you’re new to iRacing, adding SimHub the right way is one of the best iRacing setup tips for confidence and cleaner races.

Common Problems Beginners Face With SimHub

Problem 1: The overlay/dash isn’t showing in iRacing

  • Why it happens: iRacing is running in exclusive fullscreen, which blocks overlays, or the overlay is behind the game.
  • How to fix it: In iRacing graphics settings, use borderless windowed (Fullscreen off). In SimHub Overlays, click Start, then bring the overlay to the front and lock it. Map a hotkey to show/hide.

Problem 2: SimHub says iRacing isn’t detected

  • Why it happens: SimHub started after iRacing, admin permission mismatch, or the wrong game selected.
  • How to fix it: Close iRacing, open SimHub first (Run as administrator), select iRacing under Games, then launch iRacing. Check SimHub’s Game status shows “Connected.”

Problem 3: Phone/tablet dashboard won’t load

  • Why it happens: Device not on same Wi‑Fi, firewall blocking, or wrong IP.
  • How to fix it: Put phone/tablet on the same network as the PC. In SimHub > Dash Studio > Phone/Tablet, note the URL (e.g., http://PC-IP:8888) and open it on your device. Allow SimHub through Windows Firewall.

Problem 4: Bass shakers make no sound

  • Why it happens: Output device not assigned or Windows is sending game audio instead of telemetry effects.
  • How to fix it: In SimHub > ShakeIt Bass Shakers, choose the correct audio device (ideally a dedicated USB DAC), assign channels, and click Test. In Windows sound settings, keep game audio on your main speakers/headset and shakers on the dedicated output.

Problem 5: Shift lights feel wrong for each car

  • Why it happens: Different cars have different optimal shift RPMs.
  • How to fix it: In the dash/LED settings, use “per‑car” profiles or auto shift‑light logic if the dash supports it. Do 2–3 laps and let SimHub learn; adjust RPM thresholds if needed.

Step-by-Step Guide: how to setup simhub for iracing

  1. Install SimHub: Download and install SimHub on your iRacing PC. Launch it and allow firewall permissions.
  2. Run as admin: Right‑click SimHub > Run as administrator. This avoids permission hiccups with telemetry.
  3. Select iRacing: In SimHub, go to the Games section and choose iRacing as your active game.
  4. Launch iRacing: Start iRacing from the SimHub Games tab or start it normally; load a Test or Practice session.
  5. Confirm connection: In SimHub, check the top bar or Games page for “iRacing Connected.” Move the car—data should update.
  6. Use borderless windowed: In iRacing graphics options, turn Fullscreen off (borderless) so overlays can appear on top.
  7. Start a simple overlay: In SimHub > Overlays, click Start. Choose a minimal overlay with delta, gear, speed, and fuel. Drag/resize it near the screen edge and lock it.
  8. Add a dashboard (optional second screen): In SimHub > Dash Studio > Dashboards, pick a beginner-friendly dash (MX‑5/GT style). Click “Start” to display on a second monitor.
  9. Phone/tablet dash: In Dash Studio > Phone/Tablet, note the URL (e.g., http://your-pc-ip:8888). On your device, open that address to see the dash.
  10. Map a hotkey: In SimHub > Settings > Hotkeys, set keys to show/hide overlays. You can map the same in iRacing for consistency.
  11. Fuel estimate: Add a fuel widget/overlay. Do 3–5 consistent laps so SimHub learns your consumption; then check “Fuel to finish.”
  12. (Optional) Bass shakers: In ShakeIt Bass Shakers, select your shaker sound device, assign effects (engine RPM, curb, lockup), and test levels. Keep it subtle to avoid distraction.
  13. Save your layout: In Overlays, save the layout so it loads automatically next time.
  14. Test offline first: Use Test or AI sessions to verify everything works before joining an official race.

Common mistake to avoid: Don’t stack too many widgets. Start with delta, gear/speed, and fuel. You can add flag and pit info later.

Extra tip: Record a short replay and glance at your overlay placement; make sure nothing covers braking markers or mirrors.

Practical Example (Before vs. After)

Before (Typical Rookie)

  • Running iRacing in fullscreen with no overlay. Constantly opening black boxes to check fuel and relative.
  • Missed downshifts and over‑revs, guesswork on pit fuel, distracted during races.
  • Outcome: Spikes of pace, then mistakes, off‑tracks, and Safety Rating hits.

After (Correct Approach)

  • Borderless windowed with a clean SimHub overlay: delta, gear/speed, and fuel to finish. Optional phone dash on the desk.
  • Clear shift lights, calm pacing using delta, confident pit fuel number.
  • Outcome: Smoother laps, fewer errors, and cleaner, less stressful races.

Simple Practice Drill (5–10 Minutes)

  • Load a Test session with the Mazda MX‑5 at Okayama Short.
  • Drive 10 laps focusing only on keeping your SimHub delta within ±0.3s of your best lap.
  • Ignore absolute lap time; aim for repeatable braking points and throttle picks. Watch “Fuel to finish” stabilize by lap 4–5.

Pro Tips for New iRacing Drivers

  • If the overlay jitters or hides, double‑check borderless windowed mode and lock the overlay in SimHub.
  • Keep overlays minimal and high‑contrast. Big, simple numbers beat fancy graphics mid‑race.
  • Practice in Test or AI first so you’re not adjusting apps during official sessions.
  • Use replays: pause at corner entry and compare your delta changes to see where you lose time.
  • Watch one onboard from a fast driver and note gear and shift‑light timing; match it using your SimHub dash.
  • For shakers, start with engine RPM and curb effects only; add lockup/TC later.

When to Ask for Help (Gentle Community Push)

If you’re still unsure about placement, fuel widgets, or overlays, you’re not alone—most new iRacing drivers need a session or two to dial it in. Many new iRacing drivers hang out in beginner-friendly Discord communities where they can share replays and ask quick questions. A couple of friendly tips on your layout or fuel setup can speed up your progress.

FAQs About how to setup simhub for iracing in iRacing

  • Is SimHub allowed in iRacing?
    Yes. SimHub reads telemetry like a dashboard; it doesn’t automate driving. It’s widely used and considered fair. Just avoid distracting yourself by tweaking it mid‑race.

  • Do I need special hardware to use SimHub?
    No. You can start with just your PC and a phone or second monitor. Hardware like bass shakers or LED strips is optional and can be added later.

  • How do I put the dashboard on my phone or tablet?
    In SimHub > Dash Studio > Phone/Tablet, note the URL and open it on your device while on the same Wi‑Fi. If it doesn’t load, check your firewall and network.

  • Will SimHub hurt my FPS?
    Typically minimal impact, especially with simple overlays. Use borderless windowed mode, keep overlays lightweight, and avoid running lots of heavy widgets at once.

  • Can I practice this offline or with AI?
    Absolutely. Test or AI sessions are perfect for setting up overlays, confirming fuel estimates, and ensuring your layout isn’t distracting before official races.

  • How long until the fuel estimate is accurate?
    Give it 3–5 steady laps so SimHub can learn your consumption. It will update as your pace changes; recheck after tire changes or long cautions.

Final Takeaways

  • Start simple: delta, gear/speed, and fuel to finish.
  • Use borderless windowed mode so overlays work reliably.
  • Test in non‑official sessions, then add features slowly (flags, shakers).
  • Save your layout and map hotkeys to keep race-day stress low.

Next session action: Run 10 test laps with a minimal overlay and lock your braking points using the delta. You’ll feel calmer and more consistent right away.

Optional Next Steps

  • Next: Beginner iRacing graphics and FFB settings that prevent fatigue
  • Or read: Fuel strategy basics for rookies (pit timing, cautions, and estimates)