What great stuff here!! Eagle1, many thanks, great post. I don't have a track close by (other than circle jerks), but I have PLENTY of contry back roads with twisties. I can't wait till it's time to replace my tires, I'm gonna burn some road! The Turranzas on there now wouldn't last one lap.

 

Yeah, my brakes are stock. 04 Near the end of my sessions I could feel the pads getting softer "meltin' like butter". I guess I should try som other pads next time out. Luckily the 04AT has free brakes with warranty!

 

DO NOT RUN STOCK PADS AT A TRACK!!!!!


Eagle1 you hit the nail on teh head. Just take it easy out there your not out there to prove anything. 100% stock isnt too bad and it just depends on how ballzy you get. I ran stock my first time taking turns at 120+ I melted the Pilots by the end of the day. Ive been tracking for just over a year now and have learned so much everytime out. If you can you should have an instructor the first time out. Its brains over ***** when your out there.
After running Buttonwillow and Willowsprings a few times Fontana and Laguna Seca each track has taught me more and more. VDC off is a whole nother world but respect the throttle or it will bite you in the butt quick. If youre going to keep tracking I really suggest yo get a set of Hotchkis adj sway bars makes a nigth and day difference. Other than that a set of good front brake pads at the least. Hawk HPS or HP+ should be ok if you wanna go nuts go with piegon Orange but Ill worn you now start $aving your CA$H. Pads and tires add up quick. Just ask Eagle1 and I


Enjoy and be safe brother.

Slow in fast out!!!!!

 

Hey guys thanks for all the great advice!

I did my first open track day 2 weeks ago at Waterford Hills in MI. Pretty small track but I got an instructor all day, 6x20min sessions for $150! I agree with all your points, and used the VDC all day just to get an overall understanding of the car.

I ran 100% stock, and I think I'll have to invest in some better pads and sway bars for next time out.

Best part of the day: Being able to keep an elise in the rear view during wet conditions - as soon as the track dried up he owned me though.

 

The VDC sucks ***...def drive with it off. Maybe try just 1 run w/it on, so that when you take it off, you'll see how much it f*cks with your driving...