My first track day

[steve91tt]

I just got back from the first day of a Driver Edge track even at Texas MSR

http://www.thedriversedge.net/

http://www.msrhouston.com/msrhouston/trackmap.asp

I have never been near a track of any kind before so encountered quite a steep learning cure for the first couple of runs but by the third and fourth 25 minute session things were starting to make a little more sense.

Before going into it I was quite worried that my 240Z could not cope but I'm very happy to say that my little car felt quite at home on the track. My run group included a GT3, GTR, 2 race preped mini's, several lotuses (loti?) and more corvettes than I could count. However, I did not feel any lack of power, braking or handling. I was definitely out driven at times (spun off once but definitely not the car's fault). It was clear that the ability of the car was higher than my ability to drive it. By the last run, I was able to keep up with most of the cars and even passed a race prepped mini, 370Z and a C6 corvette. I got passed more than I passed but it definitely felt good to get waived by newer, more powerful cars.

The only modification I would make before going back to the track would be to improve the seat. I was sliding all over the place and with a helmet I had to recline the seat to quite an awkward angle in order to keep my head off of the roof. I can see the appeal of racing seats and harnesses now.

It was interesting that people would regularly walk past the high dollar cars to come and tell me how much they love the old Z's. Eveyone seemed to have a story about how they either owned a Z or knew someone that owned a Z. I guess the old girl still has some sex appeal.

I have lots of in car video to look through but if all goes well I post a video after tomorrow's event.

[Darrel]

Before getting a new seat, try some of the stuff you use in the drawers of your tool chest.

That will keep your butt from sliding around, then you'll have to deal with your upper body from going side to side.

Just a cheap simple trick before you go with racing seats.

Track is addictive. So what if you're not as fast or quick as the other cars, you still have a lot of fun. It is also great fun if you find someone that is close to you and your car and take turns playing follow the leader.

[steve91tt]

Thanks for the tip. I see if I can round up some anti-butt-slip mat before tomorrow's session.

[Darrel]

You can get rolls of it at walmart. Not sure what it's called. It's not in the tool area, more like bed and bath I think.

Edited January 23, 2011 by Darrel

[steve91tt]

You can get rolls of it at walmart. Not sure what it's called. It's not in the tool area, more like bed and bath I think.

My wife happened to have a roll and I just got finished installing it in the car. Feels like it should help some.

[Darrel]

cool. That will work, at least for tomorrow.

[d240zx2]

Another addict in the making!

Go, Steve, GO!

[5150 will]

That's awesome Steve. Track days are a blast no matter what you're driving. Have fun with it and keep the rubber on the road.

[cygnusx1]

The Z cars were well adapted track cars in 1970, and still are in 2011. Beware the slippery slope! A race track is a playground for Z cars. Enjoy and be safe. We eagerly await pictures and videos!

[steve91tt]

I'm surprised at just how well adapted for the track these cars are. Even on a higher speed track like this one. I am in fourth gear in all but three corners where I down shift to 3rd and the car just seems to want more. Very cool.

[Zedyone_kenobi]

Steve, I share your enthusiasm! Congrats on your MSR experience. I have yet to make it here, but I am going to a track day in May at Grandsport. I took the Z out last time and had a BLAST! I too spun off once, but if you did not, that means you were not trying!

Good on your for being so fast on that high speed course. I got passed more times than I could count when I was at Grandsport. I just did not have the HP to pass on the straights. And as you know passing in the curves is a no no at most track days. Looking forward to seeing your pics. We should get together some time and compare notes!

[steve91tt]

Just finished my first session. The car developed a thud with throttle transition. On the lift now. Fingers crossed.