Well as the title says this is going to be my first time on a real track, Willow Springs in CA. I actually wanted to get some lessons before just having a track day, but my friends were going out and wanted me to join so here i am. I've already had to look into buying a helmet which was required, I think i have one picked out (this was more expensive than i expected). Also before i go i'm going to change my brake pads, I'm keeping with stock pads for now. My car is basically stock, its an 00' all i have is espelir springs and a single apex n1 catback exhaust. i just changed the diff fluid and tranny fluid this past weekend.

Is there any advice you more experienced guys have for a first timer? Any input is appreciated... Thanks


Alan

 

Hi Alan, which track at WSIR are you running on and when?

 

Don't crash.

 

Its going to be at Streets of Willow Springs, sept 17th

I'll be sure to keep that in mind

 

Great, you should have a good time. Streets is a fun track with not much to hit and (relatively) slow speeds in most turns so it's a super track to learn on.

As far as prep goes, you should be OK on your OEM brakes for your first time out. Keep a good eye on tire pressures and check them after your first and subsequent sessions. You didn't mention if you're still running the stock Bridgestone S-02 tires so I can't really give you pressure recommendations but they should probably be around 39 psi for street tires once you heat them up (these are NOT cold pressures).

Bring an extra quart of your oil of choice, as you may find you burn off 1 half quart or more during the day so make sure you keep an eye on that after each session too.

Don't crash is good advice

Seriously, you'll have a great time. If you're curious about what goes on beforehand, there's going to be a bunch of us out at Streets of Willow next Friday, the 3rd, so you can take the short cruise from LA and learn a bit before going out for your first time.

 

Better yet, just come out with us on the 3rd to drive. We give great instruction (mandatory for first-timers). You'll have the opportunity to get a ride in other S's (you can ride with me) and probably get an S-driver as an instructor, someone who knows the specifics of this car on this track.
BTW, if you are on your own on the 17th, don't be surprized to see white smoke coming out the exhaust going through the bowl clockwise. This is normal.

 

You will most likely be in group 1, therefore, there will be NO passing the entire day. You wont have to worry about a faster car approaching from behind. Speed is something that you have to gradually build up to. Even the very most experienced drivers will build speed gradually throughout a practice session. Don't push the car, let the speed come to you gradually. Keep it smooth, always brake in a perfectly straight line and you should be in for a great day.

Have fun

 

A couple weeks is also plenty of time to stop by the local library and pick up a book. I suggest "Speed Secrets" by Ross Bentley. (The original Speed Secrets, not the later books. Those are good too, but more advanced.)

 

Hey Alan,

You're in luck because I drive an 00' S2k, and I'll be there on the 17th as well. Well, I'm running the event that day too, but I'll still have plenty of time to give you a few ride alongs so you can get an idea of what you're getting yourself into out there. You'll have a great time. Don't worry about getting in over your head, there will be plenty of people to help you out. You've done everything to your car that needs to be done. All you'll have to do now is wait until you get there. Study up a bit, but for your first time, I wouldn't get to hung up on books or video's to much. I'm sure you'll have a great time.

-Chris.

 

Hey thanks for all the advice guys. For the event on the 3rd i wish i could go, I have to work that day though. Right now my main concern is getting a helmet in time, are there any local places around la or orange county that i can go and actually try one on? So far i've just been looking online and i'm not sure what size i need.