S2KI Honda S2000 Forums - Budget HPDE+(Street Limited) Time Attack Build

UPDATED 4/16/18, Title updated accordingly (Not so BUDGET anymore ha). Also new name for the class.
Hi all! My name is Jackie, I'm currently based in Ann Arbor MI, you might have seen my video chasing down the Type R being featured by S2Ki, so I thought I'd show you guys what I've been up to with this daily/project 2007 GPW S2000.

I am running in the lowest tier, HPDE+ (RENAMED TO 'STREET' FOR 2018), in #GRIDLIFE TrackBattle series. Rule book here: TIME ATTACK RULES — #GRIDLIFE, but basically, stock body line (no overfenders), 285 width, 200+tw tires, no aftermarket forced induction and no aftermarket aero (OEM replica allowed). Coilovers allowed but only single-adjustable allowed. Also car has to be registered with insurance and have full interior. Perfect for me, since I need my S2000 to act as both an effective track car and reliable daily.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...658e0482bb.jpg

The first event of the year was at Mid-Ohio. To be honest I didn't really commit to the event until 2 days before, and the car was in as near stock condition as you could imagine. The only mods are a staggered set of Michelin PSS (225F 245R), Project Mu HC+800 pads and 335 Fluids, CR front and rear sway bars, and a Hondata Stock-Tuned Map. Stock exhaust, AP2V1 wheels, stock suspensions, stock everything else. Being Mid-Ohio, there was a lot of heavy braking zones and the car didn't like it one bit. Every session, I'd have only one flying lap before the brakes go straight to the floor, and somehow I still banged in a 1:45.24. Not a clean lap, but it was the best that I could manage, and it ended up being enough for a 3rd in HPDE+ RWD class, losing out to a 350Z and a Lotus Elise, both on 200tw RE71R. With how little preparation I did, I was reasonably happy, but definitely had a lot to do to make the car more competitive. Video link to my weekend recap + flying lap

First task, sort out the brakes and suspension. I bought a set of CR shocks with Swift Springs from the lovely Facebook Marketplace, and a set of new Enkei PF01s in 17x8, with 245/40-17 RE71R tires. The theory was to save as much unsprung weight as I possibly could, to help get out of corners that little bit faster (P.S. That was in May. I was too stupid back then to know about sidewall flexes ha). A pair of Spoon Sports underbody crossbars were added to increase stiffness, and some new Hawk DTC brake pads (70 front 60 rear) with Stoptech fluids and brake lines. An LHTPerformance Master Cylinder Brace was added, and also an Ingalls Engine Torque Damper to reduce the chance of a miss-shift. To further improve the car's driveability, I found a used Sparco Evo seat and 6-Point harness. To use the harness, I went with the BalladeSport roll hoop with built-in harness bar. I know there's been some, uh, discussion on the product for sure, but at the end of the day I was a little too reluctant to drill all kinds of holes in my car.

As far as power goes, I took off the factory exhaust in favor of a used Greddy Ti-C & ebay test pipe set up, but even that was more for the sake of weight reduction rather than all out power. I did purchase a K&N intake from a friend, but he still needed it so I didn't bother. New Motul Gear 300 oil were put in to the gearbox and the diff to ensure they don't go bang, and last but not least I robbed a friend of his Seibon CR-style carbon rear wing. I finished off with a custom alignment set at -2 camber 0 toe front, -2.5 camber 0.14 toe in rear, and the removal of every single trim piece beyond the roll hoops and into the trunk. Now then, my car was ready for the challenge...

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...648caafd44.jpg

For the second round of the five-event championship, we went to GingerMan Raceway. I know the track reasonably well, and was mildly confident. The 350Z that beat me at Mid-Ohio could not keep up with me, as he could only manage a 1:45.4 against my 1:43.6, but it wasn't to be a victory. In fact, my best time was only third in HPDE+ RWD, 2 seconds behind a 2015 Mustang Five-O and a second behind a C5 Corvette. Even though my car was quite a bit nimbler, these big old 'Murican V8s had way more power (in the mustang's case, 440WHP) and wider, meatier 285 width tires. Regardless, I was relatively content, since I was able to take down numerous 350Zs and an E46 M3. With two 3rd place finishes out of two events, I was determined to go higher on podium next time out.

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...b13f31963e.jpg

The 3rd event of the season came to Autobahn Country Club. We had to run all 3 configurations (North, South, and Full) and have the 3 times added together, similar to a rally stage. The short 2-week turnaround means I hadn't done much to the car, except for some new Buddy Club Lower Ball Joint that allowed for a wider track and even more camber. I dialed up the fronts to -3 degrees, and accidentally set the .12 degree of toe out on the front to toe in... Obviously it's not ideal, but I decided to stick with it instead of messing everything up myself. The battle was very, very tight. The Mustang from last round had the acceleration and top speed, but it was no match against my S2000 in the high speed corners. By the end of North and Full course, I had pulled a surprising 1.7 seconds lead, and another blinding lap on South meant I took the win in HPDE+ (AWD included) by a massive 2.3 seconds. Maximum Attack had paid off!

In 2 weeks, we will be traveling south for the world-renowned Road Atlanta. Obviously there's not a hope in hell of me beating the Mustang, considering I have a 240 horsepower deficit, but I do know Road Atlanta well and the first half of the half is where we will be making up ground. I have picked up a second-hand Mugen hardtop and an eBay CR-style lip for some aero improvement, while the soft top will likely be removed for weight reduction. I also acquired a set of Tein Type Flex coilovers with the awesome EDFC II system, allowing me to adjust dampening while out on track. It's far from the best, I know, but for $400 it's hard to say no. I will keep updating this thread and add in more pictures as more upgrades come in, but in the meantime please let me know of any suggestions/comments! I'll be out there showing them, power isn't everything!!!

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...46861b49af.jpg

UPDATE #1 9/1/2017
#Gridlife TrackBattle Round 4: Road Atlanta
Toughest weekend in the S2K yet. I love RA, but the long long long long long long loooooooong back straight does not favor a 210WHP car ha, especially when your main competition is a 440WHP Mustang...

In order to tackle the challenge that is Road Atlanta, we had a few upgrades in mind. First off, the much-touted K&N FIPK Intake and PLM header were purchased (on a budget as always) and installed. The lack of heat shields on the header is a minor worry but I really want to squeeze every ounce of power out of this engine before Atlanta. After some research, I changed the Stock-Tuned map on my car to the Toda-Header map, also offered by Hondata. A custom tune is definitely coming, don't worry. To improve aero, a Mugen-replica hardtop was installed with the soft-top removed for weight reduction. A new CR-rep lip is screwed & duct-taped on for a little more front end grip at the high speed esses. Meanwhile, the CR shocks with Swift Springs were taken off the car to make way for a set of cheap coilovers: Tein Type Flex with EDFC II. Now yes, they are not the best dampers by any stretch of the imagination, but the EDFC system gives them a lot of adjustability on track, making track time more efficient. Final upgrade comes in the form of a set of DIY (and cheap) brake ducts, with help from Brian of BaoHouse Racing. Yes, that blue thing was an oil funnel LOL.

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...cd8c27ce48.jpg

With the upgrades completed, we rolled off towards Georgia. In case you were wondering, I drove the S the full 11 hours from Michigan to Road Atlanta. And back. No trailer involved.
Unfortunately, we struggled with an electrical issue on the first day. Long story short, I had no ABS and the rear locked going into Turn 10...

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...e4430142ce.jpgRIP Pilot Super Sport
A new day, a new pair of underwear, and we all good. A blown ACG fuse was found, and with it replaced the S was back in business. A few scrappy sessions later, I banged in a 1:41.9, enough to put me 4th in class, behind the Mustang and a pair of Porsche Cayman (one GT4 and one Cayman R). On the last day, I first improved to a 41.6, which is still 1.1 seconds off of a podium position. On my final lap of the final session, I was slightly held up by a Nissan S13, but still managed to improve my PB to a 1:40.5. It was a close and intense battle for 3rd, but I came out on top by 0.039 seconds over the Cayman R.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...9051e43b0e.jpg

So then, at the end of Round 4 of 5, we have three 3rd and one 1st. We are heading back to Gingerman Raceway in the middle of October for one more showdown, and I will for sure give it everything I've got. And after that, the car will be converted back to stock suspension for the long winter that is coming...

KEEP THOSE SUGGESTION FOR 2018 SEASON COMING! Loving it. Oil Baffle definitely on the list, as well as 17x9 and 255s. Thanks everyone!

UPDATE #2 11/9/2017

With the season over, we now focus on the long Michigan winter and the upgrades that will be happening. Firstly, I will be shaking down the custom-valved Stance XR1s this weekend at NCM Motorsports Park and can't wait to see how a set of proper suspension will change the car.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...6afb2cf04d.jpg

As for other upgrades, I have purchased a Braille b2015 battery (OEM one is bad and need replacing) and BalladeSport Bolt-in Oil Pan. The car is scheduled for a tune by MSpec Tuning in Chicago in 2 weeks, so the valves were checked (and found to be perfectly within spec) along with new spark plugs. There will be another coming soon.
Also: a rather iconic livery is being planned for the car and will be DIYed over the winter. It's far from complicated but I think it'll be well worth the effort. Very excited!

UPDATE #3 11/25/2017
The new Stance XR1s changed the car COMPLETELY. The best way for me to describe is a feeling of stiffness and response: whereas before, when I turn the steering wheel, the car will have to take a moment to load up and grip, that feeling is now gone. Now as soon as I give any steering input, the front tires would just grip and go. The responsiveness and directness of the front axle is exactly what I've been looking for. Even during high-speed transitions, the car is never skittish, but it's just sharp and focused. I absolutely love it.
Meanwhile, the car had been strapped to a dyno and Mikey from MSpec Tuning has worked his magic on it. From a baseline (on the Toda Header Map from Hondata Flashpro) of 192 WHP, Mikey squeezed out 215 WHP. Max Increase of 23 and a lot nicer looking in terms of smoothness.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...6198144eac.jpg

CAN'T WAIT to get back on the track and test out the difference! This thing will be completely changed for sure. 13.1% power increase is incredible.
More updates to come...

UPDATE #4 12/11/2017
THE RULES ARE OUT!! The HPDE+ is now official renamed STREET Class. Sounds a lot better for sure!
TIME ATTACK RULES — #GRIDLIFE

A few interesting rule changes that will affect us in Street Class:
1. new MSRP rule: "Vehicles with inflation adjusted MSRPs greater than $70,000 are specifically banned (eg. Nissan GT-R, Porsche Cayman GT4, C6 Z06, etc.)"
- GREAT. I definitely do not want to race against those things...
2. Tire Size rule: "Tire Width: FWD: 285, RWD: 285, AWD: 255. Tires may only be downsized 10mm."
- Also to try and block out the OP cars such as C7 Corvette Grand Sport. Leveling the playing field is always a good thing.
3. Changes to Aero rule: "Aftermarket aero is prohibited. Modifications to OEM bumpers to enhance airflow are permitted, but only partial removal of material, not addition."
- Time to cut that rear bumper for less drag!! Any ideas on how I can trim the front bumper for more performance?

The rest mostly stays the same as this year. Still, a few interesting areas that we can maybe exploit and etc...

A separate and also special announcement:
BMSPEC will be sponsoring me with their prototype front splitter and rear wing in preparations for a move to StreetMod Class in 2019! Link to their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bmspec1/
Their new Hammerhead front splitter looks freaking awesome, and has the added benefit of easily uninstallation for converting my car back to Street Class spec. I will be using their aero and attempt to break the current NA S2K record around Gingerman Raceway: 1:40.0. Currently working on a provisional schedule, but expect a few events outside of Gridlife too...
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...c4fbc9c30e.jpg

UPDATE #5 3/27/18

Just as any college student would for their exam studies and homeworks, I have finally gotten the S2000 into the shop for prep before our first preseason test on 4/7-8 at Gingerman Raceway!

List of things to do:
Pull Front Fender to fit new wheels
Rear ASM-style fender flares
New brake pads (maybe rotors) and fluids
Rear Buddy Club Lower Ball Joints install
Chase Race tow hitch install
Mishimoto oil cooler & oil catch can Install
Whiteline 30mm front sway bar install
Trimming rear bumper
Stickers & Livery

First off, my racing wheels and tires...
This season we will be using Konig's brand new flow-formed Dekagrams in 18x9.5 +35. I like the look of these wheels and while they may not be as light as the TC105N's, they are much, much, MUCH cheaper. For the price that Konig offered to the Gridlife Gold Pass holders, it's pretty much a no-brainer.
Meanwhile for tires, I will be using the newest and greatest tire to come out of Japan, the Yokohama Advan A052, in 265/35-18. It'll be very interesting to see how this new tire will stack up to the "Jesus Tire" RE71R, but since mine will be in different sizing I cannot offer any direct comparison.

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...9e82e12e1f.jpg
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...143a60c477.jpg

Brian from Baohouse has already mutilated my less-than-pristine fenders to fit these meaty tires. ONLY JUST!

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...dfe82419da.jpg

The same will be done to the other side, while the rears still needs to be cut and have fender flares added.
Meanwhile we have moved onto dealing with the oil cooler and catch can. My DIY intake pipe has had to be moved around to make space. Living that Bosozoku life, yo.

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...ed87e2de57.jpg

MORE UPDATES SOON TO COME! Go fast time is upon us...

UPDATE #6 4/16/2018
Well, this past weekend was the Gridlife TrackBattle Season Opener, and wow... WE WERE FLYING.
First off, the new Marlboro McLaren Honda inspired livery looked awesome on the S2000!

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...dc0bd9d4c0.jpg

The competition weren't messing about, either. In Street, we had Corvette C7s, E46 M3s, Porsche Caymans, Evos and STI's, and FK8 Type R's. Most were running RE71R's so you know they were pretty serious. Was I worried? Not really.

The weather didn't really want to play ball. Rain was forecasted all weekend long, but luckily Saturday morning held out long enough for us to all get at least one dry session in. So the pressure was on to delivery the fastest lap possible in the short 15-min session. And boy did we nail it. Whereas the best that the Corvette and the rest of them could only manage a 1:40.9, I blitzed the field with a 1:39.098, nearly 2 seconds faster than the previous class record.

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...02f0aee4f3.jpg

And just as we wrapped up that first session, the heaven opened and soaked the entire track. Unfortunately I didn't get a chance to improve my time, because I really thought we could go a 1:37. But a win is a win, and that puts us in a very good place for the championship!

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.s2k...0f951aead0.jpg

Here's the full weekend recap video of Gridlife Round 1 @ Mid-Ohio! Thanks to everyone who came out to say hi, it means a lot and I appreciate all your kind words. Car is undergoing oil system+aero upgrades this week, as soon as they are done I'll report back!

Mod List (so far):

245/40-17 Continental ExtremeContact Sport on 17x8 +50 Enkei PF01 [2018 Street/Rain tire]
265/36-18 Yokohama Advan A052 on 18x9.5 +35 Konig Dekagram [2018 Gridlife]
255/35-17 Achilles 123S on 17x9+60 TRM C3 [2018 GTA Enthusiast]
Hawk DTC Brake pads (70 front 60 rear)
Stoptech Directional front brake rotors
Castrol SRF brake fluid
Spoon Sports Crossbar (Front)
Custom-Valved Reinharte Racing Suspension R1 (14K Front, 12K rear)
Buddy Club Front Lower Ball Joint
Whiteline 30mm Front Sway Bar w/ adjustable end links
Sparco Evo seats w/ Sparco 6-point harness
NRG fixed back seat for passenger
Ballade Sport Roll Hoop w/ harness bar
Ingalls Engine Torque Damper
LHTPerformance Master Cylinder Brace
K&N FIPK Intake
PLM header
Greddy Ti-C single exit catback w/ test pipe
Xenocron Tuning Custom Tune on Hondata Flashpro
eBay CR-replica front lip
Seibon CR-replica carbon rear wing
unknown brand Mugen-replica hardtop
Soft top delete
FD2 Type R shift knob

#JD86