Quick background for the question. Recently ...and finally, I bought a used '04 AP2 with 100,000 miles, which over the winter time, I will turning into a dedicated race car.

I was wondering if there is any time or mileage limit a part should be used on a race car and be replaced, before a catastrophic failure happens. Obviously some things like bushings, bearings and normal wear and tear items are pretty obvious, but what about parts that are not really wear and tear items, like the actual control arms, hubs, brake lines, etc., where there is no direct wear and tear on the part, but I'm sure, there is some material fatigue from forces normally not seen on a street driven car. Any thoughts?

 

I would replace the brake lines for sure. They are cheap, and you don't every want to let them potentially be a point of failure.

 

Yes, those brake lines are a given, but once I replace them with new ones, how long and how many miles does one have before they get replaced again?

 

I dont think its specific to the s2000, but every 2yrs for brake lines is good practice IMO. OEM engine mounts fail quickly. But I dont think there is anything you have to replace as a preventative measure until it shows signs of wear or damage other than fluids. You could do valve springs and retainers if your worried about a possible previous over rev.

 

So you guys don't think, that let's say, cast iron control arms fatigue over time?

 

the ball joints would fail long before the arm snaps in half, barring manufacturing defects

 

I wouldn't worry about the control arms on our cars. Being made of steel, they will bend and deform before fracturing. If they were made from cast aluminum, it would be a different story.

I would also keep an eye on wheel studs as a point of failure.

Changing brake hoses every 2 seasons is also good practice.

Keep an eye on your front compliance bushings.

Check ball joints for play whenever possible.

Double check sub frame bolts at regular intervals.

 

Don't waste your time with OEM type brake lines. Change over to braided lines.

Rear wheel bearings seem to be a source of failure, so changing them every year or two depending on how much you drive it would be good.

 

So far, I have had a ball joint fail on track and I have found one loose after a track day. I'd keep an eye on them.

 

Which ball joint in specific failed on your car?