OMG THANK YOU SO MUCH perfect timming i was just about to start track preping my first car that can get 0to60 in under 10sec 350Z HR and i had alot of questions now thay are all answered ill be doing steps 123&4 this summer!
Great guide! Everyone who wants to track there 350Z should reference this. I'd like to put an emphasis on cooling as I have learned that this weekend! Also I love the beginning "Its not a track build if it never sees the track"
Thanks for the awesome video man, lucky enough to have Datsuns since my 72 240!! Now it's a beautiful red 07 350 have some cool tracks in the Chicago area to play around on, your advice is on point for the everyday guy, hope I can use some of your ideas down the road, thanks again see you at the track!!
a few years ago i went through all 40 something pages of your build on my350z forums. I love the dedication on the build through the years. I also love the fact that you kept it N/A powered (not sure if thats wanting to keep it in a specific class). I do have one input for your videos. I would recommend some sort of mic for your videos because at times it is hard to hear.
This is perfect for me ! Exactly what i needet :D Thank you for being so active lately and helping us so much :) I cant get enough of your Car and your experiences :)
Thank you very much ! I have fun making them and I will try to be more active soon :) Edit: I just saw you Videos and they are great. I think i can learn from you hehe.
Michael Gardner .....missed this response. When you talk about how bad the front end understeers when OEM. I have had 255 in the front end for like forever. OEM is 225. At the track, I thought it did ok in the corners. With 285 in the rear, the back end really stuck well I thought. I am getting new rims and I have been wanting to get rid of the staggered and go square anyway. Just confirming a square set up is best to go, I figured staggered is for safety with understeer. At the track, the OEM rotors at 15 mins for sure got warped and you would have to be gentle. I want the BBK g37 caliper/rotors but they do weigh more is why I like my OEM for the street. If you think the oem brembos are good enough for the track, then I will find a used set of them instead. Plus they are lighter. More info about the VLSD I didn't know. I just googled those JRZ coilovers. Are they really 5k? Wow that is up there in price and I have never heard of them before. KW v3's are more for street use, not really hard core track. This is a good video from an actual race car driver with winning experience. What is not to like about this video? More on the engine would for sure, be a good video. I know about where your top plenum came from and how the curve is the bottle neck.
Motordyne G35 Yeah Square is the way to go. Night and day difference. Get some 285 RE71R, RS4, or Rival S then see what what it does. The Brembo are good for the price. The G37/370Z Akebono probably are a good choice too.
Motordyne G35 yeah this level of Coilover are all over 5k. JRZ, Moton, Anze, MCS, Penske, KW Clubsport are ok but I wasn't happy with their supplied Spring rates and there wasn't room to make changes. JRZ at least has a range to choose from and there is room to make custom changes. It's one of the top companies for sure.
whats your opnion on the tokico d shock? and why the swift spec r springs arent progressive spring terrible for track and linear springs better like the RSR?
@@mohamedsakka2338 wow old comment. Nope, ended up getting a truck and two new supersport motorcycles. I run them on track and I eventually got up into the advanced group. Tons of fun going fast while being smooth and knee down is awesome. Total motorcycle head now.
Michael, I truly enjoyed your video, but even more your no-none sense approach to the decision-making on modifications. I found refreshing the similarities w/ my father --now a retired Pharmacologist-- and self-made automotive mechanical engineer. The latest was his real passion & it sure showed it on the track, and crazy "as needed" modifications he made on a "shoe string". The sweet smell of hot "Castrol" oil & burned rubber tires & the melodic sound of fine-tuned high rpm engines remains in my sensorial part of the brain. He trained one of his friends as pilot, who eventually placed 12th as part of the Porsche squadron in Le Mans. As a young impatience driver, I couldn't comprehend why it took my father such a long time to get to the "power" phase. He always said "fast cars need to be able to handle the curves, be stable, responsive & efficient on the entire performance range, but most importantly, one needs to be able to stop the car when you need it to stop... I am a newcomer to your group, but your video already inspired me to move forward --on the right foot-- w/ my 2008 350Z mods journey . I do thank you for that. However, was that a single turbo shown on your video? If so, any comments on what you have vs a twin one? My car will be used for street and weekend track. I n the meantime, I will be going over your prior videos.
Very nice video! From my personnal experience however I would put the anti-roll bars and seats before the LSD and shocks : - Even with stock shocks the anti-roll bars make a huge difference, I was 3 seconds faster per lap at my local track after changing them (1'3x.xx laps). - Stocks seats don't maintain well, with stock(ish) power you'll gain more with a good bucket seat than with coilovers, just because you'll have a way better control of the car.
Yeho_One thanks for the comment. For safety reasons I wouldn’t change the seat until you are ready to do cage, seat, harness, helmet, and Hans all together at once.
Love the video man. I just got a stock HR which I want to upgrade. Springs, sways, 4.08, exhaust, cai, cams, tune. Just did a JWT clutch & LW FW. For street.
Fantastic lol awkward and awesome. I have a 2003 z With everything on your list with the exception of the big GT wing :( this car is down about 2675 pounds making about 270 to the rear wheels. Big brake kit koni shocks with swift Springs fat fat sway bars this thing is a rocket ship it could be faster but it's about handling for now thanks for the good review bro
Great stuff, I've done lots of that already but good to hear about my future intended updates too. (although my one will still largely be used on the street for now). I'm really keen to learn more about the power upgrades, although I've seen what you've got, and read about Sasha's build but perhaps anything you'd do differently, or maybe what wasn't needed. Oh, and I can wholly recommend Meister R GT1's for street/track use.
Couple other weight reduction mods I've done and still kept my entire interior ( I'm also not racing ) are : ac condenser, compressor and its drive belt, aluminum crank pulley, idler pulley delete, shorter belt, 18lb flywheel vs stock 28, aluminium driveshaft (only about 1 oz lighter than stock I just needed a new one 🤣), 3lb weight removed from rear hatch lid, rear wiper and motor delete, wiper reservoir delete (I just carry a spray bottle 😅 dont want that overspray) removed the airbags, braum seats( I have a touring model ) and a couple lil tech's 😁
Nice, I did most of the mods in a similar order to my WRX which is a great track car but is also usable on the street. Just bought a mint 350Z and plan on going down the same path with that . . .
This is a very good video. When I purchased my Z 2016. The tires had 275/35/19 on the rear and 245/35/19. On the front/rear, brand new Nitto Neo~Gens now. You are correct about the heaviness at the front handling. I like to keep the 19 inch rims, what tire size or brand for every day driving and track..?? I like to achieve a more balanced gripped performance ride. Btw, I like the Hotchkis swat bars. Its going to take a little bit of time to get it where it will handle and perform well. Please feel free to comment. Thank you very much. Finally, a very humble race driver. Subscribed
Sprydo7 I am honestly not even sure how to help with those wheel sizes. A staggered 19” set up looks good but you will be fighting with it at the Track from day 1. Since it’s a larger size you will also be paying a lot more for tires and a lot of the fastest brands of Street tires end at 18” in diameter sizing. The only advice I can give is put as wide a tire as you can fit on your front wheel. Something like a 265 up front wouldn’t be that bad. Try to get the tire sizes to eliminate a lot of the stagger. I believe Hankook makes some RS3 and RS4 in 19” sizes and Yokohama has the Neova AD08R.
Your video have pushed me to make a 350 my next track car. Maybe in the future make a video on all of your modifications like oil cooler/ Oil Sump you have ect.
I saw that video too. I think i have seen all your videos minus the fender once you use to do at first. I was more interested in how you installed the oil sump and oil cooler and stuff like that little more technical then just showing what you have. I'm interested in building a car, but want to start slow this time going to start with building it first safety things for the car fluids Cooling ect, then work from there. I was looking on a accusump but don't see how this will work since the space is limited under the z with Oil cooler ect. here is my other channel I had a track build 03 Mini cooper S. th-cam.com/video/9oeZt6ceTmU/w-d-xo.html
Well done. Adding power should be the last or close to last thing one should do when making a track car. Chassis and suspension tuning come first but even before all that, #1 should have been driver mod. Have them take their stock car to the track and see what it's capable of. A stock 350z is already a handful for a lot of amateur drivers. Get some HPDE done with a stock car and then follow up with suspension, chassis, wheels, brakes, tires, lsd, aero and last power.
for my 2004 so far I've done: dot4, Hawk hp+, front poly bushings, front ball joints, adjustable uppers, Conti ExtremeContacts @ 245/255, new stock calipers, new fr bumper with splitter, new Corbeau seats (huge pita to get them low), CAI (no tuning allowed in CA), radiator flush, oil change to full synthetic, Tein shocks and springs, adjustable rear lowers. it's a good start in only 2mos.
If my 350Z race car had priority an important improvement would be to move the engine back, perhaps remove the false firewall to give even more space back there. As you say, the most effective weight reductions increase the already front weight bias.
great video, only suggestion I'd make is keep the volume level..have it to my ear to hear you talk and then my ear drum is busted with a straight pipe vq ;) the #vq35ftw
Also love your page and I’m sure you get asked a lot but what exhaust do you have? I think it might be Frankenstein’d but still would like a vague idea of whatcha got goin on, sounds beautiful! Also love the channel been watching for awhile now!
The weight difference assuming the low end weight of the stock car and the figures you provided is only a difference of 124 lbs, most likely less since your car is stripped. The stock difference is 186 lbs, front bias. for anyone watching in later years wanting some Z info.
How did you decide on the camber settings, and do you change them ahead of an event based on the track you're going to, or do you keep them always at -3.7 front and -2.3 rear? Do you find your settings changing on their own to whatever degree after a race? Also, looks like you have Hotchkis sway bars...? What settings for front and back work best for you, re stiffest vs softest positions? Thanks.
Thanks dude this is a very good video I do not Have a 350 Z but an 01 Acura CL that has plenty of power and handling that I think I’m going to build and do next year also what our tracks do you go to
Hi michael. Thanks for the video! It's very interesting! About cooling; what water radiator recomends? Koyo? I have a 25 row's oil cooler but water temp rises to 102-103°C. Thanks!
Nice build my friend! I’d like to talk with you! I have a 2003 Track Edition that I had built from stock for the track. My Z was the “Bull Run Prep 350z “ featured on TH-cam but after trying a Track day I was hooked! Got rid of all the extra BS and now it’s track time.. let’s talk.. Will
Have you ever managed to get the 350z to a wind tunnel to play with the aero? Could help with the weight issues. Use the wing to get the rear end tighter in corners to it doesn't swing out as bad
Hi Mike! Quick question. What are your thoughts on relocating the battery rewards? 30+ pounds shifted towards the rear might seem minimal, but it’s a step toward improving the Z’s weight distribution. Looking forward to your response and thanks for the video!
christopherpuig12 negligible improvement for the amount of labour to do correctly. Batteries I’ve used batteries as light as 6lbs. I literally only had the OEM battery in there because I needed ballast to make weight for a class I was in. If you were striving for optimum you could go to the trouble however.
KaosTheory360 No. I'd recommend turning VDC off at the track. But VDC is more dependent on tire height than width. But even with the front and rear tires being the same height the car will be ok.
I keep coming back to this video periodically every time I knock out some of the stuff on my "350z to do list" lol. Next up is trading in my street coilovers for some JRZ ones. Which ones do you have specifically or which ones do you prefer? Their vast customization options are a double edged sword when it comes to narrowing down any specifics.
Gotcha, your straightforwardness is always appreciated! I actually answered my question by watching your walk around/mod explanation, so I appreciate you taking the time to get an already redundant point across.
AnthonyJ350 hey here's a complete walk through of my car. th-cam.com/video/6kdRDYBgw0Y/w-d-xo.html the clutch is a clutch masters carbon Kevlar. No point in touching the shifter.
Michael Gardner Not even replacing the worn out nylon bushing with a brass piece for better feel? Or you don't care for it? And is the hydraulic system upgraded at all?
This was the semi secret list until 2020. th-cam.com/video/88cN6SU5Wj0/w-d-xo.html It’s being improved a bit for 2021. Check out the channel as I’m organizing it better and posting updates more often.
Hi Michael, my 03 Z is a dedicated track car. I upgraded the entire front suspension bushings during this winter, whitelines for LCA, spl solid for the rest. I was wondering if it is necessary to upgrade the rear bushing as well, if you did, did you feel the difference? Thanks
Hi great video. Ive curently got eibach sportline springs with oem shocks. I want to get the koni yellow sport shocks, will the eibachs be too much with the konis or woudl i be better getting the swift specs?
I think they will be a bit much and bit too low which will decrease your useful suspension travel. I had great experience with the Spec R. I’d sell the sport lines and pick up the swift spec R
Very glad I found this channel...recently purchased an 04 z , it is stock..past weekend finally got back on track after few years absence...I am use to driving older style m3's so very different feeling in the z...I do like it, but do have kids so either a second car or an m3....nonetheless this is lot of great info!! Thx for making these videos!! Awesome car you build..awesome driving!!👍
Michael Gardner yea 2 track days now, njmp was ok smooth turns, went to another small track in Englishtown NJ was very technical, car was all over the place but also running crappy tires 245 all way around, thanks for the tips man much appreciate it.
Hey Michael I love your videos and need your input. I have been trying to religiously follow your advice about building my 2006 Nissan 350z track car. I just bought brembos front and rear with stop tech steel braided brake lines and high temp brake fluid Mishimoto aluminum radiator & oilcooler also a oil catch can. What is your opinion on carbon fiber bits such as the hatch and hood I’m trying to shed weight. I’ve noticed you don’t have any full carbon fiber parts on the car. I wasn’t sure if it was to keep the weight more balanced or if you felt it wasn’t necessary. Also have you done any ecu tuning to the car? I’ve watched you videos and it seems like you cammed the car which is out of my price range for now. Any information will be very useful. This video is really the only information I have to go by as far as building the car. Not many people are knowledgeable about this car in Louisiana. Thanks, Kenny
how's fitmeant with the wheels and 285 tyres and streering response I have coil overs and camber/toe arms. hoping to running them on street and track. are they liveable and no poke. or am I better off with 265 on 18x 9.5. hoping to stick with sqaure set up
Lightning lashX more tire up front is better in every conceivable way. I used 305 up front with no problems. So if it’s a choice 285 is the one to go for, preferably on the the 10.5” wide wheel
Hi MIchael, I've been following your racing for some time. I have the koni/swift combo you spoke of, I wanted to ask if you still recommend a square wheel setup on those shocks/springs?
Awesome video, thanks!! Also, any reason you haven't replaced more panels with carbon? The price of carbon fenders etc. is relatively cheap for the 350z.
Haha yeah, can be hard to spend that much on some body panels :) I've heard the hatch and roof skin can help a lot, considering how much those factory parts weigh and how high up they are. Do you think carbon fenders/hood/splitter would shave enough weight to help with the weight balance?
How does a modded 350 feel on track? I currently have an mk7 gti and it's too numb for my preference even after swapping to poly bushings. Can't really feel what the tires are doing through corners. Is the 350 in the same boat?
JayTac1 my theory is that feel is secondary to performance. I think you can train your brain to adapt to just about anything. If you are driving the limit and you are going fast who cares how it feels?
CK_32 your Camber will be set up to even your wear and increase your contact patch at the track. So with proper camber you will actually get less wear. I don't remember toe but my camber was last set at about -3.7F and -2.0 rear
Hey, I have 18x9.5 12 offset in the front with 275s on stock suspension and it's hella flush. Without some added camber the 18,10.5 with 275+ will rub.
I love your vids man! I'm taking a long shot for a response . I was about to buy some ksport coilovers and i kept hearing you say to avoid cheap coilovers. I'm guessing those are in that class.. Are BC coilovers also considered cheap? Without going into too much detail my fairly experienced racing friends are saying im a fool if i get koni yellow and swift springs instead of at least bc..
Thanks for the response brother! I agree with that and a good indicator of that is that megan racing has the exact coilover for the same price! The konis already have adjustable stiffness so the only things bc coilovers offer is height adjustment and preloading the springs. I want to stay around stock height so the only other factor is the preloading.
You can get adjustable collars for the Konis to control ride height and corner balance. I’m going to say... Koni dampers better than BC for sure. Just my opinion.
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Finallyyyyy, a mod list by an actual racer, awesome video man. Thanks for taking the time and sharing your knowledge.
Jay Collazo thanks!
OMG THANK YOU SO MUCH perfect timming i was just about to start track preping my first car that can get 0to60 in under 10sec 350Z HR and i had alot of questions now thay are all answered ill be doing steps 123&4 this summer!
DrivatarZthirtythree good! The HR is a good starting point for a track build.
amazing and good luck
5 years later and I'm watching it. I needed a direction.
“Probably not gonna happen” 😂 . I hope they reached out to you by now man! Sweet video as well!
Great video this is exactly what I was looking for... just confirmed my first track car project . Cheers
I’ve seen a ton of videos and this was such a great straight up to the point video. Awesome job!
awesome videos man so glad to see an video from an actual racer and not just track inspired pretenders. keep it up man
Big ones to add - Differential brace, poly bushings throughout chassis, Intake plenum spacer!
Great guide! Everyone who wants to track there 350Z should reference this. I'd like to put an emphasis on cooling as I have learned that this weekend! Also I love the beginning "Its not a track build if it never sees the track"
Thanks for the awesome video man, lucky enough to have Datsuns since my 72 240!! Now it's a beautiful red 07 350 have some cool tracks in the Chicago area to play around on, your advice is on point for the everyday guy, hope I can use some of your ideas down the road, thanks again see you at the track!!
a few years ago i went through all 40 something pages of your build on my350z forums. I love the dedication on the build through the years. I also love the fact that you kept it N/A powered (not sure if thats wanting to keep it in a specific class). I do have one input for your videos. I would recommend some sort of mic for your videos because at times it is hard to hear.
Tim Tran thanks, yes I've noticed that when I use the one camera on my phone the mic changes. I do have an external mic for my GoPros.
This is perfect for me ! Exactly what i needet :D Thank you for being so active lately and helping us so much :) I cant get enough of your Car and your experiences :)
Just subbed to you, your track day videos are fun to watch!
Thank you very much ! I have fun making them and I will try to be more active soon :) Edit: I just saw you Videos and they are great. I think i can learn from you hehe.
BESIM X CARS just sub to just
great format. It would be nice if there were videos like this for other common track cars.
This video style I like from you, great upload. I learned new things and I enjoyed it.
Nice! What were the new things you learned?
Michael Gardner .....missed this response.
When you talk about how bad the front end understeers when OEM. I have had 255 in the front end for like forever. OEM is 225. At the track, I thought it did ok in the corners. With 285 in the rear, the back end really stuck well I thought. I am getting new rims and I have been wanting to get rid of the staggered and go square anyway. Just confirming a square set up is best to go, I figured staggered is for safety with understeer.
At the track, the OEM rotors at 15 mins for sure got warped and you would have to be gentle. I want the BBK g37 caliper/rotors but they do weigh more is why I like my OEM for the street. If you think the oem brembos are good enough for the track, then I will find a used set of them instead. Plus they are lighter.
More info about the VLSD I didn't know.
I just googled those JRZ coilovers. Are they really 5k? Wow that is up there in price and I have never heard of them before. KW v3's are more for street use, not really hard core track.
This is a good video from an actual race car driver with winning experience. What is not to like about this video? More on the engine would for sure, be a good video. I know about where your top plenum came from and how the curve is the bottle neck.
Motordyne G35 Yeah Square is the way to go. Night and day difference. Get some 285 RE71R, RS4, or Rival S then see what what it does. The Brembo are good for the price. The G37/370Z Akebono probably are a good choice too.
Motordyne G35 yeah this level of Coilover are all over 5k. JRZ, Moton, Anze, MCS, Penske, KW Clubsport are ok but I wasn't happy with their supplied Spring rates and there wasn't room to make changes. JRZ at least has a range to choose from and there is room to make custom changes. It's one of the top companies for sure.
whats your opnion on the tokico d shock? and why the swift spec r springs arent progressive spring terrible for track and linear springs better like the RSR?
You rock dude! Gonna be taking plenty of tips from this video. Thank you!!
This is awesome, thanks for the video! Good luck out there
Look at all those trophies. Hated vq’s until I owned one. I’m hooked.
Your explanation is excellent, loved it 😍 ❤
Awesome video!
Thanks for the tips!
Awesome vid! Seriously. Production quality was fine. The content was amazing. :-)
Anthony Nastasi glad you liked it!
As someone that doesn't know a whole lot about track cars this helps a lot
Thanks bro, I just got a high paying salary job and now have the money to turn my 2008 350z into a track car. I appreciate the video
did you do it?
@@mohamedsakka2338 wow old comment. Nope, ended up getting a truck and two new supersport motorcycles. I run them on track and I eventually got up into the advanced group. Tons of fun going fast while being smooth and knee down is awesome. Total motorcycle head now.
great start up guide coming from a 6yr hpde guy you hit the nail perfectly
Igor Fudym thanks a lot!
Great video straight and to the point..thanks Buddha
Great video, thanks for sharing the information! I found it very useful and helpful.👍🏼😊
Michael, I truly enjoyed your video, but even more your no-none sense approach to the decision-making on modifications. I found refreshing the similarities w/ my father --now a retired Pharmacologist-- and self-made automotive mechanical engineer. The latest was his real passion & it sure showed it on the track, and crazy "as needed" modifications he made on a "shoe string". The sweet smell of hot "Castrol" oil & burned rubber tires & the melodic sound of fine-tuned high rpm engines remains in my sensorial part of the brain. He trained one of his friends as pilot, who eventually placed 12th as part of the Porsche squadron in Le Mans. As a young impatience driver, I couldn't comprehend why it took my father such a long time to get to the "power" phase. He always said "fast cars need to be able to handle the curves, be stable, responsive & efficient on the entire performance range, but most importantly, one needs to be able to stop the car when you need it to stop... I am a newcomer to your group, but your video already inspired me to move forward --on the right foot-- w/ my 2008 350Z mods journey . I do thank you for that. However, was that a single turbo shown on your video? If so, any comments on what you have vs a twin one? My car will be used for street and weekend track. I n the meantime, I will be going over your prior videos.
Ivan Broce thanks for the response and good luck
this video was a huge help! thanks man
Very nice video!
From my personnal experience however I would put the anti-roll bars and seats before the LSD and shocks :
- Even with stock shocks the anti-roll bars make a huge difference, I was 3 seconds faster per lap at my local track after changing them (1'3x.xx laps).
- Stocks seats don't maintain well, with stock(ish) power you'll gain more with a good bucket seat than with coilovers, just because you'll have a way better control of the car.
Yeho_One thanks for the comment. For safety reasons I wouldn’t change the seat until you are ready to do cage, seat, harness, helmet, and Hans all together at once.
Love the video man. I just got a stock HR which I want to upgrade. Springs, sways, 4.08, exhaust, cai, cams, tune. Just did a JWT clutch & LW FW. For street.
Fantastic lol awkward and awesome. I have a 2003 z With everything on your list with the exception of the big GT wing :( this car is down about 2675 pounds making about 270 to the rear wheels. Big brake kit koni shocks with swift Springs fat fat sway bars this thing is a rocket ship it could be faster but it's about handling for now thanks for the good review bro
Good info. I’m glad I started with swift springs/Koni shocks 😎
Great video watched it at least 20 times
Awesome video man. Much appreciated.
Dorian Saray no problem man
Awesome stuff. Thanks.
sick ending too!
TheSeekerOfOneness thanks. I thought it was the worst of all time so I was like race clip will distract everyone.
Great stuff, I've done lots of that already but good to hear about my future intended updates too. (although my one will still largely be used on the street for now).
I'm really keen to learn more about the power upgrades, although I've seen what you've got, and read about Sasha's build but perhaps anything you'd do differently, or maybe what wasn't needed.
Oh, and I can wholly recommend Meister R GT1's for street/track use.
Rob PhoboS thanks. I'll try and come up with a power options video in the future.
Thanks for your advices, good video
Couple other weight reduction mods I've done and still kept my entire interior ( I'm also not racing ) are : ac condenser, compressor and its drive belt, aluminum crank pulley, idler pulley delete, shorter belt, 18lb flywheel vs stock 28, aluminium driveshaft (only about 1 oz lighter than stock I just needed a new one 🤣), 3lb weight removed from rear hatch lid, rear wiper and motor delete, wiper reservoir delete (I just carry a spray bottle 😅 dont want that overspray) removed the airbags, braum seats( I have a touring model ) and a couple lil tech's 😁
Oh And a z1 single exit with AAM test pipes dropped some 30lbs or so too much I cant remember everything 🤣
Nice, I did most of the mods in a similar order to my WRX which is a great track car but is also usable on the street. Just bought a mint 350Z and plan on going down the same path with that . . .
Nice. 350Z might be a bit easier on consumables than a WRX? Anyways, goodluck
@@2THPWR similar running costs
What a great video!
Thanks!
I hope to pursue a racing career and I plan on starting with a 350z! Wish me luck
Great video as usual
Adam Lyttle thanks!
This is a very good video. When I purchased my Z 2016. The tires had 275/35/19 on the rear and 245/35/19. On the front/rear, brand new Nitto Neo~Gens now. You are correct about the heaviness at the front handling. I like to keep the 19 inch rims, what tire size or brand for every day driving and track..?? I like to achieve a more balanced gripped performance ride. Btw, I like the Hotchkis swat bars. Its going to take a little bit of time to get it where it will handle and perform well. Please feel free to comment. Thank you very much. Finally, a very humble race driver. Subscribed
Sprydo7 I am honestly not even sure how to help with those wheel sizes. A staggered 19” set up looks good but you will be fighting with it at the Track from day 1. Since it’s a larger size you will also be paying a lot more for tires and a lot of the fastest brands of Street tires end at 18” in diameter sizing. The only advice I can give is put as wide a tire as you can fit on your front wheel. Something like a 265 up front wouldn’t be that bad. Try to get the tire sizes to eliminate a lot of the stagger. I believe Hankook makes some RS3 and RS4 in 19” sizes and Yokohama has the Neova AD08R.
Your video have pushed me to make a 350 my next track car. Maybe in the future make a video on all of your modifications like oil cooler/ Oil Sump you have ect.
TurboKDM thanks there is a full walk through on my channel... just take a look
I saw that video too. I think i have seen all your videos minus the fender once you use to do at first. I was more interested in how you installed the oil sump and oil cooler and stuff like that little more technical then just showing what you have. I'm interested in building a car, but want to start slow this time going to start with building it first safety things for the car fluids Cooling ect, then work from there. I was looking on a accusump but don't see how this will work since the space is limited under the z with Oil cooler ect. here is my other channel I had a track build 03 Mini cooper S.
th-cam.com/video/9oeZt6ceTmU/w-d-xo.html
Well done. Adding power should be the last or close to last thing one should do when making a track car. Chassis and suspension tuning come first but even before all that, #1 should have been driver mod. Have them take their stock car to the track and see what it's capable of. A stock 350z is already a handful for a lot of amateur drivers. Get some HPDE done with a stock car and then follow up with suspension, chassis, wheels, brakes, tires, lsd, aero and last power.
#1 was driver mod you dingus..
for my 2004 so far I've done: dot4, Hawk hp+, front poly bushings, front ball joints, adjustable uppers, Conti ExtremeContacts @ 245/255, new stock calipers, new fr bumper with splitter, new Corbeau seats (huge pita to get them low), CAI (no tuning allowed in CA), radiator flush, oil change to full synthetic, Tein shocks and springs, adjustable rear lowers. it's a good start in only 2mos.
Sounds like a good start
@@2THPWR hey Michael, regarding wheels... can you run 18x10.5 at 285 without modifying the fenders?
@@Aeneas137 I rolled all fenders.
@@2THPWR thanks, you've been a wealth of knowledge.
If my 350Z race car had priority an important improvement would be to move the engine back, perhaps remove the false firewall to give even more space back there. As you say, the most effective weight reductions increase the already front weight bias.
Nice Video with objective didactism points!
Keep em coming, You were the inspiration to me getting my 370Z over an S2000 #VQLIFE
That's awesome man. A few more vids coming up.
a Marvin yes but the s2000 would been good to
Great video, links to some upgrades would be nice.
awesome video!
great video, only suggestion I'd make is keep the volume level..have it to my ear to hear you talk and then my ear drum is busted with a straight pipe vq ;) the #vq35ftw
Also love your page and I’m sure you get asked a lot but what exhaust do you have? I think it might be Frankenstein’d but still would like a vague idea of whatcha got goin on, sounds beautiful! Also love the channel been watching for awhile now!
Such a good video man wish you had more views SUB AND LIKED
Great video! Thank you
The weight difference assuming the low end weight of the stock car and the figures you provided is only a difference of 124 lbs, most likely less since your car is stripped. The stock difference is 186 lbs, front bias. for anyone watching in later years wanting some Z info.
Looks like I'm pretty far along already. But I skipped the lsd part. Vlsd in my 07. However I'll eventually get to that.
Thank you.. great informative video
Great video Aug 2020 !
Awesome info thx
How did you decide on the camber settings, and do you change them ahead of an event based on the track you're going to, or do you keep them always at -3.7 front and -2.3 rear? Do you find your settings changing on their own to whatever degree after a race? Also, looks like you have Hotchkis sway bars...? What settings for front and back work best for you, re stiffest vs softest positions? Thanks.
Thanks dude this is a very good video I do not Have a 350 Z but an 01 Acura CL that has plenty of power and handling that I think I’m going to build and do next year also what our tracks do you go to
Michael Lawrence mostly tracks around Ontario Canada.
Agree with everything he lists.
AWESOME VIDEO MAN THANK YOU
skate pvp 👍
Awesome, just awesome!
Steven King thanks!
Great video man very informative and no filter bullshit
Back yard Specialist thanks man. Tried to throw something together and most find it helpful.
I am building my car that I can track and drive it on the street on the weekends this helps a lot
Hi michael. Thanks for the video! It's very interesting! About cooling; what water radiator recomends? Koyo? I have a 25 row's oil cooler but water temp rises to 102-103°C. Thanks!
Yes Koyo Racing
Did you have to do any alterations or anything special to fit 10.5" 285 tires in the front?
Love your video!
No.
Nice build my friend! I’d like to talk with you! I have a 2003 Track Edition that I had built from stock for the track. My Z was the “Bull Run Prep 350z “ featured on TH-cam but after trying a Track day I was hooked! Got rid of all the extra BS and now it’s track time.. let’s talk.. Will
Will Hough Cool. If you need any help let me know. I’ll do my best.
Have you ever managed to get the 350z to a wind tunnel to play with the aero? Could help with the weight issues. Use the wing to get the rear end tighter in corners to it doesn't swing out as bad
Nikki Cartee my car was built on a strict budget. Wind tunnel time is extremely expensive.
Hi Mike! Quick question. What are your thoughts on relocating the battery rewards? 30+ pounds shifted towards the rear might seem minimal, but it’s a step toward improving the Z’s weight distribution. Looking forward to your response and thanks for the video!
christopherpuig12 negligible improvement for the amount of labour to do correctly. Batteries I’ve used batteries as light as 6lbs. I literally only had the OEM battery in there because I needed ballast to make weight for a class I was in. If you were striving for optimum you could go to the trouble however.
Does running a square setup (tires and wheels) mess with VDC or anything? I have all 18x9.5 but 255 front and 275 rear.
KaosTheory360 No. I'd recommend turning VDC off at the track. But VDC is more dependent on tire height than width. But even with the front and rear tires being the same height the car will be ok.
I keep coming back to this video periodically every time I knock out some of the stuff on my "350z to do list" lol. Next up is trading in my street coilovers for some JRZ ones. Which ones do you have specifically or which ones do you prefer? Their vast customization options are a double edged sword when it comes to narrowing down any specifics.
Depends on budget mostly. Set a budget then get the best ones you can. I have RS Pro
Gotcha, your straightforwardness is always appreciated! I actually answered my question by watching your walk around/mod explanation, so I appreciate you taking the time to get an already redundant point across.
Erik J it’s all good.
Great video going for the essentials but no over doing anything either. I didn't see it in the video, did you do anything with the clutch or shifter?
AnthonyJ350 hey here's a complete walk through of my car. th-cam.com/video/6kdRDYBgw0Y/w-d-xo.html the clutch is a clutch masters carbon Kevlar. No point in touching the shifter.
Michael Gardner Not even replacing the worn out nylon bushing with a brass piece for better feel? Or you don't care for it? And is the hydraulic system upgraded at all?
All OEM. I only make changes where they will make the car measurably faster. No touchy feely mods. Just not my style. Track focused.
Michael Gardner That's cool, I can appreciate that.
Could you may show more of what’s done to the motor. Have a Z of my own and I’m dying to hear what you have done to it
This was the semi secret list until 2020. th-cam.com/video/88cN6SU5Wj0/w-d-xo.html It’s being improved a bit for 2021. Check out the channel as I’m organizing it better and posting updates more often.
Solid! TY!!!
Hi Michael, my 03 Z is a dedicated track car. I upgraded the entire front suspension bushings during this winter, whitelines for LCA, spl solid for the rest. I was wondering if it is necessary to upgrade the rear bushing as well, if you did, did you feel the difference? Thanks
Tony Gao no real difference in feel.
Hi great video. Ive curently got eibach sportline springs with oem shocks. I want to get the koni yellow sport shocks, will the eibachs be too much with the konis or woudl i be better getting the swift specs?
I think they will be a bit much and bit too low which will decrease your useful suspension travel. I had great experience with the Spec R. I’d sell the sport lines and pick up the swift spec R
Man that upper intake plenum mod tho :o
gonna subscribe to help make that review happen!
Haha 😆 thanks. I am climbing up slowly
Great vid mike. Keem em coming.
Very glad I found this channel...recently purchased an 04 z , it is stock..past weekend finally got back on track after few years absence...I am use to driving older style m3's so very different feeling in the z...I do like it, but do have kids so either a second car or an m3....nonetheless this is lot of great info!! Thx for making these videos!! Awesome car you build..awesome driving!!👍
Thanks for the info!
BenRittenhouse no problem.
Best ending ever, would car be ok with koni upgrade and stock springs, or is stock spring to mushy for the track
r0mulyni2 it would be ok completely stock. I’d go out and have fun with it stock for a while and replace things as the need arises.
Michael Gardner yea 2 track days now, njmp was ok smooth turns, went to another small track in Englishtown NJ was very technical, car was all over the place but also running crappy tires 245 all way around, thanks for the tips man much appreciate it.
Hey Michael I love your videos and need your input. I have been trying to religiously follow your advice about building my 2006 Nissan 350z track car.
I just bought
brembos front and rear with stop tech steel braided brake lines and high temp brake fluid
Mishimoto aluminum radiator & oilcooler also a oil catch can.
What is your opinion on carbon fiber bits such as the hatch and hood I’m trying to shed weight. I’ve noticed you don’t have any full carbon fiber parts on the car. I wasn’t sure if it was to keep the weight more balanced or if you felt it wasn’t necessary. Also have you done any ecu tuning to the car? I’ve watched you videos and it seems like you cammed the car which is out of my price range for now.
Any information will be very useful. This video is really the only information I have to go by as far as building the car. Not many people are knowledgeable about this car in Louisiana.
Thanks, Kenny
Carbon parts if they are light are a great option. The only reason I don’t have carbon bits is that I’ve always competed on a shoe string budget.
Michael Gardner thanks for your reply.
how's fitmeant with the wheels and 285 tyres and streering response I have coil overs and camber/toe arms. hoping to running them on street and track. are they liveable and no poke. or am I better off with 265 on 18x 9.5. hoping to stick with sqaure set up
Lightning lashX more tire up front is better in every conceivable way. I used 305 up front with no problems. So if it’s a choice 285 is the one to go for, preferably on the the 10.5” wide wheel
Thanks for the info, I'm glad I already have about 9/13
great! shared the video with the local Z group. but a Question!: can't you fix the weight distribution with Corner Balancing?
mas921 corner balancing will optimize your weight distribution but it can't mask huge discrepancies.
Michael Gardner got it!
Hi MIchael, I've been following your racing for some time. I have the koni/swift combo you spoke of, I wanted to ask if you still recommend a square wheel setup on those shocks/springs?
Alex Ramirez hey thanks for following. Yes square for sure.
Michael Gardner thanks! Keep up the great work on track!
Awesome video, thanks!! Also, any reason you haven't replaced more panels with carbon? The price of carbon fenders etc. is relatively cheap for the 350z.
TheForcedinductn just because I am cheap. I really would like some Carbon parts starting with a hatch.
Haha yeah, can be hard to spend that much on some body panels :) I've heard the hatch and roof skin can help a lot, considering how much those factory parts weigh and how high up they are. Do you think carbon fenders/hood/splitter would shave enough weight to help with the weight balance?
definitely. a carbon hatch, then a carbon front clip that contains a hood, fenders, and front bumper would be amazing.
What pads have you found the best for track use ?
Given all the modifications that you end up doing to this vehicle, might it make more sense to simply pay for a higher end stock model?
Nifter222 it depends on what your goals are and what type of racing you want to do.
Did you have to roll the fenders for those wheels and tires? I'm looking at a set that are 18x10 +15.
OH yes, Sorry for the late reply. Yes they needed a slight roll
How does a modded 350 feel on track? I currently have an mk7 gti and it's too numb for my preference even after swapping to poly bushings. Can't really feel what the tires are doing through corners. Is the 350 in the same boat?
JayTac1 my theory is that feel is secondary to performance. I think you can train your brain to adapt to just about anything. If you are driving the limit and you are going fast who cares how it feels?
What camber and toe do you have on your set up? And how bad does it eat your inner tire tread on the rear?
CK_32 your Camber will be set up to even your wear and increase your contact patch at the track. So with proper camber you will actually get less wear. I don't remember toe but my camber was last set at about -3.7F and -2.0 rear
What wing are you running?
Hi Michael, awesome video! just wondering what is your normal oil temp? With Mishimoto rad and oil cooler, my Z hits 260 - 270 after 4 -5 hot laps :(
Manjiburger almost never over 180-190.
what brand and weight do you used ? Seem really high temp with these mods...
Amsoil signature 0w40, also tried Penrite 10w40. Same temp.
How does a 18x10.5 15 offset fit in the front? I had 18x10 22 and it just fit in my case stock camber
Hey, I have 18x9.5 12 offset in the front with 275s on stock suspension and it's hella flush. Without some added camber the 18,10.5 with 275+ will rub.
Which 305 did you run? Thanks!
What holes are you running on your Hotchkins?
I love your vids man! I'm taking a long shot for a response . I was about to buy some ksport coilovers and i kept hearing you say to avoid cheap coilovers. I'm guessing those are in that class.. Are BC coilovers also considered cheap? Without going into too much detail my fairly experienced racing friends are saying im a fool if i get koni yellow and swift springs instead of at least bc..
Robert Fender I don’t know. I haven’t tried BC. I’m not sure they are at the forefront yet in damper tech.
Thanks for the response brother! I agree with that and a good indicator of that is that megan racing has the exact coilover for the same price! The konis already have adjustable stiffness so the only things bc coilovers offer is height adjustment and preloading the springs. I want to stay around stock height so the only other factor is the preloading.
You can get adjustable collars for the Konis to control ride height and corner balance. I’m going to say... Koni dampers better than BC for sure. Just my opinion.
What wing is that?
10:00 giving that Miata a run for it's money!
Johnny Browning ah, that’s an S2000 (red) and a civic (white)