Novice looking to track my road car

[I am The Gimp]

Hi All,

Seems the best place to ask really.

I have done a lot to my car over the last two years and now wish to take my car on track purely for the thrill and not to impress my friends (to point of going tits up) with no pressure. lol

I am on the verge of buying a crash helmet and some gloves to give me that push I need. I was looking at open face helmts? Would you suggest this or closed?

I have now recently found out that I would need to change a few extra things on my car to cope with track days with the added temps engine.

noise friendly exhaust
Baffled Sump
Oil Cooler
Oil Pump

Thing is where can you go for OPEN Novice track days? I don't fancy wanting to go just out in the morning or afternoon where I am limited for time on track. I simply want to go out on track for as long or as little as I like without the pressure of knowing I only have limited time until the session is stopped etc.

What tracks would you suggest for this. Was going to try Lydden Hill to start off with then work my way onto bigger/faster tracks.
dB readings also for my car so need to know what track has what limit for dB. Are they all STATIC readings you need to pass?

What price range am I looking at for the day. Will an instructor come with this

Was due to be going on track on 27th Feb for a great price for ALL DAY OPEN but due to time scale/money/Getting married a month later and my wife to be having her hen weekend that weekend I have to look after my two children so unable to make this now. D'oh.

Thank you for reading. Look forward to your feedback.

Steve

[anonymous-user]

try a track day with sessions rather than open pit lane. that way you are with other beginners and there wont be too many faster cars always passing you. you may spend more time looking in the mirrors than out of the front on an open pit lane day....

there a good beginenrs guides on the trackday organsiers website eg bookatrack (other trackday organisers are available) http://bookatrack.com/-pb_Frequently-Asked-Questio...

[Matt UK]

First track day I did was a novice day at Brands Hatch Indy.

Good day as everyone was a vigin, sessioned so you are not out too long, plus it's an easy circuit to learn. Instructors could be booked for a session (about £25 I think).

Hire a helmet on the day. Just make sure car is fit, levels and pressures are right.

Start slow, learn the track and slowly build up the pace within your limits is the best advice I can give you. 20mins driving is the max for me. I get tired and start to go off of the boil ling before the car does.

[Sour Kraut]

Best value and customer service for racing helmets on the 'net, IMO.

www.v2sport.com

And open face has several advantages if your car has a roof: lighter, less hot, better visibility.
Only downside is you won't be able to be a passenger in someone else's open top car.

[marky911]

^^^^
I'm about to buy one of these, have heard good things.
I only wear full face lids, not open. I drive an open top car now but, even in saloon cars I wear full face. Should the worst happen and debris comes through windscreen, I'd want my face protected that bit more.
As mentioned though, just hire one for your first couple of days.
With regards to your car, just make sure it's in good shape, especially tyres and brakes, inc. fluid. Check your levels after each session and spanner check the important stuff, such as wheel nuts, etc.
Good for you on getting out there. The amount of petrolheads I know who won't go on track is amazing. You'll love it. Expect instant addiction and future expense though!

[I am The Gimp]

Thanks for the feedback and input guys.

I guess looking back at it I should start off Novice ONLY day.

Do you know if on a Novice day you can hire a pit box?
I know a few friends and people I know who have a full Race B and Int'l license but would they allow this?

I am changing my brake pads so will be doing a fluid change again too. Tyres was hoping to get a set of spares and put some 888's or KU19's on the car but may just stick with my Paradas.

Currently my car is running the following spec (as it is now)

Engine/Drivetrain Modifications:
HDi FMIC (Harvey Smith MBE) with CAIK
Green Cone Filter with the above
Zero Sports Thermostat
MD321T
Lateral Performance tubular headers and up-pipe wrapped
840cc injectors
Fuelab reg (micro 2 port)
Parallel Rails
RCM Team ICE system with NON RES CENTRE
RCM Sports CAT
DV Delete
Catch Can
Coolant T/body - Manifold delete
Lateral Performance
Manifold Thernal Spacers
RCM Extended bolts
Lateral Performance Turbo intake pipe
Helix 240mm uprated single clutch (Organic)

Simtek ECU remapped By JollyGreenMonster
Anti Lag
Launch Control
MAP Switch to 95/97ron or V -Power + Meth

255 Walbro pump
3 Port Boost Solenoid
V-POWER with 5ltrs of Meth
Silkolene PRO S 10w/50 Engine oil
TEIN Bonnet lifters
Grp N short shift
Hardrace Uprated:

• Engine mounts
• Gearbox mounts
• Stabilizer

453.0 bhp & 386 lbft V Power + 7% Meth
354 bhp & 315 lbft on 95 Ron

• at Surrey Rolling Road

Suspension Modifications:
AST Coilovers 30/50 **
Whiteline ARB 3 way rear/front (24mm(r) / 22mm(f) **
Whiteline Rear solid droplinks **
Whiteline ALK **
Whiteline Steering rack bushes
STi upper strut brace

• = part of the Powerstation Stage 3 - T25 Spec Kit

Wheels/Tires Modifications:
ROTA GRA's
YOKOHAMA Parada Spc 2 225/40/18

BRAKES:
Brembo Sports discs drilled all round
EBC Yellow Stuff pads all round
Braided hoses all round
AP Racing 5.1 Brake fluid


Interior/Exterior Modifications:
SAGA Racing Boost gauge mounted into a-pillar vent
Dymo for switches (ALS,L/C & MAP)
Blitz Turbo timer
Scoobyworld Mudflaps
AST rear risers for coilovers
Blobeye(2005) wing mirrors painted.
Prodrive Diff Guard
Prodrive lower grille in black
Prodrive Bumper (with CAI in fog lamp)
Prodrive Spoiler
Prodrive side skirts
Prodrive gear knob
VW Golf customer made door protector on the fronts
VW Polo customer made door protector on the rears
STi logo's on Blue
Debadged "SUBARU" boot lid
STi boot badge with blue surround
De-tango'd using Silvertec bulbs
Armourfend
Pongo air freshner

Just have to remember not to switch the ALS on when on track.


V2 helmets look good value for money. Was looking at a Bell Mag 1 but the V2 range has blown me away for price.

Steve

[andye30m3]

First few trackdays I did were on the Brands hatch indy circuit, I'd recommend it.

Not sure I'd do Lydden as a first one it's a bit tight in places for overtaking safely, brands hatch has the advantage of a couple of reasonable straights where you can ease off and let faster cars past easily.

this link might be worth a look http://www.clubmsv.com/car-home/novice-only.aspx

[I am The Gimp]

andye30m3 said:

First few trackdays I did were on the Brands hatch indy circuit, I'd recommend it.

Not sure I'd do Lydden as a first one it's a bit tight in places for overtaking safely, brands hatch has the advantage of a couple of reasonable straights where you can ease off and let faster cars past easily.

this link might be worth a look http://www.clubmsv.com/car-home/novice-only.aspx

Thank you for the link.

Will contact MSV to see extra dates.

Steve

[anonymous-user]

I am The Gimp said:

lots of impressive stuff and then.....

I am The Gimp said:

pongo air freshener

which made me chuckle!

[chrissimp]

I am The Gimp said:

Thanks for the feedback and input guys.

I guess looking back at it I should start off Novice ONLY day.

Do you know if on a Novice day you can hire a pit box?
I know a few friends and people I know who have a full Race B and Int'l license but would they allow this?

I am changing my brake pads so will be doing a fluid change again too. Tyres was hoping to get a set of spares and put some 888's or KU19's on the car but may just stick with my Paradas.

Currently my car is running the following spec (as it is now)

Engine/Drivetrain Modifications:
HDi FMIC (Harvey Smith MBE) with CAIK
Green Cone Filter with the above
Zero Sports Thermostat
MD321T
Lateral Performance tubular headers and up-pipe wrapped
840cc injectors
Fuelab reg (micro 2 port)
Parallel Rails
RCM Team ICE system with NON RES CENTRE
RCM Sports CAT
DV Delete
Catch Can
Coolant T/body - Manifold delete
Lateral Performance
Manifold Thernal Spacers
RCM Extended bolts
Lateral Performance Turbo intake pipe
Helix 240mm uprated single clutch (Organic)

Simtek ECU remapped By JollyGreenMonster
Anti Lag
Launch Control
MAP Switch to 95/97ron or V -Power + Meth

255 Walbro pump
3 Port Boost Solenoid
V-POWER with 5ltrs of Meth
Silkolene PRO S 10w/50 Engine oil
TEIN Bonnet lifters
Grp N short shift
Hardrace Uprated:

• Engine mounts
• Gearbox mounts
• Stabilizer

453.0 bhp & 386 lbft V Power + 7% Meth
354 bhp & 315 lbft on 95 Ron

• at Surrey Rolling Road

Suspension Modifications:
AST Coilovers 30/50 **
Whiteline ARB 3 way rear/front (24mm(r) / 22mm(f) **
Whiteline Rear solid droplinks **
Whiteline ALK **
Whiteline Steering rack bushes
STi upper strut brace

• = part of the Powerstation Stage 3 - T25 Spec Kit

Wheels/Tires Modifications:
ROTA GRA's
YOKOHAMA Parada Spc 2 225/40/18

BRAKES:
Brembo Sports discs drilled all round
EBC Yellow Stuff pads all round
Braided hoses all round
AP Racing 5.1 Brake fluid


Interior/Exterior Modifications:
SAGA Racing Boost gauge mounted into a-pillar vent
Dymo for switches (ALS,L/C & MAP)
Blitz Turbo timer
Scoobyworld Mudflaps
AST rear risers for coilovers
Blobeye(2005) wing mirrors painted.
Prodrive Diff Guard
Prodrive lower grille in black
Prodrive Bumper (with CAI in fog lamp)
Prodrive Spoiler
Prodrive side skirts
Prodrive gear knob
VW Golf customer made door protector on the fronts
VW Polo customer made door protector on the rears
STi logo's on Blue
Debadged "SUBARU" boot lid
STi boot badge with blue surround
De-tango'd using Silvertec bulbs
Armourfend
Pongo air freshner

Just have to remember not to switch the ALS on when on track.


V2 helmets look good value for money. Was looking at a Bell Mag 1 but the V2 range has blown me away for price.

Steve

Hi Gimp

You don't mention Warpdrive. This is essential for track days! Apologies, but your mention of air freshioners did it.

With regard to helmets, You should not choose on price alone - your head is very important (to you) and you should get the very best you can afford.

[GravelBen]

chrissimp said:

With regard to helmets, You should not choose on price alone - your head is very important (to you) and you should get the very best you can afford.

Though a cheap helmet that fits your head properly will be better than an expensive helmet that doesn't.

[mikey P 500]

There are several novice track days that are open pit and ran just like any other track day (just missed one at Bedford yesterday). MSV seem to do them every so often.
http://www.clubmsv.com/car-home.aspx
To be honest you would be fine starting on a normal day, your cars sounds fairly fast so, just try not to hold up the slower performance (but maybe better driven) cars in the corners, and if you do, ease off on the straights to let them past.
As said you will really enjoy it and its very addictive.

[I am The Gimp]

Sorry late reply on my part. Been mega busy with wedding plans so the track day adventure had to take a back seat.

I've got oil cooler at home now. Water Pump, Oil Pump sat at a friends house and all fluids to change on the car.

Will be buying sump plate/baffle,timing belt and tensioner (whilst they come off for the water pump and oil pump).

Had a recent geo set up by JS Engineer. Fab job car feels some much more planted and nicer to drive but noticed today the outter edge on my n/s front looking a little sorry for itself so will need to get some new tyres. Having said that for an extra few hundred pound more I can get a set of new wheels and tyres as a package so may go that route and keep my current wheels (just re-paint them an silly colour lol) for track but change that tyre of course.

Anything else?

I popped over to Stand 21 for a helmet fitting and glove fitting. Lovely guys but sadly the products not within my current budget.

I was a size 58/60mm (I think) and size 8 or 9 gloves (the tighter 8's felt better).

Steve

[V8mate]

I am The Gimp said:

I popped over to Stand 21 for a helmet fitting and glove fitting. Lovely guys but sadly the products not within my current budget.

I was a size 58/60mm (I think) and size 8 or 9 gloves (the tighter 8's felt better).

www.v2sport.com

[s2t]

As has been said before the v2 and hedtec are roughly the same price PERSONALLY I found the v2 to be very uncomfortable and went for hedtec (who also give good after sales) http://www.hedtec.co.uk/

[JQ]

Do you really need gloves? Racing drivers wear them for their fire resistance not their gripping ability. Unless you are wearing a full Nomex suit and boots I don't see the point - plus I think driving gloves are designed with Alcantara steering wheels in mind, so you'll get better grip with your bear hands on a standard wheel.

Helmet, again there's no rush. Go on a few trackdays and get a feel for it first. They're generally £10 to hire for the whole day. It may help you decide if you want full face or open, plus it'll give you more time to decide.

You're better off spending your cash on some tuition, you'll get much more benefit from it. I had 2 sessions on my first day and it made a big difference. Then, if you do get hooked (as you will) your experiences on track and chatting to the other guys on the days will help you in your purchasing decisions.

[Cavey]

+1

You will be amazed how much more quickly you learn a track, and track driving in general, with some tuition. I know there is a natural temptation to want to be a track god 'out of the box', but when you're flying past other cars because you know what you're doing and they don't you won't regret it!

[Zed Ed]

Avoid gloves and racing boots; it's your first outing

I suspect the (fettled) specification of your car will be irrelevant, to how much you enjoy the day.

[BertBert]

I am trying to find a way to put this OP as it's a genuine thought, so please forgive if it comes out wrong.

I think you might want to reconsider your thought processes about your first track day. By that I mean you should put aside all that car techy-nutter-tuning stuff (was going to say bks but only in a nice way).

I think most of the people who do track days have seen the type of driver they get scared of. I'm sure it's not you, but they turn up in their turbo-nutter-bd cars and tear round without a thought to what they are doing becuase they have a super-highly-tuned impregnable 4wd japanese car and are a danger to everyone and everything, especially themselves.

I think ones thoughts at this stage should be about moderate driving, having instruction, taking it easy on the car and novice driver and enjoying the feeling of how much nicer the right lines feel when you start getting them.

Again, I hope you don't mind me saying it, and I'm sure you aren't that kind of driver!

Bert

[M3BUZ]

As youre based in Surrey Brands Hatch should be a no brainer
Loads of dates this year for novice only and plenty of garages free if you pick an evening session, helmet hire too, if you are unsure which type to buy, try both open and closed at Brands - leave your timberlands at home slim fitting trainers are ok (most go for pumas)First time through Paddock Hill bend you will know if trackdays are for you - have fun