E46 M3 road legal track car
Discussion
Had a lengthy-ish build thread on here before the greedy b******s at photobucked destroyed it.
(As Photobucket has done over my last build, here's a new one)
Brought this car bone stock in late 2012 and never had intentions on turning it into a fully fledge track car.
First track outing was November 2014 and has been a steady stream of modifications and track days since.
IMG_5933 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5955 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5941 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5934 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
And now (summer 2017)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
This is as the car stands today, I've just picked up a CSF oil cooler and a Motorsport 4.10 diff ratio to rebuild a spare diff, just need to decided on what LSD to go for.
________________________________
Been a while since updated this;
Haven't had a dry track day since June last year
Snetterton... managed a 2:08 with a knacked stock diff that was no longer locking
CH_170608_SN_Cars_0226 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
CH_170608_SN_Cars_0808 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
CH_170608_SN_Cars_1655 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
CH_170608_SN_Cars_1679 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Goodwood.. only managed to match my best of a 1:27, no matter how much pushed on was still the same time; was an extremely hot day so I blame that
PBWPIX by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
PBWPIX by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Got given some GSR carbon wings so chucked them on to see how the fit was before painting them (which in the end took about 5 months)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
4.10 and Wavetrac going in
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Had two 20 min sessions around Castle Combe... first time on the circuit and first time on AD08R, not a track I enjoyed but could of just been down to conditions, best was only a 1:20
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Plumbing in the CSF oil cooler, my stock lines had cracked so used the end OEM fittings that went into the oil cooler itself with some AN10 fittings welded on so I could use braided lines
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Done Bedford GT again to see if my custom exhaust with 3 boxes would pass noise regs... first session out black flagged
was 0.7 db below the limit so spent the rest of the day short shifting and lifting out, not ideal but was a freezing, wet and to start icy day but still had fun... temps never went above 2 degrees, best was only 2:57
by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Being 6'3 I like my seat low but the steering wheel was left a little high, so I made a 5 to 10mm shim which has lowered it perfectly!
by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Jan 2018... Wings and some other little bits of body work finally painted
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
New PF front rotors with black bells and RSL29 pads
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Side note bought some 3 piece splits to put the AD08R on, there all built and tyred up but yet to see the car
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Refitted a stock exhaust system to pass noise regs at Bedford GT with no lift, and I've never done Thruxton which is even more strict so this downgrade should get me in there no problems (fingers crossed)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
I for one actually love the sound of the stock system and have even missed the rasp/rattle.
Lastly carried out a full service so I'm all ready for track days 2018
First one booked is Bedford GT this Saturday coming 17/2/18
___________________________________________________________
Some onboard footage
https://youtu.be/r5O0fZoR9Vo
https://youtu.be/jnoeu6ip9HY
https://youtu.be/josfeMxLtx0
___________________________________________________________
So Bedford GT on 17th Feb went okay-ish. Was sunny and dry but a cold day, managed 4 session in the morning and on the 4th got the dreaded black flag for going over the driveby db limit...game over
Turns out when I installed my stock exhaust system I clearly hadn't done up from my cats to centre section tight enough, only 3 out of the 6 bolts were left and they were obviously loose too, had also blow out the gasket.
We only realised this after we'd loaded up the car and was driving out of the pits with the windows open, couldn't tell at all with windows up and helmet on.
I've since fitted new gaskets, bolts that are done up FT and also double nutted it just to be sure it never happens again.
Some pictures and video from the day
1DX25626 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Run-of-the-mill GTR holding up braking zones and corners
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX25514 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX25561 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Fun lap chasing an Aerial Atom
https://youtu.be/nnEAdr4yoPA
Got my hand on some Image billet 60 motorsport wheels that needed a refurb.
Had the centres done in Satin black and lips in Gloss black to break it up a little then bought a new set of bolts and built them in my lounge.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Finished off with some Ti studs from PSdesign
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Wheels have directional centres for added brake cooling. 9.5" up front and 11" out back, which I may reduce down to 10.5 or even 10 to make tyres fit little better.
________
Just gave the car a quick wip over and a nut & bolt check to make sure all is well for Rockingham on the 24th March
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Also have a few session around Silverstone on Easter Monday at the PistonHeads meet was rebooked due to snow.
(As Photobucket has done over my last build, here's a new one)
Brought this car bone stock in late 2012 and never had intentions on turning it into a fully fledge track car.
First track outing was November 2014 and has been a steady stream of modifications and track days since.
IMG_5933 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5955 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5941 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5934 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrAnd now (summer 2017)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrThis is as the car stands today, I've just picked up a CSF oil cooler and a Motorsport 4.10 diff ratio to rebuild a spare diff, just need to decided on what LSD to go for.
________________________________
Been a while since updated this;
Haven't had a dry track day since June last year
Snetterton... managed a 2:08 with a knacked stock diff that was no longer locking
CH_170608_SN_Cars_0226 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrCH_170608_SN_Cars_0808 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrCH_170608_SN_Cars_1655 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrCH_170608_SN_Cars_1679 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrGoodwood.. only managed to match my best of a 1:27, no matter how much pushed on was still the same time; was an extremely hot day so I blame that
PBWPIX by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrPBWPIX by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrGot given some GSR carbon wings so chucked them on to see how the fit was before painting them (which in the end took about 5 months)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr4.10 and Wavetrac going in
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrHad two 20 min sessions around Castle Combe... first time on the circuit and first time on AD08R, not a track I enjoyed but could of just been down to conditions, best was only a 1:20
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrPlumbing in the CSF oil cooler, my stock lines had cracked so used the end OEM fittings that went into the oil cooler itself with some AN10 fittings welded on so I could use braided lines
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrDone Bedford GT again to see if my custom exhaust with 3 boxes would pass noise regs... first session out black flagged
was 0.7 db below the limit so spent the rest of the day short shifting and lifting out, not ideal but was a freezing, wet and to start icy day but still had fun... temps never went above 2 degrees, best was only 2:57 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrBeing 6'3 I like my seat low but the steering wheel was left a little high, so I made a 5 to 10mm shim which has lowered it perfectly!
by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrJan 2018... Wings and some other little bits of body work finally painted
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrNew PF front rotors with black bells and RSL29 pads
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrSide note bought some 3 piece splits to put the AD08R on, there all built and tyred up but yet to see the car
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrRefitted a stock exhaust system to pass noise regs at Bedford GT with no lift, and I've never done Thruxton which is even more strict so this downgrade should get me in there no problems (fingers crossed)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrI for one actually love the sound of the stock system and have even missed the rasp/rattle.
Lastly carried out a full service so I'm all ready for track days 2018
First one booked is Bedford GT this Saturday coming 17/2/18
___________________________________________________________
Some onboard footage
https://youtu.be/r5O0fZoR9Vo
https://youtu.be/jnoeu6ip9HY
https://youtu.be/josfeMxLtx0
___________________________________________________________
So Bedford GT on 17th Feb went okay-ish. Was sunny and dry but a cold day, managed 4 session in the morning and on the 4th got the dreaded black flag for going over the driveby db limit...game over
Turns out when I installed my stock exhaust system I clearly hadn't done up from my cats to centre section tight enough, only 3 out of the 6 bolts were left and they were obviously loose too, had also blow out the gasket.
We only realised this after we'd loaded up the car and was driving out of the pits with the windows open, couldn't tell at all with windows up and helmet on.
I've since fitted new gaskets, bolts that are done up FT and also double nutted it just to be sure it never happens again.
Some pictures and video from the day
1DX25626 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrRun-of-the-mill GTR holding up braking zones and corners
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX25514 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX25561 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrFun lap chasing an Aerial Atom
https://youtu.be/nnEAdr4yoPA
Got my hand on some Image billet 60 motorsport wheels that needed a refurb.
Had the centres done in Satin black and lips in Gloss black to break it up a little then bought a new set of bolts and built them in my lounge.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrFinished off with some Ti studs from PSdesign
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrWheels have directional centres for added brake cooling. 9.5" up front and 11" out back, which I may reduce down to 10.5 or even 10 to make tyres fit little better.
________
Just gave the car a quick wip over and a nut & bolt check to make sure all is well for Rockingham on the 24th March
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrAlso have a few session around Silverstone on Easter Monday at the PistonHeads meet was rebooked due to snow.
AmosMoses said:
Good god man! That is fabulous, bet this thing can really move on track, awesome.
Thank you... does okay on track, trying to do as many days as possible this year to get all the seat time inBowen86 said:
Absolutely love this. Pretty sure I saw it at Castle Combe, in the monsoon conditions.
Keep up the good work mate.
Yeah think it was the forge action day ? Keep up the good work mate.
Here's a onboard of how bad it was out there https://instagram.com/p/BY4KwfNBR_4/
ManOpener said:
Love the Apex ARC-8s, such a fantastic looking wheel.
They are my fav wheel, any other wheel that goes on the car has to complete with Apex's and it's tough. C2james said:
Do slightly love this car, follow it on Instagram and 197.net when you had the Clio (AG 200). I’ve only had my M3 a week and already started in small things haha
Good man... do kind of miss that clio cup.m3jappa said:
Im loving this! Especially the wheels!
What is that shifter? is it sequential or just higher up normal. I had a geoff steel one in my old e36 m3 and it was excellent.
It's a CAE shifter, so still a normal H pattern but just up higher and sprung loaded so always centrals to neutral.What is that shifter? is it sequential or just higher up normal. I had a geoff steel one in my old e36 m3 and it was excellent.
Check it out on some onboards... https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7gbiMdKGGcV0P24Z...
james_gt3rs said:
Ah I know this car, flew passed me at Bedford last time I went (yellow VX220, December ish). Quick car!
The wet and icy day ? Bad conditions and had to short shift for noise but still had fun!Jay_87 said:
MEGA car, can't wait to see it on track at Rockingham... i'm coming a passenger ride!
Looking forward to it mate. Haven't managed to upload any footage or photos from Rockingham yet... but did buy a few photos from a couple of Silverstone session on Easter monday
This event was first schedule for the beginning of March but was snowed off, a month on and typically snow was forecasted again... but thankfully we only got heavy rain, and I was not going to let that stop me.
Silverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Silverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Silverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Silverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Silverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
They've actually resurfaced Silverstone start to finish, on first impression grip level is up in the wet so hopefully the same in the dry, biggest thing noticed was how much louder it was through the car, especially in braking.
Car performed pretty faultlessly, will try get around to uploading GoPro footage.
This event was first schedule for the beginning of March but was snowed off, a month on and typically snow was forecasted again... but thankfully we only got heavy rain, and I was not going to let that stop me.
Silverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrSilverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrSilverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrSilverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrSilverstone National 2-4-18 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrThey've actually resurfaced Silverstone start to finish, on first impression grip level is up in the wet so hopefully the same in the dry, biggest thing noticed was how much louder it was through the car, especially in braking.
Car performed pretty faultlessly, will try get around to uploading GoPro footage.
shalmaneser said:
Whats the deal with the machined cam cover, reduces the strain on the coil packs?
Are the Apex wheels 18's? I've always thought e46 M3's look a bit over-wheeled on 19's, especially the overly blingy OEM ones.
Exactly that, with the cover on the coil packs get too hot; I really don't like the look of it without the cover so this is my compromise. Are the Apex wheels 18's? I've always thought e46 M3's look a bit over-wheeled on 19's, especially the overly blingy OEM ones.
Yes all my wheels are 18"
MX6 said:
Great machine, almost looks too clean for a track car! All the additions look tasteful, I really like those purposeful looking split rims...
tomkingshott said:
this is an absolutely gorgeous looking machine fair play to you mate! great to see it getting some abuse on track too absolutely adore an e46
h3nde said:
Seen the car a few times at the Akeman Inn and at Kop Hill. Really nice clean build, I liked the single exit exhaust you had then. I even hear DannyDC2 talk about your car in his videos 
Thanks guys E30M3ZONE said:
Fantastic.
Why oh why did I sell mine?
Haven't look at prices of them for a while, as old M cars have proven can only guess they'll slowly keep going up. Why oh why did I sell mine?
Edited by E30M3ZONE on Friday 6th April 12:17
573 said:
As I've said elsewhere, love this car Sam. 
Owlwood said:
Great read, thanks for sharing.
Thanks SebringMan said:
As always it's a great read.
For the Google Chrome users with a plug-in your old thread isn't dead and still very much visible
.
I saw the wheels at Silverstone and felt they looked superb! How do the AD08Rs compare to the NS-2Rs and AR-1s you had?
Another thing I wish to know is how come you didn't go to the CSL airbox? I know they are not cheap but am also aware Eventuris and gold leaf isn't exactly bargainous either.
The whole package looks superb.
I use Chrome, bit of an amature when it comes to computers so what is the plug-in ?For the Google Chrome users with a plug-in your old thread isn't dead and still very much visible
.I saw the wheels at Silverstone and felt they looked superb! How do the AD08Rs compare to the NS-2Rs and AR-1s you had?
Another thing I wish to know is how come you didn't go to the CSL airbox? I know they are not cheap but am also aware Eventuris and gold leaf isn't exactly bargainous either
. The whole package looks superb.
Thank you, have just ordered some narrower inner rims for the rear to reduce down to 10" and get ride of the risky tyre stretch. NS-2R even in my early day I thought were crap! AR1's are truly amazing in the dry, would definitely buy again. So far I've only used the AD08R in the wet, to which they do really well, really stable and predictable, I've the 200 treadwear rated ones too so they should last a long time.
Kind of never bothered with a csl styled airbox, on my first ever track day with a pretty basic car and nerves raging I as quicker than a handful of other M3's that all had more experience and carbon air boxes. Since that day I've never looked into them... not saying I'd turn one down but just not in the position to drop another 2k for airbox and map.
kars said:
That steering wheel is momo mod 69 or 78?
78 330mm (that actually measures up at 320mm) the oval grip is so good!AmosMoses said:
Saw this at the SS looking absolutely epic, went like stink too!
Thankskin quick said:
I love this! Looks brilliant Sam
I didn't realise it was you who I bought the Team Dynamic wheels from in December this year
Ah yes.. believe I was out of the shop so you would of seen my dad. Hope you're still enjoying them. I didn't realise it was you who I bought the Team Dynamic wheels from in December this year
Maldini35 said:
Lovely car.
Great work
Great work
Tickle said:
That looks amazing and no doubt goes like a stabbed rat!
Your upgrade choices look spot on. The fit and finish appears to of been done well.
It does okay Your upgrade choices look spot on. The fit and finish appears to of been done well.
Thanks guys
Aes87 said:
Saw an E46 M3 parked on the street today in black with a burgundy interior and my prevailing thought was that it was a quality item and that they don’t make them like that anymore. Things were done properly back then. Now you have to talk to a robot and your iPhone reads your face
Exactly that!.. like you say its all changed now. Love the e46 platform that bought a 330i sport auto for a run about car, was so easy to learn left foot braking in it that its second nature now. 
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrNunga said:
Love this car and what you’ve done with it. I guess it isn’t registered anymore, but at what point did it become impossible, or difficult to keep it registered? Well done for RCOTW!
Yeah its still on the road, I just have removable number plates (that turn out don't re-stick too well in the wet and is now somewhere on the M40)giblet said:
If by registered you mean road legal with MOT etc then you might want to check the title!
Cracking thread. You’re not helping my obsession with the E46 M3. Yours looks like a well put together track car. I’m hoping to pick one up in a month or so but it will be less extreme in terms of setup. I’m also a big fan of the AD08R tyres, loved them on my Evo x.
Thanks, I'm eager to see what the Yoko's have to offer in the dry. Cracking thread. You’re not helping my obsession with the E46 M3. Yours looks like a well put together track car. I’m hoping to pick one up in a month or so but it will be less extreme in terms of setup. I’m also a big fan of the AD08R tyres, loved them on my Evo x.
e30m3Mark said:
Always enjoy your updates Sam and am usually quick to check classifieds soon after. The E46 M3 is the only alternative I would consider to my E30. If fact, many of your mods inspired those I've made to my own car and the quality of finish also.
The Image splits look great too. (I've been talking with them about getting a set of BPS later this year) The combination of satin and gloss black really works against the Estoril blue paintwork.
Any further mods in the pipeline?
Mark
Thanks Mark, you won't be disappointed with images.The Image splits look great too. (I've been talking with them about getting a set of BPS later this year) The combination of satin and gloss black really works against the Estoril blue paintwork.
Any further mods in the pipeline?
Mark
Few things I've always wanted to do was Carbon roof and hardcoat poly rear screen.
Piginapoke said:
Love your dog.
Haha thanks... he actually hates this car though. e30m3Mark said:
Carbon roof would be spot on. I know it's a lot of work but done properly (as I know it would be here) it's an attractive proposition.
I did think about poly windows in mine, but don't want to lose the little civility I've retained.
Hopefully paths will cross at some point this year as I'd really like to take a look in the metal.
Roofs actually not all that hard, obviously helps a lot the car being spripped already. Know what you mean... would only poly the rear screen only as want to keep rear side pop outs and front electric.I did think about poly windows in mine, but don't want to lose the little civility I've retained.
Hopefully paths will cross at some point this year as I'd really like to take a look in the metal.
No doubt we will cross at some point.
giblet said:
A carbon roof is something I’d quite like to do once I’ve bought mine. What sort of price does it cost to have one fitted? I’ve seen that GSR sell the skin for £550
GSR be fine for a track car but I'd say you need to go a little more up market for road.. some of the GSR ones I've seen you can see daylight through the weave from inside out. dannyDC2 said:
This car has ruined me financially. Thanks Sam.
When you gonna man bring it to the 'ring?
Happy to help When you gonna man bring it to the 'ring?
Thinking around July/Aug time but will be taking the 330i for a more relaxed trip.
Bernie Sanders said:
Your Silvergrey 330 looks fantastic... and your M3 is also nice.
f1ten said:
Ive a strong want for an e36 or 46 track car. don't have the space sadly. But its on the list for the next 2 yrs
well done sir
Thankyou well done sir
Sf_Manta said:
Loved seeing this car at Silverstone.
Was in the 330i Touring that was trying to stay with the Z4M which was going hell for leather there and failing to do so
Shame wasn't in the same session as you... did you only go out once first thing ? Was in the 330i Touring that was trying to stay with the Z4M which was going hell for leather there and failing to do so
Tiny Rockingham recap from 24th March
Started the day on AD08R in very wet and easily the slippest conditions I've ever driven in, believe every M3 driver got the black flag for drifting by 11am, think after then marshals just gave up. Lap times were over 2 minutes around the BTCC layout then.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Dried up a little by lunchtime so switched to AR1's and managed a dancing 1:42 ; also went out on track with Royal UK media for some pictures and videos https://www.instagram.com/p/Bhe_hhpHTDf/
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Then finally it dried just enough to bolt slicks on... I'm still on the old BTCC 245 size; grew a pair and took turn one 5th gear flat and managed a 1:32 with a 110kg passenger.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
___________________________________
Completed my CSF cooling package with a water rad.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Then carried on chopping bits out. Never really noticed how much the top of the AC fan support got in the way
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Have Goodwood next week, hoping this hot weather holds out.
Started the day on AD08R in very wet and easily the slippest conditions I've ever driven in, believe every M3 driver got the black flag for drifting by 11am, think after then marshals just gave up. Lap times were over 2 minutes around the BTCC layout then.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrDried up a little by lunchtime so switched to AR1's and managed a dancing 1:42 ; also went out on track with Royal UK media for some pictures and videos https://www.instagram.com/p/Bhe_hhpHTDf/
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrThen finally it dried just enough to bolt slicks on... I'm still on the old BTCC 245 size; grew a pair and took turn one 5th gear flat and managed a 1:32 with a 110kg passenger.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr___________________________________
Completed my CSF cooling package with a water rad.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrThen carried on chopping bits out. Never really noticed how much the top of the AC fan support got in the way
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrHave Goodwood next week, hoping this hot weather holds out.
Edited by Track_M3 on Wednesday 18th April 13:37
Going racing has actually been a hot topic lately.
I'd obviously love to do it but time is very against me, I work 6 day weeks, not got the room or budget for a tow vehicle or trailer, wouldn't want to risk/wreck this car taking it wheel-to-wheel.
If the option ever did come up I'd build something else to start in that was more budget friendly, or in an ideal world I'd get sponsored, but I know I'm not good enough for that.
As for now still very much so enjoy just arriving and driving track days that I can pick the dates at my leisure.
I'd obviously love to do it but time is very against me, I work 6 day weeks, not got the room or budget for a tow vehicle or trailer, wouldn't want to risk/wreck this car taking it wheel-to-wheel.
If the option ever did come up I'd build something else to start in that was more budget friendly, or in an ideal world I'd get sponsored, but I know I'm not good enough for that.
As for now still very much so enjoy just arriving and driving track days that I can pick the dates at my leisure.
Silverstone Sunday (Easter Monday) Service 10:10am session
https://youtu.be/bnLmsto8s20
______________________________________________________________________________
Some pictures from Goodwood this Wednesday just gone.
Mix conditions all day so left the slicks at home (but should of brought wets)
Whilst using knackered AR1's and 100kg plus passenger managed to come within 1 second of my PB around here that was set on 245 slicks.
Back here again in June for the Players Classic show
1DX28245 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28076 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX27977 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX27937 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28048 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28328 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28600 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28501 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28476 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28400 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28376 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX28368 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Uploading some footage soon but here's a little clip of loosing the rear at the fastest corner of the track... it had but raining only a few laps before but then the sun came out so I went balls out and tried to take Fordwater 5th gear flat to the floor, shift lights came on at the apex.
https://www.facebook.com/sam.ratcliffe.58/videos/1...
Next lap on from this moment the rain came down again and AR1's switched off like a blown bulb, which resulted in a black flag.
https://youtu.be/bnLmsto8s20
______________________________________________________________________________
Some pictures from Goodwood this Wednesday just gone.
Mix conditions all day so left the slicks at home (but should of brought wets)
Whilst using knackered AR1's and 100kg plus passenger managed to come within 1 second of my PB around here that was set on 245 slicks.
Back here again in June for the Players Classic show
1DX28245 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28076 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX27977 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX27937 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28048 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28328 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28600 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28501 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28476 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28400 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28376 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX28368 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUploading some footage soon but here's a little clip of loosing the rear at the fastest corner of the track... it had but raining only a few laps before but then the sun came out so I went balls out and tried to take Fordwater 5th gear flat to the floor, shift lights came on at the apex.
https://www.facebook.com/sam.ratcliffe.58/videos/1...
Next lap on from this moment the rain came down again and AR1's switched off like a blown bulb, which resulted in a black flag.
e30m3Mark said:
Nice pics.
Video may be set to private, as couldn't view?
Uploaded full video nowVideo may be set to private, as couldn't view?
https://youtu.be/mNgDym3y-0Y
e30m3Mark said:
GLWS.
Do I take it you'll be keeping the Image splits?
Yep they'll be getting slicks mounted on and going on the next car.Do I take it you'll be keeping the Image splits?
LanceRS said:
Are you able to share why you're letting it go after all the time and effort? Feel free to tell me to mind my own business but I have loved this car since you replaced the e36 and I’m naturally nosey.
Have a bit itch for the V8 so feel its time to go onto the E92. Think the M3's going to be sticking around for a bit longer...
Whist I've still got it I may as well enjoy it! Had a busy start to the week, decided the only way I was going to enjoy this car on the road again was to remove the solid bushes from the rear subframe and diff mounts.
Have gone back to new OEM bushes on the diff mounts (in my eyes oem is better than any poly bush here) and actually still had the powerflex subframe bushes tucked away in my loft.
On the test drive it was just a sigh of relief... no more transmission whine
______
Here's some pictures from Goodwood back in April, will be at Goodwood again on June 23rd/24th for the Players Classic show
IMG_6051 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5756 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5747 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5742 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
IMG_5582 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Whist I've still got it I may as well enjoy it! Had a busy start to the week, decided the only way I was going to enjoy this car on the road again was to remove the solid bushes from the rear subframe and diff mounts.
Have gone back to new OEM bushes on the diff mounts (in my eyes oem is better than any poly bush here) and actually still had the powerflex subframe bushes tucked away in my loft.
On the test drive it was just a sigh of relief... no more transmission whine
______
Here's some pictures from Goodwood back in April, will be at Goodwood again on June 23rd/24th for the Players Classic show
IMG_6051 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5756 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5747 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5742 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrIMG_5582 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrHad a lot of fun driving this around Bedford Gt last monday
Used slicks upto 2pm and managed a few 2:43 laps then changed onto 200 wear AD08R and done a few 2:49's all with a passenger.
https://youtu.be/fr4qTpbd2Ec
Used slicks upto 2pm and managed a few 2:43 laps then changed onto 200 wear AD08R and done a few 2:49's all with a passenger.
https://youtu.be/fr4qTpbd2Ec
Players Classic Goodwood
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Bedford GT (accidently booked an Opentrack day and will never do one again!)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
43418363892_e31289afa1_o by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
https://youtu.be/TJQ0vg-wLEg
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrBedford GT (accidently booked an Opentrack day and will never do one again!)
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr43418363892_e31289afa1_o by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickrhttps://youtu.be/TJQ0vg-wLEg
Some more from Bedford GT last month
1DX21640 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX21647 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX21667 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX21720 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX21809 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX21862 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
1DX21891 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Decided to stick the Image wheels up for sale to free up some cash
1DX21640 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX21647 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX21667 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX21720 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX21809 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX21862 by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr1DX21891 by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrDecided to stick the Image wheels up for sale to free up some cash
Thanks guys
_________________________________________________________________
Had my front lip for getting on 3 years now, bought it second had off ebay for £50 an I always thought it was just a good fibreglass copy.
Its seen some abuse and had many layers of paint, my plan was to buy another one and get it painted body colour, after the 3rd splitter I bought & returned because they all fitted like utter garbage I gave up and took mine to Stealar Paintworks.
Started sanding to save on labour costs and after many layers of paint, stone guard, primer & filler I hit carbon!
Turns out what I thought was my copy is actually a genuine AC Schnitzer front lip... that's seen a harder life than first thought.
After removing all the paint I left it with the body shop to do some fibreglass repairs. Also dropped my front bumper off to have the number plate screw holes and the slot I cut out for a tow strap filled and painted.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on Flickr
_________________________________________________________________
Had my front lip for getting on 3 years now, bought it second had off ebay for £50 an I always thought it was just a good fibreglass copy.
Its seen some abuse and had many layers of paint, my plan was to buy another one and get it painted body colour, after the 3rd splitter I bought & returned because they all fitted like utter garbage I gave up and took mine to Stealar Paintworks.
Started sanding to save on labour costs and after many layers of paint, stone guard, primer & filler I hit carbon!
Turns out what I thought was my copy is actually a genuine AC Schnitzer front lip... that's seen a harder life than first thought.
After removing all the paint I left it with the body shop to do some fibreglass repairs. Also dropped my front bumper off to have the number plate screw holes and the slot I cut out for a tow strap filled and painted.
Untitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrUntitled by Sam Ratcliffe, on FlickrGassing Station | Readers' Cars | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff