"Red Solo Car" 74 Z28 Autocross upgrades and event coverage

[SLO_Z28]

Hello my name is James. I have a 1974 Camaro Z28 Type-LT that ive owned for years. My dad purchased the car brand new in high school, and me and him did a lot of work to it when it became mine in the late 1990's. Here is a picture of it brand new:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/2213290014_large-1.jpg
Here it is back when I was driving it in high school, when gas was only $1.40 for premium:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/01/camaro_11-1.jpg
I had a lot of fun with it, and have drag raced it more times than I can count, I even broke a few things along the way:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/04/2213290002_large-1.jpg
Its been crashed, more than a few times. Here is a picture just before its last paint job:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/P1120045-1.jpg
and here is the after picture:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/01/008-1.jpg

Ive developed a autocross addiction, and ive been to many events recently:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/number-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_3007-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/07/0022-1.jpg
rain or shine:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/P5050163-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

Right now I have a anemic 350 with iron heads, Edelbrock Performer RPM intake, Shorty headers, Carter AFB carburator.

I have summit racing legend 5 wheels in 17x8 and 17x9 with 235/40 and 275/40 HTRZ2 tires:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/015-1.jpg
Afco 850lb springs with afco spring bucket adjusters so I can set ride height(shown next to hotchkis springs for comparison):
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/AFCO-1.jpg
I have 225# springs out back with an adjustable 7/8ths sway bar, PTFB gen 1 upper control arms, and acetal bushings in the lowers. I have AFCO rebound adjustable shocks front and rear:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/sway_1-1.jpg
Plans:
I have Mary Pozzi's old roll bar (that im installing this weekend, I swear!), and Brain Hobaughs' old steering box (the combination of which is worth at least 2 tenths in any autocross :D ). I plan to get both of those installed ASAP then find a seat that can properly plant my fat butt.

I want to fit 17x9's up front so I can go with 275/40/17's all around in either the NT05 or RT615K tires.

I ordered the parts for a panhard bar that I am gonna piece together after watching this video I shot last saturday:
zzw0xox7HsU

I eventually want to end up in SCCA Solo 2 SM class, and be competitive, but that might be a ways off. In the meantime I want to attend as many events as I can, and Ive already had 2 days of solid shakedown time thanks to Cris at JCG:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/DSC_0133-1.jpg

Im planning to hit a ton of events this year, I want to hit up the SCCA national tour next month, Hotchkis NMCA autocrosses(unconfirmed so far), Good Guys All American Get Together at the alameda county fairgrounds, the American Autocross Larry Park Memorial, AAS Kart Track event at Buttonwillow, and I know im missing a few...

Ill keep you guys posted as I attend events and make upgrades.

[bbcc]

That's a great looking car! Looks like it takes a bit of a beating too!!

[RicerwannaB]

Nice car

[SparkyRnD]

that was a cool video, and now I see why you want / need the panhard bar!

[Bill Wellman]

Sweet ride and great doc vid that shows that axle walk.

[shortrack]

the sky is the limit with those cars these days......!

[Bryce]

Nice car,

Have you added spherical bearings in the front spring eyes? Also I would suggest a watts over a panhard. My rearend doesnt move laterally at all.

Also I love my RT615ks

[srh3trinity]

I like your car, us 74 guys have to stick together ( mine is a bird)

[linkstar69]

That video is great! I'm with Bryce the watts won't be any harder to do than a panhard but either will be a great addition to your car.

Awesome to see your car used as it should too, great stuff.

[sr73bu]

Always loved these budget builds! Keep up the great work....clever project name too..haha

-Sean

[SLO_Z28]

Nice car,

Have you added spherical bearings in the front spring eyes? Also I would suggest a watts over a panhard. My rearend doesnt move laterally at all.

Also I love my RT615ks

I have rubber bushing front and rear. I know that torsional compliance is a factor, but I was tossing around the idea of getting some acetal bushings for at least the shackles.

The watts link would be a lot harder to package than the panhard. I'm gonna be into the panhard for about $110 all said and done, that will be a lot less than a watts link. I know there will be a slight RC change with the panhard, but I think the lateral location of the rear will be out weigh the downfalls of it.

[SLO_Z28]

Always loved these budget builds! Keep up the great work....clever project name too..haha

-Sean

Thanks! I wonder how many people get it? :git:

[Bryce]

I have rubber bushing front and rear. I know that torsional compliance is a factor, but I was tossing around the idea of getting some acetal bushings for at least the shackles.

The watts link would be a lot harder to package than the panhard. I'm gonna be into the panhard for about $110 all said and done, that will be a lot less than a watts link. I know there will be a slight RC change with the panhard, but I think the lateral location of the rear will be out weigh the downfalls of it.

I built my watts link cradle out of aluminum plate and ordered 4 aurora rod ends at $40 each and 2 threaded aluminum tubes at $10 each. My total cost was right around $250. I could have bought steel rod ends for ~$10. And yes its harder to package. good luck with your project.

[BulldawgMusclecars]

I'm probably in the minority here, but I really liked these cars with vinyl tops and slot mags...its the way I remember them growing up. I like what you have done with it though.

[FirebirdSteve]

Red Solo cup.....I fill you up....let's have a party!!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[protouring70]

Funny! RED SOLO ......
NICE CAR

[NJSPEEDER]

Driving domestics in SM is a gret laugh. Did it for several years in Philly Region when I had my 91 RS.

the only disadvantage the domestics have really is weight, but thankfully the SCCA rule book left plenty of ways to eliminate that worry. My 91 weighed 3280 at the line, completely class legal, and still had working power windows, power locks, working A/C................. and all the other comfort features that are supposed to be so bad for racing. :)

[SparkyRnD]

Red Solo cup.....I fill you up....let's have a party!!!!

That is what goes through my head every time I see the thread title!

[SLO_Z28]

Driving domestics in SM is a gret laugh. Did it for several years in Philly Region when I had my 91 RS.

the only disadvantage the domestics have really is weight, but thankfully the SCCA rule book left plenty of ways to eliminate that worry. My 91 weighed 3280 at the line, completely class legal, and still had working power windows, power locks, working A/C................. and all the other comfort features that are supposed to be so bad for racing. :)

Almost as funny as STU. Ive thought about ditching my upper control arms and going in to ESP, but I wouldn't be competitive there either, so I just try and have fun. I want to eventually build in to C-Prepared, but my income is a little light for that. part of what limits me is not having a garage for bigger projects. I have to limit things to one day projects because of where I park:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2011/02/porsche_turbo_s-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/P52602131-1.jpg

I work as an Automotive Technician for the CHP, and I just do all my work in the parking lot or on the lift at work.

[musclecarmatt]

sweet man!...just like me got the autocross drug....i plan to hit many events as well and alot of winter upgrades...subscribed!

[SLO_Z28]

As is the way with hot rodding simple plans never go easy. I started this afternoon with the intent to get this roll bar I bought from Mary Pozzi in:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/0123-1.jpg

But after removing my seats and carpet:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/0044-1.jpg

I found this:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/02/0054-1.jpg

So I took a stroll down to NPD thats only a few block from work and picked up a LF pan replacement panel for a 75-81 camaro (I hope it works?). Ill be looking around tomorow to see how much it costs to get that replaced by a shop, any ideas? The metal around the bottom seems to be in good shape, so thats good news!

[DartorDemon]

Damn, I hate to see that happen. And the car otherwise Looks so clean

[SLO_Z28]

Lots of cutting, grinding, bending, tweaking, and welding I am now the proud installer of a new floor pan on the drivers side!

I picked up a new seat, the Kirkey Intermediate Road Race seat with a 10 degree layback and 18 inch width, and it fits perfect!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/P1140008-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/P1140011-1.jpg
I decided on the red cover:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/03/P1140013-1.jpg

I got this seat because It does 2 things, it keeps me more stable and stops me from flying around while autocrossing which will allow me to focus more on car control, and it will keep me safer in the event of a collision.

I will get the roll bar and seat in this week!

[Bryce]

I like those seats! I hope to have some this year.

[BADDRIDE II]

Nice seat....they are extremely light! I ran the drag version in a past Nova and loved them. I put some 2" foam under the seat cover in seat area and lower back and were quite comfortable too.:twothumbs

[NOT A TA]

You're going to really enjoy that seat! So much easier to drive near the limits when you're not trying to keep yourself planted.

[SLO_Z28]

Ive been kind of neglecting this thread, but I got a lot of work done to my car. I got the seat and roll bar installed, and I went to an event this last thursday called the So Cal Challenge!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_0882-1.jpg

The event was put on by No Limit and covered by Bangshift and Blackink Media (Drive! Magazine). There was 22 cars there and we all got a ton of runs in:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_0733-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_0707-1.jpg
The course is a go-kart track that had plenty of tight turns. Here is a video of Jon's Nova:
3i_VVOTsQKQ

This event also get the trophy for coolest trophys ever:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_1297-1.jpg

I had a blast at this event, I think there was a perfect amount of people for it and we all got a ton of runs. There are plans in the works to have one of these in a few months on a Saturday, I hope to see some of you there!

[SLO_Z28]

Heres a picture sequence thats too good not to share!

Turn in:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_1205-1.jpg
Oversteer! (with counter steer already in)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_1206-1.jpg
Turn in (OMG headed for a ditch!)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_1207-1.jpg
Nailing the apex and using every last inch of track!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/DSC_1208-1.jpg

Fun stuff!

[Bryce]

That last picture is awesome!

[NOT A TA]

Cool pic sequence! Lets see some pics of the roll bar and seat!

[craigs73]

looking good james.....yeah lets see some interior shots

[LeighP]

That video was great....looks like a ton of fun!!!!

[67zo6Camaro]

James, that last picture is my favorite. Just hanging the passenger tire half over the edge.... just as you ment to as you use up all that apex. Great seeing ya out there this past week. And thanks for the pictures of everyones cars posted on the other thread. Sweet.

[rfalker1]

looks like u where having a blast on the course by the photos. Like the car too!!!!

[SLO_Z28]

Here is a great picture that Blackink Media took at the challenge. They will cover this event in the Drive! magazine, I cant wait to see it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/472704_197895760326433_116350478480962_3-1.jpg

The next event on the calendar for the red solo car is the SCCA Solo 2 National Tour in San Diego!

[Bryce]

Here is a great picture that Blackink Media took at the challenge. They will cover this event in the Drive! magazine, I cant wait to see it.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/04/472704_197895760326433_116350478480962_3-1.jpg

The next event on the calendar for the red solo car is the SCCA Solo 2 National Tour in San Diego!

What day? I will come out an support.

[SLO_Z28]

What day? I will come out an support.

Saturday and Sunday at Qualcom. There are only 2 names on the C Prepared list and both of them are PT regulars, so ill class with them.

[Bryce]

Saturday and Sunday at Qualcom. There are only 2 names on the C Prepared list and both of them are PT regulars, so ill class with them.

Sorry James, whats the date? I know I can just look it up. Maybe the falcon will make an appearance if its back together.

[SLO_Z28]

Sorry James, whats the date? I know I can just look it up. Maybe the falcon will make an appearance if its back together.

Theres like a practice and pro-solo type thing on Friday the 27th before the event, and the real deal is 28th and 29th Saturday and Sunday. It would be great if you could put the falcon back together and make it out!

[Bryce]

Theres like a practice and pro-solo type thing on Friday the 27th before the event, and the real deal is 28th and 29th Saturday and Sunday. It would be great if you could put the falcon back together and make it out!

Its not apart YET! But I have some major changes that I wlll be making soon. Time to decide what to do.

[SLO_Z28]

Well this last weekend I attended the SCCA Solo 2 National Tour event in San Diego. I left for there early saturday morning with my truck loaded up and my car in tow:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0202-1.jpg
The event was held at Qualcomm Stadium where the chargers play:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0262-1.jpg
After getting there and unloading I went through tech inspection and got my car certified and got all my required stickers on:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0311-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0252-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/122-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

I had to get my car weighed because I have a minimum weight of 3000lbs, I was at 3356 which isnt bad but could be better. On friday they had a short test and tune course that anyone car participate in for a small fee. After that I spent the rest of the day walking the pits and checking out some of the cool cars there:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/153-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/114-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/113-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0302-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0321-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

The way the national tour works you get 3 runs per day, part of the challenge is getting to know the course fast enough to be quick, but not cone or DNF because you went off course, as you only get 2 runs. The course was VERY wide and VERY open, it is THE best autocross course I've ever been too, and the best in the nation according to the SCCA officials. The course was nice and wide, high speed with very technical turns both on and off camber, and I know I was reaching north of 80mph on the course.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/108-1.jpg
The event is very well run, you get times posted digitally on a sign board above the timing tent, you get a sticky note with your time on it when you come in, and after ever everyone runs once in your grid they print the results and post them for everyone to see. When you get up to the line they have a barcode they scan on your helmet that tells you who is running.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0811-1.jpg
You park in a grid when its your run group, and you get an assigned spot to park. When your group is running they will come up to you and give you a 5 minute or 4 car warning that your up. When you come back you have a specific place to park which makes it easy. After the 3 runs you get "impounded" which means that you park your car in grid and any competitor in your class can challenge that you broke any rules if you did. Cars that have a minimum class weight like prepared cars and mod cars have to get weighed after the third run. After my third run I would have to pull around and get on the scales. Then the "official" results were posted:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/140-1.jpg

On sunday we ran the same course with minor changes but backwards. It was such a great course, and the entire event was just above and beyond my expectations, it was very well run, very professional, and very fun!

Anyways here are some assorted pictures:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/142-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/141-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/138-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/134-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/135-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/103-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/093-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/084-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0391-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0441-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/0421-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

Here are my 2 favorite pictures from the weekend, my dad (the original owner of my car) jumped in to the seat (not an easy task!) to check out the changes that I had made to the car:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/125-1.jpg
And the fact that I got my first SCCA National win!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/485738_3765387332214_1202572769_33604707-1.jpg

[TheBandit]

Congratulations! Sounds like a great weekend and you took home a win. SWEET!

Did you rent a uhaul trailer to get down there? Was it expensive?

Looks like you got the seat and cage in. Have you made any progress on the panhard? That video was a bit scary with the backend moving around so much.

[67zo6Camaro]

Wow James. Way cool. Congrats! That looks like a very good event.

[79-TA]

Did your friend Casey run his 3rd gen Camaro? That car is always really fun to watch since it's so well-sorted an unassuming looking.

[SLO_Z28]

Wow James. Way cool. Congrats! That looks like a very good event.

Thanks!


Congratulations! Sounds like a great weekend and you took home a win. SWEET!

Did you rent a uhaul trailer to get down there? Was it expensive?

Looks like you got the seat and cage in. Have you made any progress on the panhard? That video was a bit scary with the backend moving around so much.

The trailer was $146 for 4 days, and it towed very well. I cant really make a panhard rod work because it needs to go where my muffler and sway bar is, but I am going to get some acetal bushings that should help.

[SRD art]

Congrats on the win James! Woohoo!

[TheBandit]

The trailer was $146 for 4 days, and it towed very well.

That's not too bad. Are you thinking of getting your own? There's a decent looking dual axle enclosed trailer sitting around the corner from me asking $2k. Gotta be really careful with leaving a car in/on a trailer when you travel - I've heard a lot of horror stories of trailers getting stolen.


I cant really make a panhard rod work because it needs to go where my muffler and sway bar is, but I am going to get some acetal bushings that should help.

That's too bad. Got any pictures from underneath? Maye you can get some ideas here. What bushings are you running now?

[SLO_Z28]

Did your friend Casey run his 3rd gen Camaro? That car is always really fun to watch since it's so well-sorted an unassuming looking.

Nope. He is the one that talked me into going though and Im really glad I went!

[SLO_Z28]

That's not too bad. Are you thinking of getting your own? There's a decent looking dual axle enclosed trailer sitting around the corner from me asking $2k. Gotta be really careful with leaving a car in/on a trailer when you travel - I've heard a lot of horror stories of trailers getting stolen.



That's too bad. Got any pictures from underneath? Maye you can get some ideas here. What bushings are you running now?

I don't have a place to park a trailer, where I live I don't have a garage so I would have to pay $50 a month to store the trailer. When you factor in that I don't have to maintain or repair the trailer when I rent it it makes sense for my current position. I will eventually move to northern CA, I can get 20 acers and a home for $100,000 in Caleveras County and not have to smog any of my vehicles, and when that day comes I will buy a trailer and build a proper shop.

For the bushings I have newish rubber ones in there now, I am going to get the global west ones or have a machine shop make me some.

[SLO_Z28]

Here is a great video (not mine) of the course on Saturday:
BuhCB5U66SM

[SLO_Z28]

Here are 2 cool pictures someone grabbed of my car at nationals:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/143039945eC71KDWH-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/1430399463ito8l1o-1.jpg

[TheBandit]

Look what I saw at the local cruise night on Friday! Looked like a solo championship car to me. Nice ride man!

59205

[DTM Racing]

I had welding class that weekend. You're lucky LOL.

However, I really think I am spoiled with SDR for auto-crossing. We have a great venue, and some of the best course designers in the country.

[SLO_Z28]

I had welding class that weekend. You're lucky LOL.

However, I really think I am spoiled with SDR for auto-crossing. We have a great venue, and some of the best course designers in the country.

I would argue you're the lucky one, I cant really weld. Ive seen your pictures on facebook, you're drawing good welds. You guys are spoiled, you have an amazing venue for autocross, I need to make it back every year now. Any autocross where you go over 80mph is OK in my book!


Look what I saw at the local cruise night on Friday! Looked like a solo championship car to me. Nice ride man!



Very cool! Did you have a car there? I snapped about 100 pictures so I might have grabbed one of yours.

[femurphy77]

I have to file a complaint here, I'm a CP'er from WAY back and I'm here to tell you. . . . . .that car is too good looking to be a real CP car!

Good looking ride and congratulations on the win!

[NOT A TA]

Congrats James!

[TheBandit]

Very cool! Did you have a car there?

I sure did... about twelve years ago. Unfortunately my baby is on jackstands for the foreseeable future while I do my LS swap and suspension mods. I cant wait to get it back out there. Seems like the LS swapped cars are getting a lot more common now. There are usually one or two now there every month. Is yours next?

[SLO_Z28]

Is yours next?

I have a sweet spot in my heart for a gen 1 small block with a carb. I'm not saying ill never do it, but in the mean time ive been thinking over engine builds and all of them are carbed gen 1 or gen 2 blocks. I think a set of Dart heads and a Comp Cam is definitly on the radar for upgrades to my current engine.

[SLO_Z28]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/continental-1.jpg

Got some new tires in today, got a smoking deal on them. 275/40/17. Now I need to get some wheels for them and get them to fit. I have adjustable coil buckets, I'll have to take some pictures when I pull them out and adjust them up. Im hoping that running a square size all around will make the car more balanced, it isn't bad now but its very easy to find the limits of these tires.

These are the wheels im leaning toward:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/13463-1.jpg
Its less than $600 for a set delivered on Amazon.

[DTM Racing]

James,
SDR Practice this Saturday. You in?

[NOT A TA]

I think those wheels will look good on there James. Now sell those rotors to the recyclers and get them ordered!

[SLO_Z28]

James,
SDR Practice this Saturday. You in?

I'd be very tempted if I wasn't sick :(


I think those wheels will look good on there James. Now sell those rotors to the recyclers and get them ordered!

Front brake pads and rotors replaced on average every 20,000 miles on the police cars I work on, I have 29 crown vics I am responsible for. I average about 12 rotors a month. I also go through about 30 tires and at least 3 wheels either from age or collision damage. I do need to stock up on brake parts for the yearly budget crisis we always go through.

[SLO_Z28]

So I did some work on my car yesturday. I have the AFCO Coil Spring bucket adjusters so I can adjust the ride height:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/afcocoiladjuster-1.jpg
I took the buckets out and spun them up to 13 inch installed height with the 950lb springs I have. I did that in preparation for running a larger front tire. I am going to switch to a 17x9.5 inch wheel with continental slicks with 275-17's all around. Not all 275 tires are the same, some manufacturers are wider, as an example here is a 275/16 Hoosier A6 compared to a 275/40/17 Nitto NT05:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/Tires-1.jpg
The Hoosier is about 3/4 of an inch wider with the same size. The wheels im thinking about getting my friend already has on his 3rd gen camaro, so I tried his on:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/wheels-1.jpg
I was going to get polished or chrome, but after seeing those on the car I really like them. I think im going to order those same wheels. Its amazing what a difference a wheel color can make to a car.

[SLO_Z28]

I got my new wheels in today, very happy with them. I got them for $576 too my door and they even surprised me by coming next day.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC00069-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC00072-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC00073-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC00074-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/DSC00075-1.jpg


I will wait to mount them on the car until after the good guys event this weekend. I will admit I am VERY tempted to throw them on and try them out at the goodguys event though.

[SLO_Z28]

Did a goodguys car show autocross, didn't have fun for a number of reasons, wont really dwell on it.

I am however VERY excited to hit this up in a few days:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/Cal_Club_Div-1.jpg

Still on the fence about driving there on the slicks or just swapping the tires at the event. Anyone know what the best inexpensive hotel is near El Toro?

[SLO_Z28]

Here is 2 great pictures that were grabbed at the national tour:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/Nat_Tour_1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/Nat_Tour_2-1.jpg

I got my car fixed from goodguys, I got my new wheels on, I need to do an alignment and then ill take a picture and post it up.

ninja edit for another cool picture:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/Nat_Tour_3-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

I had fun at the Super Divisional this weekend, the course was insanely good, they raised the bar for a good autocross course. Here is a picture of the CP grid, ill upload videos and post more pics and info as I get caught up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/118-1.jpg

[aps63]

New wheels look great. Looks like your having a ton of fun. Keep it up.

[srh3trinity]

The new wheels look great. Some flat caps on them would really nail down the race vibe.

[Jeff70]

How's the caliper clearance on the new wheels?

[SLO_Z28]

How's the caliper clearance on the new wheels?

Great. Here is a better picture:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/110-1.jpg
There is a TON of pad clearance. Like I said I got them on Amazon for $580 shipped, you cant beat that price for 17x9.5's!

[SLO_Z28]

The event was FAST and fun. The course was long, and is easily as long as some road courses. The event was well run and everything went smooth. The car handled amazing, once I got the air pressures dialed in it was on the razers edge of understeer and oversteer the whole time. These tires are amazing, and offered instant response, astounding levels of grip, and good feedback! I cant say enough about this course, you have to see for yourself to see how good it was:
EDE3YDFt9eU
If ASCS gets Chris Cox to do the course at the next El Toro event I will be there for sure! Overall the weekend was awesome, and well worth the trip, the only downsides were cutting the top of my finger off and getting a sunburn. This course did underscore my need for more power, but next on the build list is a detroit locker and new rear gears.

[Jeff70]

What brakes are you using? Do you have a link on the wheels?

Jeff

[SLO_Z28]

I have stock brakes, I used to have 14 inch vette rallys that fit fine. Here is a direct link to amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Ridler-Polished-Wheel-17x9-5-5x120-65mm/dp/B004IPPCOW

[AutoX_a_Truck?]

James, you got a great deal on those wheels, and they look great with the slicks. That course looked really fun too. I need to find a cheap pair of slicks to try on my truck for fun.

[Jeff70]

Thanks for the link. I've been piecing together C5 brakes for my car and it seems that pretty much all the inexpensive wheel options have caliper clearance issues. Do you plan to have your wheels off anytime soon? Maybe I can send you a template.

Jeff

[SLO_Z28]

I can print up the C5 template and check if you want? Are you using the C5 or C5Z06 calipers and what diameter rotor? I already have the wheels off, I drove to the event with them in the interior, switched them out for the weekend, then switched them back when done and drove home.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/135-1.jpg

[Jeff70]

Yes that would be great if you can check for me! http://www.kore3.com/tech.php has the templates. I have the standard C5 front and rear which I believe is 13"F/12"R. I wonder if it makes a difference in spoke clearance with a 8" wheel? I can't fit 9.5 up front.

[SLO_Z28]

The overall diameter is the only thing that will be close, the thick pad on the wheel provides exceptional clearance from the spokes. Ill see if I can get that template working tomorrow and check for you.

[sr73bu]

Car looks great James!... i'm really liking those new wheels/slicks...


-Sean

[SLO_Z28]

Car looks great James!... i'm really liking those new wheels/slicks...


-Sean

Thanks!





I found some pictures from the last event, here is the grid with the CP cars:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/470543_10101142315242951_1654943790_o-1.jpg

And here is a cool picture of Brians' car with me and his dad discussing the fact that I had just bought a mexican coke off the lunch truck(it tasted better!) lol:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/06/411251_10101142315357721_802298895_o-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

Just a small update, I got to go to the airport with a friend for some test and tune time. He will be starting up a monthly event pretty soon where people on here can do a test n tune, or even get help with car setup and driving instruction, im sure he will cover it on here when it starts up.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/015-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/019-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/DSC_0816-1.jpg
Not too much to report on, the car still feels awesome. I need a tick more negative camber in the front, im at 2.3 now, im gonna bump it up to 2.8 and check my tire temps and evaluate the car. The only things that are clearly wrong with the car is its current lack of a functioning posi, and its desperate need for a new carb.


I did buy new brake pads and rotors for the tow rig, ill toss those in this weekend and evaluate them:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/009-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/013-1.jpg

[SLO_Z28]

I also thoght these 2 pictures belonged in this thread:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/599869_325481884198474_1586304534_n-1.jpg
And what real autocross junkie doesn't smile at the sight of cones? :D
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/006-1.jpg


I am patiently awaiting information on the Chevy event that Bill Howell alluded to on here at El Toro, as long as its not stupid expensive I think I have talked myself into doing it.

[DesertFox]

And the fact that I got my first SCCA National win!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/05/485738_3765387332214_1202572769_33604707-1.jpg
Just found this thread.
Congrats. Maybe next time I'll bypass CPL and give you something to run against in CP since neither of us had any other competitors in our classes.
I didnt realize they gave the trophies in cases like that, and was kinda embarassed they called my name.
Joining us in Lincoln in Sept?

[SLO_Z28]

Just found this thread.
Congrats. Maybe next time I'll bypass CPL and give you something to run against in CP since neither of us had any other competitors in our classes.
I didnt realize they gave the trophies in cases like that, and was kinda embarassed they called my name.
Joining us in Lincoln in Sept?

I cant really afford that trip, too expensive. Ive done a lot to the car since San Diego, next year ill have 200 more HP, weigh 400lbs less, and I already have real tires now. Street tires SUCK and make me want to punch babies. Next year I will probably just borrow a car and race in F-Stock.

[Project92rs]

I cant really afford that trip, too expensive. Ive done a lot to the car since San Diego, next year ill have 200 more HP, weigh 400lbs less, and I already have real tires now. Street tires SUCK and make me want to punch babies. Next year I will probably just borrow a car and race in F-Stock.

Street tires aren't so bad. We ran a 245 series street tire on the GTA at RTTC and came in 10th on the road course with them. Not bad for a 3600+ lb car with all the creature comforts. But by the SD Tour next year, the car will likely have a new drivetrain with more power and a 6 speed manual along with wider stickier tires.

[craigs73]

I cant really afford that trip, too expensive. Ive done a lot to the car since San Diego, next year ill have 200 more HP, weigh 400lbs less, and I already have real tires now. Street tires SUCK and make me want to punch babies. Next year I will probably just borrow a car and race in F-Stock.

so whats the plans for red solo? motor? weight savings?

[SLO_Z28]

so whats the plans for red solo? motor? weight savings?

An aluminum headed big block will weigh less than whats in there now, I cant find the update/backdate rule for the life of me, so I don't know if its legal or not. If it isn't ill settle for a 6.2(that will take a lot longer to save for). Weight savings will be easier, I am going to put a fiberglass hood, inner fenders, flared outer fenders, front and rear bumpers and remove all the support brackets, doors (and lose my windows at the same time), dash and rear deck lid. I think a set of composite leaf springs are in my near future, there are a number of benefits to the swap including lower weight, and the elastic deformation characteristics of composite springs are far more desirable. Once I can get into the body work I will get some 16x12 wheels and goodyear slicks, but for now the continental slicks are fine.

Most of these mods hinge on me being able to transfer up to Sacramento to work, I get paid more for the same job and I can work on my car in my dads garage. Probably wont happen right away. As it stands now I cant attempt any job that is more than a day job or leaves my car undrivable, I have no garage to store the car. I am excited that Sacramento SCCA has a large contingent of CP racers. Ill be at a Sac SCCA race next month racing in H-Stock.

Also, I'm going to have to wave off the RTTC thing, too expensive for my blood. Its cheaper to go wheel to wheel racing...

[srh3trinity]

I usually HATE TT2 wheels or anything like them, but your new wheels and the slicks give the car a great new look. Besides, us 74 guys have to stick together.

[SLO_Z28]

Ive been playing around with the idea of painting my car with PlastiDip, so I started playing with it a little and sprayed a wheel:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/plastidip1-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/07/plastidip2-1.jpg
$5 for a can of this stuff and it leaves a matte black finish with a slight texture to it. You can get it in several different colors, and the best part is it removes very easily and leaves no residue while still being resilient enough to survive everyday use and washing. Im gonna paint another wheel and toss it on the car and see how it looks.

[shortrack]

Cool that you're running the slicks, I cant wait to get out on mine, keep diggin'!

[SLO_Z28]

Did a JCG test and Tune this time last week:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2012/08/102-1.jpg
There was a good mix of cars there. The course was very well put together:
CPO6SXw_ve0

Really good event, all went smooth and we all got more seat time than we could ask for.