Mt Tam I am's Driving Journal

Mt Tam I am · 04-01-2013, 10:50 AM

I drove down to Laguna Seca on Friday afternoon. The weather was beautiful. The weather forecast was 20% chance of showers by 3 PM race day. My tires work in the rain vs the slick race tires of others. At 7:30 Saturday morning it was now a 10% chance by 5 PM. Rain all day Easter Sunday.

At 8 AM I was at the track and wondering where it had gone. The fog was so thick I could only see perhaps 20-30 feet. Then it started to rain. Some forecast.

Rain we can deal with fog not so much. When one flagger can not see the next they close the track with a black flag.

The fog would roll in thick then pull back, where the track was reopened. Then when the fog came back, close it up again.

Here is my first bit of the day. it does get better. More to come.

Leguna Seca: Black flagged for Fog - YouTube

blackcherry20 · 04-01-2013, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mt Tam I am

I drove down to Laguna Seca on Friday afternoon. The weather was beautiful. The weather forecast was 20% chance of showers by 3 PM race day. My tires work in the rain vs the slick race tires of others. At 7:30 Saturday morning it was now a 10% chance by 5 PM. Rain all day Easter Sunday.

At 8 AM I was at the track and wondering where it had gone. The fog was so thick I could only see perhaps 20-30 feet. Then it started to rain. Some forecast.

Rain we can deal with fog not so much. When one flagger can not see the next they close the track with a black flag.

The fog would roll in thick then pull back, where the track was reopened. Then when the fog came back, close it up again.

Here is my first bit of the day. it does get better. More to come.

Leguna Seca: Black flagged for Fog - YouTube

weird day eh?! so...how many cars participated?
Tam: 27
BC:33
Jar: 69

Mt Tam I am · 04-01-2013, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blackcherry20

weird day eh?! so...how many cars participated?
Tam: 27
BC:33
Jar: 69

22 is all.

There were 14 starting cars, that got a 5 minute head start, then they turned the Advanced drivers loose followed by the race team. They called it "Run hare, run". Basicly, they had 40 minutes to make up 2-3 laps. considering one of the 911's could lay down a 1:37.3, it was not out of the question. What happened was that it started raining again, some times on one side of the track while it was sunny elsewhere. Race team guys hate the wet with their racing slicks, so they left early. Most folks dropped out, and it was weird running on what seemed a private track. I went probably 10 or more minutes without ever seeing another car nearby. In the end only three cars finished. The three lead cars I might add.

45 minutes of Laguna Seca - YouTube

blackcherry20 · 04-01-2013, 07:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mt Tam I am

22 is all.

There were 14 starting cars, that got a 5 minute head start, then they turned the Advanced drivers loose followed by the race team. They called it "Run hare, run". Basicly, they had 40 minutes to make up 2-3 laps. considering one of the 911's could lay down a 1:37.3, it was not out of the question. What happened was that it started raining again, some times on one side of the track while it was sunny elsewhere. Race team guys hate the wet with their racing slicks, so they left early. Most folks dropped out, and it was weird running on what seemed a private track. I went probably 10 or more minutes without ever seeing another car nearby. In the end only three cars finished. The three lead cars I might add.

45 minutes of Laguna Seca - YouTube

dayum. Mt. Tam wins. Again.

JARblue · 04-01-2013, 07:19 PM

I didn't get a forecast, so I'm calling the results void due to weather

Thanks for the vids

blackcherry20 · 04-01-2013, 07:29 PM

watched some of the video! So excited to hear you accelerate and watch you shift

does it get boring when there isn't anybody else around you on the track? Omg! Less than a month and I'll be on a track! Holy sh1t batman

Mt Tam I am · 04-01-2013, 09:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blackcherry20

watched some of the video! So excited to hear you accelerate and watch you shift

does it get boring when there isn't anybody else around you on the track? Omg! Less than a month and I'll be on a track! Holy sh1t batman

Does it get boring when there isn't anybody else around you on the track?

I'd of stayed till I ran out of gas. What was exciting was to be able to focus more on the track and less on the mirrors.

RE: Nelsons Lodge. Be well rested, stay hydrated, eat even if you don't feel like eating. Do you have an instructor lined up? It's been hard for me, to get much info on the track. It looks like turn 7* (the hair pin before the start/finish line) is a good one for picking up your apex with your eyes, then your hands will correctly steer right to it like magic, giving you a fast exit down the straight.

Edit: You need to keep your gas tank full because before half a tank you will get to experience fuel starvation first hand. Most of the the track is right turns including a 270 degree right which will certainly set it off. A full tank between sessions will cure it. You might get away with two, then top off. Bring a credit card for gas or your own in cans. I do the less macho of the two.

If you want to ask me anything please do. You can even call me.

I am so excited for you.

* I'm guessing at it's number actually

blackcherry20 · 04-02-2013, 12:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mt Tam I am

Does it get boring when there isn't anybody else around you on the track?

I'd of stayed till I ran out of gas. What was exciting was to be able to focus more on the track and less on the mirrors.

RE: Nelsons Lodge. Be well rested, stay hydrated, eat even if you don't feel like eating. Do you have an instructor lined up? It's been hard for me, to get much info on the track. It looks like turn 7* (the hair pin before the start/finish line) is a good one for picking up your apex with your eyes, then your hands will correctly steer right to it like magic, giving you a fast exit down the straight.

Edit: You need to keep your gas tank full because before half a tank you will get to experience fuel starvation first hand. Most of the the track is right turns including a 270 degree right which will certainly set it off. A full tank between sessions will cure it. You might get away with two, then top off. Bring a credit card for gas or your own in cans. I do the less macho of the two.

If you want to ask me anything please do. You can even call me.

I am so excited for you.

* I'm guessing at it's number actually

thanks Tam. I have read about the fuel starvation issues but wasn't sure if I would need to bother with it since this is just a "fun" track day...no idea on instructors. I am planning on looking into pre-registration etc this week. I joined the Miami Valley SPorts Car CLub out of Xenia (Ohio) and there are several of them going. Most of them are veteran auto crossers and fun days so they have offered to help me too. I am printing your post so I can look at it with the track layout and study up.

Being able to watch other cars AND do well on the track with my driving wil be my challenge. Especially since I know I am going to be nervous.nervous just motoring the Z back and forth to work

Mt Tam I am · 04-02-2013, 02:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blackcherry20

thanks Tam. I have read about the fuel starvation issues but wasn't sure if I would need to bother with it since this is just a "fun" track day...no idea on instructors. I am planning on looking into pre-registration etc this week. I joined the Miami Valley SPorts Car CLub out of Xenia (Ohio) and there are several of them going. Most of them are veteran auto crossers and fun days so they have offered to help me too. I am printing your post so I can look at it with the track layout and study up.

Being able to watch other cars AND do well on the track with my driving wil be my challenge. Especially since I know I am going to be nervous.nervous just motoring the Z back and forth to work

Keep the tank full. It is the best we can do. Yes it is added weight but the price we pay for a cheaper car.

What I was calling turn 7 is called turn 13.
I found this finally. Nelson Ledges Road Course video and animated track map. I've watched without sound. Watch it over and over. Learn the line and that is half the battle.

To combat nervousness, just let every body behind you by, then you will be less self conscious. Soon thereafter you will be passing cars, and off to the races.

I tried, without luck, looking up the Porsche club to see if they have a turn by turn analysis. Maybe try the BMW, Audi etc. clubs.

blackcherry20 · 04-02-2013, 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mt Tam I am

Keep the tank full. It is the best we can do. Yes it is added weight but the price we pay for a cheaper car.

What I was calling turn 7 is called turn 13.
I found this finally. Nelson Ledges Road Course video and animated track map. I've watched without sound. Watch it over and over. Learn the line and that is half the battle.

To combat nervousness, just let every body behind you by, then you will be less self conscious. Soon thereafter you will be passing cars, and off to the races.

I tried, without luck, looking up the Porsche club to see if they have a turn by turn analysis. Maybe try the BMW, Audi etc. clubs.

registered just now.
Printed out all the pertinent details driving and track rules etc... started a folder to keep it all together. I wish they had a static map posted so that I could look at it. Oh well...

thanks for all the support Tam!

Mt Tam I am · 04-03-2013, 12:03 AM

The best of Laguna Seca was 1:30 in the afternoon. It was only 59 degrees but sunny and dry. I failed to record the session. Here is another around 3PM

370Z Leguna Seca: It is dry finally! 3/30/13 - YouTube

I warped my rotors and had hot spots that came off when turned. I used approximately 20 gallons of gas while driving 164 miles.

I missed a days work, a slot car night with the guys, a slot car race the same day, Two nights in a hotel another tank of gas there and back, not to mention the track fee for a 105 db day, and it was totally worth it.

blackcherry20 · 04-03-2013, 06:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mt Tam I am

The best of Laguna Seca was 1:30 in the afternoon. It was only 59 degrees but sunny and dry. I failed to record the session. Here is another around 3PM

370Z Leguna Seca: It is dry finally! 3/30/13 - YouTube

I warped my rotors and had hot spots that came off when turned. I used approximately 20 gallons of gas while driving 164 miles.

I missed a days work, a slot car night with the guys, a slot car race the same day, Two nights in a hotel another tank of gas there and back, not to mention the track fee for a 105 db day, and it was totally worth it.

LOL! You are a fanatic! LOL Talk about focus on fun!

I need to watch some more of your vids but should not while I am working...

I am already totaling up my costs in my head.

I will not be happy with warped rotors

If that happens will I be able to drive it 4 hours back home?

Mt Tam I am · 04-03-2013, 07:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by blackcherry20

LOL! You are a fanatic! LOL Talk about focus on fun!

I need to watch some more of your vids but should not while I am working...

I am already totaling up my costs in my head.

I will not be happy with warped rotors

If that happens will I be able to drive it 4 hours back home?

I am a fanatic without argument. Can you imagine how it was, when I was young and discovered girls.

RE: warped rotors: Nelsons Ledge track looks to me to have two heavy braking zones, after the straights. then it looks like plenty of time to air cool the brakes. Leguna Seca is a brake killer, no holds barred. New OEM rotors are cheap. I forget how much, even though I've bought two sets. My damage this time was $90 for turning the rotors. If you warp them you will feel the steering wheel vibrate under braking. It is no fun (annoying) but no big deal either regarding safety.

If ever your brake pedal feels soft, watch out. I had one warning and the next time the pedal went to the floor. I pumped the brake and it worked but this ended my 30 minute track session after only 20 minutes. I am not trying to scare you at all. Just be aware, and nothing can surprise you. The stock 370Z brakes took me through at least 5 track events, before I dealt with them. Four Sears Point days no problems. It was laguna Seca that nearly melted the stock pads. Also after your checkered flag, do not drive hard but actually use this last lap as a cool down and try not to use the brakes at all.

Do you plan on filming at all? Maybe borrow a camera. It is thrilling to relive your day. You can even learn what you did right or wrong.

All the best.

blackcherry20 · 04-03-2013, 07:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mt Tam I am

I am a fanatic without argument. Can you imagine how it was, when I was young and discovered girls.

RE: warped rotors: Nelsons Ledge track looks to me to have two heavy braking zones, after the straights. then it looks like plenty of time to air cool the brakes. Leguna Seca is a brake killer, no holds barred. New OEM rotors are cheap. I forget how much, even though I've bought two sets. My damage this time was $90 for turning the rotors. If you warp them you will feel the steering wheel vibrate under braking. It is no fun (annoying) but no big deal either regarding safety.

If ever your brake pedal feels soft, watch out. I had one warning and the next time the pedal went to the floor. I pumped the brake and it worked but this ended my 30 minute track session after only 20 minutes. I am not trying to scare you at all. Just be aware, and nothing can surprise you. The stock 370Z brakes took me through at least 5 track events, before I dealt with them. Four Sears Point days no problems. It was laguna Seca that nearly melted the stock pads. Also after your checkered flag, do not drive hard but actually use this last lap as a cool down and try not to use the brakes at all.

Do you plan on filming at all? Maybe borrow a camera. It is thrilling to relive your day. You can even learn what you did right or wrong.

All the best.

lol on girls!! Kinda like when i discovered boys. Or they discovered me

I'm ok w all your info, forewarned is forearmed

looks like i may be going alone...sigh. Hubby not too interested so i hope i dont have any mech issues.

yes-i am hoping to film but i need to figure out the case i need for my iphone...danegrey is local and he uses his phone for autocross. Not sure it is suitable for this but we'll see

blackcherry20 · 04-03-2013, 07:23 PM

Links to danegrey autocross runs while i rode along!! Soooo much fun!

"Thanks blackcherry,

take a look at these links

370Z Autocross Run #3 9-9-12 - YouTube

370Z Autocross run #1, 9-9-12 - YouTube

From the runs that you were in the car"

04-01-2013, 10:50 AM	#121 (permalink)
Mt Tam I am A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: California Posts: 10,709 Drives: 370Z T/S/N 6MT & XKE Rep Power: 3843	I drove down to Laguna Seca on Friday afternoon. The weather was beautiful. The weather forecast was 20% chance of showers by 3 PM race day. My tires work in the rain vs the slick race tires of others. At 7:30 Saturday morning it was now a 10% chance by 5 PM. Rain all day Easter Sunday. At 8 AM I was at the track and wondering where it had gone. The fog was so thick I could only see perhaps 20-30 feet. Then it started to rain. Some forecast. Rain we can deal with fog not so much. When one flagger can not see the next they close the track with a black flag. The fog would roll in thick then pull back, where the track was reopened. Then when the fog came back, close it up again. Here is my first bit of the day. it does get better. More to come. Leguna Seca: Black flagged for Fog - YouTube JARblue and GaleForce like this. __________________ "Does the carpet match the drapes? NO!!! I don't date bald women." Nissan Motorsports 34R Oil Cooler. Stillen CBE. Hotchkis Sport Sway Bars. KW Variant 3 Coilover System. Stillen Gen3 CAI. Michelin Pilot Super Sport. Stillen Brake Ducts. Carbotech™ XP10/XP8 Pads. Z1 Front Rotors. Z1 Stainless Brake Lines. Two degrees of camber

04-01-2013, 07:19 PM	#125 (permalink)
JARblue A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Austin, TX Age: 43 Posts: 36,450 Drives: 11 Z34, 98 E36 M3 Rep Power: 2684440	I didn't get a forecast, so I'm calling the results void due to weather Thanks for the vids blackcherry20 likes this. __________________ 2011 370Z 6MT Sport Gun Metallic \| ARC \| CJM \| Ecutek \| FI \| Fujimura \| R2C \| SPL \| Stillen \| TWM \| Z1 \| ZSpeed \|

04-01-2013, 07:29 PM	#126 (permalink)
blackcherry20 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2012 Location: Southern Ohio Posts: 22,749 Drives: ‘17 badazz Z51 Rep Power: 240459	watched some of the video! So excited to hear you accelerate and watch you shift does it get boring when there isn't anybody else around you on the track? Omg! Less than a month and I'll be on a track! Holy sh1t batman JARblue likes this. __________________ Grand Sport Corvette Arctic White

04-03-2013, 12:03 AM	#131 (permalink)
Mt Tam I am A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: California Posts: 10,709 Drives: 370Z T/S/N 6MT & XKE Rep Power: 3843	The best of Laguna Seca was 1:30 in the afternoon. It was only 59 degrees but sunny and dry. I failed to record the session. Here is another around 3PM 370Z Leguna Seca: It is dry finally! 3/30/13 - YouTube I warped my rotors and had hot spots that came off when turned. I used approximately 20 gallons of gas while driving 164 miles. I missed a days work, a slot car night with the guys, a slot car race the same day, Two nights in a hotel another tank of gas there and back, not to mention the track fee for a 105 db day, and it was totally worth it. JARblue likes this. __________________ "Does the carpet match the drapes? NO!!! I don't date bald women." Nissan Motorsports 34R Oil Cooler. Stillen CBE. Hotchkis Sport Sway Bars. KW Variant 3 Coilover System. Stillen Gen3 CAI. Michelin Pilot Super Sport. Stillen Brake Ducts. Carbotech™ XP10/XP8 Pads. Z1 Front Rotors. Z1 Stainless Brake Lines. Two degrees of camber

04-03-2013, 07:23 PM	#135 (permalink)
blackcherry20 A True Z Fanatic Join Date: May 2012 Location: Southern Ohio Posts: 22,749 Drives: ‘17 badazz Z51 Rep Power: 240459	Links to danegrey autocross runs while i rode along!! Soooo much fun! "Thanks blackcherry, take a look at these links 370Z Autocross Run #3 9-9-12 - YouTube 370Z Autocross run #1, 9-9-12 - YouTube From the runs that you were in the car" JARblue likes this. __________________ Grand Sport Corvette Arctic White

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
O&G's Journal	O&G	Member's 370Z Gallery	648	02-16-2017 04:30 PM
a6walter1's Journal	a6walter1	Member's 370Z Gallery	33	08-04-2014 12:28 PM
My Journal gone	SPOHN	The370Z.com Feedback, Suggestions & Questions	12	11-13-2012 03:12 AM
RHD's Journal	rhd	Member's 370Z Gallery	3	06-07-2012 03:37 PM
Z BEST Journal	Z BEST	Member's 370Z Gallery	26	01-09-2011 04:19 PM