Anyone have problems with wheel spin?

TheWeatherman

Hey guys. I did a search for this, and forgive me if there's a topic already started on this. (Most of the posts were about VDC)

Anyway, I own an MT Sport. You know on occasion, when the light turns green, and you want a quick getaway? Well, I've tried all different ways to get a good launch out of this car, at all different starting RPMs. Here's the key to what I'm talking about though... I do this on rare occasion, and I don't warm up the tires before a spirited launch.

I still am running the stock Potenzas and do notice a significant difference depending on the outside temperature. It just seems that this car struggles for traction when having a little fun with it. I always have my VDC on, but that's the key. I just don't want the car to spin it's wheels so much through the first two gears. Our VDC does leave a bit for wheel spin which is nice. Once the car finally has a good hookup, then she moves.

Anyone else noticing this?

USMCASA

float your clutch after dropping it from 4k then when you feel them grab all the way just push more into the throttle. any car with a stick if you just dump the clutch and stomp the gas will spin, a good launch is all about technique.

m4a1mustang

You can start by trading your Z in for a real color.

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TheWeatherman

Thanks USMCASA. I try to not to just dump the clutch and mash the gas. I've actually never tried your technique. I'll give it a shot.

Here's me normally at a stoplight... spin spin spin spin.... moderately get moving... shift... a little more of a spin... finally hook up.

BTW, don't listen to that M4A1Mustang guy. The color of his car makes me want to puke. He can't get a good launch just because of those "Custom Curb Racing Stripes" he "applied" to 3 of his wheels.

m4a1mustang

At least I'm not driving around in that disgusting color of yours. I wouldn't be caught dead in that color!

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TheWeatherman

I did notice the best launches in this car is when you feel the back wheels hopping just a little bit. At least it seems like it's biting well, but that's rare for me doing it when the tires haven't been spun a little before the actual launch.

When I watch the Edmunds test video, that's the launch I want, but of course, they've heated the tires up beforehand. Oh well.

Cmike2780

The rubber or these types of tires are usually made of a softer material than regular tires. As such, they tend to be more susceptible to temperature changes. I almost always get wheel spin in the winter or when the tires are cold.

If you want less wheel spin & a good launch, practice your clutch technique like suggested. If I'm not too tempted when stopped at a light, I usually shift & accelerate smoothly in 1st and gun it to the higher gears. You probably shouldn't launch your car at every stop light anyways.

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[09][MB][6-Spd MT][Touring][Stillen Gen III][K&N][Borla CBE][Evo-R]

USMCASA

you could just dump the clutch at the light before to warm up the rubbers, then you're ready for the next light. i launched against a s2000 in the rain, slid around more then they all did in tokyo drift but did manage to stay in front of him the whole time. guess he should have spent more money on his engine than a veilside body kit for it. i had to show him my yellow car was faster.

TheWeatherman

Oh geez Cmike! Of course I'm not launching at every light! I do it like once a month, if that. I think you're right about the tires. Your technique is the one I use, but must be stepping into it a little early. m4a1Mustang and I were talking about the camber and lack of a good weight transfer on the Z as well. Definitely not ideal, but still fun!

TheWeatherman

Yes, that would work! (It's just, well, you never know when you're going to have to 'move quickly', you know?

ClemsonWill

I think you would seriously benefit from some wider tires if you are trying to get the best launch possible. In my opinion the stock rear tire is lacking.

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TheWeatherman

It's a pretty big tire Clemson, but do you notice the camber on them? It seems like they're riding on the inside of the tire itsself. Now, of course, this is great for handling. Tradeoffs, you know?

Cmike2780

I can only think of one situtation where an extra inch of rubber really counts. Tire material will give you better results than simply changing the tire size.

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[09][MB][6-Spd MT][Touring][Stillen Gen III][K&N][Borla CBE][Evo-R]

370zproject

time for new tires?

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TheWeatherman

Sure 370ZProject! Now you just have to pay my property taxes and my builder remodeling my house, and we're all set! Can you also pay for all my fiancee's "puchases" while you're at it?