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What it Takes to Race Your Z
What it Takes to Race Your Z
by: Chuck Strong of the Z Club of Texas
Do you ever wonder why people bother to modify their cars? I do not mean replacing a broken
part with something better, taking off a perfectly good part and replacing it with something
different. Well, there is a reason: to go faster, in straight lines and turns. Why, you ask?
Because there are few things in life more exciting than driving a fast car fast.
Make no mistake, Z's are cars that are meant to be driven fast, and if you have not done this
with yours, you are missing out. I am still amazed how reliable these cars are even when raced
for years. Lots of miles? Nothing to worry about. I love driving mine to work, especially
after a weekend of racing.
So, what really needs to be done to race your car? Not much, really. Simple things like changing
the oil, fixing leaks, and checking the tires and brakes. The most important item on your car
is the brakes. Z's have great brakes, but you need good pads and fluid to race. Nothing exotic
or expensive, just good stuff. Generic pads and fluid from a parts store will not stand up to
hard use, though. I use Axxis pads and Motul brake fluid, but many good high performance brake
components will work. I also bleed out the brakes before a race, to insure there is fresh fluid
in the calipers.
Worried about abuse and wear on your car? Why? These cars are made to stand up to hard use.
The type of racing will dictate the type of wear your car will receive. Autocrossing is
inexpensive, and the only thing that will wear are the tires, but not much. Drag racing will be
hard on the clutch and tranny, but not much else. Road racing and lap events will wear on the
brakes. All these types can be done on regular street tires, for several years before you wear
out a set of tires. Race tires are more fun, though. For brakes, I usually go two years on a
set of pads, and this includes a good number of autocrosses and road races.
Still concerned? Then go watch a race. See about riding with someone (some autocross and
lapping sessions allow passengers). Go to races with other club members. Most are willing to
help out and give pointers. Just give it a try. You will be surprised how much fun you can have,
and you will also become a better driver because of it.
© 2007 Triad Z Club
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