[Es2] things that tend to break on es2's at the track

[Dave Hord]

Not have an ES2, but a normal 90q toy that sees track time...here's my non-engine related suggestions:

Make sure your brakes and bushings (control arm, subframe, upper strut, engine and tranny mounts) are all in good shape. Check again after your event, you might be surprised at what you find. My suspension uses rod ends (not bushings) at the control arms. They last me multiple rallyX's and drivex events...but they always seem to build play in at least two during a track event. The track I run loads the LF very hard...how do I know? I have to replace the rod ends after almost each visit!

Your brake fluid should be flushed before the event, and after. Pads should be swapped to a track pad for the event, and swapped back after. Note that you might eat a set of rotors. As the brakes in these cars are typically inadequate for street use, it helps to know the difference between brake-pad fade and brake fluid fade. If your pads are fading, the pedal remains stiff but you push and push and feel like you're not getting any brakes. If the fluid boils the pedal will instead sink to the floor...and you feel like you have no brakes. Note that either condition might result in really having no brakes, so take it easy and build up to 'track speeds'. 

Speaking of building up, build down too. You should do two progressively faster laps, starting with just a cool cruiser and getting quicker, before going out to 'hammer' at track speeds. When your session is ending slow down and do one or two FULL laps at amuch slower 'cool' pace. This will extend the life of your brakes and tires significantly. It can't hurt the engine and tranny either. ;-)  Do this EACH session you're out there. 

Check your wheel torque (cold) before your first session, and again before your second. 

Other then eating mounts/bushings, the chassis is pretty solid for track use. 

-Dave

-----Original Message-----
From: "Adam Ordway" <adam.ordway at boston.ehr.com>
Date: Wed, 7 Jun 2006 08:18:27 
To:<es2 at audifans.com>
Subject: [Es2] things that tend to break on es2's at the track

Are there any common things that one should prepare for with spare parts
and tools that tend to break or become otherwise compromised from a
couple of track days?

 

Adam

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