jerkyboy

Ran my 03 Z at the BSR "Refridgerator Bowl" at Summit yesterday. That is the first time I've run my car in something like that. I had an absolute blast!!! The first heat was a section of Summit main from turn 4 through to turn 9. I was in the first group and it was pretty cold. I couldn't get traction at all.

In the afternoon we ran a section of Shenandoah and I felt like I was getting lost on the coarse and was pretty much on the edge of being out of control LOL. I ended up with the 6th best time with some national autocross drivers ahead of me!!

I want to attend a FATT at Summit in the Spring to really learn more about reading proper lines etc..

So my question is this: How can I tell if my Nitto's have passed their lifespan in terms of grip? I bought the car with a bunch of spares (willwood pads, Nitto NT05's etc..). The Nittos look to be about 5 years old but felt really greasy.

jesup16

My guess is you're running NT05's? You never clearly stated what tire you have on the car.

1. If they are Nitto's they won't be competitive.
2. If they are 5 years old, they are well past their prime. Check the manufacturer date on the sidewall.

^ None of these things matter if you're just starting. If you are truly bitten by the bug, spend your $ on more events, which means seat time. If available, find a driving school to attend. They are $$ but the seat time and instruction are worth it.

jerkyboy

Yes, sorry. I have the NT-05s.

I agree 100% and will look to add more track time hopefully with an instructor. I want to make sure I am a least safe with the equipment I'm running. Luckily the previous owner of my Z is a track instructor and set the car up really well. Now it's the driver mod that needs work!!

johnny c

grip levels will drop with any tire. generally with street tires they will lose grip slowly. i noticed every time the tires dropped below 32* (think winter) they would loose a good amount of grip. if my tires make it threw a year i throw them out after winter and buy a fresh set in the spring.

right now the hero super grippy tire is the BFG rival S. if your just learning and want a tire to beat up on check out the Falken 615k, hankook rs3, or the standard rival.

Dan H.

Next year get out on the full main track. Turn 10 is a fast right hander and turn one is pucker zone! Turn 3 is also very fast as you learn it.

The Washington, D.C. Scca group is a good bunch of folks for a track day and run there throughout the summer

rocsvette

Audi, Porsche and Mercedes groups used to run events at Summit Pt and if they still do, attend their events. Without an instructor you're only going to strengthen bad habits so lapping days aren't the best way to learn.

Tires degrade over time and tend to harden reducing grip just from time even if not used. 5 years is very old in track "years".