[belcom]

A buddy is inviting to a small get together at the track. I've never been on a track before but always wanted to check it out and see what its about.

my car is a stock 335xi e90, I've only done suspension and wheels/tires so far. KW V1s and michelin pss 19". Front brakes are brand new, rears are so so. No engine mods, no oil cooler, N55, 6MT.

Am I ok going in like this? I am most worried about oil temps and going limp in a middle of a lap or something

[charlie fairmont]

For a first timer, you should be fine. Depending on the track, high temp brake fluid might be a good idea. I'm sure others will disagree but I put fresh engine, tranny, and diff fluid for every track weekend. Short shifting can sometimes help temps. Fresh coolant could too. Bring a code reader. Remember you're there to learn, not smash track records. If the car is not paid off, I am of the opinion that track day insurance is a must.

[Cloud9blue]

Short shift at 6k rpm and go very easy on the stock brake pads, you should be ok. Also, watch out for any excessive shoulder wear on the front tires with your stock alignment. Overall, go easy, as you are not going to smash any record with stock brake pads and PSS tires. Be careful not to money shift as well, seen that more often than I expected on the tracks in my experience.

Try to follow the more experienced drivers in a similar car for a lap or two, to learn the line and braking/turn-in points.

[Conti.]

Bring an extra coil or two and tools to replace them. If it's a very hot day and the coils are on the older side its very possible to burn and fry them out. Ask me how I know lol.

You should also change your oil before and after especially if you have no oil cooler and your going to be running all day

Also see you can have an instructor ride with you for the day. They can help with all the proper lines of the track l, braking, etc. It will help you tremendously

[carguy138]

This is going to sound very obvious but one thing I've noticed almost across the board when teaching people new things is to BREATHE.

Happens with virtually everyone getting their feet wet with higher risk sports (track days, motorcycles, ski racing, shooting, etc)

People tend to tense up and inadvertently forget to breathe when doing something that requires quick decisions and high concentration.

Definitely something to always keep in the back of your mind. Good luck.

[cburn]

No tune?

1. Try to take it easy on the brakes. You are not out to set any records.
2. 335's like to get hot fast. When your laps are over and you park open your hood.
3. Pay attention to your line and gradually increase your speed.
4. Goes with above.. Learn the track. Sometimes the perfect line isn't the fastest.
5. Have fun and get to know your car!

Cheers,
Burn.

[CHI335]

I got racing brake fluid to help with the brake temp, might look into that. I used rbf600. Also keep an eye out for your engine temp. I had no oil cooler and my car went into limp mode after the third session. Have fun!

[CHI335]

Originally Posted by CHI335

I got racing brake fluid to help with the brake temp, might look into that. I used rbf600. Also keep an eye out for your engine temp. I had no oil cooler and my car went into limp mode after the third session. Have fun!

Forgot to mention: don't use your hand brake in between sessions - helps the brakes cool faster

[cb4]

You will be fine. I tracked my 335xi 6spd for a while and no problems. Especially for your first event. Do a brake fluid flush and use something like motul. Have fun!!

[belcom]

Originally Posted by carguy138

This is going to sound very obvious but one thing I've noticed almost across the board when teaching people new things is to BREATHE.

Happens with virtually everyone getting their feet wet with higher risk sports (track days, motorcycles, ski racing, shooting, etc)

People tend to tense up and inadvertently forget to breathe when doing something that requires quick decisions and high concentration.

Definitely something to always keep in the back of your mind. Good luck.

I know eh I fly RC helis as my other hobby. I know all about tension, quick decisions and high concentration when you have a $3000 flying lawn mower in front of your face Literally one wrong stick movement and things get ugly really fast...

this is not me but one of the sponsored pros. just so you get the idea

[jqiallnatural]

my car is 2007 335i coupe, stock suspension, with 29 inche style 269 P zero run flats, running jb4 with intake and downpipes, should i be concerned? Im not going crazy or anything just learning the track for now.

[davidwarren]

best thing to do for your first time out is to make sure you have good brake fluid, good brakes (pads and rotors in good shape), good tires, and a good attitude.

[The HACK]

Originally Posted by jqiallnatural

my car is 2007 335i coupe, stock suspension, with 29 inche style 269 P zero run flats, running jb4 with intake and downpipes, should i be concerned? Im not going crazy or anything just learning the track for now.

I'd be more concerned with how you fit 29" wheels under the car.

[superg914]

Much great advice here! One thing I didn't see (and as an instructor, I notice quite often), is a reminder to keep your eyes up. It is very easy for a newbie to get tunnel vision and only be looking at the pavement 50-100 feet ahead. Not only will you end up missing braking/turn-in, apex, etc. but you won't be seeing corner workers, flag stations, or your mirrors.

Most important though -- HAVE FUN!! All of us were first timers at one point. I sure remember how nervous I was for my first ever track session. 14 years later I still can't get enough. Be prepared to have serious negotiations with your significant other about how much time and $$$ can be allotted to this addiction if you get bit

[carguy138]

Originally Posted by belcom

I know eh I fly RC helis as my other hobby. I know all about tension, quick decisions and high concentration when you have a $3000 flying lawn mower in front of your face Literally one wrong stick movement and things get ugly really fast...

this is not me but one of the sponsored pros. just so you get the idea

Yup I know what you are talking about. I have a TREX 450 and a few smaller blade helis. Don't really use them anymore.

Used to be more into the R/C scene (cars, gas planes and helis) but gradually stopped doing it. Recently had the bug to start flying again but the entire nonsense with now registering R/C planes with the FAA took all the fun out of it.