First AutoX, have a few prep questions

[Fred(DrivingSchool)Kinder]

Tire pressure is a variable that you will need to define based on the specific Autox conditions. I usually start at 35 psi and go up or down depending if more over or understeer is wanted. I think the pads are pretty important and likely the stock pads would be best. During an autocross the pads/rotors do not get nearly as hot. Racing pads will tend to cause more front wheel lock up and flat spot your new tires, $$$. My best advise is to always look ahead. When you start to turn in for a corner your eyes should be past the track out and looking for the next turn. Look where you want to go not where you are. Good luck. Tight AutoX's can be frustrating.

You must be registered for see images

You must be registered for see images

You must be registered for see images

 

[JimDavis MT 97GTS 650R]

You might consider removing the "Sport Shims" form the front suspension. This will change the front camber angle slightly to a more negative camber thus providing better cornering. If you have a Service Manual, check out Suspension section 2-18. Note: "Sport Shims" should be replaced for street driving and the static toe reset. (JD)

 

[Bill 96 GTS]

Here is an old autox trick.... put a little white shoe polish on the edges of your tires. Make a run then read the polish on the tires. It will be easy to see how they are reacting to the turns and the air pressure.

 

[JonB]

Year matters !

Since you are on 17" MXX-3s Id go w/ Fred Kinder and start at 33-35. No lower than 32.

****P/S FLUID !!**** Siphon out the old and replace with fresh, new fluid. CAP ON TIGHT USE Redline if you have time.

I also concur on brakes....no heat, and BM-3 or any racepad will be "grabby" and the R4S will not, and will be ok !

DO REMOVE THE SHIMS !! Even if you choose NOT to adjust the toe! Just pop em out...and back in when you get home.

No flippin floor mats......good shoes for driving.....low fuel load......

Lastly: The 1996 (and 97) GTS is notorious for puking oil from the PCV hose under Auto-X braking. Tighten, clamp, or replace with updated harness. (under $30 as I recall) Then, check this hose between events, especially if no time to replace. You will likely find it is puking oil.

have a GREAT day, and report back?
JonB

 

[Jay Lopez]

I just bought a book on Autocrossing from Amazon. Haven't read it yet, but reviews looked good. Here the link .

 

[Jeff-00-ACR]

I usually run about 28 lbs in front and rear tires. Make one trip through the course and then check your tires for any roll, and add or reduce pressure accordingly. Check out my autox pics and videos at
http://www.jeffhelms.com/events.htm

Jeff

 

[JonB]

If you have the updated PCV hose hit, it will have a "Corrugated" pipe that runs from the valve-cover crosspipe to the Airbox inlet. Pipe itself is hard black plastic. The 4 clamps are trick-looking toothed locking clamps. They use a kind of "tongue in groove" locking mechanism. Unique.

Best $25 a 96-97 GTS owner will spend !