@StevenSlice

cosmetic mods.... yes I can sure understand what you are saying about putting money to better use. None of my cosmetic mods were more than $40 to $90 at a time and the most expensive was the side marker lights.

It was just little stuff while I researched how to proceed. I’m seeing now though that the lip and/or splitter that I was thinking about is probably the lowest on the list of where I should start. After the feedback I have been getting up here so far I think I’m going to look at wheels and tires.

Yeah, Aero comes after you get the car proper. Aero on **** suspension and no tires doesnt really do you any good.

Tracks in socal are all midspeed so a wing / splitter is something i need, but having proper grip overall is mui importante.

ZSpeed Engine Splash Shield
 

Today I replaced the stock plastic Engine Splash Shield with the ZSpeed aluminum splash shield. The ZSpeed shield fit perfectly and shipped with more than enough mounting hardware. I think the best feature is the removable panel that will allow for easier oil changes.

My next upgrade is definitely going to be the Akebono Sport Brake upgrade. From what I have been seeing so far the stock base model 18" wheels will still fit with the larger front calipers. I'm still wanting to confirm this so I know if I will need to replace the wheels at the same time or if I can do the brakes first and keep the original wheels for now.

Nice! Mines sitting in my garage. SoCal fires making installing it impossible due to all the ash and smoke.

I should have my akebonos installed by the beginning of the year, if anything hold off and ill tell you if they fit or not. Unless someone can chime in beforehand. I think theyll fit the rears, fronts i think youd need some spacers like crazy or 19s idk

New Pic
 

Had some time to get some new photos of the Z today....

Sport Brake Upgrade Day
 

Today was the day for the Sport Brake Upgrade. Here is my parts list for today’s event:

Sport Brake Calipers
Centric Slotted Rotors
Hawk HP Plus Brake Pads
Z1 Stainless Steels Brake Lines
Stillen Front Brake Cooling Kit
Motul RBF 660 Brake Fluid

So, the upgrade was pretty straight forward I guess. It was the first time I have done this upgrade on a Z. I’ve done brakes jobs on other vehicles before so I had a little experience.

I installed the new Stillen Front Brake Cooling mounts on the spindles since I had the front assemblies tore down anyway. I did not run the ducting yet for the cooling kit though. That will be a project for another weekend.

I was very concerned about the stock front wheels fitting over those Sport Calipers but thankfully they fit.

I feel I can track the car now for my current skill level (beginner). I am excited and nervous about my first track day.

I didn’t upload any photos as I’m sure everyone has seen enough sport Brake upgrades already.

Moving right along!

Whens your first track day?

You're not too far so i may considering tagging along, assuming I can find a day to throw a huge install party for my Z before that.

Also, great choice on a Pad/Rotor setup for a entry level fun time setup:tup:

Going to my first Performance Driving School, Buttonwillow Raceway Park, Feb 10, 2018. Well, it really isn't my first performance driving school but it will be my first in a civilian car :o)

I have been to like six high performance street driving training days over the past 11 years but none of them are on road (race) courses.

Awsome.

Youre doing the performance driving clinic.

Make sure you have a decent helmet, and i highly reccomend getting some gloves. Doesnt have to be anything fancy as long as they grip the wheel well and are comfortable. They make a big difference imo.

Dont do stupid crap and have fun :tup:

Thanks Steve. I have a good helmet, a couple pair of gloves, a couple pair of shoes, and a Sparco racing suit. I’m not taking my race suit for the clinic but I may take the shoes and the helmet of course.

I have a few oval track races under my belt and a lot of simulator time.

Performance Driving Clinic at Buttonwilliow
 

Today is my first Performance Driving Clinic at Buttonwillow Raceway with the Z! I’m anxious and nervous all at the same time.

Buttonwillow Raceway Performance Driving Clinic - RECAP
 

My first Performance Driving Clinic was a lot of fun. I learned that my car is much more capable than I am. The instructors were very helpful. Oil temps were pushing 230 - 240 degrees even though the air temp outside was only in the low 70's. The instructors were a lot more aggressive than I of course and the higher temps were after a few laps with the instructor driving. Overall, I'm amazed at how well the stock 370z handles on the track. It always felt in control. The HAWK Performance HP Plus brake pads never faded either. The sessions were about 25 minutes long each time. I totally recommend this track for any new drivers that want to try a Performance Driving Clinic. They served lunch as part of the registration fees and it was actually really good.

Nice little review! Glad that you were able to get a lot out of the course!

Good to hear you took it out and had a blast!

I finally get to test mine this upcoming saturday, First track day with Z, and with all the supporting mods im expecting to do rather well. If you can front it, i totally reccomend signing up for Nissan Challenge in Autoclub speedway.

The guys ive met so far are pretty cool, and knowledgeable to thered be a lot to learn.