It does, so you have a classification for regular 350Zs using NISMO provided parts (different than Spec Z) , and a classification for Spec Z...using the NASA Suspension package...these are basically diferent cars in ZSCCA eyes....

and a class for the 370Z...

Hey, it is all good!

 

We race with other classes since the car count is low, but we only COMPETE against the other SpecZs.

 

Selling my sti to buy a Z and had a question about calipers. The rules state pads are open and rotors must be the same size and type. If I get a base model can I upgrade to any caliper as long as my rotors are with in spec?

 

You can use any OEM Nissan 350Z Caliper...however Brembo is really the only way to go.

 

Also - you'll need rotors specifically for the Brembo's. Much larger than your base model brakes.

 

The HR is actually at a power/weight disadvantage, but remember, there are no HP limitations for REGIONAL events (remember, onlookers, you desire a lower number here). Last year ALL Zs were wt/power of 12:1, weights were raised this year. Why they were raised for the DE and DE rev-up is beyond me, but understood about the HR.

DE: 258HP(mx) wt 3175#(min) wt/power = 12.3
DE rev-up: 265 wt 3250 wt/power = 12.26 (!)
HR: 275 wt 3400 wt/power = 12.36

Also remember, one can have more HP (at Nationals), but must offset each HP with a 15# weight, essentially making one's wt/power even worse, i.e.:

HR: 290HP requires 3625#, wt/power = 12.5. Now you're at 450# heavier than your 03 competitor, that's 450# more on your tires, brakes, etc.

 

Gents,
Some clarification requested on the following topics. From the NASA CCR:

15.16.1 Racing Seat
Some series require an approved racing seat. It is strongly recommend that a racing seat be installed in all vehicles....

So a race seat isn't required, but if we had a fixed-back seat, it doesn't have to be FIA...

15.6.21 Seat Back Support
A seatback support must be made to hold the seat from going back in the event of a crash. A plate should be used to distribute the load. No bolts, corners, or sharp objects should be placed in such a manner that could lead to a possible puncture of the driver in a high impact crash. Seat back support need not be attached to the seat itself. Proper design and installation is crucial to safety and it is recommended that the driver employ the services of a professional race car builder for this, as well as all other vehicle safety items. An exception may be made for those seats homologated to, and mounted in accordance with, FIA 8855-1999 or 8862-2009 standards. Those seats that qualify for the aforementioned exception must conform to the entire FIA 8855-1999 or 8862-2009 set of regulations, as applicable. This includes a mandatory seat replacement, or use of a seat back brace, for any seat more than five (5) years old (8855-1999) or more than ten (10) years old (8862-2009). Please reference the FIA regulations. http://www.fia.com/

Seat back brace required on non-current FIA seats or any non-FIA seat. .

15.8 Master Switch
An electrical master switch is recommended on all cars

15.10 Windows / Window Nets
Window nets should be used on the driver’s side window.

Recommended and SHOULD, not required. . . ? See language when required:

15.12 Tow Eyes
It is required that all race vehicles, except open-wheel (formula) cars, have at least two (2) ...

A kill switch is not required, nor is a left side net?... A center net is clearly required for seats that don't have tight halo bolsters.

I'm not saying I won't have these items, but if we are scrutinizing the rules, they aren't required. I started looking closer into this because I got some guff over my seat back brace during inspection, and my kill switch failed and gave me a huge headache with the alternator failing.

 

KNS

Thanks for your help today. I forgot to ask one questions.

For the Subaru you have your KNS blanks that are made by DBA. Do or will you have these for the 350z's?

 

My understanding is CCR phrases like "should" and "recommended" are to be read with the phrase "if you want to be allowed on track, not black flagged or DQ'd by some officials"

But they could certainly use tighter wording to make it black & white in many if those cases.

The window net one depends if you have a window (open wheel) but they could specify that as well.

 

Be aware the 350z tends to put a lot of load on the front brakes (more than average it seems) to the point that heat management can be an issue. Brake ducts are allowed (see rules) and a good idea (on my to do list) but 2 ways to help this are:

1. Use a pad that is rated for higher heat (not all race pads are created equal). I had to experiment for a while to find pads that had the bite and durability I wanted (KNS was quite helpful). I started by going through front pads very quickly 1-2 track days) now getting much longer life (relatively speaking)

2. Learn to brake less actually this one really helped me too, though I still have a lot of room to improve.

As for rotors, my experience has been (so far) that every rotor I have tried gets heat stress cracks from thermal fatigue requiring replacement long before any significant wear....

But perhaps you know all this already.

 

We did the STi and rally WRX rotors and we are doing C5 and soon C6Z rotors.

I would do the Z in a heartbeat - but so far the market is soft.

The car is not quite as hard on the rotors as the aforementioned cars so the advantage might be less obvious.

 

Damn! Now I need to track down some upper control arms. :P

http://www.nasaforums.com/viewtopic....5fbaed5#unread

 

WOOT!!!!

 

nowthey need to fix the diff bushing problem and the compression arm bushing problem.

 

Agreed, I have formally requested "relief" from this problem...

 

Bout Time!!!

 

SPL FTW...

The SPL stuff is NiZe!!!

 

I'm curious about this change....and I don't know anything about racing, but was it pressure from racers for better performance or was it a tire wear issue? Or both?

I'm just wondering because I assume the point of a spec class is to keep things competitive, but also to keep costs down. More performance parts cause costs to creep up. I guess if it improves performance and tire wear then it would help keep costs down. And I guess the A arms are pretty cheap anyway.

Sorry if this is a dumb question or has already been discussed.

 

Both!

A Spec Z setup car wants to understeer, and burn up front tires. So the adjustable A-Arms allow for more camber, better tire temps and wear, and happier drivers.

A Z-car is SO MUCH better to drive with more front camber...the rear is less impacted by increased camber.

Good A-Arms are <$800, tires are ~$350 each. I doesn't take long to recoop any mony spend on the A-Arms.

And every 350z on the street that is lowered has them...

 

Thanks. Makes sense.