I know this is still a ways away. However, it is best to get signed up early to guarantee a spot. I would really like to see the Z's representing.

If you preregister it is only $125. All you need is a valid driver's license and a SNELL approved helmet (I got mine for $70).

It is a ton of fun and a great way to see what you and the Z can really do. Safely.

You can get more information at the link below:
http://www.waterfordhills.com/index.htm

 

I really should do this. I have been wanting to since I bought the Z. That will be the 2nd to last day of my vacation (not going anywhere). The site is currently down or something - I'll try again later and start shopping for a helmet...I think it's time to start 'really' learning to drive this machine in a safe environment. Thanks for the reminder/heads-up.

 

The site does seem to be down at the moment. It was working fine this morning. I am sure it will be back up soon. I bought the cheapest helmet at Recreational Leisure Corp. in Farmington Hills. It was a basic black open face motorcycle helmet. It cost about $70 and meets the SNELL requirements. I would definitely recommend going somewhere to try them on. Different brands fit completely different.

I look forward to seeing some fellow Z owners in June. (It is looking like I am going to be the only Z once again next weekend. )

 

I had time to create a user account there, but, that's it so far. The email account I use is accessed from home only (at work now). I should be able to get registered tomorrow. I'm looking forward to this I'm just nervous about wrecking (or someone wrecking into me!) I still owe $12k on the car

 

12k! That is half of what I owe! It really is a safe controlled environment though. A pro will ride with you first session to make sure you are comfortable with the track and your car. You will need a paypal account to register online. Otherwise, you can register by mail.

 

I'm about to register for the 6/10 open track event, but, I was wondering about what happens if it rains? I understand 'no refunds after entering track' - but what if it's raining before the event starts? Do they give refunds or rainchecks? I'm still running stock everything and there is no way I'm driving around in the rain with my windows down .

I did email their open track contact - no answer yet.

 

I was concerned about the rain factor too. However, I have talked to a few people about it. Some of the replies I got were:

"You would be surprised at how much water actually gets in the car, it is very little."
"Saran Wrap your seats"
"it's just water"

I plan on running even if it rains. I don't think it will be that bad. I am going to bring towels and saran wrap and some hope .

-S

 

Just curious 'thekinn', where do live?

 

I did get a reply from them yesterday -

"We run the open track day events whether it rains or shines. If the conditions are very dangerous (lightening, thunderstorms, standing water on the track) and the cars have not driven on the track surface, then refunds will be considered on a case by case basis.

You are always welcome to pre register and decide the day of the event whether or not to run. We will gladly transfer your registration to the next event or refund you if you can not attend any of the future open track days.

Regard,

Laura"


I'm satisfied with that answer. I was also growing sceptical of my car, but, have decided that I'm not going to be going nuts out there. It is my first track day. I'll learn what I can - and if my brakes or tires can not take it - then I'll stop for the day. I have 12k miles on it - still all stock - and I have been pretty easy on it.

I live in Ferndale. You?

 

That is good to know about the rain check. I am actually surprised that they would do that. Thanks for the info.

I am in Farmington Hills.

 

The Z is VERY capable stock. I would imagine that your ability will definitely be the limiting factor your first few times out. Not the car. The track coordinators will set you up with an experienced driver as your co-pilot until you are comfortable. They will help you understand the line and also when and how to brake.

I didn't shift at all on my first track day. I was instructed to keep it in 3rd. The Z had plenty of torque in 3rd to pull me out of every turn and plenty of top end for the straights. I am going next weekend and I plan on keeping it in 3rd again. I might try shifting in June .

 

I got myself signed up. I didn't see any other 350z on the entry list - you holding out? or driving a different car?

I have some time off at the end of this month - I'll pick up a helmet then. Take it easy - and se you there.

 

I haven't signed up yet. I will probably sign up next week.

 

Have you ever been to the Milan Dragstrip? I was going to start a new thread.. I checked out their website and didn't see any 'open drag nights' or anything.

http://www.milandragway.com/home.html

 

I have never been to a drag strip. I am definitely interested though,

It looks like Wednesday is their public "Test and Tune" day.

http://milandragway.com/2002/races/wednesday.html

 

Guys, I have been many times to Waterford with my Z. For a first time I recommend going to an event organized by the BMW or Porsche club. They accept other makes.
See:
rsp.pca.org
www.sempca.org
or www.motorcitybmwcca.org

As far as the helmet, they require a snell SA helmet, not a motorcycle helmet.
An SA helmet is for road racing and uses flame retardent materials.

 

dam, I wish I would have found this site while I still lived in MI...

 

Just curious; why would you recommend going to an event organized by the BMW or Porsche for your first time? Waterford Hills has 4 OTD's per year open to any make or model and any experience level. Also, Waterford does not require an 'SA' helmet. Any Snell approved motorcycle helmet will do fine.

 

I recommend it for someone new to track driving. I also recommend it to an experienced driver going to a new track. These events are Driver Education events where they provide instructors to show you around the track. You will learn the line much faster. There are a lot of things to learn from an experienced driver. You get as much track time as an OTC and they include lunch.

 

Well, the weather forcast for Sunday looks promising. I ended up borrowing a helmet from a friend of mine - Looking forward to my first track day. See you there!