team3s            Thursday, April 26 2001            Volume 01 : Number 476




----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 15:56:33 -0500
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

> Engine braking can be dangerous if the person
>behind you is close and not paying attention.  Then be ready to answer why
>your brake lights don't work when in fact you were using the gears to slow
>you down.
>
The LAST thing you want to do is use the engine to brake the car. It's one
thing to coast down to 100 mph in 4th to save brakes in a stock-caliper
car, and quite another to downshift to 3rd at 110mph so the engine will
slow you.

Remember that brake pads and rotors are much less expensive than a clutch,
transmission and motor. Also, brakes are designed to stop the car, whilst
the clutch, transmisison and motor are designed to go fast, not act as brakes.

In the olden days, before synchos, blipping was necessary to match engine
speed with transmission speed so the gears would mesh properly. In today's
Trans-Am cars, with their straight-cut gears, blipping is necessary on
downshifts. But none of this is needed in a modern car with synchros.

The only reason to blip the throttle is to match engine speed with car
speed so you don't get a lurch when you release the clutch. You can
accomplish the same thing by judiciously releasing the clutch at the right
time, and being in the proper gear. Besides, if you are hammering the
brakes to where they are bouncing off the ABS, it doesn't matter how hard
you drop the clutch, because that little lurch will have no effect. This is
true, of course, only with AWD cars - try it in a 911 or Vette, and you
might lock the rears and go around.

With our cars, there is no need to heel-and-toe.
Haven't we had this discussion before?

Rich/old poop/94 VR4.

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 17:03:47 -0400
From: "Schilberg, Darren" <DSchilberg@freemarkets.com>
Subject: Team3S: OT: 2 Busch/NASCAR tix available for 05/26-05/27

If you are interested in 2 tickets to the Busch Auto Parts 300 on 05/26 and
the Winston Cup Coca-Cola 600 on 05/27 in Concord, NC at Lowe's Motor
Speedway then please respond offline as soon as possible.

Two tickets to both races.
Accommodations are not included.
$125 per ticket.

http://www.nascar.com/TRACKS/lowes/


- --Flash!
dschilberg@pobox.com

3Si #577
1995 Black VR-4 w/ Big Reds, Autopower rollbar, Sparco Evo race seat,
Simpson 5-point harnesses, and a custom spark plug plate
http://www.team3s.com/FAQrollbar.htm

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 17:08:24 -0400
From: "Schilberg, Darren" <DSchilberg@freemarkets.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

My point was that on the street you have to realize that mothers driving
minivans are not always looking out for how much faster/slower you are going
but on the track they are (not that minivans race but you get the idea).  I
didn't have time to do anything other than throttle and brake since there
were so many other inputs coming in at once.

I am still learning what our AWD cars can do and without an AWD instructor
in my car I had to do some things different I'm sure.  Instead of hitting
the Keyhole at 60 mph I was hitting it at 40 mph because of traffic so this
let me relax enough to try my hand at heel-and-toe and things like that.

Yes, Rich, we have had this conversation before.  Remember that some people
may be new to the list.

- --Flash!

- -----Original Message-----
From: Merritt [mailto:merritt@cedar-rapids.net]
Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2001 4:57 PM
To: Schilberg, Darren; 'Gross, Erik'; Team3S List (E-mail)
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

> Engine braking can be dangerous if the person
>behind you is close and not paying attention.  Then be ready to answer why
>your brake lights don't work when in fact you were using the gears to slow
>you down.
>
The LAST thing you want to do is use the engine to brake the car. It's one
thing to coast down to 100 mph in 4th to save brakes in a stock-caliper
car, and quite another to downshift to 3rd at 110mph so the engine will
slow you.

With our cars, there is no need to heel-and-toe.
Haven't we had this discussion before?


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 15:06:11 -0700
From: "Gross, Erik" <erik.gross@intel.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

> Engine braking can be dangerous if the person
> behind you is close and not paying attention.  Then be ready
> to answer why your brake lights don't work when in fact you
> were using the gears to slow you down.

Yeah, I agree - what I'm talking about, however, is engine braking *while*
braking with your foot on the pedal.  Thus your lights would be on.

> The LAST thing you want to do is use the engine to brake the
> car. It's one thing to coast down to 100 mph in 4th to
> save brakes in a stock-caliper car, and quite another to
> downshift to 3rd at 110mph so the engine will slow you.

Yeah, that's a little extreme, I agree.  However, for example, I'm thinking
more of the following scenario (mine's a NA with 3rd @redline at 100MPH and
2nd @70mph):  >100 in 4th down the straight with a 50-55mph curve the end,
then toward the end of the straight, nail the brakes, when it hits 80-85 or
so, heel-toe shift to 3rd to get better engine braking (while still on the
binders), then let up on the brakes as you turn in, hit the apex, and slowly
increase throttle in 3rd as you come out of the turn.  That results in
either faster braking in the 85mph range(faster lap times, all else equal)
or will maintain the same braking force with less force on the pads/rotors
(brake management).  Or am I hittin' the crack a little too much these days?


> Remember that brake pads and rotors are much less expensive
> than a clutch, transmission and motor.

But if your brakes fade on you, they don't stop you so good:-)  Maybe one
day I'll have Big Reds, but for now, I've got stock 2-piston calipers up
front and singles in the rear.  I'll take braking wherever I can get it...

> In the olden days, before synchos, blipping was necessary to
> match engine speed with transmission speed  ...
> But none of this is needed in a modern car with synchros.

Needed, I agree, no.  But useful in reducing synchro wear, sure (if you're
double-clutching and not just rev matching).

> Besides, if you are hammering the brakes to where they
> are bouncing off the ABS, it doesn't  matter how hard
> you drop the clutch, because that little lurch will have no
> effect.

But for those of us without ABS/AWD, that lurch could mean gravel pit or
wall.  Maybe one day I'll have a VR-4, but for now, it's either a base model
and a small race/suspension budget or a VR-4 with no money left to play.  I
want to play:-)

> This is true, of course, only with AWD cars - try it in a
> 911 or Vette, and you might lock the rears and go around.

Yeah, exactly.  I'm not sure what would happen with a FWD car, but I'm sure
it wouldn't be pretty.

> Haven't we had this discussion before?

Quite possibly, but all I did was ask if anyone had any thoughts about
pedals or pads that make heel-toe shifting easier :-)  But, for all who've
been through this before, thanks for putting up with the newbies as we learn
the ropes.  BTW, Rich, I'll probably be making some brake cooling ducts like
yours soon - and I think I should be able to use my [empty] intercooler
ports to make a pretty big funnel to force air to the brakes.  Regardless,
I'll be taking an extra set of pads to the track the first time I go
(hopefully next month, if I ever get my stinkin' suspension).

- --Erik

- ------                                             ----------
Erik Gross                                         DuPont, WA
'95 Glacier White Pearl 3000GT (NA, DOHC, 5MT)      78,000 mi
   Magnacor KV85, M1 10W30, K&N FIPK, Skippy PCV Catch Can,
   Tein HA Coilovers (UPS broke 1st set !?!?! 2nd in transit)
   SZ50EP 245/45/ZR17, 17x8.5J 1GTT wheels
   http://pws.ihpc.net/erikgross/home.html
'94 Algae-Blue "fun to slide around corners" Corolla 75,000mi
- -------------------------------------------------------------


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 17:20:42 -0500
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

>> Remember that brake pads and rotors are much less expensive
>> than a clutch, transmission and motor.
>
>But if your brakes fade on you, they don't stop you so good:-)  Maybe one
>day I'll have Big Reds, but for now, I've got stock 2-piston calipers up
>front and singles in the rear.  I'll take braking wherever I can get it...
>
Problem is, if you are not using your brakes to the maximum, you will heat
them up even more. The secret to effective braking and making the pads last
the longest is to use them as hard as possible for the shortest amount of
time.Get on, get off.  If you are on the brakes hard, engine braking will
have no effect other than to stress your driveline. If the engine does help
with braking, then you are not using your brakes hard enough, and they will
heat up on you.

Remember, the worst possible way to use your brakes is the way we drive
around down with a passenger aboard. We slow down gradually, increasing
brake pressure slowly so as not to upset the car or the passenger. Do this
on a track, and you will fry your brakes in two laps.

If you are experiencing brake fade, I suggest these solutions:
1. Coast down to 100 (or less) before applying the brakes. The faster you
go, the harder it is to stop.
2. Change/bleed your brake fluid. Use Ford High Performance ($3 a pint) and
change it often.
3. Run race pads on the track.
4. Run air ducts to the rotors (I see you are planning to do this)

Rich/old poop

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 15:44:32 -0700
From: "Gross, Erik" <erik.gross@intel.com>
Subject: Team3S: Brake management  WAS: Heel-Toe Shifting

> Problem is, if you are not using your brakes to the maximum,
> you will heat them up even more. The secret to effective braking
> and making the pads last the longest is to use them as hard as
> possible for the shortest amount of time.Get on, get off.

Cool - didn't know that - thanks!  Does that apply to street pads as well,
or just race pads?  I'm guessing that brake fade will be an issue for me on
the track since I have smaller brakes and am only 400-500 lbs lighter than a
VR-4.  I know one good nailing from 100-60 and I start feeling it a little.

> If you are experiencing brake fade, I suggest these solutions:
> 1. Coast down to 100 (or less) before applying the brakes.

Yeah, for sure:)  And while I'm seeing how my brakes last, I may try to keep
the speed not too much over 100 and wave people around...

> 2. Change/bleed your brake fluid. Use Ford High Performance
> ($3 a pint) and change it often.

Cool - plan to do that.  Do you use speed bleeders or how do you do it (I
assume you have an easy way).  If you use speed bleeders, where'd you get
them?

> 3. Run race pads on the track.

Probably not the first time (am I playing with fire?) due to cost issues.
I've already got a spare set of stock pads.

> 4. Run air ducts to the rotors (I see you are planning to do this)

Yep, dryer tubing, here I come!

- --Erik


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 17:53:44 -0700
From: "Jim Berry" <fastmax@home.com>
Subject: Team3S: cruise control

I'm in need af a cruise control switch --- the one on the steering
wheel ---- bottom dollar will be paid, attaboys will be awarded for
rapid response.

Please responde privately.

        Jim Berry


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 19:07:16 -0700 (PDT)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedracer.speedtoys.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: cruise control

I got one.

What ya gimme for it?

On Wed, 25 Apr 2001, Jim Berry wrote:

> I'm in need af a cruise control switch --- the one on the steering
> wheel ---- bottom dollar will be paid, attaboys will be awarded for
> rapid response.
>
> Please responde privately.
>
>         Jim Berry

- ---
Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedtoys.com
California, USA
http://www.speedtoys.com


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 19:07:32 -0700 (PDT)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedracer.speedtoys.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: cruise control

..."gimme" meant in the kindest manner. *grin*

On Wed, 25 Apr 2001, Jim Berry wrote:

> I'm in need af a cruise control switch --- the one on the steering
> wheel ---- bottom dollar will be paid, attaboys will be awarded for
> rapid response.
>
> Please responde privately.
>
>         Jim Berry

- ---
Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedtoys.com
California, USA
http://www.speedtoys.com


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 21:06:02 -0500
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Brake management  WAS: Heel-Toe Shifting

>Cool - didn't know that - thanks!  Does that apply to street pads as well,
>or just race pads?
It applies to all pads.

 
>Cool - plan to do that.  Do you use speed bleeders or how do you do it (I
>assume you have an easy way).  If you use speed bleeders, where'd you get
>them?

I don't have a helper, so I go to my brake shop and let the pros do it.
>
>> 3. Run race pads on the track.
>
>Probably not the first time (am I playing with fire?) due to cost issues.
>I've already got a spare set of stock pads.

You will EAT stock pads. Get race pads. Or maybe a compromise pad, like a R4S.

Rich/old poop

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Wed, 25 Apr 2001 23:03:19 -0700 (PDT)
From: John Christian <jczoom_619@yahoo.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

Hi all,

I'm going to save Merritt's original post for about
one year and send it to him when he asks how he can
cut seconds off of his lap time and be smoother in the
curves.

John, size 13

[snip]
- --- Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net> wrote:
>
> With our cars, there is no need to heel-and-toe.
> Haven't we had this discussion before?
>
> Rich/old poop/94 VR4.


=====
Please respond to jczoom@iname.com
'93 TT with Porsche brakes and Supra TT rotors
12.4@109MPH  5/97 almost stock
http://www.geocities.com/motorcity/flats/4538

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 01:33:25 -0700 (PDT)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedracer.speedtoys.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

> I'm going to save Merritt's original post for about
> one year and send it to him when he asks how he can
> cut seconds off of his lap time and be smoother in the
> curves.
- ---

John:

Easy, he can shift right..and let me drive.


Ahhhhhhh!!!!   :^)

- ---
Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedtoys.com
California, USA
http://www.speedtoys.com


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 11:08:13 +0100
From: Gordon Tyrrell <gordon.tyrrell@openet-int.com>
Subject: Team3S: Not specifically 3000GT

Sorry this isn't about the 3000 but I was wondering if someone could
tell me if it is easy to fit a boost gauge to a car that doesn't have
one fitted normally (twin turbo RX7)?

I'm considering taking the car off his hands as he just bought a Honda
S2000 and needs rid of the RX7.

I would want the gauge fitted so I could keep an eye on things on the
turbo front.

Any help appreciated as usual.

Gordon
Dublin, Ireland
1993 Dark Metallic Grey VR4 (japanese import)

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 08:25:12 -0400
From: "Schilberg, Darren" <DSchilberg@freemarkets.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Brake management

On Wednesday, April 25, 2001 6:06 PM, Erik Gross wrote:

>> Engine braking can be dangerous if the person
>> behind you is close and not paying attention.  Then be ready
>> to answer why your brake lights don't work when in fact you
>> were using the gears to slow you down.

> Yeah, I agree - what I'm talking about, however, is engine braking *while*
> braking with your foot on the pedal.  Thus your lights would be on.

   Erik (thanks for changing the subject too) - let me tell you how I found
out why I should not downshift while braking like you say (or try it
yourself once and you'll see that gravel pit get REAL close to you).
Anyway, I was coming into Turn 14 at Mid-Ohio which is a carousel turn to
the right (long sweeping turn).  The turn before is taken at about 80 mph if
I can hit it correctly in 3rd so I have some good torque coming into the
turn.  Because I need to launch out of the turn onto the front stretch I
need to go through the turn in 2nd (actually this was usually because I had
traffic to contend with).  I had two ways of doing this (1) downshift before
the turn or (2) downshift after the turn.
   I know I can't downshift IN the turn as I am supposed to be braking,
turning, and accelerating and that leaves no foot left for the clutch.  One
time I went down to 2nd but I was still at 60 mph.  Nearly redline in the
VR-4.  TOO much torque.  So I decided to take it in 3rd.  Turbos don't stay
spooled up at 60 mph in 3rd quite like I want them to (stock turbos).  What
is left to do?  Yep, downshift while braking.
   The next time around I am doing some heel-and-toe and braking, revving,
downshifting to second while still braking, letting out the clutch while
still braking, then starting to turn into the turn.  Fellahs listen up - at
the point when I was letting out the clutch to grab second gear (I was
smooth with it) I could just tell that I was giving steering input but the
amount of torque going to the wheels wanted to upset the car.  I do NOT
recommend doing this.  I ended up braking hard and downshifting and letting
out the clutch and THEN turning into the corner.  A little slower times
getting TO the apex but 5 mph faster at the end of the next stretch.


> But for those of us without ABS/AWD, that lurch could mean gravel pit or
> wall.  Maybe one day I'll have a VR-4, but for now, it's either a base
model
> and a small race/suspension budget or a VR-4 with no money left to play.
I
> want to play:-)

If you aren't locking up wheels when you brake then you aren't pushing them
hard enough yet.  Once you get wheel lock then you will know the limit of
the car.  Just do this on a long straight stretch up in WA so you have some
error room.


>> This is true, of course, only with AWD cars - try it in a
>> 911 or Vette, and you might lock the rears and go around.

> Yeah, exactly.  I'm not sure what would happen with a FWD car, but I'm
sure
> it wouldn't be pretty.

At one of the twisty bits on Mid-Ohio (Turn 8) you go up and crest the hill
then back down all the while turning to the left.  One time I was in third
and kept throttling all the way over the crest.  Next time I was going to
fast so I hit the brakes right at or near the crest.  I knew the car would
hold as I've done these before.  The instructor said that if I were in any
Porsche or RWD car I would have done at least two full spins.  He said the
VR-4 is very forgiving and very good for track use.  I personally think I
scared him a little.  I found the best way was to keep constant throttle or
braking up and over the crest and don't do anything fancy.


- --Flash!
dschilberg@pobox.com

3Si #577
1995 Black VR-4 w/ Big Reds, Autopower rollbar, Sparco Evo race seat,
Simpson 5-point harnesses, and a custom spark plug plate
http://www.team3s.com/FAQrollbar.htm

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 08:32:24 -0400
From: "Schilberg, Darren" <DSchilberg@freemarkets.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Brake management  WAS: Heel-Toe Shifting

Erik,

>> Problem is, if you are not using your brakes to the maximum,
>> you will heat them up even more. The secret to effective braking
>> and making the pads last the longest is to use them as hard as
>> possible for the shortest amount of time.Get on, get off.

> Cool - didn't know that - thanks!  Does that apply to street pads as well,
> or just race pads?  I'm guessing that brake fade will be an issue for me
on
> the track since I have smaller brakes and am only 400-500 lbs lighter than
a
> VR-4.  I know one good nailing from 100-60 and I start feeling it a
little.

Just get some Porterfield R4-S pads from Mohler and you'll see the
difference right away.  You can ask the list how hot they got if you see
them turn white, fall apart, turn to dust, etc.


>> If you are experiencing brake fade, I suggest these solutions:
>> 1. Coast down to 100 (or less) before applying the brakes.

> Yeah, for sure:)  And while I'm seeing how my brakes last, I may try to
keep
> the speed not too much over 100 and wave people around...

Once you get your suspension you will be able to wave them around and the
catch up to them on the twisty bits perhaps.


>> 2. Change/bleed your brake fluid. Use Ford High Performance
>> ($3 a pint) and change it often.

> Cool - plan to do that.  Do you use speed bleeders or how do you do it (I
> assume you have an easy way).  If you use speed bleeders, where'd you get
> them?

I have Speed Bleeders for the Big Reds up front (so I'll have different part
numbers than you).  Go to Lucius' page and under the brake mods he has the
link to Speed Bleeders.  Read their page and their catalog is correct.
There is not really one for the second gen stock rear calipers ... and if
anyone needs a 10mm Speed Bleeder then I have two of them I can't use.  Any
takers?  But they do have them for the stock front calipers.  Then make a
brake bleeding kit (mine is a John Christian hand-made specialty from a
small coffee can, glass jelly jar, and some surgical tubing).


>> 3. Run race pads on the track.

> Probably not the first time (am I playing with fire?) due to cost issues.
> I've already got a spare set of stock pads.

Porterfield pads aren't too much more than stock pads cost anyway and they
are loads safer.


>> 4. Run air ducts to the rotors (I see you are planning to do this)

> Yep, dryer tubing, here I come!

Merritt has 2.5" size tube and I am trying to fit a 3" tube but it appears
too big.  Buy some sample pieces first.  Make sure when your wheel is turned
all the way to the inside that it will not hit the tube.  Not much help here
... just gotta crawl under there and figure it out.  Buy a pack of 10" zip
ties from a store as these will be plenty long enough to tie onto suspension
bits and things.

- --Flash!
dschilberg@pobox.com

3Si #577
1995 Black VR-4 w/ Big Reds, Autopower rollbar, Sparco Evo race seat,
Simpson 5-point harnesses, and a custom spark plug plate
http://www.team3s.com/FAQrollbar.htm

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 08:06:55 -0500
From: "Willis, Charles E." <cewillis@TexasChildrensHospital.org>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

We may have had this discussion, but haven't reached consensus.  Anything
that unsettles the car when entering a turn is bad, like an abrupt shift.
Blipping the trottle ensures a smooth downshift just prior to entry, and
MUST be easier on the engine and drive train that just relying on the
snchros.  After all, we could shift without the clutch at all if that was a
good thing.

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Merritt [SMTP:merritt@cedar-rapids.net]
> Sent: Wednesday, April 25, 2001 3:57 PM
> To: Schilberg, Darren; 'Gross, Erik'; Team3S List (E-mail)
> Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting
>
>
> > Engine braking can be dangerous if the person
> >behind you is close and not paying attention.  Then be ready to answer
> why
> >your brake lights don't work when in fact you were using the gears to
> slow
> >you down.
> >
> The LAST thing you want to do is use the engine to brake the car. It's one
> thing to coast down to 100 mph in 4th to save brakes in a stock-caliper
> car, and quite another to downshift to 3rd at 110mph so the engine will
> slow you.
>
> Remember that brake pads and rotors are much less expensive than a clutch,
> transmission and motor. Also, brakes are designed to stop the car, whilst
> the clutch, transmisison and motor are designed to go fast, not act as
> brakes.
>
> In the olden days, before synchos, blipping was necessary to match engine
> speed with transmission speed so the gears would mesh properly. In today's
> Trans-Am cars, with their straight-cut gears, blipping is necessary on
> downshifts. But none of this is needed in a modern car with synchros.
>
> The only reason to blip the throttle is to match engine speed with car
> speed so you don't get a lurch when you release the clutch. You can
> accomplish the same thing by judiciously releasing the clutch at the right
> time, and being in the proper gear. Besides, if you are hammering the
> brakes to where they are bouncing off the ABS, it doesn't matter how hard
> you drop the clutch, because that little lurch will have no effect. This
> is
> true, of course, only with AWD cars - try it in a 911 or Vette, and you
> might lock the rears and go around.
>
> With our cars, there is no need to heel-and-toe.
> Haven't we had this discussion before?
>
> Rich/old poop/94 VR4.

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 08:17:27 -0500
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

This sounds like a challenge.
Too bad you are so far away in La La land.
Rich

At 01:33 AM 4/26/01 -0700, Geoff Mohler wrote:
>> I'm going to save Merritt's original post for about
>> one year and send it to him when he asks how he can
>> cut seconds off of his lap time and be smoother in the
>> curves.
>---
>
>John:
>
>Easy, he can shift right..and let me drive.
>
>
>Ahhhhhhh!!!!   :^)
>
>---
>Geoff Mohler <gemohler@speedtoys.com
>California, USA
>http://www.speedtoys.com
>
>

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 08:16:08 -0500
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Heel-Toe Shifting

>I've ALWAYS had brake
>fade issues with the car. If I run a tight twisty course with hard braking
>and use threshold maxium braking, I would lose brakes from fluid boling over
>after 8 laps. I've learned to be conservative with my brakes. I brake early
>and light and only threshold brake when defending my position. With this
>technique, my brakes generally last an entire session.

You are an experienced racer, so you know much more about this than I do,
but it seems to me that by braking "light and early," you are essentially
doing my slow-down-from-100 mph technique. I'll bet your lap times are off
by a second or two when you do this, too. Which also fits with my warning
that the faster you go, the harder it is to slow down.

Besides, my get on-get off technique is designed to save the pads. Boiling
fluid is a totally different issue. With the 3000GTs, the problem is that
excessive heat causes the pads to wear much faster. I am sure that the two
problems are related. Maybe you should run water injection to the caliper,
like the TransAm cars do, to help the fluid boiling problem.
\
Finally, I don't make this stuff up. The get-on get-off technique was
taught to me by several driving instructors.

Rich

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 09:59:23 -0400
From: "Michael Bulaon" <profilevr4@3000gtvr4.net>
Subject: Team3S: Need timing belt install help!!!

Ok, here's my problem. When I decided to do the 60k service myself, I also
decided that I'd get the valve stem seals and valve guides replaced. So I
pulled the head off and sent it to the machine shop.

Keep in mind that when I took off the timing belt, I just made sure the cam
sprockets and crankshaft was in the correct timing positions before
loosening the belt and removing it.  I didn't make any markings on the belt
being that I would be replacing it.

So now the head is done and bolted back on the block.  Here's where I am
stuck. I am trying to get the camshaft sprockets in the correct position in
order to install the timing belt.

Referring to page 11-28 of the Service manual it says:

"Make sure the timing marks on the camshaft sprockets for intake and exhaust
valves are not are not within the range A in the illustration at left. If
the timing mark is withing rang A, turn the camshaft sprocket to move the
timing mark to the area closest to range A."

Looking at the diagram I cannot figure out where exactly range A is.

Anyone who's done this before, your input is greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Michael Bulaon


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 10:05:59 -0400
From: "Michael Bulaon" <profilevr4@3000gtvr4.net>
Subject: Team3S: Lash Adjuster Question??

While my camshafts were off, I opted to replace the lash adjuster with the
revised ones on my 95 VR-4.  After installing the lash adjusters and then
the camshafts, I noticed I was able to push down on all the lash adjusters
on the intake side, however all the lash adjusters on the exhaust side could
not be moved.

Is this ok, or is something wrong with brand new lash adjusters I just put
in. According to the manual not being able to move them is a normal
condition and that if I can move them, they are in need of replacement.

Regards,
Michael Bulaon



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 09:39:19 -0500
From: "Willis, Charles E." <cewillis@TexasChildrensHospital.org>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Brake management

"   I ended up braking hard and downshifting and letting
> out the clutch and THEN turning into the corner.  A little slower times
> getting TO the apex but 5 mph faster at the end of the next stretch. "
>
This is exactly what you want to do.


" If you aren't locking up wheels when you brake then you aren't
pushing them
> hard enough yet.  Once you get wheel lock then you will know the limit of
> the car.  Just do this on a long straight stretch up in WA so you have
> some
> error room."
>
This is not necessarily correct.  I am completely satisfied with
having the ABS kick in only before selected turns, not every turn on the
track.  "locking up the wheels" is not all it's cracked up to be - that's
why the ABS keeps the wheels turning.  If you don't have ABS, you can do
that with your foot.

Brakes and throttle are not binary devices, learning to modulate
these is the difference between a road course driver and a drag racer.

" The instructor said that if I were in any
> Porsche or RWD car I would have done at least two full spins.  He said the
> VR-4 is very forgiving and very good for track use.  I personally think I
> scared him a little.  I found the best way was to keep constant throttle
> or
> braking up and over the crest and don't do anything fancy. "
>
FWD would have been okay, too.
You likely would not have gotten away with that if the track was
wet, either. 




***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 09:39:44 -0500
From: "cody" <overclck@starband.net>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Need timing belt install help!!!

What I did - was to jsut be careful in turning them with the wrenches.  Be careful because the whole assembly is spring loaded though. 

Certain combinations will or will not work as far as turning them goes.  The rears I put on very easily - they lined up perfectly with no tension on the camshafts from the springs.  The front bank was opposite.  I think both intake and exhaust were partially open.  Regardless - the thing to do is to keep one bank closed while you move the other to its appropriate position, then move that one to its appropriate position.  Obviously you have the service manuals.

When I did this, the front exhaust and intake were rotated towards each other.  (the white markings were side by side almost)  I rotated the front exhaust counterclockwise until it was lined up.  It was under tension at this point, but if not touched - it would stay there without moving.  The slightest bump and it would spring forwards or backwards.  So - I carefully put the timing belt over it.  Next I rotated the front intake clockwise to where it was lined up.  Same thing applies - it was also under tension.  I clipped the timing belt to both cam gears, and used two long ratchets to keep the thing from moving (i put it on the intake and exhaust cam and ratcheted it to where it was snug up against the frame)

So - now I threaded it under the water pump, and over the rear intake, and rear exhaust.  These were almost in perfect alignment because there was no spring tension on them where they were - they were I assume both in static states - either open or closed fully.  The rest of the timing belt change was straightforward, and the one thing I can note that helped me alto was rotating the crank counterclockwise two teeth.  That way when I put the timing belt on - I just turned the crank clockwise two teeth, and that put appropriate tension on the belt between the rear exhaust cam shaft and the crank.  Without doing this - I found that it was hard to get the belt tight just by pulling on it.  Regardless, I then routed it over the tensioner and pulley, and it all works now.  At least I can turn the entire engine, and everything lines up still, days later even. 

I would say it runs - but I haven;t a clue as to the fact that my car is still in pieces (although quite a bit fewer now that I have the timing belt change out of the way.

- -Cody



#Ok, here's my problem. When I decided to do the 60k service myself, I also
#decided that I'd get the valve stem seals and valve guides replaced. So I
#pulled the head off and sent it to the machine shop.
#
#Keep in mind that when I took off the timing belt, I just made sure the cam
#sprockets and crankshaft was in the correct timing positions before
#loosening the belt and removing it.  I didn't make any markings on the belt
#being that I would be replacing it.
#
#So now the head is done and bolted back on the block.  Here's where I am
#stuck. I am trying to get the camshaft sprockets in the correct position in
#order to install the timing belt.
#
#Referring to page 11-28 of the Service manual it says:
#
#"Make sure the timing marks on the camshaft sprockets for intake
#and exhaust
#valves are not are not within the range A in the illustration at left. If
#the timing mark is withing rang A, turn the camshaft sprocket to move the
#timing mark to the area closest to range A."
#
#Looking at the diagram I cannot figure out where exactly range A is.
#
#Anyone who's done this before, your input is greatly appreciated.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 20:01:57 +0200
From: "Jim Matthews" <jim@the-matthews.com>
Subject: Team3S: clutch replacement parts

I need to identify all of the parts necessary to replace the clutch in my
'94 R/T TT with a stock unit to be installed by a local shop here in
Germany.  www.mitsupartsdirect.com is currently offering 25% off and reduced
shipping, and they provided the following quote:

MR111650 Disc $65.29
MD742801 Cover $100.91
MB837549 Bearing $31.56


Seems reasonable... are there any other parts I need or should consider
replacing while they're in there?  I may have them replace my synchros while
they're at it, at least if it's any cheaper to do it at the same time (I
already have the synchros).

Thanks!

- - --
Jim Matthews - Munich, Germany
mailto:jim@the-matthews.com (64 Kbps ISDN)
http://www.the-matthews.com

*** 3000GT-Stealth International (3Si) Member #0030 ***
http://members.stealth-3000gt.st/~matthews/stealth.html
Jet Black '94 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin-Turbo AWD AWS 6-spd
Adjustable Active Suspension, Adjustable Exhaust System
K&N FIPK, A'PEXi Super AVC-R v.1 (1.0 bar @ 64% BADC)
A'PEXi Turbo Timer (30 sec), Blitz Super Blow-Off Valve
Magnecore spark plug wires, Optima Red Top 830 Battery
Redline synth fluids (trans= MT-90, xfer & diff= SPHvy)
Cryoed rotors, R4S pads, braided lines, red calipers
Michelin Pilot XGT-Z4 245/45ZR17, Top Speed: 171 mph
G-Tech Pro: 0-60 4.79 sec, 1/4 13.16 sec @ 113.9 mph
1 Feb 99 Dyno Session: 367 SAE HP, 354 lb-ft torque


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 13:05:23 -0700
From: "Andrew D. Woll" <awoll1@pacbell.net>
Subject: Team3S: timing belt change

> Thanks, folks, for your comments on the difficulties of changing timing
> belts. It sounds like the dealers 5-8 hours of labor charges are will
> justified.  Would you do this job again yourselves?  I am a good mechanic
> but I need my car on a daily basis. Do you suggest doing this on my own
the
> first time, or is this the kind of job where the original one day estimate
> is going to turn into a week? Comments appreciated.
>
> Andy
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 15:13:28 -0500
From: "Jannusch, Matt" <mjannusch@marketwatch.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Lash Adjuster Question??

> Is this ok, or is something wrong with brand new lash
> adjusters I just put in. According to the manual not
> being able to move them is a normal condition and
> that if I can move them, they are in need of replacement.

Did you prime them with oil before installing the new ones?

- -Matt
'95 3000GT Spyder VR4

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 13:37:19 -0700
From: "Bob Forrest" <bf@bobforrest.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: timing belt change

- ----- Original Message ----- From: "Andrew D. Woll" <awoll1@pacbell.net>
> Thanks, folks, for your comments on the difficulties of changing timing
belts. It sounds like the dealers 5-8 hours of labor charges are will
justified.  Would you do this job again yourselves?  I am a good mechanic
but I need my car on a daily basis. Do you suggest doing this on my own the
first time, or is this the kind of job where the original one day estimate
is going to turn into a week? Comments appreciated.
> Andy
>

Hey, Andy,

Did you go to the 60k Service "how-to" page on our website to see what is
entailed?  It's in the FAQ pages, under the "Maintenance" section.
www.Team3S.com/FAQ.htm  It lists all the parts, tools, and procedures, so
you can decide for yourself what is involved, and whether or not it's a job
you should tackle...

Best,

Forrest

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 14:14:11 -0700
From: "Andrew D. Woll" <awoll1@pacbell.net>
Subject: Team3S: timing belt change

Bob - yes - I reviewed the 60k writeup. From the writeup it looks like I
could do the belt change. However, experience is the great teacher and I
would welcome any comments from those who have gone before me. I am at 110k
miles and trying to figure out what I will do when I roll up on 120k. The
advice on this list has been invaluable and I have been basically lurking
for the last month. Jeff L's website is unbelievably good and I have learned
a huge amount about my 93 FStorm Stealth tt awd from it. Happy driving.
Andy

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

End of team3s V1 #476
*********************