Track Day Recommendations & Help

N

Nocturnal

Member
Hello,

I am looking to track my 2004 Z4 3.0i.

I believe I need to replace my rotors, but definitely pads. I was wondering if anyone has any recommendation? I was looking on FCP euro due to easy shipping, does anyone have experience or can recommend whether or not the Zimmerman Rotors are fine (https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/bmw-brake-disc-front-e46-z3-z4-34116855152)?

Also, any recommendations for brake fluid? Will likely need to flush and replace fluid.

What general maintenance should I do to the vehicle to prep for a track day?

Any tire recommendations as well? Right now the car has 2024 date code rear tires (bought them 1 year ago) and 2021 date code fronts (came with the car when I purchased it early last year). I believe the previous owner didn't drive the car at all, the tread is still plentiful. However, for a track day, I'm a little cautious about the date code. The tires on the car are all Michelin Pilot Sport 4s.

Is there any way to increase the sensitive of the EPS, I feel like it's quite numb and then all of a sudden it gives resistance. Makes it very hard to steer when increasing speed or going at high speed. Wish it was hydraulic!

Thank you!
 
I'd do engine service (oil and filter), check the coolant levels, refresh the brake fluid - something like motul rbf600 or 660 would be great.

Pads I'd go for something like ferodo ds2500 or mintex 1144 or 1155 - you don't need anything really fancy on your first few trackdays. I would replace the discs too as new discs will be less prone to warping, and will bed nicely against the new pads rather than

Other than that I'd keep a careful eye on your tyre pressures, aiming for between 30-35psi hot, and just enjoy the car - ideally you'll start figuring out a list of things you want to upgrade after your first few trackdays - then it gets expensive! 😂
 
First of all ,join the Z4 Track Day Group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/520863040768702

Loads of us are in there, and you'll probably get a better response.

Tyres, stick with PS4S for your first few days. Those date codes will be fine for now. Plus it's better to learn on road tyres rather than semi-slicks, as high-grip tyres can mask slides and it's more difficult to get the maximum out of them, plus you'll get a better and quicker feel for when the tyres are overheating.

Fluid, I use ATE Type 200 mainly for its long service life, but I change it yearly anyway. Motul RBF600/660 is also good.

Your pad choice is more important than rotor choice. Stick to a plain, high carbon rotor.

General maintenance: check fluid levels, make sure your wheel bolts are tight when cold, check wheel bearings; above all, have fun. Defo book tuition if you can, its the easiest way to get better/faster.

Steering, the EPS is crap. Only way to make it better is to go hydraulic. But you can alter the gear mesh on the column, which might help a little but can make the car nervous or numb, depending on which way you go.
 
damocell said:
First of all ,join the Z4 Track Day Group on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/520863040768702

Loads of us are in there, and you'll probably get a better response.

Tyres, stick with PS4S for your first few days. Those date codes will be fine for now. Plus it's better to learn on road tyres rather than semi-slicks, as high-grip tyres can mask slides and it's more difficult to get the maximum out of them, plus you'll get a better and quicker feel for when the tyres are overheating.

Fluid, I use ATE Type 200 mainly for its long service life, but I change it yearly anyway. Motul RBF600/660 is also good.

Your pad choice is more important than rotor choice. Stick to a plain, high carbon rotor.

General maintenance: check fluid levels, make sure your wheel bolts are tight when cold, check wheel bearings; above all, have fun. Defo book tuition if you can, its the easiest way to get better/faster.

Steering, the EPS is crap. Only way to make it better is to go hydraulic. But you can alter the gear mesh on the column, which might help a little but can make the car nervous or numb, depending on which way you go.
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Thanks, I requested to join the group. I want to learn the limits much better, so that makes sense. Sounds like I'll be fine buying the Zimmerman rotors, but then buying better pads. Any recommendations on pads?

Also, I agree! I hate the EPS, it's sooooo numb :(. Do you track w/ EPS or did you swap to hydraulic?
 
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