New track shoes... and a question

Pads are going to be related to performance. If you want to stop harder and more frequently, pads designed for track applications will do so with less heat build-up and fading. Street pads are designed for longevity, not necessarily performance.

That said, the real question is what you want to get out of you track day(s). I don't know your track resume, but it sounds like you're just getting started. If you're fast and are trying to eke out a few tenths of a second, then equipment changes can help (but so can investment in the driver). If, however, you're just out having some fun and learning the game, don't overcomplicate this. Pads may make your sessions slightly more enjoyable (less fade just as you're getting comfortable), but I wouldn't get bent out of shape if you go in with street pads.

Once you're hooked, however, it'll be Katy bar the door. Every go-fast goodie you can think of will likely take on a new-found importance!

Enjoy. Have fun. Be safe.

CW

 

Not only is CW right but if you are a newbie I would go even further and say don't even try and go fast because no matter how hard you try you won't. Try and learn to be smooth and listen to your instructor if you have one.

 

I haven't driven stock GTI pads on track, but I suspect that you'll have to manage them.

I agree with the others, go with a track pad.

 

Oh, so you've raced before? Well then, don't worry about the pads. First, you'll need a 48' Featherlite stacker with lift gate, generator and full length awning; a nice toterhome to pull it; a golf kart; etc... You cannot do this track day properly for less than $500 k, trust me.

 

If you are going to CMP, tires and brakes suffer the most. If you want to get signed off for solo don't worry about speed but consistent and smooth matching laps.

Karl

 

Dan you are so right about the new configuration. I still hold a track record on each ( I guess the old one will be mine forever).
The new course no longer has the autocross section and flows much better.

Karl

 

While not a performance edge , if you are really a frugal guy , go to your local discount (or is it autozone?) and buy the pads with a lifetime warranty Have new pads for every track day and save the stock for street use!

 

I wouldn't put that garbage on my car. If one were to think that way, just save all the money and stay home, lol.

 

We are reading from the same script, WCH! I'm seriously wanting to up-size the 50' High Tech to a 53' with two slides and the full hospitality extension! Don't forget the kiwi tiles...

CW

 

CW: down, boy. The OP is doing track days. I wanted to point him towards a starter setup he could manage with 3-5 crew. Something to assure victory, but not seem over the top. A roof over his head; a trailer big enough to accomodate the GTI and the T car, golf kart, nitrogen tanks, data debriefing station, tool cabinets, shock dyno, scales and alignment equipment, pit kart and a modest machine shop; a generator to power the tire warmers, espresso machine and lights for when the crew work through the night; maybe an observation deck on the roof; nothing fancy. Please keep your suggestions appropriate to the venue.


Dinodan - great track day car, by the way!

 

My bad. I shall endeavor to stay relevant. I'm just feeling so cramped in the 50'...

CW

 

You guys are killing me!

dinodan? Remember, the operative word is FUN!

 

You know how it is, Coach!

CW

 

Smooth = fast. Just read you raced back in the 70/80's. I would absolutely NOT go on track without some racing pads. If you are halfway decent and likely you are from having done this in the past, you will (or could) eat through a set of street pads in 1/2 day or 3/4 of a day and then you are out of luck.

Would also recommend steel braided lines. I wouldn't do a track day without at least that, but that is just me...

Have fun and be safe.

MB

 

Please take no offense but I disagree on the SS brake lines. factory brake lines are made to last and will last many, many years. SS lines do not. They may be a better product but they require the same attention as the rest of a track car. I have seen them come apart at the crimp and I have also experienced it myself.
The slight difference in feel is not worth the headache IMO. If one is capable of using their vehicle to the extreme it is not as important what equipment they have but if they know what to do with it.

Karl

PS we all know what they say about opinions, lol

 

ditto the above. I completely toasted a front set of pads with 80% of the material left in just ONE day on the track. gotta get track-grade pads. (but not RACING pads.) TireRack or similar can advise you-tell them what you plan to do and they will point you in the right direction.

Here are two cheap and easy mods to keep your brake temps down:

1. if you have a metal "rain shield" behind your discs, remove that- it is just a big heat trap when at the track. unbolt it and toss it, or cut it off if necessary.

2. check a VW / GTI forum and see if there are any aftermarket "air deflectors" that bolt onto your lower front A-arm and direct air in toward the rotor. Should be way less than $100 for a set. Anything to get more air in there will help.

Cool brakes = better brakes.