S550 Biggsy’s Track Build Build Thread Profile - S550 Mustangs

[Hobdul]

If you are a USAA member you might want to check out the Goodyear Eagle Supercar F1 3 or the even stickier 3R, as they give members a huge discount. Even if not a member that is another great choice as Kumho has been known over the decades to often run short on supply. They will wear faster than the Continental Extreme Force but they should not rub at a 305/30/19 size.

Sorry to hear the monoballs messed up your clearance as there are quite a few solid 315 choices along with the Conti Force.

Thanks! I was going to go with the Supercar F1 3, but they’ve been back-ordered in 305/30-19, and I’ve got a Sonoma track day coming up on 4/22 so I wound up pulling the trigger on the Kumhos. I’m definitely interested in the Supercar 3 for the next time I need tires…

The 3R sounds like a killer tire, but I don’t need that level of grip at this point, as I’m just trying to get better behind the wheel and can do that just as well at slower speeds/lower grip levels.

 

[Bill Pemberton]

No issue with the 3Rs though, as I just got a set a couple of weeks back. If you are a USAA member you order through them and they discount the tires, send them to a Goodyear Tire Dealer in your area and you just go in when they arrive, mounting , balancing , taxes and disposal all taken care of.

 

[IanKar64]

No issue with the 3Rs though, as I just got a set a couple of weeks back. If you are a USAA member you order through them and they discount the tires, send them to a Goodyear Tire Dealer in your area and you just go in when they arrive, mounting , balancing , taxes and disposal all taken care of.

I also got the 3R's a few weeks back and went 305 all round. They don't like to be in the cold but when the heated up they worked out fine. I bet they will be even better in the summer.

 

[biggsy]

Happy New Year Everyone! I figured I should update the progress. This might be all over the place as I play catch up.

Last year was the most track time I was able to do within a season and this year I plan to do a lot more. I didn't do much over the summer. I finally was able to dial in the Xineering module with the proper settings so now that is one less thing to worry about. I have gone down the path of this becoming more track than street car which has always been the plan in the back of my head.

I didn't plan on going with a roll bar+seat+harness system just yet because I wanted to use those funds for track time. I ended up getting a local deal for a Chromoly Watson roll bar that I couldn't pass up. I plan to run TT with NASA either this year or next so I have been careful about adding weight to the car which is why I went with the Chromoly bar. Ended up getting PCI fixed mount, Sparco seat and harness. Man does the PCI mount really sit you low. Thanks to @Ewheels and @JeffV8 for helping with install pictures and tips. The good news about the roll bar install was that I didn't knick any brake lines but the bad news is the drill bit walked on me so ended up having Revolution Automotive in Baltimore finish it.




I attended my first open track day at NJMP Lightning with Hooked On Driving. I see why people prefer open day to sessions. A lot of seat time and it allows the driver to use it as a true test day. For me, it was my first time with the seat and bar set up so I was adjusting to what was comfortable throughout the day. Also this was my first time towing my car to the track so now that I have the Tundra ready, I can expand my track venues. Fastest time of the day was 1:19. I was struggling with tire pressures and didn't really start feeling confident until the last hour of the day.

Been wanting to do Road Atlanta for a few years and was finally able to make it happen with MVP Track Time. Man oh man what a track. It was intimidating at first but after a few sessions I was able to get more comfortable and really push the car. Im a solid intermediate driver but there is always that fear of possibly pushing the car too much and then end up going off. I think this event is where I really started seeing what the car can do and got more comfortable with applying throttle earlier and harder. Road Atlanta is now on my calendar every year and maybe twice this year. The weekend was going great until the last session of the weekend. I got misfires in the second to last session and attributed that to low fuel. I went to get gas and everything was fine. I restarted my car to drive to grid for the last session and it was as though the car's power was cut. Ive never had that happen before. Then all sorts of codes were thrown and car wouldn't start. I was able to go out for one or two laps before checkered flag and the car ran fine. Will look more into into before spring.

I did the stupid thing when loading my car on the trailer, I burned my throwout bearing. After the 15 hour drive home, it was a nice surprise to find out I couldn't release the clutch from the engine. That ended my season as I was trying to make VIR later that month. Will fix that later this month.

Here is best lap of 1:43 from the weekend. I was in traffic most/all of the weekend. After looking at data, I know I can get into the 1:40s.

After every event, I fall in love with the car even more.

 

[biggsy]

So on to the winter changes...

With the new seat, I noticed that my elbow kept hitting the center console and would put my right shoulder in an awkward position. To fight the ergonomic challenges, I swapped out the standard handle MGW for a low profile one to reduce the throw. That way when I go into 4th, my elbow doesn't go far back behind my shoulder. The next thing I did to reduce elbow interference was to replace my CF steering wheel with the FP Sparco wheel. This should reduce the steering input needed for turning. I went with the MMR aluminum hub which is a solid piece of work and Krontec Quick Release. As we all know the challenge with this is relocating the steering wheel buttons and all the effort associated with that. I wanted to be able to access the buttons while being strapped in. Its documented in another thread that its 5 buttons but 4 wires (voltage divider network) so its not as simple as replacing it with a digital joystick. I ended up taking the switch apart and it is a PCB so if I were to have access to the schematic, I could replicate the switch but use a joy stick to be mounted on the center console. But again, that was a distant thought. I liked the idea of mounting to the side of the steering column. I cut the hole, then found black craft paper with adhesive backing from Michael's to match the steering column. Came out very clean. Wanted to retain the horn so I added a momentary switch for that. Now I can get in and out easier with the seat in.






Swapped out OEM PP rear toe links for Cortex offering.



I changed the front tow hook to the GT350 tow hook. The previous one looked like my car was sticking its tongue out so this looks much better to me.

 

[biggsy]

video of steering wheel quick release

 

[JP X]

Happy New Year Everyone! I figured I should update the progress. This might be all over the place as I play catch up.

Last year was the most track time I was able to do within a season and this year I plan to do a lot more. I didn't do much over the summer. I finally was able to dial in the Xineering module with the proper settings so now that is one less thing to worry about. I have gone down the path of this becoming more track than street car which has always been the plan in the back of my head.

I didn't plan on going with a roll bar+seat+harness system just yet because I wanted to use those funds for track time. I ended up getting a local deal for a Chromoly Watson roll bar that I couldn't pass up. I plan to run TT with NASA either this year or next so I have been careful about adding weight to the car which is why I went with the Chromoly bar. Ended up getting PCI fixed mount, Sparco seat and harness. Man does the PCI mount really sit you low. Thanks to @Ewheels and @JeffV8 for helping with install pictures and tips. The good news about the roll bar install was that I didn't knick any brake lines but the bad news is the drill bit walked on me so ended up having Revolution Automotive in Baltimore finish it.

View attachment 92332


I attended my first open track day at NJMP Lightning with Hooked On Driving. I see why people prefer open day to sessions. A lot of seat time and it allows the driver to use it as a true test day. For me, it was my first time with the seat and bar set up so I was adjusting to what was comfortable throughout the day. Also this was my first time towing my car to the track so now that I have the Tundra ready, I can expand my track venues. Fastest time of the day was 1:19. I was struggling with tire pressures and didn't really start feeling confident until the last hour of the day.

View attachment 92330
View attachment 92329

Been wanting to do Road Atlanta for a few years and was finally able to make it happen with MVP Track Time. Man oh man what a track. It was intimidating at first but after a few sessions I was able to get more comfortable and really push the car. Im a solid intermediate driver but there is always that fear of possibly pushing the car too much and then end up going off. I think this event is where I really started seeing what the car can do and got more comfortable with applying throttle earlier and harder. Road Atlanta is now on my calendar every year and maybe twice this year. The weekend was going great until the last session of the weekend. I got misfires in the second to last session and attributed that to low fuel. I went to get gas and everything was fine. I restarted my car to drive to grid for the last session and it was as though the car's power was cut. Ive never had that happen before. Then all sorts of codes were thrown and car wouldn't start. I was able to go out for one or two laps before checkered flag and the car ran fine. Will look more into into before spring.

I did the stupid thing when loading my car on the trailer, I burned my throwout bearing. After the 15 hour drive home, it was a nice surprise to find out I couldn't release the clutch from the engine. That ended my season as I was trying to make VIR later that month. Will fix that later this month.

Here is best lap of 1:43 from the weekend. I was in traffic most/all of the weekend. After looking at data, I know I can get into the 1:40s.

View attachment 92328

After every event, I fall in love with the car even more.

Hey Bigsy, we’ll be there in March with Chin. Come on down!

 

[biggsy]

Now as far as 2024 plans:
-Replace throwout bearing
-install MMR pulse ring
-Install 3.55 Torsen rear end I picked up last year
-18" wheels
-coilovers and aero
-passenger seat equipment
-Mach 1 knuckle upgrade

Hoping to start my Time Trials career this year with SCCA and NASA.
Pitt Race, Watkins, VIR(x3), Road Atlanta(x2), NJMP Thunderbolt are all on the list this year for sure.

I hope to meet more of you at track events. Here is to a safe and fun 2024!

 

[biggsy]

Hey Bigsy, we’ll be there in March with Chin. Come on down!

I was actually looking at that event a couple weeks ago. Don't think I will be able to make it because I plan on doing the Summit Point event with SCCA first weekend in March. I plan to run with Chin for one of their Road Atlanta events. That May and October date is promising. Will definitely be there in November

 

[honeybadger]

i'm really hoping to head to Road Atlanta this year. We should all plan to pick the same event

 

[JP X]

i'm really hoping to head to Road Atlanta this year. We should all plan to pick the same event

I'll be there with Chin in March and October. Would be great to meet y'all!

 

[Tonymustang302]

i'm really hoping to head to Road Atlanta this year. We should all plan to pick the same event

If @honeybadger ‘s car is done by then i’ll come too

 

[biggsy]

It’s a party then! I’m in if a certain event works for most.

…or if I hit the lottery I’ll cover track rental.

 

[biggsy]

Not much to update right now. Haven’t driven the car since November. Will try and get Throwout bearing, MMR pulse ring and pilot bearing all replaced by the end of the month.
Changed my front tow hook set up thanks to Kevin. Hopefully it will add some Honeybadger speed.

Car needed to go on a diet so I put in the popular AG battery along with the battery mount made by @2Morrow ! Top quality and everything fit perfectly. I was running an odyssey battery which was heavier than stock. About 34 pounds lost

And the moment I’ve been waiting for. I treated myself to a late Christmas present. I’m looking forward to the learning curve. I will get some camber slugs made so no issues with the strut bolt slipping. I’ve had a bad experience with that before).



Won’t make the Summit Point event with SCCA like I planned so it’s looking like NJMP in March with NASA will be my first event

 

[biggsy]

Well I didn’t realize that its been so long since I have updated this thread. I guess the last thing that I left off on is the delivery of the MCS coilovers. The install went pretty well with that all around. Mounted the rear reservoirs in the trunk and I mounted the front reservoirs un the hood on the sides. Because I cut my hood for the Tracspec vents, I am able to close my hood and not have contact with the reservoirs. Definitely a lot of trial and error. Rear reservoir mounts are from The Build Journal specifically made for MCS reservoirs




Made my own camber locks. This was my first CAD project. I made it in fusion 360 and found someone in a track FB group to cut it for me.




I was worried about the rear spring making contact with the axle bolt so I swapped to GT500 control arms and took the opportunity to install SPL LCA bearings.


Installed SPL Rear Camber Arms


I got a passenger seat on PCI sliding mounts whereas the driver side is fixed. Now I can have passengers/instructors to see how slow I am.

I went down to 18inch wheels to run slicks. Ended up finding a set in PA for a steal. Now it looks more like a track car lol.


Now that was around March /April 2024.

Now the bad news…I kept getting 0308 code and was hoping it was just a spark plug that needed to be changed. I took it to my mechanic and #8 came back with 95 psi. It was a real heartbreaker. After just spending the money on the MCS setup, a new shortblock wasn’t in the budget. I shutdown my 2024 season before it got started. Since then, I have been collecting parts for the rebuild and upgrading where necessary. Some things include the GT500 oil pan, FRPP chain and tensioners, GT350 IM with TB, Setrab 960 oil cooler etc. This time around I will be running e85 to prevent detonation.

On the side, I started a few projects:

Rear Watson tow bar inverted. Removed the lower portion of the rear bumper to get rid of the parachute effect. Relocated the reverse light by adding a led strip so people can still know when I am reversing.



Added MMR fender vents and powdercoated to color match the car. I really dig it.

AC went out a few years ago, so decided to remove some weight.



I wanted to upgrade my aero. I made a 5in splitter template (SCCA Max 3 class rules). For repeatability and that every splitter comes out the same, I translated it in Fusion360 so I can cut the splitter on a CNC router. I have 3 versions. One is a flat blade, the second has a curved leading edge for better efficiency, and the third has an airplane profile from the side. There are DIY “creative” spaces in my area that have equipment that is free to use. The only thing is I have to pay a small monthly fee. One of the equipment they have is a CNC router with a 8’x6’ bed so all I have to do is bring in my own plywood. Should have the first one finished in a few weeks once I get time. If everything goes well with test fit, I will shared the dxf and step file for those that would like it.




Over Christmas break, I found someone in Tennessee selling a wingless trunk lid in my color so On the way back home form Atlanta, I had to take a detour and pick it up. I decided on the Fulcrum 14 wing from AJ. Man this thing is massive and top quality. 6 weeks from order to delivery. I had him set it back 5” (max 3 class rules) for higher DF and less drag at a given angle than being position right at the bumper. I also had him cut the upright shape similar to how he does for the Gen 6 Camaro. I am very pleased with how it came out.




I have always been a fan of waterfall style (I think that’s wat they are called) fenders. I started designing some for my car. I made the cut for it and have been test fitting. I have a few revisions to make and I should be able to print a complete part. I have a Bambu A1 mini at home so Im limited to the size of parts I can print. Im pretty excited for this and hope to have something soon!




I pretty much have everything needed for the engine to get back on track. The only thing left is the short block and the tune (OZ tuning). Oh and I have to get the heads checked to make sure those are fine before putting on new short block. I probably need to go with higher spring rates now (600/700) but I'll sort that out once I get the car on track.

This is going to be a completely new car since I last drove it on track and I cannot wait.

Thanks for reading!