Novice AXer, needing some tips Options

[blitZ]

I started AXing this year and really enjoy it. The local SCCA group are a great bunch, it's always a good time. However, I'm not doing very well. I'm in SM2 class, which is tough, but overall I'm coming in the bottom 10%. I have stock front and rear sways, but removed the rear sway to resolve some nasty over steer issues. The car still wants to spin when I really push it.
I typically just leave it in second, but the last event was a large course with some fast sweepers so I tried using 3rd a few times.

I know the driver is the major focal point in regards to improvement, but any input from the seasoned veterans would be appreciated.

Current setup

2056, stock djet
9550 cam
100lb springs in the rear.
Stock front sway bar
New Bilsteins
Front Camber 1.2
Rear Camber 1.3
Toe In 1/16 all around
Caster 5.5
205/55 Fuzion tires, not great, better than what I had.

Thinking of doing a 5 lug conversion this winter, starting to scrounge parts. A setup to offer more adjustability.

Wish List

911 front end including 19mm 911 torsion bars
Some after market adjustable front sway bar
Eric's 5 lug trailing arms
140lb rear springs
Adjustable rear shock perches
16 x 7 minilites
Stickier tires.

[914forme]

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif) Josh is dead on.

One other thing to do is work the events, more than just a cone fetcher. Work setup and tear down, paddock what ever. I like working setup and tear down, why cause most of the top guys will talk while your setting cones, give you advice, you get the inside scoop so to speak. It works out well.

I still think a 914 can be a SM2 winner, but it ain't the class a novice wants to run. And it would require $$, with that setup why SM2???? Only thing I see is the engine specs that truly keep you out of other classes. And that combo should work someplace else besides SM2.

BTW, to run as a top dog takes effort, effort, a little knowledge and a ton of practice. Unless your a prodigy you can't expect to play a concerto with your car, until you have a few years in....

Have fun drive, and enjoy the rest will come. BTW, what are of GA are you in? Go to the local tracks on race weekends, and pickup take offs, in 205/50R15s size. I would not recommend switching to 911 stuff, un-less it is for wheel choices, though you can get 4 bolts in 7x15s or 6.5 x 15s with out much effort. The 911 stuff is mass, if you don't burn up your brakes, then don't worry. The stock system is a pretty capable system. And weighs a lot less than the 911 stuff does.

[jhadler]

I still think a 914 can be a SM2 winner, but it ain't the class a novice wants to run. And it would require $$...

I agree....

My thoughts on an SM2 914... A supercharged, built, 3.6L mated to a 915 or Hewland gearbox. Monster flares to accommodate 285's ( or more?? ), full cage, a go-nuts suspension (custom arms front and rear, JRZ's and a 4 corner coil-over conversion to start with), A nice brake system with ABS, and an after market traction control software package (for rain events). This is all legal in SM2...And you'd STILL need to add lead to ballast up to a minimum weight of 2700 lbs. But now we're talking truly massive dollars...

That's a full tilt SM2 car in my mind. And one I'd love to build and drive if I ever win the Lotto... But until then, one can dream...

-Josh2