elcap00 wrote:I think it is definitely a combination of both skill and hardware tuning.
She routinely is 3 seconds faster than me and at Fontana she was 4 seconds faster with 888's and 5 seconds faster with slicks (i am rounding the numbers-so dont get riled up about the 1/10's "OK").
My driving skill will improve at a much slower rate than I can improve my car--so that is where I am putting my immediate attention. One major difference in our cars is that I am running 28MM bars and 350# springs--she is 30MM and 400# (i believe).
Here is what I think--my competitor has a lighter car/headers/short 5th/regular 944 gear box/sponsors and a pro mechanic as a team-mate. In addition to improving my driving I need to improve my car as much as I can. I finally just got camber plates and have taken as much weight out of the car that I can--although I still have headlights and wipers.
My skill will improve with track time--my car will improve by listening to guys like Tim, Chuck, and Jackie--and acting on that information--that is why I think this tech session could be so valuable--someone should write a booklet outlining optimum tuning both on the chassis and suspension (comparing torsion bars and spring rates with track times). Just my 2 cents!
Toby,
Here's my 2 cent advice to you. Make what ever changes you feel you need then don't touch the car. Leave it in the same configuration and work on your driving. The improvements you see will be in your skills, not in hardware changes. Talk to as many drivers as you can about how they're driving a particular corner or section. Ask some of the drivers that are instructors to go out for a few laps to get their input. Ride along with some drivers for a few laps to see what they're doing. IMHO the most important thing is seat time and focusing on improving your skills. Remember that good advice may come from the most unexpected person/driver.
Good luck!!!