Tracking my M3

[HiFi]

Hey guys
Part of the reason for me buying my F80 M3 ZCP is to track it regularly. Hoping for some advice from the regular trackday guys on here on the following:

1. What are the key upgrades required to make the m3 suitable for track use - brake pads, fluid, tyres, wheels, anything else? Rotors?

2. What has been the impact on reliability and wear and tear from tracking your car - i know BMw marketing speak love to say its a road going track car, in reality does it live up to this? does the cooling hold up? anything to be aware of?

[MPoweRo]

Brakes: pads, fluid. I have braided lines but probably not necessary.

Tyres: you can use your street tyres if you're a beginner. Then either switch to a dual purpose tyre or a separate set with R specs.

Safety: extinguisher, good helmet, sensible fire resistant clothes.

Alignment: I recommend front camber plates. GC are high quality. Get an alignment by a reputable place. Front thrust arm bearings are another inexpensive mod.

Re longevity... can't comment yet but my other BMWs were fine with 4 to 5 track events per year. I change oil every 5000km.

Enjoy.

[05C4R]

if your just starting out i'd leave all the nannies on while using the street tyres, they are pretty hairy on the track

[HiFi]

some awesome info, thanks very much guys.
I was looking at GC plates, ill order a set. just about to pick up a set of 437ms and will get some r spec tyres - ive tracked before but not in a luxury 100K+ car.

what pads and fluid are you guys running - do you swap pads in and out before/after each track day?

Cheers

[MPoweRo]

I'm on Pagid RS29. They are pretty good - was getting some fade at Sandown by lap 4 to 5. They work well on the street but you need to modulate your pedal pressure to avoid frightening children and small pets - squealy!

Motion RBF 600 fluid. If I had the time I'd swap pads between events but, you know, I'm busy.