Does anybody road race their C32's?
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Originally Posted by Vadim @ evosport
Sounds like an interest in road racing C32s is going back up. This is a great news, for a while I gave up MB owners and road racing. Looks like it is time to dust out those drawing for suspension parts.
How about MB AMG vs. BMW M vs. Audi S on a Willow big track?
How about MB AMG vs. BMW M vs. Audi S on a Willow big track?
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w212 E63 / 996tt
Thanks for the input everyone.
I'll be at the track with my brother who drives a M3 smg and his buddy in a Massarati. It should be lots of fun.
Vadim, I placed an order a week or so ago and I hoped it has already shipped. I need those heat spacers and sl55 y-pipe. They should arrive just in time.
Suspension mods.....interesting. I'll be in line for some big sway bars and so forth after I realize my car is not track worthy
I'll be at the track with my brother who drives a M3 smg and his buddy in a Massarati. It should be lots of fun.
Vadim, I placed an order a week or so ago and I hoped it has already shipped. I need those heat spacers and sl55 y-pipe. They should arrive just in time.
Suspension mods.....interesting. I'll be in line for some big sway bars and so forth after I realize my car is not track worthy
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From: OC
C32
Originally Posted by schwarzwagen
I think you have 3-4 kit sales that I know of for sure, if you can be cash positive from that, by all means do it. The C32 is in dire need of front camber and the offset bushing kits available now are unreliable.
If you increase the length of the front lower control arm the front tire is pushed out so far that the tire will contact the fender.
In order to push the top of the front strut in you will need a custom coilover with smaller diameter front spring. Too expensive.
Just use the 10 cent washer method and get your -2.5 camber and be done with it. Granted -2.5 is not enough for the C32, it will still only ride on half the front tire through the turns, but it is all we can get.
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P51aviator, I will see today if I can make the 16th date. 1:38 is hard to believe, but I will take your word for it. The only way it is possible is to run the speed you suggest in turn 8, which most people aren't comfortable doing, is if you maintain full throttle with minor adjustments out of six all the way to the braking zone before turn nine and trail brake into nine maintaining 95mph through the apex, you will hit over 145 on the front straight prior to turn entry into turn one. This would be good for a few seconds at least. I couldn't do it in a stock suspension with ESP off, but I commend you for holding on through that section. You must be an outstanding and experienced driver.
When did you get your car and why did you decide to buy a C32?
When did you get your car and why did you decide to buy a C32?
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C32 AMG
think you have 3-4 kit sales that I know of for sure, if you can be cash positive from that, by all means do it. The C32 is in dire need of front camber and the offset bushing kits available now are unreliable.
Vadim, I placed an order a week or so ago and I hoped it has already shipped. I need those heat spacers and sl55 y-pipe. They should arrive just in time.
Suspension mods.....interesting. I'll be in line for some big sway bars and so forth after I realize my car is not track worthy
Suspension mods.....interesting. I'll be in line for some big sway bars and so forth after I realize my car is not track worthy
Thank you everyone for their interest in suspension for C32s. I will put it back on my development list and will keep you guys updated.
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Originally Posted by smgC32
P51aviator, I will see today if I can make the 16th date. 1:38 is hard to believe, but I will take your word for it. The only way it is possible is to run the speed you suggest in turn 8, which most people aren't comfortable doing, is if you maintain full throttle with minor adjustments out of six all the way to the braking zone before turn nine and trail brake into nine maintaining 95mph through the apex, you will hit over 145 on the front straight prior to turn entry into turn one. This would be good for a few seconds at least. I couldn't do it in a stock suspension with ESP off, but I commend you for holding on through that section. You must be an outstanding and experienced driver.
When did you get your car and why did you decide to buy a C32?
When did you get your car and why did you decide to buy a C32?
We bought the car for my wife about 15 months ago. We had a child, I sold the Z06, gave my wife the Tahoe and inherited the C32 (which didn't accommodate the car seat too well). The C32 purchase was an impulse buy; we went in for a larger sedan, but once I test drove the C32 it was sold. Never thought I'd drive it more than part time, but it's been my daily driver for about a year now. It ended up at the track out of curiosity more than anything.
It would be cool if you and a few others could make it on the 16th. It's good fun and it would be nice to see what guys have done to mod the C32.
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From: Nashville
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Originally Posted by Zeppelin
Don't hold your breath for any camber kits to come on the market. There is no way to increase the front negative camber without major cost or by losing front tire size:
If you increase the length of the front lower control arm the front tire is pushed out so far that the tire will contact the fender.
In order to push the top of the front strut in you will need a custom coilover with smaller diameter front spring. Too expensive.
Just use the 10 cent washer method and get your -2.5 camber and be done with it. Granted -2.5 is not enough for the C32, it will still only ride on half the front tire through the turns, but it is all we can get.
If you increase the length of the front lower control arm the front tire is pushed out so far that the tire will contact the fender.
In order to push the top of the front strut in you will need a custom coilover with smaller diameter front spring. Too expensive.
Just use the 10 cent washer method and get your -2.5 camber and be done with it. Granted -2.5 is not enough for the C32, it will still only ride on half the front tire through the turns, but it is all we can get.
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From: Kansas City
'07 E63; 05 C55 gone; '02 C32 gone;1996 SL320;1978 280CE Gone
Vadim: Don't forget those of us who now have the C55. We need camber too. What is the washer method for getting -2.5 degrees camber? I put in camber bolts and got about 1.5 degrees. I suggested washers, and the tech at the dealer said that it could not be done with washers.
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From: SCV SoCal
2002 CLK430
Originally Posted by p51aviator
I just replied to CynCarvin -
My buds got the track on 11/16, so if you or anybody else can make it, could be fun. Only hard part is that it's on a Wednesday.
I'll see if I can talk some of my buds in to bringing out some of their toys...
Here's the link to register for the 16th: http://www.opentrackracing.com/otrev...istration.html
My buds got the track on 11/16, so if you or anybody else can make it, could be fun. Only hard part is that it's on a Wednesday.
I'll see if I can talk some of my buds in to bringing out some of their toys...
Here's the link to register for the 16th: http://www.opentrackracing.com/otrev...istration.html
MPG track days basically consist of manufacturers bringing their cars out for a day with the press. Spending all day, at speed, in manufacturer’s cars, on their nickel with no limits is hard work - but somebody’s go to do it.
I'll try to find some time to wander over on Wednesday to see you hot shoes at work. Here are some photos from previous MPG track days. Having driven a Z06 at willow, the last shot should be familiar to you.
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Originally Posted by schwarzwagen
Exactly, Cyn had that problem when he was running the offset bushings...
Honestly with rolled lips a bit of rub wont hurt because there is no rough metal to cut the tire. Not classy buts do able. We know it an issue and if we have to put on some flares or crack all the paint and re-do it AGAIN we will
Quest for camber.... will stop at nothing!
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Originally Posted by MarcusF
November 16th? Willow Springs? I’m a member of the Motor Press Guild (MPG). We have the Streets of Willow all day Wednesday November 16th and both tracks on Thursday November 17th. The 16th is Tuner and Factory Performance Day. There should be plenty of toys on the streets. Rob Allen (AMG Product Manager for Mercedes-Benz USA) spoke to us in March at the MPG luncheon. I’m hopeful that some preproduction 6.3 liter information will be available as well as the usual AMG press fleet.
MPG track days basically consist of manufacturers bringing their cars out for a day with the press. Spending all day, at speed, in manufacturer’s cars, on their nickel with no limits is hard work - but somebody’s go to do it. I'll try to find some time to wander over on Wednesday to see you hot shoes at work.
Here are some photos from previous MPG track days. Having driven a Z06 at willow, the last shot should be familiar to you.
MPG track days basically consist of manufacturers bringing their cars out for a day with the press. Spending all day, at speed, in manufacturer’s cars, on their nickel with no limits is hard work - but somebody’s go to do it.
I'll try to find some time to wander over on Wednesday to see you hot shoes at work. Here are some photos from previous MPG track days. Having driven a Z06 at willow, the last shot should be familiar to you.
I'm going to see if my friend Mike can bring out some of his Trans-Am cars or other assorted wicked toys. There was a new Z06 with manufacturer plates on it last month when they ran. I've even been on the track with an original GT-40 if you can believe that. Never know what you'll see out there with this group.
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I'm just thrilled that this topic came up. I'd love to track my car, but only if I can actually have fun doing it - and I came to MB from M3 land (three generations! 
), so I'm spoiled. Vadim, count me in on suspension mods. Even for the street, the C32 needs a LOT of work!
), so I'm spoiled. Vadim, count me in on suspension mods. Even for the street, the C32 needs a LOT of work!
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From: Cave Creek, AZ and Newport Beach
'22 G 63 AMG, '21 GLE 53 AMG, '20 NSX
The formula is no secret for setting up a street/track car. And a lot of good suggestions have been mentioned. I've made every mistake possible in setting up street cars for the track and I'm passing this vaulable information on to you. The dilemma is a 3400lbs car needs to be stiff to run at tracks like WSIR. You will never achieve a low 1:30s car with a C32 and still have it streetable to run the spring rates necessary for those times. If you want to wear a kidney belt to drive on the street then go for it.
If you are as good a driver as you say you can have a ball beating up a lot of so called hi performance cars. I've seen lightweight BMW M3's run low 1:32's and they had a lot less hp than the C32. But they weighed 2700lbs!
My list would be as follows in this order.
Saftey equiptment (belts, bars and seat) assuming you have helmet and gloves.
Brakes (pagid pads and Castrol SRF fluid)
Wider wheels ft and rear with R compound tires.
At this point I'd take a racing school. If your still interested in the car you haven't put a ton of $ in it.
Springs and shocks (I don't think Renntech are stiff enough for your application.) You need to see a suspension guru (like a Jae Lee in San Diego who does all the national record holders) This will be way cheaper in the long run.
Bigger brakes
Last, more horsepower.
Like most enthusiasts (track junkies) will start in reverse order. Just can't help the DNA.
BTW, 1:31 at WSIR in a C5 ZO6 on street tires is amazing. The late Paul Mumford ran a prepared Viper on Hoosiers and ran a 1:31.43 at Viper Days.
If you are as good a driver as you say you can have a ball beating up a lot of so called hi performance cars. I've seen lightweight BMW M3's run low 1:32's and they had a lot less hp than the C32. But they weighed 2700lbs!
My list would be as follows in this order.
Saftey equiptment (belts, bars and seat) assuming you have helmet and gloves.
Brakes (pagid pads and Castrol SRF fluid)
Wider wheels ft and rear with R compound tires.
At this point I'd take a racing school. If your still interested in the car you haven't put a ton of $ in it.
Springs and shocks (I don't think Renntech are stiff enough for your application.) You need to see a suspension guru (like a Jae Lee in San Diego who does all the national record holders) This will be way cheaper in the long run.
Bigger brakes
Last, more horsepower.
Like most enthusiasts (track junkies) will start in reverse order. Just can't help the DNA.
BTW, 1:31 at WSIR in a C5 ZO6 on street tires is amazing. The late Paul Mumford ran a prepared Viper on Hoosiers and ran a 1:31.43 at Viper Days.
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Originally Posted by smgC32
Roseylv, what organization are you driving with? Big track or Streets?
P51aviator, I will call and sign up today. See you there! Are you planning on taking your car to the Streets as well?
P51aviator, I will call and sign up today. See you there! Are you planning on taking your car to the Streets as well?
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Originally Posted by Jim Brady
BTW, 1:31 at WSIR in a C5 ZO6 on street tires is amazing. The late Paul Mumford ran a prepared Viper on Hoosiers and ran a 1:31.43 at Viper Days.
You knew Paul?
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Originally Posted by p51aviator
I think the C32 would fair better at streets, and would love to try it, but no I'll just be at the Big Track for the day.
The big track is where the car belongs and we will see you on the 16th for sure. Looking very forward to it!
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Are best times are in the 1:33's at the Streets and the car is a handful. This is a good time for any street car, but it could be an awsome car if it was built right to begin with from the factory. We destroy and cord front tires by lunch time and have to carry spares. The bushings don't like the berms, ESP can't decide what to do even when off, the inside rear tire smokes like a fireworks show, and it takes four tanks of gas door to door, usually netting 5.68mpg. More camber in the front and an LSD, and we think we could run in the 1:30-1:31's which is quite a feat in a W203.
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Originally Posted by smgC32
Are best times are in the 1:33's at the Streets and the car is a handful. This is a good time for any street car, but it could be an awsome car if it was built right to begin with from the factory. We destroy and cord front tires by lunch time and have to carry spares. The bushings don't like the berms, ESP can't decide what to do even when off, the inside rear tire smokes like a fireworks show, and it takes four tanks of gas door to door, usually netting 5.68mpg. More camber in the front and an LSD, and we think we could run in the 1:30-1:31's which is quite a feat in a W203.
keep it on the road this time!!!!
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Originally Posted by Jim Brady
The formula is no secret for setting up a street/track car. And a lot of good suggestions have been mentioned. I've made every mistake possible in setting up street cars for the track and I'm passing this vaulable information on to you. The dilemma is a 3400lbs car needs to be stiff to run at tracks like WSIR. You will never achieve a low 1:30s car with a C32 and still have it streetable to run the spring rates necessary for those times. If you want to wear a kidney belt to drive on the street then go for it.
If you are as good a driver as you say you can have a ball beating up a lot of so called hi performance cars. I've seen lightweight BMW M3's run low 1:32's and they had a lot less hp than the C32. But they weighed 2700lbs!
My list would be as follows in this order.
Saftey equiptment (belts, bars and seat) assuming you have helmet and gloves.
Brakes (pagid pads and Castrol SRF fluid)
Wider wheels ft and rear with R compound tires.
At this point I'd take a racing school. If your still interested in the car you haven't put a ton of $ in it.
Springs and shocks (I don't think Renntech are stiff enough for your application.) You need to see a suspension guru (like a Jae Lee in San Diego who does all the national record holders) This will be way cheaper in the long run.
Bigger brakes
Last, more horsepower.
Like most enthusiasts (track junkies) will start in reverse order. Just can't help the DNA.
BTW, 1:31 at WSIR in a C5 ZO6 on street tires is amazing. The late Paul Mumford ran a prepared Viper on Hoosiers and ran a 1:31.43 at Viper Days.
If you are as good a driver as you say you can have a ball beating up a lot of so called hi performance cars. I've seen lightweight BMW M3's run low 1:32's and they had a lot less hp than the C32. But they weighed 2700lbs!
My list would be as follows in this order.
Saftey equiptment (belts, bars and seat) assuming you have helmet and gloves.
Brakes (pagid pads and Castrol SRF fluid)
Wider wheels ft and rear with R compound tires.
At this point I'd take a racing school. If your still interested in the car you haven't put a ton of $ in it.
Springs and shocks (I don't think Renntech are stiff enough for your application.) You need to see a suspension guru (like a Jae Lee in San Diego who does all the national record holders) This will be way cheaper in the long run.
Bigger brakes
Last, more horsepower.
Like most enthusiasts (track junkies) will start in reverse order. Just can't help the DNA.
BTW, 1:31 at WSIR in a C5 ZO6 on street tires is amazing. The late Paul Mumford ran a prepared Viper on Hoosiers and ran a 1:31.43 at Viper Days.
All great points and I agree fully. We have done almost all those mods already but maybe some even stiffer springs would help. The Carlsson kit is firm but clearly increasing the shock valving and not the spring rate is far from ideal.
We have more upgrades planned andthis car will be quick!
As for the lap times in a street tire Z-06, I agree SCCA cars dont run nearly that quickly and they have serious suspensions and hoosiers. But im always open to being proven very wrong!
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Originally Posted by CynCarvin32
having driven with smg in his C32 for upwards of 10 track days at the streets the car has no business being there. It only kills the tires, destroys the brakes ( a full race brake kit too), nukes the motor, and sucks up 3 tanks of gas in a day.
The big track is where the car belongs and we will see you on the 16th for sure. Looking very forward to it!
The big track is where the car belongs and we will see you on the 16th for sure. Looking very forward to it!
Glad to hear you'll make it on the 16th. Should be fun.
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From: Sacramento
AMG C43, 1999
Well I may have to come down to Willow with my 1999, AMG C43 for all this fun and BS.
I hope I can get into the low 1:30's with my car. Only time will tell. But I do not have any of the tire wear issues you guys have.
Jeff
I hope I can get into the low 1:30's with my car. Only time will tell. But I do not have any of the tire wear issues you guys have.
Jeff
Last edited by speedybenz; Oct 16, 2005 at 02:30 AM.
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Speedy, try and come out tht day. I already registered. Oh, and by the way, could you make me a set of double wishbones like your car so I can make it past the third session without resorting to testing the strength of Dunlop's steel belts...
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From: Nashville
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Originally Posted by smgC32
Speedy, try and come out tht day. I already registered. Oh, and by the way, could you make me a set of double wishbones like your car so I can make it past the third session without resorting to testing the strength of Dunlop's steel belts...
