For the final preparations for my next track day I went to my mechanic's garage to sort the last details.
Work list:
1-Replace the SuperPro adjustable ball joints for OEM new ones (1K0407365C & 1K0407366C) due to SuperPro ball joints rubbing brake discs when locking the steering to its maximum
2-Replace the Brembo 18Z calipers bolts and nuts adaptors for the Epytec adaptor kit
3-Change the ATE SL.6 brake oil for Motul RBF600
4-Rotate wheels between the axles to even the wear
5-Clean the Forge Motorsport oil catch can
6-Brake discs and pads checkup
7-ITG air panel filter checkup
8-Perform wheel alignment due to new ball joints fitted
I've ordered the Celtemp HPFP shield but it hasn't arrived yet after 2 weeks. Fortunately my engine cover is still tightly fixed so I highly doubt it's going to matter much. It's more a long term precaution.
Comments:
1-It's a pity I can't keep the SuperPro ball joints since they're much sturdy than the OEM part. MB brakes have a lower ET so they're much closer to the hub. It does help with big caliper clearance, though...
2-Epytec's adaptor kit it's simpler to install and the calipers are more strongly fixed to the hub. Although simpler to install, it's much easier for two persons to align the bolt with caliper and the metal bar. My mechanic also fitted a 1 mm washer to both bolts that makes the caliper really centered with the disc and further from the wheel spokes. Like!
3-The ATE SL.6 was still looking fresh but for my mechanic surprise there was an air bubble in both right calipers. Now I'm really glad I got new brake oil. During daily driving it wasn't noticeable since I hardly need to press the brake pedal and when I did the brakes corresponded. Now with fresher and better oil and no air bubble it should be even better.
4-My front tyres have done around 10.000 km/6200 miles and are half worn. Rears are like new still. Now with the rears in the front they should be all with similar wear after the track day. All tyres were filled to 2,6 bar/37,7 psi like VW recommends for our GTI with light cargo on the fuel tank flap.
5-The oil catch can was emptied when I relocated the diverter valve to the front of the engine. It already had a significant amount of dirty water. After some WD40 applications on all holes and some shaking it was much cleaner.
6-My EBC Redstuff pads on the front axle are also half worn. I need to get new one after the track day for sure... I'm considering Mintex M1144, Ferodo DS2500 or Pagid RS-29. I've asked for Project Mu HC+ pads but they're £350 + shipping so that's quite expensive for me at the moment. Opinions are welcome.
7-The air filter was still clean and there were no oil spray residues on the engine side.
Now a couple of pictures to make it more easy on the eyes...
Epytec's adaptor kit:
The only decent picture of it fitted:
The return trip was more fuel saving focused. Made my best fuel consumption on long trips.
That's 34,45 mpg when I usually get 28 mpg on daily driving.
That's around 214 miles.
Can't wait for the track day!
