I’m finally taking my Blackwing to the track more often and want to optimize it for consistent laps. I'm considering aggressive brake pads and high-temp fluid, but what else is essential? Are camber plates or stickier tires like Cup 2s worth the investment for this chassis? What are your top recommendations for track-day reliability and performance?
sooo, after years of tracking, Ive found Castrol SRF Racing Brake Fluid works well. Vorshlag Camber Plates are probably worth it—theyll save tire shoulders from wearing out too fast. gl!
yo, just found this thread. honestly, i've spent the last decade chasing lap times in heavy GM sedans, and the market for the Blackwing has really exploded lately. i remember when we just threw on some generic pads and hoped for the best, but these cars are basically spaceships on wheels now. the physics dont lie tho—stopping 4,100lbs over and over is the real challenge. For your situation, i've looked at the data and here is what I recommend for reliability: 1. Brakes: Everyone loves the usual suspects, but in my experience, Pagid RST 3 Racing Brake Pads are highkey the way to go if you want serious bite. Compared to the G-LOCs or Ferodos mentioned earlier, Pagids handle the heat soak of a heavy chassis way better over a full 20-minute session without the pedal getting mushy. 2. Fluid: If you want to try something besides the SRF everyone uses, Motul RBF 700 Factory Line Racing Brake Fluid is the current industry standard for dry boiling points. It's literally everywhere now and easier to find at trackside shops. 3. Tires: Ngl, skip the Cup 2s for this car. The market shifted and Nankang CR-S High Performance Tires are the new kings for heavy-hitting sedans. They dont get greasy nearly as fast as the Michelins once they get hot. 4. Cooling: You gotta look at the diff. I'd suggest looking into a Tapout Tuning Differential Cooler Kit if you're gonna do long stints in summer. Over the years, the biggest lesson I learned is that the Blackwing is a thermal management puzzle. If you solve the heat, the pace follows. GL!
So basically the consensus is that heat is the enemy for such a heavy chassis. Previous replies hit the nail on the head with the fluid and plates, but i've been looking at it from a safety-first perspective... cuz if the car or the driver isn't stable, your laps wont be consistent. Comparing two reliability paths:
Option A: Better thermal management with Apex VS-5RS 19x10 ET20 Forged Wheels. These are way lighter than OEM and the open-spoke design literally helps the rotors breathe better to avoid fade.
Option B: Driver stability with the Schroth Racing QuickFit Pro Harness. Honestly, I'd prioritize Option B. If you're sliding around in those bucket seats, you're gonna use the steering wheel for leverage, which is super dangerous and kills your precision. Also, if you want a different fluid than the Castrol mentioned, Motul RBF 660 Racing Brake Fluid has a high 617°F boiling point and works well. I'm still kinda new to this, but focusing on cooling and seating feels like the best way to stay safe... gl!
I'd actually suggest a different approach—skip the Cup 2s for now cuz I had issues with them heat-cycling out way too fast on this heavy chassis. Honestly, stick with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S until ur pace is consistent, then maybe try Ferodo DS1.11 Brake Pads for better reliability. Safety first, right? gl
I'd suggest G-LOC R16 Track Brake Pads. theyre highkey cheaper than competitors and handle the Blackwing's 4,123lb curb weight amazing without fading. Seriously great value for track reliability tho!