u/Presstheepig

July 3, 2026 - Sonoma with SpeedSF. High Intermediate group

I bought this car last year knowing the engine wasn’t happy. For the last 5 events the CEL was on due to misfires. My friend helped investigate and fix the issue, intake valves too tight. They weren’t fully seated even off the lobe.

We set it back to spec which fixed the misfires and resulted in 2 seconds shaved due to power alone. I didn’t drive particularly better.

I only had one clean lap in the second session while track conditions were still ideal. Luckily I caught the S13 in the best spot for a pass and they gave plenty of space.

I’m still struggling with initiating rotation on entry. I’ll be getting a new alignment before the next event in hopes that it reduces rear grip.

Hopefully I can go sub 50 before the end of the year!

AP2 S2000
Kumho V730 255/40/17
JRZ RS Pro
APR GTC 250
Racebred Splitter
Hawk ER-1 pads
Test pipe and cat back

I signed up for low-intermediate, point by req, group for my first time back at Laguna Seca in a year and a half. The goal of the day was to relearn the track, line, and marks so I figured the slower group would allow me to do that without holding up traffic.

Today, however, did not have a dedicated novice group. Instead novice and low-int were combined. There was even a couple people who had never driven on track before. This resulted in quite a few trains.

The post session driver’s meeting facilitated communication and education opportunities for the newer drivers. We talked about awareness, point by etiquette (lifting), and pitting for space. I also introduced myself to other drivers between sessions. I explained that while I’m all over their bumpers in corners, I can’t take their point by on the straight unless they lift.

This improved the sessions for the rest of the day. Despite the range of skill levels and speeds, none of our groups sessions were black/red flagged.

The last session of the day is the one I needed. Most people had packed up and gone home. The grid was much smaller and I was able to focus on my driving which resulted in multiple 1:46.X laps, and this PB of 1:46.3 with room for improvement.

My driving has improved a lot over the last couple events. Any feedback for me on how to get into 1:45.X? Is my analysis of the lap accurate? There’s a couple dates in Oct/Nov that I may sign up for.