My ZS 180 British Racing Green

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone

I thought I would start a progress thread on my car.

I have a lot of plans for the car, most of them based around track performance, increasing and prolonging!

The car at the moment is standard.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/ex2.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/ex6.jpg

I did my first trackday in the car this year August 20th at Castle Combe in Wiltshire.

All I can say is the car was excellent.

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone.

I have done my trackday at Castle Combe. And what an excellent day!

I arrived just before 8am as was requested by CC.

After signing on I had the car sound tested - 80DB which was tested at 1/2 metre from the exhaust at 4500rpm static.
I then attended the drivers briefing at 8.30am. I learnt that 25% of all U.K circuit accidents happen at Quarry corner!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics024.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics026.jpg

The organisers had all of us split into 3 groups, I was in group 1 which included 3 scoobys, a Lotus Exige (10 plate) and a Cayman
which was very fast running R888s.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics042.jpg

When I arrived the track was damp/greasy and the sky was grey and dull but no rain! I was hoping and praying for some sun!

Group 1 were first out on track at 9am, the track was still damp in patches more so in some areas so I was cautious until the tyres came up to temperature and I got a feel for the car.
On my 3rd lap I had a bit of a twitch moment over a particularly wet patch entering Quarry, 100mph plus cold rear tyres! Nothing came of it thankfully!
I also found through the ESSES I just couldn't put any power down and found carrying speed fairly difficult through them, I must admit I did think to myself if it carries on like this the day may be a disappointment!

How wrong was I!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics036.jpg


http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics032.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics034.jpg

After the other groups went out and the track and air temps began to rise a dry line emerged then the entire track did.
The MG came alive, I was able to brake later and later and lean on it more and more through the corners, the brakes I found to be very good as my confidence in the car rose.
After the second session I noticed I had lost some braking performance from the top of the pedal, but this remained the same throughout the rest of the day thankfully, however the front discs were starting to show signs of overheating, I had rings appearing on the discs whic increased throughout the day BUT this did not affect the braking power at all, no vibration or juddering just the same consistent good power!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics057.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics058.jpg

Whilst we were in our group sessions I did find there wasn't any cars I could play with, but this did allow me to learn the car better!
By about 10.30ish we went to open pit lane and I had chance to play with more cars then, some cars I caught up with and overtook were =

* Lotus Elise S1
* MG ZR160 - stripped out aswell
* BMW M3 E46
* Various other 3 series in differant states of tune and engine
* Lancer EVO VI Tommi Makinen - this was one I was surprised about! I caught him up over 4-5 laps and overtook (naughtily) under braking into Tower, I then stayed in front for 3 laps, he then passed me but didnt pull a gap of anymore than 2 transits up until the chequered flag! I later learnt I know the owner! Hello Phil if you ever read this!

There were various caterhams etc there, but they were in a different league to the rest of us!

I had noticed in the paddock there was another MG ZS 180, and it belongs to Gillian Goldsmith who is an instructor and race driver!
Gillian couldnt speak highly enough of the car, commenting on Thruxton using them as the race school cars because they are so good!
The ZS180 is definitely a car for those in the know.
Gillian also asked if I had ever had any tuition on track before to which I haven't, and said she would come out with me to give me a few pointers for free! Fellow MG owners!
We managed to be allowed out, we shouldnt have been really as the track was closing for lunch shortly! but she knew the Marshalls!

So a big thankyou to Gillian who was very nice and helpful.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics056.jpg

After lunch I was out for a few more sessions before the front brakes called time! I had reduced the front pads back to the backing plates!
I must say tho, right up until the end they were consistent and strong! the front pads and discs had only 300 miles on them! now I need new ones! more on that one soon.....

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics063.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Canonpics062.jpg

I absolutely loved the day, I was out almost solidly from 9am till 2pm, and the car was truly great, I was one of the fastest along the back of the circuit through the ESSES + OLD PADDOCK BEND + HAMMERDOWN + TOWER where the MGs excellent high speed direction changeing and stability where impeccable, the car is ever so neutral and very grippy allowing you to do what you want with it!

I found that I was heel and toeing the car absolutly naturally the pedals are very well spaced for it (something I doubted on the road).
This also contributed to the demise of my brakes due to how late this allowed me to brake!

The video below is me entering Quarry and the following straight

[OllieZS]

Hi everybody.

Today I had the MG on the rolling road at Interpro in thornbury.

I arrived at 8.30am, and honestly had no idea of what kind of figures to expect given the car is on 126,000 miles!

I have had my reservations about just how well the VIS has been working so I asked them to check everything on the car engine wise
to know how 'healthy' the engine is.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/MGZSInterpro.jpg

Well after the power runs, the rolling road operator Dave came over to talk to me about his findings! and I must admit to expecting a lower than standard output, how wrong was I!

185 BHP @ 6543rpm
with an at the wheels figure of 125 BHP
174 FT/LBS @ 4333rpm

When Dave approached me he had the graph out of sight and started to talk of a stored fault code and I thought oh no.....
Turns out the the fault code is only for the engine management light bulb not working!

Dave informed me that the VIS is working absolutely fine, which showed in the graph with a very linear and powerful torque curve, with approx 110 lb/ft available from just over 1000rpm, and after the torque peaking at 174 lb/ft at 4333rpm the car did not drop under 150 lb/ft even upto the rev limit at approx 6750rpm. Between 5000rpm and 6250rpm the car held 165 lb/ft (approx).

The power graph was lovely and linear, from approx 5750 to the 6250rpm the engine is holding a linear 180ish bhp peaking at max power 185 at 6543rpm holding until the limiter calls time.

I am very happy with the figures as you'd imagine, the car is standard with 126000 miles on the clock and ran on 95 ron/octane fuel!

This does just prove that a well looked after car can still make the numbers and then some

I have put the lack of power I thought I was feeling down to the crappy tyres on there at the mo, which are scrabbling for grip any time some torque is introduced to them!

[OllieZS]

I have now replaced the tyres with Kumho Ecsta sports, which so far have proved to be head and shoulders above the previous tyres!
The recent weather and road conditions tho have not allowed me to really get a feel for them and there suitability to the car.

[Dan1971]

Great posts mate - glad the car worked well for you. Plenty of fun to be had in the future too.

Beginning to think that there will be more ZSs on tracks throughout the UK than getting driven on the roads !!!

[stamford]

Great thread mate. You think Quarry is scary, the track itself is alot slower than it used to be back in the 80's, back then they had no chicanes ruining the laps! Back then I was running a stage 3 spec Magnum and a 185 bhp Chevette. The ZS made it seem smooth in comparison.

What mods has your zed got? Seems you have a very good one even with those miles.

[BUCKYDEVIL]

Nice pictures with the post..
Car looks great on the track .

[OllieZS]

Thanks for the replies guys :)

Stamford, the car is standard apart from an ITG panel filter. :bow::happy2:

I have also recently just purchased the V.H.S damper kit for the car, they are Bilstein units manufactered to V.H.S specifications.

It was'nt cheap but it should be the best!

Unfortunatly I wont be having them fitted until January due to funds!

[OllieZS]

This is taken from the information that came with the kit

Vehicle Handling Solutions LTD

MG ZS suspension kit

The MG ZS suspension upgrade consists of four high quality Bilstein monotube dampers. For optimum performance, we recommend the use of the original ZS road springs.
The dampers are tuned to provide a more mature dynamic performance, with a better compromise between ride comfort and control. This is possible because the monotube dampers have a much greater valve area that the standard MG items and the improved valve response allows better overall control.
The car benefits from better control in pitch and roll, especially noticeable at higher speeds, which improves security and driver confidence.
The overtly sporting character of the MG ZS is improved but the ride quality is far more refined.
The dampers offer better wheel control over broken and pot holed road surfaces, leading to much less suspension operating noise and the resulting reduction in jarring gives an upmarket quality 'feel'.

Dynamic performance with finesse!

The kit has a two year guarentee and the dampers can be fully rebuilt and re-valved if required.

V.H.S is ran by 3 MG chassis engineers who set up there outfit when the company folded.

In my opinion the best people to help me realise the true potential of my car!

[Dave MGT]

Great report! Cc is a great track. Cannot wait to take my new ZS out there asap, only 20mins from me. My advice mod wise is to focus on a lsd or torsen diff and lightweight flywheel. Those mods will transform the car!!
Will be very interested to see how you get on with those new shocks! Should be a nice compromise on a track/roadcar.

[MG6Turbo]

hmm.

A std non modified zs180 puts out 143bhp@wheels which equates to around 175bhp@flywheel.

A zr160 puts out 125bhp@wheels and 155bhp@flywheel.

I would say your wheel figure should be around 155bhp for 185bhp@fly.

G

[OllieZS]

hmm.

A std non modified zs180 puts out 143bhp@wheels which equates to around 175bhp@flywheel.

A zr160 puts out 125bhp@wheels and 155bhp@flywheel.

I would say your wheel figure should be around 155bhp for 185bhp@fly.

G

I agree, I think the @ the wheels figure is wrong, just typing what was on the printout!

:yes::laugh:

[OllieZS]

Great report! Cc is a great track. Cannot wait to take my new ZS out there asap, only 20mins from me. My advice mod wise is to focus on a lsd or torsen diff and lightweight flywheel. Those mods will transform the car!!
Will be very interested to see how you get on with those new shocks! Should be a nice compromise on a track/roadcar.

Hi

The lightened flywheel is definitely something I am interested in, do you have one fitted?
I have been looking for a company that makes one but to know avail? I dont want to machine the standard flywheel.
Does anybody know the exact weight of the standard ZS 180 flywheel? I have been told its 18KG? :ohmy:

Thanks

Ollie

[stamford]

Probably half that at most tbh.

http://www.ttvracing.com/

[Maxfly]

Hi

The lightened flywheel is definitely something I am interested in, do you have one fitted?
I have been looking for a company that makes one but to know avail? I dont want to machine the standard flywheel.
Does anybody know the exact weight of the standard ZS 180 flywheel? I have been told its 18KG? :ohmy:

Thanks

Ollie

Cracking thread matey, an lovely ZS:) there is a bloke over in xpower forums that does lightened flys, not sure when next order goes in, pop over an it may be a sticky but at most a quick search should throw up what you want. :)

[petet16]

ekspower is his user name on xpf, he may have some in stock.

[Dave MGT]

Hi

The lightened flywheel is definitely something I am interested in, do you have one fitted?
I have been looking for a company that makes one but to know avail? I dont want to machine the standard flywheel.
Does anybody know the exact weight of the standard ZS 180 flywheel? I have been told its 18KG? :ohmy:

Thanks

Ollie

I had one fitted to my old blue trackcar. Going to fit another to my mk2 along with a new type A diff. Waste of time machining std one and thats not to safe either!
The std fly is about 9-10kg iirc. Lightweight one is about 4.6kg. I think there are two types ttv do though because I have seen pics of one with more cut outs that weighs 4.3kg apparently...?

Ross bought my old car and took it to pod and ran a 13.7 with 210bhp and flywheel fitted. (it was stripped and had a diff but wasnt the lightest zs to go up pod) Its a great mod and will give you a min 2mpg more as well.

[Dave ZS-X]

nice write up mate, ive done so many trackdays at combe ive lost count but they were all great, even the many wet ones. I reckon a quarter of my old zs mileage was done treking to combe and back ,lol.
Awesome track, but demands respect.

[OllieZS]

Thanks for all the replies guys.

The car is booked into V.H.S next saturday (15th) to fit the Bilsteins, so a full write up coming soon!

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone,

In December I bought the Vehicle Handling Solutions damper kit comprising of four high quality Bilstein dampers optimised to VHS's own specifications.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS115.jpg

I had to wait till christmas was over to have them fitted, and VHS offer a fitting service so I decided I would have themselves fit them, although they do give excellent fitting instructions with the kit, I wanted the experts to do it!

I arranged to be at VHS for 9am saturday morning which is an hour and a half drive from mine, but as there based in Tenbury wells I decided I would drive back through Wales and the forest of dean to evaluate my new dampers. :cool1:

When I arrived I was met by Andy Kitson and introduced to Alan Phillips. Both gentlemen were very nice and showed real enthusiasm and a genuine interest which to some extent I was a little surprised of for engineers of their esteem.

The guys set to work quickly and thoroughly!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS119.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS118.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS116.jpg

The front dampers were off and changed in good time.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS122.jpg
Out with the old and in with the new!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS123.jpg

When the guys got to the rears they proved to be more of a pain!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS117.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS126.jpg

Due to some issues with old bolts not being particularly forthcoming.
The guys persevered and used some ingenuity!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS124.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS127.jpg

Finally the fitting was complete and I was eager to go for a drive!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgVHS128.jpg
Andy (left) and Alan, somewhat relieved! lol

The moment of truth came and I noticed the difference as soon as I drove out the gates!

What I noticed first was the general ride quality was vastly improved, the car no longer crashed and bumped itself down the road, but the one thing I really noticed was the vast reduction in suspension 'noise'.

This is something I didnt fully appreciate when initially advised of the benefits of the VHS kit, but now I do!

Later on in the drive I was able to increase the speed more and the body control further impressed with such a feeling of solidity and composure but the best was to come!

So far the kit had bettered the original dampers in every respect but I was amazed at the high speed composure! It is amazing, I raved about my ZS at Combe last year in the high speed sections 80mph+, but with this new kit it is something else, I briefly hit 110kph and the composure was something I hadnt felt before, I really cannot wait to take the car back on track!

I highly recommend VHS as I have been so impressed by them, the kit is not the cheapest but you get what you pay for and the service from Andy and Alan more than makes up for it.

I look forwards to having more dealings with them in the future.



:cool1:

[Dan1971]

Another quality post from someone putting the effort into their ZS. Great to see. Glad you're happy.

[stamford]

Yes, great write up, hopefully helps other contemplating the change to go and do it.

[OllieZS]

A little update

I have recently bought an ITG maxogen and just fitted it last weekend, and what a difference!

low down torque is increased, but tbh the power band is better everywhere actually! And the noise is lovely!

Then on saturday I was ran off the road.

I was minding my own buisness when coming around a long left hand bend, coming towards me on the opposite side were two artics, and as the road began to straighten there is some knob in a celica trying to overtake!
My heart stopped!

I hit the brakes, but the distance was to short, I braced myself for a head on and really thought this might be it, as the road is national speed limit, I was not far off 60, and god only knows how fast the celica was going!

Last minute I swerved over the kerb onto the grass/pavement, the oncoming traffic passed, as the back end came round on me and I came back onto the road sideways then hit the opposite kerb heavily then the car went into undergrowth, just before the car stopped it pitched almost over and I thought it was going to roll, but luckily it came back down on 4 wheels!

NO ONE STOPPED!

I got out the car ran back onto the road to just see the other traffic disappear!

I just cant get over who the hell would TRY to overtake 2 artics on a bloody corner!!!!!

luckily the car and I got away from it rather lightly, Im okay and had no passengers, the car needs to new alloys, 2 tyres and some scratches and marks removed, but luckily everything else is okay.

I was surprised how well everything stood up! a testament to the ZS!

I was searching all weekend for either a set or 2 wheels, but nothing really fitted the bill, until yesterday! I have managed to get hold of a set of BRAND NEW straights!! with centre caps! they are absolutly gorgeus! I almost dont want to put them on the car! lol

Pics soon!

My ZS will rule again!! lmao!

[Dan1971]

Epic journey your having with your car pal.

So glad that you walked away from what could've been a fatal. As for the car - also glad that it's come out OK.

[peterzs]

Just shows, could have left you upside down, what a lot of a*******s.

Glad you walked away from it, but more cost and time to sort out.

[stamford]

I just hope the **** gets caught, won't be the last time he'll do it. Glad you are okay, could have been much worse by the sounds of it.

[Baz27]

Great thread Ollie and glad to hear you are OK after the F*****g idiot in the Sillycar incident. I have a BRG 2004 180 and can thoroghly recommend the lightened fly wheel. I want to fit the Bilsteins but I have lowered Xpower springs would they be OK?

I'll keep a look out on the roads of South Glos for you. Mine has a K180 MG reg plate.

[OllieZS]

Great thread Ollie and glad to hear you are OK after the F*****g idiot in the Sillycar incident. I have a BRG 2004 180 and can thoroghly recommend the lightened fly wheel. I want to fit the Bilsteins but I have lowered Xpower springs would they be OK?

I'll keep a look out on the roads of South Glos for you. Mine has a K180 MG reg plate.

Hi Baz

I highly recomend the Bilsteins, with regards the Xpower springs I dont want to comment as I am not 100% sure, it would be best to speak to the guys at Vehicle Handling Solutions on 07791329055 or 07871156137 or there website
vehiclehandlingsolutions.com

They are very helpfull and take a real interest.

With regards your lightened flywheel what make is yours?

I will keep an eye out for you!

[petet16]

With regard to Xpower springs and VHS dampers they will work together fine, as I asked Andy about using lowered springs when I bought my dampers.

[Baz27]

Hi Baz

I highly recomend the Bilsteins, with regards the Xpower springs I dont want to comment as I am not 100% sure, it would be best to speak to the guys at Vehicle Handling Solutions on 07791329055 or 07871156137 or there website
vehiclehandlingsolutions.com

They are very helpfull and take a real interest.

With regards your lightened flywheel what make is yours?

I will keep an eye out for you!

I'll have to ask my Son (DaveMGT) as he bought it for himself but I needed a clutch before he did.

Thanks for the info Pete16 will look into this soon.

[OllieZS]

Just a quick update since the accident,

*The car has had 4 brand new straights
*2 new Kumho ECSTAS
*New genuine rear hub
*4 wheel alignment
*Thorough going over and inspection by Andy and Alan of V.H.S

The car now drives and is 99% back to what it was, I stil have a problem with the rear camber of the passenger side being 0.00, Ive been advised to replace the trailing arm and will probs replace the lower arm at the same time with genuine items just so I have piece of mind.

[OllieZS]

A few more pics from when I first got the car

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/MGSide.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/MGrearportishead.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/MGSideportishead.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/P10-05-10_140301.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/P10-05-10_140302.jpg

[jamesc777]

Looks a nice car, always like the colour.

[Baz27]

Yes very clean for an 02 nice pics.

[Andyf]

Nice car and a good thread, I take it the idiot in the Celica didn't stop? I never cease to be amazed that people don't stop when they see things like that (and much worse) as they seem to think getting home is far more important. We were shown this video on a course the other day, watch the people driving through the wreckage after what could have been a fatal accident.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ekar5vYyIQY

[OllieZS]

Nice car and a good thread, I take it the idiot in the Celica didn't stop? I never cease to be amazed that people don't stop when they see things like that (and much worse) as they seem to think getting home is far more important. We were shown this video on a course the other day, watch the people driving through the wreckage after what could have been a fatal accident.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ekar5vYyIQY

Thanks for the comments guys, and no the celica driver didnt stop. I was surprised at the time, but I have thought in hindsight why would I expect someone driving like that to stop! silly me! lol

I also just changed the oil using Millers fully synthetic and genuine oil filter, the engine does feel smoother.

My car is also cup holder equipped! lol

I have also just ordered a Janspeed decat from PTP so once thats fitted I will be booking into Matt reidy to have the car remapped! then lightened flywheel!

Almost there!

lol

[OllieZS]

Update:

A very nice guy called Grant of GBE came and delivered these to me .....

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0030.jpg

Its his big brake kit, 310mm discs with Wilwood calipers which are very light (and the discs) braided lines front and rear and Performance friction pads 01.

I cant wait to fit these! there going on the ZS thursday, Also I have my first trackday of the year soon at Castle combe on the 5th of May!

I must say that Grant of GBE has been excellent to deal with, very helpful and happy to answer any questions, I highly recommend him!

Recently I have also had all the dents removed from the car at Cromhall refinishing in Thornbury, and again an excellent job, and the owner richard is always very helpful and has time for you.

This wednesday the car is booked into MG for new rear trailing arms + compliance bushes, so the rear will be sorted!

A down side is the new windscreen that was fitted has cracked! and the guy that fitted it did a very shoddy job! window seals not properly sealed, chipped the paint!!! I was most annoyed, I won't name the company at the mo as they are to rectify these issues, hmm we'll see.....

That is all at the mo!

[daytona365]

looking good............love the brakes!!

[Dave ZS-X]

good brakes, i had the very first kit from grant and hes a top bloke, he even machined me new carriers foc when the originals were less than 1mm out.
They are not fit and forget brakes though, you will need to take the wheels off and give the callipers a good cleaning occasionally, i used to take the callipers off the mounting and scrub inside, bit of wd40 around the pots and work them a bit...but be care full as they will pop out and you then lose your brake fluid.
You will find your abs kicking in when you initially drive the car but you get used to it and adjust to suit.
These are the brakes i used with ferodo ds 3000 pads on track for a couple of years and with a nasp car they were outstanding, no car other than bonafied racing cars could outbrake the zs, i could take 50 metres out of most cars in every braking zone, though that depends on what rubber your running and the cars weight,but good brakes are worth ten times the gain around a lap than more power, ive got videos on youtube tbh showing what they can do.
I hope they serve you well.

[OllieZS]

We'll Ive had the brakes fitted today and all I can say is WOW!!!!!

Ive never driven or been in another car that can stop as quickly! the pedal feel is excellent and there is excellent progression in the brakes and very good initial bite at the top of the pedal and when cold.

I have found the A.B.S sometimes feels like its working overtime, but as Dave zs-x has said I'll adjust my driving to suit.

I have also had the rear compliance bushes replaced at MG with genuine items and the rear end is very planted and has also made a world of differance!

The windscreen issue has been resolved and I am very pleased with the outcome and the new screen has been fitted to a very high standard! Its a shame I had to go through all the rigmarole the first time, so big thumbs up for Mobile windscrrens!

My first trackday of the year in 2 weeks and cant wait now!

[Dave MGT]

We'll Ive had the brakes fitted today and all I can say is WOW!!!!!

Ive never driven or been in another car that can stop as quickly! the pedal feel is excellent and there is excellent progression in the brakes and very good initial bite at the top of the pedal and when cold.

I have found the A.B.S sometimes feels like its working overtime, but as Dave zs-x has said I'll adjust my driving to suit.

I have also had the rear compliance bushes replaced at MG with genuine items and the rear end is very planted and has also made a world of differance!

The windscreen issue has been resolved and I am very pleased with the outcome and the new screen has been fitted to a very high standard! Its a shame I had to go through all the rigmarole the first time, so big thumbs up for Mobile windscrrens!

My first trackday of the year in 2 weeks and cant wait now!

I remember that after fitting mine on my old trackcar. I has a abs fault at the time so when i tried the brakes hard for the 1st time the back stepped out big style...!
Great kit though. Imagine how good they are on a zs that weighs 200kg+ less......

Thats becoming a nice spec now!
Where are you doing your trackday?

[OllieZS]

I remember that after fitting mine on my old trackcar. I has a abs fault at the time so when i tried the brakes hard for the 1st time the back stepped out big style...!
Great kit though. Imagine how good they are on a zs that weighs 200kg+ less......

Thats becoming a nice spec now!
Where are you doing your trackday?

Hi Dave

I have toyed with the idea of stripping the car out, but tbh I would only do this if the car was just for track, I removed some bits out of my old 106 gti which was fitted with a PeugeotSport exhaust and was deafening on the motorway!

My trackday is at Castle Combe, Im really looking forwards to it!

Im really torn at the moment as I would like to do the Reyland conversion using the Audi engine, but I like the V6 which is characterful and a nice engine with decent performance - plus sounds lovely with the ITG, but with my suspension and brake mods the car feels really underpowered!

What do you guys think?

[Dan1971]

Hi Dave

I have toyed with the idea of stripping the car out, but tbh I would only do this if the car was just for track, I removed some bits out of my old 106 gti which was fitted with a PeugeotSport exhaust and was deafening on the motorway!

My trackday is at Castle Combe, Im really looking forwards to it!

Im really torn at the moment as I would like to do the Reyland conversion using the Audi engine, but I like the V6 which is characterful and a nice engine with decent performance - plus sounds lovely with the ITG, but with my suspension and brake mods the car feels really underpowered!

What do you guys think?

The Reyland is circa ?5K I think. Great if you have the money though - 300+ BHP through the front wheels though .... ?

[Dave MGT]

Hi Dave

I have toyed with the idea of stripping the car out, but tbh I would only do this if the car was just for track, I removed some bits out of my old 106 gti which was fitted with a PeugeotSport exhaust and was deafening on the motorway!

My trackday is at Castle Combe, Im really looking forwards to it!

Im really torn at the moment as I would like to do the Reyland conversion using the Audi engine, but I like the V6 which is characterful and a nice engine with decent performance - plus sounds lovely with the ITG, but with my suspension and brake mods the car feels really underpowered!

What do you guys think?

Dont blame you! Its nice to have a track and road going car with all the comforts. Thats the joy with the 180. The fact it performs so well on track, especially with a few tweaks. It does deserve a bit more power.
Have you done the flywheel and diff yet?

The reyland conversion is a tricky one! I love the Kv6 it is a great engine just a shame big power cannot be had easy like other lumps.
Personaly I think it would be a shame to loose the V6 soundtrack, and it wouldnt really be a ZS180 with a different engine. Plus people wont be so suprised when you pass them on track :)

[zsserbia]

Fitting a supercharger on a kv6 could amuse you greatly on track for some time. When you wish again 300+ hp, as said, first consider if it could be handled well by the front wheels solely... This much power is more likely for 4wd's. Anyway is appreciate your enthusiasm. Cheers m8

[Dave MGT]

Fitting a supercharger on a kv6 could amuse you greatly on track for some time.

Not for very long!! There hasnt been one thats lasted on track!

[zsserbia]

Not for very long!! There hasnt been one thats lasted on track!

:oops: didn't know that

[petet16]

I've now fitted my Bilsteins from VHS, but using X power springs, all I can say is wow, what a difference, the ride on the xpowers is better than the standard springs, all the suspension noise is gone, and it all seems much better damped.

It is a expensive kit, but imo worth every penny, it's such a shame that Eibach don't want to produce any more springs for the V6 and diesel because they are a country mile better than the Motobuild ones I tried briefly last year.

Nice car Ollie:yes:

[tomomgzs]

I've now fitted my Bilsteins from VHS, but using X power springs, all I can say is wow, what a difference, the ride on the xpowers is better than the standard springs, all the suspension noise is gone, and it all seems much better damped.

It is a expensive kit, but imo worth every penny, it's such a shame that Eibach don't want to produce any more springs for the V6 and diesel because they are a country mile better than the Motobuild ones I tried briefly last year.

Nice car Ollie:yes:

how much are the bilsteins mate, im thinking off getting coilovers from avo or gaz as i have motobuild springs to bit crashy at the mo, but after i strip it out will probably need the coilovers to lower the ride! also can polycarb or perspex windows be used on the road and pass mot,s

[petet16]

The Bilsteins were ?575, but you'd need to contact Andy Kitson at www.vehiclehandlingsolutions.com to check availability they sell out pretty quickly

[stamford]

Dont blame you! Its nice to have a track and road going car with all the comforts. Thats the joy with the 180. The fact it performs so well on track, especially with a few tweaks. It does deserve a bit more power.
Have you done the flywheel and diff yet?

The reyland conversion is a tricky one! I love the Kv6 it is a great engine just a shame big power cannot be had easy like other lumps.
Personaly I think it would be a shame to loose the V6 soundtrack, and it wouldnt really be a ZS180 with a different engine. Plus people wont be so suprised when you pass them on track :)

Couldn't agree more Dave, I know mine will never challenge the big boys but as it is more than capable I get a kick knowing it is based on the standard car with very few tweaks to make it perform. I too love the soundtrack and would only change it for a V8 ;)

[OllieZS]

Dont blame you! Its nice to have a track and road going car with all the comforts. Thats the joy with the 180. The fact it performs so well on track, especially with a few tweaks. It does deserve a bit more power.
Have you done the flywheel and diff yet?

The reyland conversion is a tricky one! I love the Kv6 it is a great engine just a shame big power cannot be had easy like other lumps.
Personaly I think it would be a shame to loose the V6 soundtrack, and it wouldnt really be a ZS180 with a different engine. Plus people wont be so suprised when you pass them on track :)

Hi everyone, thanks for the comments.

Dave MGT I think we're on the same wave length!

I do hanker after more power like the Reyland conversion would offer, but agree with the reasons you gave above!

I havent fitted a LSD or lightened flywheel yet, I was going to do the flywheel when i replace the clutch, and Im undecided on the LSD, When I spoke to Andy and Alan at V.H.S they felt the LSD can corrupt steering feel and handling characteristics, they said it will make lap times quicker tho.

What are peoples experiances with some of the products that Moto-Build offer, Im interested in some of the adjustable suspension parts and braces?

Thanks

Ollie

[petet16]

Moto Build are expensive imo, you can buy the same spec stuff without the MB mark up.

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone

I had my first trackday of the year last thursday (May 5th) at Castle Combe, and wow! An excellent day and the car was, dare I say it, incredible!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/May5thpaddock.jpg

Now since my first trackday in the ZS last August, I have fitted the ITG Maxogen, V.H.S Bilstein dampers and GBE 4 pot brake kit.

All I can say is all the above parts worked incredibley well, last year I found when coming out of the last chicane the car was slow to accelarate and felt restricted in the top end of the rev range, the ITG cured these issues and then some!
The car accelarated with conviction out of said chicane with the VIS ramping home the torque from 3000rpm and that lovely ITG growl! the perfect sound for the moment! lol

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics131.jpg

Now in the past the braking areas have always been somewhere I may have been over-cautious (sensible I suppose!). The ZS had standard brakes last trackday and where very good for what they are, but I knew they could be bettered and ultimatly knew I would outgrow them on track.

Next up the GBE 4 pots and 310mm discs, and they are excellent, they were immesnse lap after lap, with excellent brake pedal feeling and very consistent all day, it is a strange sensation catching other cars so quickly whilst braking, a first for me!
I did have one heart in mouth moment when I tried to brake really late into the Esses and the A.B.S kicked in and I almost had to use the old bit of track as runoff! narrowly avoided! I found the best technique was to apply the brakes first with light to medium pressure then increase as quickly as was needed.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics132.jpg

Now the Dampers!

The body control was excellent, and the car was very planted and very quick at direction changes! I ran Kumho Ecsta sport tyres which were very good but I could feel that the chassis had twice as much to give as the tyres could! Last year I was very quick along the whole of the back of the circuit from the Esses into Bobbies, but with the cars new found cornering ability I was even quicker!


http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics125.jpg

After the 1st session when back in the paddock, an Impreza owner pulled up next to me and said 'That thing can really move cant it'. Thanks, Then the owner of a Porshe 911 I overtook came over to me asking 'what engines in that?' I duly replied, he then went on to say 'I saw you in my mirrors and thought its only an MG! then after a couple of corners you were even closer then overtook! he said as well he couldnt overtake on the straights!' A very nice guy and I had quite a few tussels throughout the day!

I must admit I was surprised at how much attention the car got, I had so much positive feedback about the car and my driving!

This is said 911
http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics128.jpg

Over the day I overtook another 911, I could see the guy looking in his mirrors especially out of corners to still see me there! and 2 Boxters, one of them being an 'S'.
The Boxter 'S' would'nt let me past for about 6-7 laps, I was all over him through the corners and braking areas as much as I tried to give him space! I think a touch of pride came into it! I eventually got him up the straight going into Quarry!

The car ran faultlessly with out a hiccup, I am so impressed with it! I did use ?100 of fuel tho! lol

I think I changed the image of the ZS and MG for a few last thursday! lol

Great car!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics115.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics117.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics110.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics118.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics104.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/newpics094.jpg

[Dan1971]

Awesome.

Love reading your posts mate. Great enthusiasm and doing the MG image proud on the track. Good for you. Sounds like a top day out. Great pics too ....

[stamford]

Well done mate, it's good to show other high end car owners that you don't need a badge or a pot of money to have a competitive car. Pity people pigeonhole the MG brand, but then we know what we've got and enjoy upsetting folk!

Combe was alot faster and hairier back in the mid to late 80s way before they put in those darned chicanes and slowed the laps down. Still one of my favourite circuits and a nice part of the world too.

[peterzs]

Glad you had such a good day out, sounded fun and must be good to have all the mods come together and give you the results you planned.

Great photos, suprised quite a few of the quick cars as well.

:wave:

[Dave MGT]

Looked like a good day! Nice when the mods start to come together. A decat will give you that effect again that the itg gave.

Its so annoying when people wont let you passed!!! Its a pride thing. I remember a couple of years ago a corvette at oulton park wouldnt let me and Sie pass safely, Im sure he didnt like 2 MGs being driven much faster than his v8 monster. Then he came out the pits later and pulled right out infront of me (so i nailed him on the outside into the next corner... ***! :0
You just have to let these people carry on, they make themselfs look stupid.

With the new dampers, do you find them a little firmer than the std ones? Just fitted eibach springs on mine and they are better but feel a little softer on the front....
I will try and do combe this year, are you going again?

[OllieZS]

Looked like a good day! Nice when the mods start to come together. A decat will give you that effect again that the itg gave.

Its so annoying when people wont let you passed!!! Its a pride thing. I remember a couple of years ago a corvette at oulton park wouldnt let me and Sie pass safely, Im sure he didnt like 2 MGs being driven much faster than his v8 monster. Then he came out the pits later and pulled right out infront of me (so i nailed him on the outside into the next corner... ***! :0
You just have to let these people carry on, they make themselfs look stupid.

With the new dampers, do you find them a little firmer than the std ones? Just fitted eibach springs on mine and they are better but feel a little softer on the front....
I will try and do combe this year, are you going again?

Hi Dave

Firstly, I have another trackday at Combe on August 12th! cant wait.

And the car is fitted with a Janspeed de-cat.

As for the dampers, there not firmer but control the car body much better with a better compromise between ride comfort and control. The monotube dampers have a much greater valve area than the standard MG items and the improved valve response allows better overall damping control.
The car benefits from better control in pitch and roll, especially noticeable at higher speeds which showed the real speed in the fast corners at Combe.

The kit does work with the x power springs (assuming Eibach are similar?) but the kit does state for optimum performance to use the standard ZS springs.

Thanks for all the kind words everyone.

[OllieZS]

Heres a few more pics

My Wilwoods (Just washed)

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew021.jpg

My ITG (dirty engine! lol)

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew018.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew017.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew028.jpg

My shiny kickplates! lol

Front

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew025.jpg

Rear
http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew027.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/samsungpicsnew023.jpg

[ramdonice]

maybe stupid idea but what about removing the abs fuse to disable the abs on track

[OllieZS]

maybe stupid idea but what about removing the abs fuse to disable the abs on track

Not a stupid idea, I did consider doing that, but I have no idea what it could lead to as I have never done this before?

[Captain Peanut]

Have just read the whole of this thread, the car looks good and it's nice to see it being enjoyed (as well as proving its worth on track).

Just one question, when you did the brakes did you upgrade the hoses? Was thinking of doing it on mine and wanted to see what difference it would make.

[OllieZS]

Have just read the whole of this thread, the car looks good and it's nice to see it being enjoyed (as well as proving its worth on track).

Just one question, when you did the brakes did you upgrade the hoses? Was thinking of doing it on mine and wanted to see what difference it would make.

Hi

The front and rear hoses were upgraded at the time of fitting the kit, I cant comment on what differance they'll make on their own tho.

[Craig-ZS180]

I read the entire thread at work earlier today (had a very quiet period) and wow mate, i love how youve gone into such detail about your (journey) with the zs.

You have made the almost perfect shopping list for me on this thread, its just a shame that it will be a long time waiting to get half the things youve done for mine.

Top work mate, Keep the updates coming.

[OllieZS]

I read the entire thread at work earlier today (had a very quiet period) and wow mate, i love how youve gone into such detail about your (journey) with the zs.

You have made the almost perfect shopping list for me on this thread, its just a shame that it will be a long time waiting to get half the things youve done for mine.

Top work mate, Keep the updates coming.

Thanks for the kind words craig-ZS180

A little update, at the end of this month the car is going into Launch Motorsport to have all the belts changed and the fitting of Piper 270 cams!

Does anybody know if I can get the vernier timing wheels?

Then August 12th I have another trackday at Castle combe! Cant wait!

[Dave MGT]

How's this ZS coming on....Did you get the cams fitted and do combe on the 12th Ollie?

[Dave ZS-X]

nice thread......

anyone who tells you not to fit an lsd is talking out of their rectum, along with track tyres an lsd is the best performance gain there is, on track and off, there are no downsides at all, steering is not negatively affected in any way.
Lsd and track tyres, literally take the zs to the next level around a lap, having done almost every mod concievable they would be my first to do items.
ive done combe loads of times but the first time i went with an lsd i chopped literally whole seconds off my best lap time.

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone

DaveMGT, I have not had the cams fitted, a long story! but there still sat in there box ready and waiting! lol
The 'garage' charged with fitting them didnt have the tools for the job. :whistle:

And I had my trackday at combe which was again excellent, and the car was very good, I just need to improve the suspension further
Below are some pics from last friday (12th August Combe)

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811310.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811292.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811291.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811282.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811273.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811263.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811253.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811244.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811176.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811162.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811177.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811153.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811143.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811122.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811109.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811048.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811038.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811030.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811012.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/cctd120811002.jpg

[OllieZS]

Dave ZS-X, next on the list will be semi-slicks, Any recomendations?

As for an LSD, I will look at one in the future, again what would you recomend?

As for my trackday it was good, but it was a litle spoilt by the Caterhams having there own 3 sessions! because they had a race meeting that weekend.
So there werent a huge amount of road cars there, but in the morning I was comfortably the quickest out there, both sessions I lapped everyone! including an S2 Elise, Alfa 145, clio 182, 206 GTI, Midas kit car, toyota aygo! (sounded lovely for a 1.0!) and an A.C Cobra replica.

The A.C was a pain in the ass, He would not let me by! I left the pits a few cars in front of him, manage to be quick enough to 'lap' him, he keeps watching me in the mirror but wont move! Again I think its a pride thing!

oh well...... LOL

ZS's RULE! :smart:

[Dave ZS-X]

toyo 888' too expensive now.
either ...

http://www.camskill.co.uk/m117b1878s684p0/Track_Day_Tyres_-_Trackday_Tyres_-_Motorsport_Tyres_-_17_inch_FEDERAL_TYRES_TRACKDAY_TRACK_DAY_FEDERAL_ 595RSR_FEDERAL_595_RS-R_-_R17_inch_-_215_40_17_215_40_R_17


or ..
http://www.camskill.co.uk/m117b102s697p9717/KUMHO_TYRES_TRACKDAY_TRACK_DAY_KUMHO_V70A_ECSTA_KU MHO_V70_A_-_205_40R17_80W_%28K60-MEDIUM%29_T

heard good things about both tbh.

[stamford]

So annoying when you get some drivers not obeying the trackday rules, it is either pride or just plain stupidity and they do not listen at the drivers briefing. Had my fair share of these, if you get fed up and overtake on the wrong side you get pulled and not the prat hogging the track. I nearly had a punch up at Combe one year, had a right tosser in a TR8 overtake as I was entering the Esses, I was not impressed and hunted him down in the paddock.

Federals, I can vouch for them, very good tyres as are the Hankook Evo's if scrubbed. 888s are silly money.

[mattie007]

Love the photos, especially the side shots.
If I had the V6 id be doing more trackdays, sadly its just not quite as fun in the 120 after you have experienced a few laps in a modded 180!

[stamford]

Love the photos, especially the side shots.
If I had the V6 id be doing more trackdays, sadly its just not quite as fun in the 120 after you have experienced a few laps in a modded 180!

It's all relative, even in a modded 180, albeit mild, you can get frustrated!

[Dave MGT]

It's all relative, even in a modded 180, albeit mild, you can get frustrated!

Very true, there's always somthing quicker

[Dan1971]

Great pics ....

[mattie007]

It's all relative, even in a modded 180, albeit mild, you can get frustrated!

Maybe, but I just like the noise and accleration of the 180 (or 200 in the one I had a go in :D).
My trackday at Silverstone was great fun as it was my first one and I was up against MGF's, ZR's and a S2000 which I managed to overtake! All pretty even and sensible driving.
The second trackday at Rockingham was frustrating as my group was a mix of 180's and Elises so it felt very slow! Didnt help that my brakes went after the 4th session though!

[OllieZS]

Hi everybody

Its been a while, a quick update, Ive fitted Janspeed duplex to the car I bought them from DaveMGT, nice to meet you!

The were originall for a mk2, which means they stick out a bit, but I must say they look just right and sound lovely!

I will get some pics up when the weather is better, and the 270 cams are still waiting to be fitted!:yawn:

[OllieZS]

Hello.

A few more developments on the car! The Piper 270 cams have been fitted aswell as all the cambelts and tensioners+rollers, water pump.
This was all done at MJN motors in Brislington, Bristol, excellent service and price.

I have also bought some Janspeed manifolds and Y piece, I have also heat proofed the manifolds

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Paintedmanifold.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Paintedmanifold2.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Paintedmanifold3.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Paintedmanifold4.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Paintedmanifold5.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Paintedmanifold6.jpg

I have also got some new 310 mm Wilwood discs and am trying the Performance friction Z rated pads, previously I used the PF01's which were very good but very dusty!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/NewWilwooddiscs.jpg

I also have a new MG badge for the front

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/NewMGbadge.jpg

And the Janspeed duplex I bought off of Dave on here
They are very nice! and look the part!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Newexhausts.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Newexhausts2.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Newexhausts3.jpg

Next up is a remap most probs with Reidy remaps in somerset, and the Janspeed intermediate pipe, again I will heat proof the full system back as far as the backboxes!

I have also been in contact with Grant of GBE with regards a Gripper diff.

Bring on the trackdays! lol

Thanks for reading

Ollie

[Dan1971]

Looking good as well as performing better - perfect.

[OllieZS]

Hi all,

Ive been spending some time on the car today, Ive fitted my working:thumbsup: TrafficMaster clock, and the chrome heater contol 'rings'

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0085.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0084.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0082.jpg

Heres a few more of the interior :D

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0080.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0081.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0083.jpg

Ive also had my first go at spraying, I had a little surface rust on the boot floor and have now sorted it, I thought I made a good job of it!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0086.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0087.jpg

I think it looks good, so im now going to paint all the boot floor!

A while ago I weighed the ZS, and it was 1230kg, my target was 1200kg and I am pleased to say im already there! lol, with the new Team Dynamics pro race 1.2s and removal of the spare wheel and tool kit I weighed it again, dead on 1200kg! Both times the car was weighed with 1/4 tank of fuel and full fluids(no passengers)
My next target for the long run will be 1150kg.

Heres some pics of the gorgeus wheels :thumbsup:

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0107.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0100.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0098.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0099.jpg

Ive also replace both front and rear MG badges, and have taken away the ZS,180 and flags, which now looks lovely, and will have the rear boot lock smoothed over, atm it looks like a spot!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0104.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0103.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0101.jpg

Now plans for the future!

My aim is to create the ultimate ZS, so im looking to move my front disc size upto approx 335mm, im currently working on a front splitter (literally) and rear diffuser.

Now what is very interesting, and I would love to say more :sorry: is the creation of I believe to be the first KV6 turbo! the capacity is going upto 2.6 via bore changes, and really cant wait to see this evolve!

On the chassis side of things, im looking at Bilstein B16's, with adjustable camber etc, so keep an eye out for my excellent V.H.S Bilsteins up for sale in the future!

Thats it I think! lol for the moment!

Thanks for reading!

[readie86]

got to say that is one lush ZS keep up the good work

[Stephen]

Looking good!!

To loose some weight i think you should sell me your exhaust!! ;)

[OllieZS]

Thanks for the comments guys!

Stephen, the exhausts are all yours! lol :tease::laugh:

If you can get the Janspeed exhaust, you wont regret it! they sound gorgeus!

I have some videos of them on Youtube, if you were to search my user channel 'Olliegti6'

[MG6Turbo]

KV6 turbo has been done.

Not a cheap route. Forged pistons, uprated liners, after market ecu, injectors, bespoke manifolds, bespoke plenum.

G

[Stephen]

Thanks for the comments guys!

Stephen, the exhausts are all yours! lol :tease::laugh:

If you can get the Janspeed exhaust, you wont regret it! they sound gorgeus!

I have some videos of them on Youtube, if you were to search my user channel 'Olliegti6'

One of your videos happen to be my alarm in the morning! Gets me up easily!

Im after a full set up like your.

stephen

[OllieZS]

Hi again!

On the interior side of things, ive finished my chrome bits and bobs! lol

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0128.jpg

And my MG touring 'style' gearknob

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0129.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0080.jpg

And some MG valve caps

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0130.jpg

I'm also going to be completely overhauling the front suspension

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0142.jpg

consists of:

Motobuild adjustable camber top wishbones

Adjustable caster bushs

Uprated lower arm bushes

And then ALL the other suspension bushes are being renewed with genuine MG items.
In the pic you can also see I have the Motobuild PG1 rebuild and uprate kit.

I have also just bought and fitted a brand new Plenum and both V.I.S motors!
I dont do things by halves! lol
It has made a big differance tho! I have also heat proofed the sections of the plenum most exposed to heat.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0131.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0132.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0139.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0140.jpg

Now another section of the car I want to be refining and improving is the aerodynamics, Principally consisting of front splitter, rear diffuser, and a flat underside.

I have a carbon fibre splitter from my team dynamics days! still bright orange! or was lol!

So I had to repair the left hand side, and then I have sprayed it and just dummy fitted it to the car to see what it looks like, I think it looks really good but is going to take quite a bit longer to finish my new aero package!

Heres some pics!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0108.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0109.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0116.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0118.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0119.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0120.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0121.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0122.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0123.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0124.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0125.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0127.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0126.jpg

[petet16]

Chrome rings really finish the instruments off nicely.

The splitter looks a bit vulnerable.

[OllieZS]

Chrome rings really finish the instruments off nicely.

The splitter looks a bit vulnerable.

I agree, hence it will take more development, lol

[peterzs]

Some more great upgrades, will be a well sorted ZS when you have finished.

Hope the dust caps are s/s, I bought some ebay cheapie ones. rusted themselves onto the valves. had to get mole grips and a spanner to get them off.


:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

[OllieZS]

Some more great upgrades, will be a well sorted ZS when you have finished.

Hope the dust caps are s/s, I bought some ebay cheapie ones. rusted themselves onto the valves. had to get mole grips and a spanner to get them off.


:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

Hi Peter, thanks for the comments, the caps are the richbrook items, and i have put some copper grease in there aswell just to be safe! lol

[stamford]

That splitter takes me back to when I made one for my old Rover Vitesse, made from Makrolon and fitted to dia 12mm x 50mm spacers, think I lost that a few times! I'd be interested in how you get on with those upper arms as think they are somewhat weak imo.

[fastmike]

Thats a nice ZS matey....... not my favorite colour but it does you credit :punk:

[DuckFeet]

Awesome Zed!

question: What did you use to heat-treat your exhaust and is it a diy job?

Good luck with the splitter (and everything else, it's never ending.. :P)

[Dave MGT]

That splitter takes me back to when I made one for my old Rover Vitesse, made from Makrolon and fitted to dia 12mm x 50mm spacers, think I lost that a few times! I'd be interested in how you get on with those upper arms as think they are somewhat weak imo.



I wouldn't say they are any weaker than the std arms! And they work well enough. Intact I'm sure they are just std arms that have been drilled and fitted with a 4 bolt balljoint

[Dave MGT]

Ollie, we're you at FCM Motorsport the other day? My mate said he saw your car there. He was having his car geo checked (blue Gsi turbo with orange calipers and white wheels)

Those pro race wheels look smart! Nice std look

[OllieZS]

Ollie, we're you at FCM Motorsport the other day? My mate said he saw your car there. He was having his car geo checked (blue Gsi turbo with orange calipers and white wheels)

Those pro race wheels look smart! Nice std look

Hi Dave

Yes my car was there! I have had all the new suspension parts setup there!:smile1:

[OllieZS]

I have uploaded some new castle combe videos on my Youtube page, if you search 'olliegti6' that is my page, I must say the ZED sounds AWESOME! Absolutly love the sound of it! sounds like a supercar!

[peterzs]

I have uploaded some new castle combe videos on my Youtube page, if you search 'olliegti6' that is my page, I must say the ZED sounds AWESOME! Absolutly love the sound of it! sounds like a supercar!

It is a Supercar!!!!

:happy2::happy2::happy2::happy2:

[peterzs]

Does sound and look good.

:wave::wave::wave:

[OllieZS]

Thanks Peter!

[Dave MGT]

Hi Dave

Yes my car was there! I have had all the new suspension parts setup there!:smile1:

Thought that might be the case. He set mine up the other week :) Quite handy being right behind where I work.
you fitted adjustable camber arms now?

[OllieZS]

Hi dave, yep adjustable upper arms, new caster bush, adjustable rear camber, new lightweight alloy arms and uprated bushes and a lower strutbrace! After todays track I'm probably going to be getting some bigger Whiteline anti roll bars and links!
How's your zed going?

[Dave MGT]

Hi dave, yep adjustable upper arms, new caster bush, adjustable rear camber, new lightweight alloy arms and uprated bushes and a lower strutbrace! After todays track I'm probably going to be getting some bigger Whiteline anti roll bars and links!
How's your zed going?

The whiteline bars are on my wish list!
It will be coming of the road soon for some work. Belts/stat/ polybushing front camber arms/wheel refurb and bodywork and so on.....

I bet it turns in better now... what front camber you running?

did you to a trackday today?

[OllieZS]

Yeah I was at the castle combe action day, front camber I'm at -0.9, and the turn in is a lot better, I really noticed it today, being able to carry a lot more speed through the chicanes, the whiteline ARB should really finish it off nicely! will you be getting the Motobuild arms?

[Dave MGT]

Your running std camber at the front then -0.9....?
Thats what mine is.

I do have the adjustable inner bushes (not fitted) Think Im going to run at camber, i use it everyday and dont want to scrub my tyres out to much.

[OllieZS]

Fcm set my camber at max factory tolerances, because its my daily driver, I may put some more on but its always a toss up of how long do I want tyres lasting! Lol, if yours cambers already at that then it must feel pretty good already, its made a vast differance going from my previous setting! Lol, what camber do you have in mind?

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone

Ive recently attended an MGs on track day at Castle combe on the 10/9/12.
It was an excellent day and very well organised day.

The car performed faultlessly all day and was one of the fastest cars there, (dare i say it the fastest?! lol)

I paid for the one to one coaching in the afternoon and was well worth the money!

Ive posted below some photos taken by the pro photographer that was there on the day.

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack1009121055_zpsaf30e805.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack1009121056_zps3079fb5b.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack1009121094_zps229c5549.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack1009121095_zps11c9ce84.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack100912264_zpsbfc0ef1d.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack1009121134_zpsa16a85b6.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack100912054_zps299cbe99.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack1009121087_zpscf1d6023.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack100912299_zpsb9960410.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack100912571_zps2ffb7c75.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack100912277_zpsecef8761.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/mgstrack100912266_zps8404a75a.jpg

Next up on the mods list is

* Gripper L.S.D
* Front brake duckting
* Steel caged bearings

For the track day I had camber set at 1.5degrees all round with 20 minutes Toe-in on the front.
The handling was lovely, and the cornering speed now is ridiculous! The coach told me we exited Quarry at 75mph!

God knows how much faster it could go with the Gripper and some semi slicks!

Money pending after these mods its an DTA S80 PRO e.c.u up next!

[Dan1971]

Love your updates mate .... and great pics .... Glad you're still impressed with the ZS and still looking to improve both the car and your own techniques ....

Great stuff.....

[stamford]

Car's looking good and by the sounds of it well balanced. I do like Combe, a quick track, nice pictures, especially with the mixture of MGs.

[OllieZS]

Thanks Dan

Heres a quick video I recorded this morning, I could of listened to the car all day in that tunnel! lol

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuAFtXNWyFs&feature=share&list=UUPc4X7AwzbOaea16ZcksApw

[Noobrider]

really interesting read and I will be following this. We're currently building our 2nd track car and have picked a 180. It is the 1st 180 we have worked on so your thread is a bit like a shopping list for us and we can see what bits work and how well. This will certainly save us a lot of time and money.

Our build thread is here http://www.themgzs.co.uk/vb/showthread.php?t=22733

One thing we did invest in was a very cheap video camera for in car videos...get one for your next track day....would love to see some in car action of yours

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone

The cars currently off the road due to being upgraded! And some very exciting new mods are on there way!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0009.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0016.jpg

First up!

I have a TTV lightweight flywheel (from EKSpower xpowerforum)

Stage 2 clutch rated to 320lb/ft AP racing from GB-ENT - the same place as my brakes!

A Gripper LSD!

Steel caged bearings with a gearbox rebuild and Millers 'nano gear oil'

I will post up some more pics when I have them! Cant wait lol!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0010.jpg

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0011.jpg

The old clutch was pretty past it!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0012.jpg

This probably explains why the car felt faster in 4th than it did 3rd!

The flywheel is also showing signs of being worn

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0013.jpg

A nice collection of bits! lol

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/IMG_0014.jpg

The cars starting its next phase of the project!

Thanks for reading

Ollie

[tb steve]

looking good there ,may i ask was the lsd cheaper than quaife one or was there anther reason ??
oh and just bear in mind the next time you do the belts you cant lock the flywheel with lightweight one as there is no bolt hole

[OllieZS]

Hi Steve

Thanks for the reminder regarding the flywheel! Luckily the belts were replaced in the last 12 months so got a while yet!

I was advised on the Gripper over the quaife because it is a stronger LSD, it is more progressive in action over the Quaife, and has the option of differant setups.

Unlike the Quaife, if one of the driven wheels was to lose contact with the road it will still send power to the tyre with most grip unlike the quaife which will resort to being effectiviely an 'open' diff and wheelspin.

Regards

Ollie

[peterzs]

Lot of work going on there, be interesting when you can put the power down.

:happy2::happy2::happy2:

[Dan1971]

Great stuff ... Love this thread.

[talkingcars]

Quaife are actually a little cheaper than Gripper so it will be interesting to hear how well it works.

[OllieZS]

Quaife are actually a little cheaper than Gripper so it will be interesting to hear how well it works.

Very true, believe me I'm very much looking forwards to how it turns out!

[tb steve]

aaarrrr cool

[OllieZS]

Hi guys

I have the car back now and have been driving it around now for the last two weeks!

All I can say is that it has been transformed! The Gripper is worth every penny and then some!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/photo21.jpg

And the lightweight flywheel is a really great mod!

I have put an extensive write up on my site ultimatezs.co.uk if you want to read more!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Lightweightflywheel.jpg

I potentially have some very exciting developments coming in the new year!

Regards

Ollie

[VVC MINI]

Some nice bits there. I had a gripper LSD before but found it was pretty violent used to snatch a lot if you booted it with one hand on the wheel.

But awesome grip and pulls you to the apex when accelerating on a corner.

[Maxxed_Ross]

I'm going over to read that now as I quite fancy one myself for the touring car

[Maxxed_Ross]

Just read it and safe to say I will be getting both those parts ordered for mine at the first oppertunity. Fantastic write up there that answered alot of my questions on both subjects

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone!

A quick update, I've semi stripped the car, rear seats, rear seatbelts, boot linings in preparation for eventually a full weld in roll cage - more on this in the future!

After this I weighed my car on the same weighbridge I've always used and resulted in ..... 1140 KG! I was very impressed, same fuel level and fluids etc as every other time.

My car is on the rolling road tomorrow (Sat 26th) so am looking forwards to see what Ultimatezs is putting out! :smile1:

One last thing.......... a sneak preview!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/331mm4_zpsc92777ef.jpg

Ollie

[peterzs]

Be interesting to see the RR results, we are having one at Fareham 9th of February 2013.

Good to see someone putting so much effort into the ZS.

:smile1::smile1::smile1:

[OllieZS]

Im very much looking forwards to the results! I hope Im not disappointed! lol

[sneekyparrot]

What size rarb r u looking at??

[Dave MGT]

How did it get on today ollie???

[OllieZS]

Hi sneekyparrot, regarding r arb I'm not 100% sure atm, last time I looked it woyld have been Eibach.

Dave, on the rollers my car made 198bhp and 179lb/ft. I was initially a little disapointed, but was advised if I got the car remapped I could see another 20bhp as the fueling at the top end could be improved.
comparing this newest graph to my old completely standard graph from the same place I have gained everywhere with a very strong torque curve and very good power at the wheels throughout, I wonder if the lightened flywheel helps in this respect?
Off to Reidys asap lol!

[stamford]

I didn't see in the thread if you did fit the cams? You were talking about getting them done but no confirmation, was trying to get a feel for the power figures you got and how another 20bhp could be gained from the remap, I am assuming the cams have been fitted. Matt will do a stirling job for you, he is very patient and will take his time to get the optimum for you.

[OllieZS]

Hi stamford, yes the cams have been fitted, I will try and put up the power graph later on

[stamford]

It'll be interesting to see what he can get out of it once mapped, should be 215 minimum surely? Cams and manis are the only mods I don't have and probably never will due to the cost of them and the availability of the verniers for the cams. Plus I need to get my Torsen box rebuilt. Still good fun all the same.

[Dave MGT]

That's not a bad result considering you haven't had a remap for the cams. I think 20bhp might be a bit optimistic though. I recon a 12-14bhpmax increase with a remap. Will be interesting to see.

Those discs look interesting...?
A alloy bell setup is somhing I need to look into with the brembos

[OllieZS]

Thanks for all the replies

I appreciate a 20bhp peak increase from a remap could be optimistic, but im feeling positive! lol

Heres the graph

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/ZSrollingroadgraphJan2013_zps573316ff.jpg

Dirty Ultimate ZS!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Interpro3_zps1d99ec24.jpg

My car is now 173.6 bhp/tonne!:happy2:

The car was ran in 5th gear

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone,

I'm quite excited as tomorrow my car is at reidys for a remap! It will be interesting to compare the figures he gets on first run compared to what I got in Jan at Interpro (198bhp)

Will post up tomorrow!

[stamford]

Looking forward to the results, tell him I said 'hi' :D

[Craig-ZS180]

Definitely looking forward to seeing the results on this one buddy.. I'm hoping it cracks 220 for you, although quite an ask it'd be great if it did.

[Quadcam24]

good luck......personally id be more interested in seeing you run at interpro again after the reidy remap, to see if it shows the same gain that reidy will hopefully find for your car...that would give everyone something concrete on zs 180 remaps.
My car had cams fitted and was then rollered, then the map was tweeked and it made exactly the same bhp before and after.
The ecu can self learn 270 cams so no big gains are available unless something was amiss with your car at interpro that has since been resolved.
204 -212 is what you should have with cams, induction and full exhaust wether you have a remap or not.

[Mark S]

keep an eye on power at wheels, I know reidy does not think there is much transmission loss on these, so I am sure his dyno will not say calculated 198fly bhp with just 146whp, when he did mine with 173whp he reckoned it would show a tad under 200fly on his dyno.
hope this helps you.

[OllieZS]

Thanks for the replies, Stamford I'll pass on the hi! Lol

Craig, I too am hoping to crack 220bhp aswell!

Quadcam, I would be interested in running at Interpro again aswell, who altered your map? Dave at Interpro said to me he thought there's another 20bhp in the car with the fueling corrected as the power drops off from 6000,6200rpm.

I'm hopeful but realistic! More on my new brake setup soon too!

Ollie

[Dave MGT]

good luck......personally id be more interested in seeing you run at interpro again after the reidy remap, to see if it shows the same gain that reidy will hopefully find for your car...that would give everyone something concrete on zs 180 remaps.
My car had cams fitted and was then rollered, then the map was tweeked and it made exactly the same bhp before and after.
The ecu can self learn 270 cams so no big gains are available unless something was amiss with your car at interpro that has since been resolved.
204 -212 is what you should have with cams, induction and full exhaust wether you have a remap or not.

Totally agree!
Mine did the same. Fuelling was lean up top. Rolled on the roller become remap and made 211. After fuelling was sorted a few hours later it still made 211. 20bhp is very optimistic from interpro!

[Quadcam24]

yeah 20bhp from a nasp remap is dreamland...unless a previously unknown problem is found and rectified and included in the remaps gain.....of course that would be cheating......but that would be pretty normal tbh ,lol.

[OllieZS]

Here at reidys, first run on his rollers 194bhp and very lean at the too end!

[stamford]

Sounds about right, the lean bit ;) Hope the figures improve, but not a good start.

[OllieZS]

So far so good, we've cracked 200bhp! Lol, more interestingly torque in the mid range is coming on very strong, at roughly 3800rpm we started at 159lbft it's now 170lbft

[Craig-ZS180]

Good going, keep up the posts Ollie.

[Craig-ZS180]

Also meant to say get a vid of it on the rollers if you can do buddy. Be good to see it on there.

[redzed]

i need to book my car into his garage. how much does it cost?

[redzed]

Also post up the bhp @wheels on before and after

[Quadcam24]

your torque low down is low anyway,on the graph you posted a page or 2 back your missing low down torque, a healthy kv6 makes peak torque at approx 4250 and then starts to drop off , yours is still climbing high up the revs.....which is nice but its only because the bottom end is missing.
Vis has to be main suspect, which could be why your top end power is down too.

[OllieZS]

Hi Quadcam,

Prior to being mapped the cars powerband was noticeably bias towards the top end, but the v.i.s is working fine and the car was never lacking power low down. The car has been improved no end by Reidys remap, I'll post up more tomorrow and graphs+videos

[Quadcam24]

any updates ?....
both the power biased towards the top end and your torque graph are not quite normal, if your vis is ok ( how do you know ?), then something else isn't...not saying your cars poor to drive but something is deffinitely not quite the norm.
I have lots of zs 180 power graphs from loads of different zs with lots of different specs and they are all the same shape, torque peaks in the mid range at approx 4250 then starts to tail off....270 cams help torque to hold longer and higher up the revs but peak torque doesnt' move up the rev range and you dont lose low end torque.

[OllieZS]

Hi
I appreciate what your saying, reidys graph looks similar to my first standard graph with peak torque in the early rpm's, I asked Reidy why the last Interpro graph showed what it did, he wasn't sure but thought it may have been their rollers?

[OllieZS]

Hi Everyone

The graphs for the rolling road will be up later, but in the meantime my new Brake setup is on!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Kinkedline10_zpsecb65957.jpg

331MM Monsters! lol

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/Kinkedline7_zps990cda30.jpg

I'm really happy with the setup, the quality and finish of everything all provided by Grant of GB-ENT.

I cant recommend Grant enough, his customer service has been 1st class.

http://www.gb-ent.com/

[stamford]

They look quality, the caliper looks to be ever so close to the bell there.

What wheel nuts are they? Are they tuner style with radiused end faces?

[OllieZS]

Hi Stamford

The calipers are close!

The wheel nuts are 'tuner' style, I bought them from Grant GB-ENT! lol

[Craig-ZS180]

They look great Ollie, bet they stop well.

[Quadcam24]

i always felt the callipers weren't quite big enough, i see he's still using dynalite ones, they need to be a bit bigger imo.
The big disc will dissipate heat well that side, but the calliper gets hot too.
I had grants first ever kit and it served me very well, easy to work on, pad changes in 2 minutes flat and very cheap to buy new ones.


p.s are you posting your graphs ?

[Mark S]

I'll post up more tomorrow and graphs+videos

really looking forward to seeing these graphs.

Mine was producing max torque higher up the rev band (5k or around there - should really dig out info) to keen to see how it fares against another reidy car.

[OllieZS]

Hi Everyone

Heres the first Graph, the power one!

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/reidygraph_zpscd9e9797.jpg

Heres the fueling graph

http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p295/olliegti/reidygraph2_zps732f0216.jpg

Regarding the brakes, you are right about the heat, hence mine went from black to purple! lol, I have some ducting to be added aswell

[Mark S]

what was the wheel power?

[redzed]

can you give wheel bhp before and after? how much did it cost?

[OllieZS]

I didn't get any wheel power figures, I have tried ringing Reidy today to find out but have not been able to get hold of him.

Price wise £220.

[mikeZS]

really nice brakes, also car is tunned nicely but output is a little bit weak but awesome sound in later vids.

[OllieZS]

Hi everyone, I thought I would put a quick post up to let you know that although my website is down, I do have a Facebook page titled 'UltimateZS'.