A&Q about 350Z
Q:
Alright, it says the offset is the distance between the center of the wheel and the mounting hub. It says the offset is crucial to handling but how do i know what offset if best for the 350z? Would closer to stock be better?
2003 Silver Enthusiast 350z
Mods:
Infinity Speakers all around
Sony Flip-Down Head Unit and 10 disc Changer
Razo Pedals and Power Drift Knob (480g)
B&M Short Throw Sport Shifter
Tanabe Super Racing Medallion Exhaust
UR 3pc Pulley Set
A:
I recently took my Z to a driving school. The head instructor said this, for what it's worth. "Nascar teams spend months setting up a car for a particular track. Then when they get there, they say they blew the setup." The Z is setup very well - although I have the 18's and would also like to go to 19's. His point was that Nissan did a great job and your more likely to screw it up than make any improvments when you start messing with the car. He also said he has never heard anyone admit they made a mistake after they spent big dollars making modifications.
I found the Z to be very forgiving and responsive at the track. Although I guess it could always be better. However, I wish I had the "big brakes".
A:
ReavTek:
It's going to depend on the wheel you're going with. You'll have to work with whoever you're purchasing the wheels from and find the proper offset. It will depend on the brand/model of wheel and width of wheel. You'll need to spend some time doing homework.
Garyaread:
You can follow your head instructors advice, but you will have a stock Z just like everyone elses. A majority of manufacturers often will tune down cars made for the general public. This saves on costs and warranty for them.
If you didn't notice the understeer on the Z when you drove it hard, you weren't driving it hard enough. Ask the head instructor he thinks having the differences in tire widths will cause understeer.
The biggest thing to keep in mind when setting up/building your car is to do your research before you commit to the part. You need to know what your final goal for the car is.
'04 Silverstone Enthu