Toyota Supra (MKV) Transformation: From Drag Car to Track Legend at Laguna Seca

Engine Diagnosis and Repair

• 🛠️ The MarkV Toyota Supra, previously a 1000+ wheel horsepower drag car, required diagnosis after a subscriber allegedly blew the engine.
• 💧 A coolant pressure test revealed a popped freeze plug on the back of the block, a less severe issue than a cracked block.
• ✅ The freeze plug was replaced, and after a successful pressure test, the transmission was reinstalled, allowing the engine to be fired up.

Turbo Upgrade for Track Performance

• 🚀 The original Garrett G42-1200 turbo, capable of 1300 crank horsepower, was swapped for a smaller Garrett G35-900 to make the car more manageable for circuit racing.
• ⚙️ This change aims for usable power, excellent response, and reliability, reducing the overwhelming power that was terrifying on a race track.
• 🔧 Custom fabrication was needed for the downpipe and charge piping to adapt to the new, smaller turbo.

Enhanced Braking and Drivetrain

• 🛑 The braking system was significantly upgraded, moving from 12-inch front rotors to 13-inch rotors with six-piston calipers, and improving the rear brakes with four-piston calipers.
• 🛢️ An oil baffle was installed in the oil pan to prevent oil starvation during hard cornering on track.
• 🛠️ Maintenance included replacing the timing belt and serpentine belt to ensure reliability.

Wheel, Tire, and Safety Upgrades

• 💎 A new wheel and tire package was installed, featuring Workmeister S1 three-piece wheels (18x10 front, 18x12 rear) and Falken Azenis RT660 Plus tires.
• 💺 Expired racing harnesses were replaced with new black ones to meet safety requirements for track use.
• 🏎️ The car was prepared for GridLife at Laguna Seca, aiming for a balance of performance and safety.

Track Performance at Laguna Seca

• 🏁 The Supra, now tuned to around 515 wheel horsepower (approx. 600 crank horsepower) on low boost, was tested at Laguna Seca.
• 🎯 The initial goal was 400-600 wheel horsepower, with the final tune achieving a usable range for track driving.
• 📈 The car successfully achieved a lap time of 1:49.2 in D class time attack, meeting the weekend's goal.
• ⚠️ The car experienced some heat issues and fuel sloshing, requiring careful management of hot and cool-down laps.
• 💨 The Supra was also used for drifting sessions, showcasing its versatility.