Customer Spotlight: Kevin’s TL-ONE Equipped 2008 Nissan 350Z Time Trial Build
Kevin is a Time Trial driver out of Columbus, Ohio who shows up with the same goal every weekend: spend more time behind the wheel. His background appreciation for all kinds of motorsports—everything from drifting and dirt to road racing—shaped a build philosophy that prioritizes seat time, consistency, and a chassis that stays predictable when pushed hard.
Just as important, Kevin’s approach is community-driven. He’s passionate about building teamwork, connections, and healthy rivalry with other drivers—and he’s vocal about encouraging enthusiasts to take their cars to local tracks instead of the street. With tracks under pressure everywhere, he wants to help keep the future of motorsports alive by getting more people involved the right way.
The Car
Kevin’s platform is a 2008 Nissan 350Z HR, that was originally prepared for SCCA Time Trials Tuner 3 (T3) competition. Tuner 3 is widely regarded as a strong mid-entry-level Time Trial class—ideal for drivers who want to compete seriously while still driving a car that can be enjoyed on weekends and track days.
Nowadays, Kevin is targeting Max 4. Utilizing Long Tube headers, a shorter gear ratio and larger tires.
That philosophy aligns perfectly with Kevin’s goals. Rather than building an all-out, single-purpose race car, this 350Z balances performance, reliability, and practicality, making it accessible for drivers looking to step into organized Time Trial competition without leaving behind the versatility of a street-based platform.
- Chassis: 2008 Nissan 350Z HR
- Class: SCCA Time Trials – Tuner 3 (T3)
- Fuel: 93 octane
- Output: 309whp
Power & Cooling: Reliable Pace Over Flash
The engine package focuses on breathing efficiency and repeatability—exactly what a Time Trial car needs when the goal is to run strong laps session after session. Long-tube headers, a true dual exhaust, and 3-inch intakes support airflow, while the tune ties the combination together for consistent throttle response on track. Supporting cooling components—like a race thermostat—help the car handle heat management during long stints.
Engine & Tune
- ISR long tube headers
- Stillen true dual exhaust
- 3" intakes
- UpRev tune by RS Enthalpy (93 octane)
- Race thermostat
Chassis Control: TL-ONE Coilovers at the Center
SCCA Tuner 3 rewards balanced, well-driven cars more than extreme modifications, and Kevin’s suspension package reflects that philosophy. At the center of the setup are Thunder Lane TL-ONE track coilovers, providing a composed, predictable platform that works equally well for competitive Time Trials and general track use.
The TL-ONE system allows the car to be tuned for stable braking zones, confident turn-in, and consistent mid-corner balance—key traits in T3 & M4, where driver execution and repeatability often decide results. Supporting components from ISR, SPL, Hotchkis, and Z1 help lock in alignment and reduce unwanted compliance, giving Kevin a chassis that responds clearly to setup changes and driver inputs.
Suspension
- Thunder Lane TL-ONE coilovers
- ISR front upper control arms
- ISR camber arms and toe bolt mod
- SPL solid bushings
- Polyurethane front sway bar bushings
- Hotchkis front sway bar + stock rear sway bar
- Z1 adjustable front end links
Stopping Power & Drivetrain: Confidence to Push
A competitive Tuner 3 car needs braking confidence and clean power delivery without excessive complexity. Kevin’s setup delivers both, with a proven brake package and drivetrain configuration that supports traction, durability, and predictable behavior under load.
Brakes
- Brembo brakes
- Track pads: XP12 (front) / XP10 (rear)
- Braided steel brake lines
Drivetrain & Transmission
- Carbonetic 1.5-way LSD
- Concept Z CSC delete
- Jim Wolf Technology lightweight flywheel and clutch
- New CD009 (JK41) transmission installed at 103k miles
Wheels & Fitment Options
Kevin’s wheel choices reflect the flexibility many Tuner 3 drivers look for—options that support both performance driving and practical use. A staggered setup provides a classic Z feel, while the square configuration allows tire rotation and setup consistency across events.
- Rays Gram Lights: 18x9.5 (front) / 18x10.5 (rear)
- Circuit Performance: 18x10.75 square
A Practical Tuner 3 Example
Kevin’s 350Z highlights why SCCA Time Trials Tuner 3 is such an appealing class. It allows drivers to build capable, competitive cars without abandoning street-driven roots, making it an excellent entry point for enthusiasts ready to take their weekend car to the track.
Kevin collecting a 1st place in Tuner 3 at an SCCA Time Attack event.
With TL-ONE coilovers anchoring the suspension and a well-rounded supporting package, this Z is built to reward clean driving, consistent laps, and steady progression—exactly what Tuner 3 competition is designed to showcase.
