Track Alignment Basics for 350Z, G35, 370Z & G37

Why Alignment Matters on the Z/G Chassis

The 350Z, 370Z, G35, and G37 respond extremely well to alignment changes. Because these cars are relatively heavy and generate meaningful load at the tire, alignment directly affects:

• Front grip and mid-corner confidence
• Tire wear and temperature consistency
• Braking stability
• Corner-exit balance and throttle application

A good alignment often delivers more lap time—and more confidence—than adding power.

Baseline Track Alignment (200tw Tires)

This baseline is intended for track days, HPDE, and time attack use on 200tw tires with properly matched suspension (spring rate, damping, and travel).

Front Alignment Explained

Front Camber (~3.5°)

On 200tw tires, the front of these cars typically wants a lot of negative camber. Around 3.5 degrees is a common baseline for track use to:

• Keep the tire flat under cornering load
• Reduce outer shoulder overheating
• Improve mid-corner and exit grip

Achieving this usually requires aftermarket upper control arms (brands such as ISR, Part Shop Max, SPL, and others).

Front Toe (0 to 1/8" Toe Out)

Front toe is one of the quickest ways to change how the car feels:

• 0 toe: stable, predictable, easier on tires
• 1/16"–1/8" toe out: sharper turn-in, more aggressive initial response

More toe out increases responsiveness but can reduce straight-line stability and tire life. Start small.

Caster (Mostly Fixed)

On most Z/G platforms, caster is not adjustable from the factory. Aftermarket arms (such as SPL) allow caster tuning, which can:

• Improve steering feel
• Add dynamic camber while turning
• Increase steering effort slightly

If caster is not adjustable, don’t worry—focus on camber and toe first.

Rear Alignment Explained

Rear Camber (1.8°–2.5°)

Rear camber is a balance between grip and rotation:

• ~1.8°: more rear grip, better drive off corners
• ~2.2°: neutral balance for many tracks
• ~2.5°: helps rotation on high-speed or long-corner tracks

Heavier braking zones and power-down tracks often prefer slightly less rear camber.

Rear Toe (0 to 1/4" Toe In)

Rear toe is a major driver preference tuning tool:

• 0 toe: freer rotation, more responsive rear
• 1/8" toe in: good balance of stability and rotation
• 1/4" toe in: maximum stability under braking and throttle

Drivers who prefer a looser car tend toward less rear toe-in; drivers who want confidence on entry and exit often add more.

How to Adjust Alignment for Different Tracks

• Tight, technical tracks: slightly more front toe out, slightly less rear toe in
• High-speed tracks: 0 front toe, more rear toe in for stability
• Tire overheating: increase camber before changing pressure

Always change one thing at a time and take notes.

Key Takeaways

• Alignment is as important as spring rate and damping
• Front camber is critical on 200tw tires
• Rear toe is your main balance adjustment
• Start with a solid baseline, then tune for driver preference

FAQ

Is this alignment safe for the street?

These settings are track-focused. Some drivers run them on the street, but expect increased tire wear. Consider reducing camber and toe for daily use.

Do I need aftermarket arms?

Yes, for proper track alignment—especially front camber—aftermarket control arms are strongly recommended.

Should I corner balance before alignment?

Ride height and corner balance should be finalized before alignment for best results.