Panoz Esperante GTS User manual

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
The Power to Reduce Friction
Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS
Welcome to the Panoz family. We want to thank you for all of the time
that you have taken and for placing your trust in us by purchasing a Panoz
Esperante GTS Race Car. We look forward to working and playing with you
at the race track.
This manual is meant to assist you in the care, tuning and enjoyment of
your GTS. The information compiled in this book is from our own experience
and that of your fellow racers. This manual will be constantly updated as
components are upgraded and information is accumulated. We would also
appreciate your input for future revisions to this book.
This manual will not provide specific race set-ups and strategies. We will
explain how to tune your suspension but other than a neutral starting point
we won’t tell you how to set your suspension for individual events. For fur-
ther information about race strategies, suspension tuning, car set-ups and
driving techniques we recommend the following books:
• Tune to Win- Carroll Smith
• Drive to Win- Carroll Smith
• Prepare to Win- Carroll Smith
Taking Delivery
We have checked and double-checked the condition of the car. It should
be in good condition, however, we strongly suggest going through the car
with a torque wrench and a careful eye before you take it to the track. If
anything is wrong or out of place please let us know, we want to make sure
our system is working.
Please familiarize yourself with the basic layout of the car. Note the elec-
trical shut-off switch, fire extinguisher equipment and the fuel system safety
features. Pay attention to where the shipper tied the car down to the trailer.
There are many choices for tying down the car. The primary consideration is
for safety. Be sure to avoid damage to fuel lines, brake lines, suspension
parts and electrical wires when you tie it down to your own trailer.

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Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE
WARNING Indicates a strong possibility
of severe personal injury or loss of life
if instructions are not followed.
CAUTION: Indicates a possibility of
personal injury or equipment damage
if instructions are not followed.
NOTE: Gives helpful information.
Detailed descriptions of standard workshop
procedures, safety principles and service
operations are NOT included. It is important
to note that this manual contains Some
warnings and cautions against some specific
service methods which could cause PER-
SONAL INJURY to service personnel or
could damage a vehicle or render it unsafe.
Please understand that those warnings
could not cover all conceivable ways in
which service, whether or not recommended
by Panoz, might be done or of the possibility
hazardous consequences of each conceivable
way, nor could Panoz investigate all such
ways. Anyone using service procedures or
tools, whether or not recommended by
Panoz, must satisfy himself thoroughly that
neither personal safety nor vehicle safety will
be jeopardized by the service methods or
tools selected.
WARNING:
1. THIS VEHICLE IS INTENDED FOR USE AS A HIGH
PERFORMANCE RACING VEHICLE. THERE ARE
SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND DANGERS ASSOCIATED
WITH THE OPERATION AND/OR RACING OF HIGH
SPEED AND HIGH PERFORMANCE VEHICLES
INCLUDING THE POSSIBILITY OF SERIOUS
PHYSICAL INJURY OR DEATH.
2. THIS VEHICLE WILL NOT WITHSTAND ALL
FORESEEABLE IMPACTS WHICH MAY OCCUR
DURING IT’S NORMAL INTENDED USE AS A
RACING VEHICLE WITHOUT POSSIBLE INJURY
TO OR DEATH OF THE DRIVER OR DAMAGE
TO THE VEHICLE WHICH MAY EFFECT IT’S
PERFORMANCE AND SAFE USE.
3. OTHER RACE PARTICIPANTS, THEIR AUTO-
MOBILES, TRACK CONDITIONS AND OTHER
FACTORS BEYOND THE CONTROL OF THE
VEHICLE DESIGNER, MANUFACTURER,
DISTRIBUTOR AND SELLER MAY CONTRIBUTE
TO THE ABOVE DANGERS AND RISKS. THE
OWNER AND DRIVER OF THIS VEHICLE HERE
BY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE MAY BE
OTHER RISKS AND DANGERS WHICH ARE NOT
REASONABLY FORESEEABLE TO THE VEHICLE
DESIGNER, MANUFACTURER, DISTRIBUTOR
AND SELLER.
4. THE OWNER AND DRIVER OF THIS VEHICLE
HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY HAVE
READ THE WARNING STATED HEREIN AND
THAT THEY VOLUNTARILY ACCEPT AND
ASSUME ALL SUCH RISKS AND DANGERS,
INCLUDING SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY OR
DEATH AND ANY AND ALL RELATED DAMAGES,
HOWEVER CAUSED AND WHETHER CAUSED IN
WHOLE OR IN PART BY THE NEGLIGENCE OR
FAULT OF THE VEHICLE DESIGNER, MANUFAC-
TURER, DISTRIBUTOR OR SELLER.
5. DO NOT OPERATE THIS VEHICLE IF YOU ARE
NOT FULLY TRAINED AND EXPERIENCED WITH
SKILLS NECESSARY TO OPERATE A HIGH
SPEED AND HIGH PERFORMANCE RACING
VEHICLE OF THIS TYPE.
,

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
GENERAL SAFETY
CARBON MONOXIDE
If the engine must be running to do some work,
make sure the area is well ventilated. Never run the
engine in an enclosed area.
The exhaust contains poisonous carbon
monoxide gas that can cause loss of con-
sciousness and may lead to death
Run the engine in an open area or with an exhaust
evacuation system in an enclosed area
GASOLINE
Work in a well ventilated area, keep cigarettes,
flames or sparks away from work area or where gaso-
line is stored.
Gasoline is extremely flammable and is
explosive under certain conditions.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN!
HOT COMPONENTS
Engine and exhaust systems parts become very hot
and remain hot for some time after the engine is run.
Wear insulated gloves or wait until the engine and
exhaust system have cooled before handling
these parts.
USED ENGINE OIL
Used engine oil may cause skin cancer if repeatedly
left in contact with the skin for prolonged periods.
Although this is unlikely unless you handle used oil on
a daily basis, it is still advisable to thoroughly wash
your hands with soap and water as soon as possible
after handling used oil. KEEP OUT OF REACH
OF CHILDREN!
BRAKE DUST
Wear a dust mask when dealing with brake assem-
blies or cleaning the rotors to minimize the hazard
caused by airborne asbestos fibers.
BRAKE FLUID
CAUTION:
Spilling fluid on painted, plastic or rubber parts will
damage them.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN!
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Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
GET TO KNOW YOUR PANOZ GTS
Driver’s seat
We did not install the driver’s seat. This allows you to
position the seat as you see fit. All of the hardware is
included. Installation instructions are on page 11.
Seat Belts
Seat belts have a shelf life of approximately 2 years.
Take note of the date printed on the tag of your seat
belts and plan to replace them every 2 years from the
date printed on the tag.
Jetting/Tuning
Your car is delivered with the following jets:
76 Fronts
81 Rears
This refers to the jetting guide (110 leaded racing gas).
The jetting guide is to be used as a reference only. In
most cases this is a good safe starting point. It is your
responsibility to read the spark plugs and tailpipe
color. Colder ambient temperatures require more fuel.
It is a good idea to fit the the car with exhaust gas
temperature (EGT) probes. The ignition timing is set
to 36° total advance (rpm over 3000). We do not rec-
ommend advancing the timing further than that. You
will not gain any more horsepower, and you could
put the motor into a detonation condition. Detonation
usually occurs at peak torque around 4000 RPMs.
We recommend running leaded race fuel. Unleaded
fuels are too difficult to tune (DO NOT USE). Reading
a spark plug burning unleaded gas is very difficult.
Detailed information can be found in the Engine tuning
section on page17.
Brakes
Your car is delivered with new brake rotors and pads.
Your front rotors come pre-bedded. The rear rotors
are not. Brembo has not found it necessary to pre-bed
the rear rotors. They will get bedded when you bed
your pads. You should bed the pads using the follow-
ing procedure.
1. Drive the vehicle in an aggressive Sunday drive
fashion (no threshold braking), for 3-4 laps.
2. return to the pits and let the brakes cool to the
touch.
IMPORTANT
The brakes require heat in them before they work to
maximum performance. Drag the brakes on your
warm up lap to add heat into the system.
Fuel Cell
Your fuel cell should be serviced at least once a year.
The fuel pick up screens should be replaced, the
check valves should checked for proper operation and
the fuel cell gaskets and gas cap gasket should be
replaced. Most importantly, the bladder should be
inspected for any fuel leaks or blistering. Any damage
or broken components should be replaced before use.
Your fuel cell has a build date printed on a label locat-
ed on the right side of the tank. You can see it through
the right rear wheel well. Take note of the date and
expect to test or replace the fuel cell after 3 years or
if a leak is detected.
Aircraft Rubber Manufacturing, Inc.
250 SE Timber Ave.
Redmond, Oregon 97756
[phone] / [phone]
FAX [phone]
www.fuelsafe.com
www.aircraftrubber.com
Fire Bottles
Be sure to pull the pins and check the gauges of
your fire bottles to ensure that they are full before and
during each event.
Fluids
• Check fluid levels after each time on the track.
Engine oil is Quaker State Full Synthetic 5w50 or
5w40 (9 quarts total fill)
• Transmission Fluid is 2.5 quarts Quaker State Full
Synthetic 75W-90 GL-4
• Differential is Quaker State Full Synthetic GL-5
(3 quarts total fill).
• Water is Red Line Water Wetter (one bottle)
• Brake Fluid (bleed after each race weekend/event)
Brembo Racing LCF600 (Brembo does not recom-
mend mixing brake fluids, if you are planning to
use a different fluid you should flush the system
completely).
Hydraulic Clutch uses Quaker State DOT 3
(550°F).

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 107.6 in.(2690 mm)
Track (f/r) 63.0/65.8 in.(1575/1645 mm)
Overall Length: 170.0 in. (4250mm.)
Overall Width: 78.0 in.(1950mm.)
Overall Height: 51.0 in.(1275mm.)
Curb Weight: 2685 lbs.(1217kg.
Fuel Capacity: 32.0 gal.(121.6L)
Body and Chassis
• BODY: Lightweight, damage-resistant ABS plastic with
acrylic exterior layer 15 easily replaceable panel with
standardized mounting points. Safety glass windshield;
clear acrylic rear window.
• CHASSIS: 1.75(43.75mm) x 1.75, .090(2.25 mm) wall,
mild steel space frame 1.75x .095 DOM 8-point roll
cage w/triple tube side protection 18-gauge interior
panels, welded in. Meets all SCCA tech and safety
requirements
Engine/Drivetrain
Layout: Front mid-engine, rear drive
Engine: Ford Motorsports 5.8-liter,
16-valve V-8
Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
Horsepower@RPM: 430bhp @ 5,850
Torque @ RPM: 435 lb/ft @ 4,500
Cylinder Heads: Edelbrock Performer
Carburetion: Holley 4bbl., 750cfm Double
Pump carburetor
Ignition: MSD 6ALN Ignition Control
Transmission: Tremec 5-speed manual
Gear Ratios: 1st=2.87:1, 2nd=1.89:1,
3rd=1.28:1, 4th=1.00:1, 5th=0.82:1
Final Drive: 3.89:1, Ford 9-inch w/ TruTrac
(.350:1 optional)
Differential cooler w/integrated pump
Clutch: QuarterMaster V-Extreme 8.5” alu-
minum flywheel and clutch assembly
Exhaust: Hedman Headers, Magnaflow
Mufflers
Suspension, Brakes, Wheels, Steering
• SUSPENSION (F/R): Unequal length A Arm Penske
single adjustable coil-over shock absorbers
Two-position adjustable sway bar, 1.25” dia.
Live axle located by trailing arms and Watts Link
Penske single adjustable coil-over shock absorbers
Three-position adjustable sway bar, 0.75” dia.
• BRAKES (F/R): Brembo 4-piston 40/44mm 328 mm
slotted & vented, floating rotors (pre-bedded). Pads:
Hawk HT-10 (black) or Performance Frictions 97
Brembo 4-piston 36/40 hydraulic calipers. 320 mm
slotted & vented, floating rotors. Pads: Hawk HT-10
(front) and Hawk 9012 (rear) or Performance
Frictions 97
• WHEELS: BBS RX 18”x10” (457x254mm) aluminum
• TIRES: 285/640x18 Pirelli P-Zero Slicks
• STEERING: Rack and pinion 3 turns lock-to-
lock,15:1 steering ratio
Equipment & Controls
Steel braided fuel and oil lines, Front brake cooling
ducts, Aluminum high support one piece racing seat
of various widths, Fittipaldi 3-spoke steering wheel
with quick release, Autometer 2-5/8” Ultra Lite gauges
and lighted 10k rpm Monster Tach with memory,
Stack Dash Loggers (optional), Pi Research System2
digital instruments (optional), Wilwood brake bias
control system (cockpit adjustable), Fuel Safe fuel cell
with bladder located within chassis rails, 3-inch 5-Point
safety harness, Driver’s side window net, Manual
Halon fire extinguisher system; driver and remote
operated, Driver and remote battery kill key, Illuminating
tail lights and brake lights, Remote battery boost
connector, Left and right side mirrors (electric remote
optional), Single electric wiper, Opening doors.
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Page 6
Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Page 7

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
The Power to Reduce Friction
Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS
At The Track
Fuel Mileage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
After On-Track Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Trailer Tie Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Torque Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Seat Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Even though we checked the torques, you should continue to check things while
waiting for track time. Be sure to check all torques, specifically:
• Header bolts 3/8” 12 point wrench, must check after first 4 sessions.
This should happen anytime that you change the engine.
• Header collector nuts and bolts - after every other session.
• Body bolts - check after each event.
• Use anti-seize on spark plugs (gap set to 0.045)
This list does not include everything,just the items that are a little out of the ordinary.
Please see the GTS Torque Specification check list in this section.
Page 8

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Fuel Mileage
Typically the Panoz GTS cars get 4 miles per gallon.
Panoz GTS cars have 32-gallon fuel cells. When
measuring fuel; 7/8” equals 2 gallons. Panoz recom-
mends using 110 octane, leaded racing fuel. If you
are using a different fuel, be sure to jet the carburetor
accordingly. Using the leaded fuel allows you to
”read” the spark plugs and tail pipe much easier.
HINT: Purchase a wooden dowel rod and scribe it in
7/8” increments. This will allow you to measure your
fuel level accurately.
After On-Track Session
NUT & BOLT CAR
A: Place car on jack stands.
B: Remove hood and rear deck lids.
C: Grab each wheel and tire, shaking and pulling it;
checking for anything that may feel loose or worn
out (wheel bearings, heims, etc); they should be
very little, if any, play.
D: Remove wheels and tires and check over all sus-
pension parts. You are checking for anything that
may have loosened up, cracked or broken during
the track session.
E: Re-Tighten all body fasteners after every race
weekend (snug fasteners, do not over tighten).
F: Always look for not only loose fasteners, but any
leaks or anything that looks out of place or not
right (plug wires, electrical connections fluid levels,
etc.).
G: Check brake pads for thickness and wear charac-
teristics. Check the rotors for heat cracks - heat
check cracks on the surface of the rotor are normal.
They should extend over the top of the rotor or
away from from any of the mounting locations.
Also check the calipers.
H: This is also a good time to bleed the brake and
clutch systems since the car is off the ground.
I: Bleed brakes at least once during and after each
race/track event. For maximum performance,
bleed brakes after each all out driving session.
The brake pedal should not get soft during any
track event. If a soft pedal condition occurs bleed
brakes more frequently
Trailer Tie Down
When taking delivery of your Panoz GTS note where
the shipper tied the car down. You can use the tow
strap to winch your GTS onto the trailer.
* DO NOT TIE THE GTS DOWN USING THE FRONT
TOW STRAP OR REAR TOW HOOK.
• DO NOT TIE DOWN OVER THE REAR TRAILING
(RADIUS) ARMS. Below you will see where we tie
ours down. After tying the car down take the car out
of gear to save on driveline wear. When figuring the
wear on your shock absorbers remember that they
are working while the car is in transit.
Note: Be careful that your tie down straps don’t
pinch or rub on the brake lines, fuel lines and electri-
cal wires during transit.
Page 9
Rear
Front

Page 10
Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
GTS Torque Specifications (CHECK BEFORE EACH RACE)
Vehicle
Part Description Torque LBS. Quantity
Brake strut bar, rear 45 2 __________
Brake strut bar, rear 45 2 __________
Brake strut bar, front 23 2 __________
Brake strut bar jamb-nuts 45 4 __________
Spindle mounting bolt, top 45 2 __________
Spindle mounting bolt,inside top 45 2 __________
Spindle mounting bolt, inside bottom 90 2 __________
Spindle mounting bolt, bottom 45 2 __________
Shock mounting bolt 45 8 __________
Caliper braket to spindal, front 50 4 __________
Front Caliper Mounting Nut & Stud 25 4 __________
Rear Caliper Mounting Nut & Stud 12 4 __________
Caliper hardware bolts 10 8 __________
Rotor Disc to Rotor Hat (Brembo) 60 in. lbs. 10/wheel __________
Rotor Hat to Hub (Brembo) 25 20 __________
Sway bar arm, front 45 2 __________
Sway bar arm, rear 23 2 __________
Steering shaft jamb-nuts 15 6 __________
Upper control arm mounting bolts 110 4 __________
Tie-rod jamb nuts 25 4 __________
Motor mount nuts 90 2 __________
Transmission mount nuts 35 2 __________
Transmission mount bolts 50 2 __________
Transmission crossmember bolts 35 2 __________
Front cross brace support 90 2 __________
Crush box bolts,upper & lower 45 4 __________
Swaybar heimjoint jamb-nut, front 35 4 __________
Trailing arms, rear 120 4 __________
Watts link arm bolts, inner & outer 80 4 __________
Brake rotor mounting bolts (Coleman/AP) 20 32 __________
Drive shaft U bolts 35 2 __________
Diff. Chunk mounting nuts 35 10 __________
Wheel lug nuts 90 20 __________
See maintenance section for torque specifications according to bolt grade.

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Seat Installation
Because of differences in driver’s size these instruc-
tions should be used as a general guideline only.
A: Place seat tray inside of car.
B: Place a 2”x6” board inside the tray.
C: Set seat on top of 2”x6”
D: Sit in seat and using 1” and/or 2” boards to
achieve a comfortable height and angle.
E: Once comfortable with seat location mark the seat
so it’s angle can be recreated outside the car.
F: Remove seat, boards and seat tray and recreate
angle and height according to your markings.
G: Clamp seat to seat tray and using a 3/8” drill bit,
drill bolt holes.
H: Install bolts from outside of seat to inside of seat.
(Use spacers/washers as required)
I: Place seat back in the car. Now is a good time to
route your lap belts through the seat.
J: Confirm seat location and fasten seat tray from the
bottom up.
K: Don’t forget to attach the fifth point of your harness.
Page 11

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
The Power to Reduce Friction
Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS
Driver
Feedback
Driver Feedback at the Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Crew Chief’s Communication Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Driver’s Communication Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Defining the Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Corner Breakdown Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Common Feedback Traps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Page 12

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Driver Feedback at the Track
Often times, one of the most misunderstood practices
at the track is proper communication. Some racers
wear all the hats at the track; driver, crew chief and
mechanic. In some cases these racers have an
advantage, their communication is on a more person-
al level. This section deals with communicating what
the race car is doing on the track, in order to make
the proper adjustments to go fast. It is important for
the driver and the crew chief to understand each
other. For the “do all” racer this section may be help-
ful in bringing thoughts to the front of your mind to
solve driveability or handling issues.
The first step in communication is understanding the
personality of the other person. What are they telling
me or how will they react to my comments. In all
cases ego’s must be put aside. It’s not about who is
right or wrong, it’s about understanding the situation
and making adjustments to fix it. Communication
skills between the crew chief the driver are essential
for proper adjustment of the suspension. They must
create a comfortable language so that each under-
stand what the other is describing.
The Crew Chief’s Communication
Responsibilities
A: Make it easy for the driver to provide clear and
informative feedback.
B: The driver must be comfortable and satisfied with
the cornering of the car so the crew chief should
accept the driver’s feedback “as is” and try to
understand the driver’s interpretation of the car’s
actions. Simply put, if the driver doesn’t like the
way the car is cornering then something must be
done to correct it.
C: Build the driver’s confidence by accepting their
comments and making the necessary changes to
make the driver more comfortable.
D: The driver may have trouble communicating what
the car is doing. It’s the crew chief’s job to inter-
pret the driver’s description and adjust the car
even if the driver’s description is different than the
real problem. If the driver keeps repeating the
same thing and you still don’t understand, diplo-
matically ask him/her to re-word the feedback.
E: Ask the driver several questions about his/her
feedback. Ignore any emotion or ego and intently
listen for quality responses.
F: Suggest other optional chassis changes that
address the driver’s feedback.
G: Each driver has a personal style and a chassis
set-up that works for one driver may not work for
another. Adapt to your driver instead of making
your driver adapt to the car.
H: Discuss and agree on the terminology of each part
of the corners and straights so you’re each talking
about the same area.
Driver’s Communication Responsibilities
A: Pay attention to how the car feels in each part of
each corner. Avoid using too much emotion. Be
specific about the car’s cornering characteristics —
if your crew chief doesn’t have detailed information
they can’t properly adjust the car.
B: Resist suggesting chassis changes before describing
what the car is doing.Explaining the car’s cornering
characteristics provides the crew chief with the
information they need. Making chassis suggestions
may interfere with their assessment.
C: Be brief. Give the crew chief your feedback in
short, detailed statements. Avoid telling stories or
cluttering your information with scenery.
D: It is appropriate to offer chassis changes only after
the crew chief has analyzed your feedback, tire
pressure, tire temperature and related suspension
settings.
E: Give your crew chief’s advice priority. Avoid other
people’s advice.
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Page 14
Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Defining the Corner
To help the driver and crew chief understand each
other it is important that they use the same terminology.
The car will do different things in different portions of
a corner so here are common definitions of the corner.
A: Entry
The entry is the area where the driver lifts off the
throttle and begins braking. Steering input often
begins at the end of braking (except in trail braking
situations).
B: Apex
The apex is the point when the car is at the inner-
most part of the corner. In road racing this is usu-
ally a little past the center of the corner (referred
to as a late apex).
C: Exit
The exit is where steering input is reduced and the
car is at full throttle.
Corner Breakdown Feedback
In order to communicate properly each section of the
corner should be discussed in order. There is no ben-
efit in worrying about the center of the corner if the
car is unstable on entry. The preceding zone affects
the next zone. Make sure that the car makes a good
entry, hits the apex and then exits the corner well.
Reconsider your adjustments if your corrective action
adversely affects any preceding zone in the corner
area you are addressing. There is more information
on this in the Suspension section of this manual.
Again, whenever making any adjustment you must
consider each corner area. Adjustments cannot upset
the preceding section.
Common Feedback Traps
Cars that are loose on entry nearly always push in
the middle as the driver simply is unable aggressively
turn the wheel at the right time. Basically, a loose
entry causes the driver to miss the entire turn. There
is no point making changes that deal with the middle
when the car is loose at entry.
Cars that push in the middle of the turn are very likely
to be loose on the corner exit. The angular momen-
tum of the car is upset and the car travels off the exit
on the wrong line due to the push in the middle. The
car pushes and moves up. Upon exit the car runs out
of room in the groove and often becomes loose on
the late exit as the driver overturns to avoid running
off the track. Many times when you loosen the car up
to get a better run through the middle it will hook up
better on exit.
A car that is loose on corner entry should be cured at
all costs. A car that is loose on entry is uncomfortable
for the driver and is very difficult to drive. The driver
really has no way to adapt his line for a loose entry
problem. Basically, the driver just has to slow down and
ride. Cars that are loose on entry make for long day.

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Page 15

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
The Power to Reduce Friction
Quaker State – Recommended fill for the GTS
Engine Tuning
Guide
General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Engine Tuning Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Throttle Linkage Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Tuning the Panoz GTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Test Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Carburetor Jetting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Changing Carburetor Jets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Jetting the Panoz GTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Exhaust Gas Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Tools and Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Carburetor Adjusting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Idle Air Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Jetting Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24-26
Spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27-29
Page 16

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
General Information
This section relays hours of track experience related
to the proper tuning of your GTS engine. One of the
most important things that we have learned is that the
proper tuning for the engine and fuel delivery system
is a critical part of engine performance and endurance.
Deviating from the information presented can result in
premature failure of your engine. The GTS engine is
carbeureted and therefore requires proper monitoring
of the engine and weather conditions.
Normal Operating Temperatures...
Water 180° F to 210° F
Oil 210° F to 240° F
These ranges depend on the ambient conditions.
Temperatures higher than what is listed could indicate
an improper engine tuning condition.
Panoz has found peak performance with the engine
timing set at 34° to 36°, total advance. This must be
checked with the engine RPM at 3000 or slightly
above. Advancing the engine timing past 36° can cre-
ate detonation. Another source for creating detonation
is running the motor too lean, overheating the com-
bustion chamber and creating a pre-ignition condition.
This is not something that you can hear during a track
session. It can be detected by reading the spark plug
and watching oil temperatures on the track session.
We contracted L&B Engine development to help us
determine the proper operating conditions for the
Ford 351 engine. All of the information listed in this
section is related to an engine and fuel delivery sys-
tem that comes with the GTS as it is delivered from
the factory. The jetting information will not apply to a
carburetor that has been blue printed*. Be sure to fol-
low the jetting guide and back up the adjustments
with proper inspection. This information is presented
in more detail later in this section.
Normal on-track water temperature should be 180° F
to 210° F, Normal on-track oil temperature should be
in the range of 210° F to 240° F, depending on the
ambient condition. Temperatures higher than that
could indicate an improper engine tuning condition.
We strongly recommend the following:
• Run with leaded race gas. Most tracks have 110
leaded race fuel. You can also purchase drums to
carry with you. We do NOT recommend using
unleaded fuels. These fuels are oxygenated and dif-
fer from batch to batch and brand to brand. Also
unleaded fuels make reading spark plugs very diffi-
cult. Even though the compression ratio is 9.5:1, we
still recommend running110 leaded race gas.
• Purchase a Holley Carburetor Jetting Kit and carbu-
retor tools (Jet Driver and Float bowl drain cup).
• Exhaust Gas Temperature(EGT) Sensor Kit - there
are a number of kits available or you can purchase
unique temperature instrumentation equipment from
Omega (www.omega.com). EGT profiles are
shown in the jetting guide listed in this document.
• Weather equipment - thermometer, barometer,
altimeter and air density meter.
• Follow the tuning guide, checking it each time you
run your GTS.
• Do not advance your timing more than 36° total
advance.
Page 17
Be sure to empty crank case breather catch can on a
regular basis.
*Blue printing is allowed per SCCA A sedan rules
(reference SCCA general competition rules ASCS-
59D.1.a.B

Page 18
Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Throttle Linkage Adjustment
Throttle linkage adjustment serves two purposes;
setting the pedal height for most comfortable driving
style and insuring that you are using100% of the
carburetor.
The throttle linkage includes the following parts:
•Throttle pedal
•Throttle pedal stop
•Accelerator bell crank
•Heim joint (LH thread)
•Accelerator Linkage Rod
•Heim joint (RH thread)
Anytime that the engine is removed or installed,
you must check to see that your linkage is adjusted
properly. Improper adjustment will cause a lack of
performance (not getting full throttle) or damage to the
carburetor throttle shaft due to excessive side loading.
RECOMMENDATION: THE FUEL SHOULD BE
DRAINED FROM THE FRONT AND REAR FLOAT
BOWLS DURING THE THROTTLE INSPECTION
PROCESS TO PREVENT FLOODING THE CYLINDERS.
Before you adjust the throttle linkage you should first
check that the secondary butterfly valves open 100%
when the throttle is fully opened. Panoz does this
adjustment before delivery, but it’s a good idea to check
it before you start racing or if you have purchased a
replacement carburetor.
Begin by opening the throttle while looking into the
venturies, if the secondary throttle blades don’t open
fully the secondary throttle linkage may need to be
bent (see Figure 2 note the bent rod unlike Figure 1)
to accomplish wide open throttle (throttle blades
straight up and down).
Inspection
The inspection process requires two people. It must
be checked by depressing the accelerator pedal, until
it hits the stop and looking into the carburetor ven-
turies to see that the secondary throttle blades are
opening 100% (straight up and down).
NOTE: ONE PERSON INSPECTION BY PROCESS
OF STROKING THE CARBURETOR LINKAGE ONLY
WILL NOT ENSURE PROPER ADJUSTMENT OR
OPERATION.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Adjustment
The linkage adjustment process is a combination of
lengthening or shortening the throttle rod (setting the
pedal height) and adjusting the pedal stop to ensure
that carburetor is not getting over stroked.
At the same time the pedal stop hits the firewall, the
secondary throttle blades should just reach 100%
open. Lengthen the rod and adjust the pedal stop unit
you have 100% throttle valve open when when the
pedal stop hits the floor
Heel-toe pedal adjustment
In order to obtain optimum brake pedal to accelerator
pedal relationship (for heel-toe braking) you may have
to adjust the brake pedal height. Be sure to adjust
both master cylinder push rods equally to avoid
changing your brake bias. (Refer to the Brake System
Chapter for more information.)

Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Page 19

Tuning the Panoz GTS V-8
The Panoz GTS engine was tested to determine
operating parameters for best power and safe oper-
ation. We adjusted timing and jetting to find best
power with three different fuels. The information
was obtained through dyno testing and may vary
from results on the track. Use this information as a
guide, but watch your engine carefully (plugs, EGT
and performance) while you learn exactly what your
motor wants. We cannot assume responsibility for
problems.
In general, more fuel and less spark advance are
safer for your engine. WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND
STANDARD 110 OCTANE LEADED RACE FUEL
FOR BEST POWER AND ENGINE DURABILITY.
Test Conditions
All tests were done with these components and
settings:
• Ignition Timing - 36° BTDC @ 4000 RPM (best
power with least advance)
• Spark Plugs- Motorcraft AGSF-32C
• Carb - Testing was conducted with a stock Holley
4779C carb. The choke assembly was removed,
but the airhorn was left intact.
Page 20
Panoz Esperante GTS
Panoz Esperante GTSPanoz Esperante GTS
RVP – Reliability / Value / Performance
Carburetor Jetting
Page 21 is a summary of how to use jetting charts.
Three charts (pages 24-26) are provided, one for
each fuel tested. The charts are intended for easy
use with just a thermometer and the track altitude, or
a barometer.
Barometer- If you have a barometer, you don’t need
track altitude. The barometer must be UNCORRECT-
ED, that is it must be calibrated to read 29.92”Hg with
standard conditions at sea level. The US Weather
Service uses corrected barometer readings at weath-
er stations, meaning the barometers are calibrated to
read 29.92” for conditions standard to the weather
station altitude.