I think you need to look at Rangers post.. How Too!! He is the master.. on stock tires as well as BFG's Drag Radial's
I don't think you want to try 2nd gear. First you have to decide what tire your going to use.. Stock, Drag Radial's or Et Street's.
Then after that you can go out and practice..practice and practice some more. Play with tire pressure, RPM'S and learn how to play with the clutch. (See Rangers post)
First gear in a Z will come fast, even with the 3.42's try 4.10's but that is part of learning how to, what is the limit I can go.
Don't be afraid to screw up, it's normal and most people will. Just practice, ask questions at the track, most will help but don't take everything they say as the gospal...
My story is different, I run Et's around 10 pounds of air, and that depends on the track.. and I come out a 5500 to 6000 rpms. sometimes 5000.. If I had to go back to a stock tire it would kill me..
Hope this helps,, just enjoy your ride.
Ernie