Pat

The problem with any rule that sets specifications for the engine usually generates the same response "SO much for that idea". There is always someone that will go that extra mile to circumvent any rule, sometime they do it just because the rule is there. One of my favorite quotes comes from old Smokey Yunick, he said "Well you didn't say I couldn't".

If the world was a perfect place stock internals would be great, however this sure is not a perfect world. As things exist today to check for stock component it would require at least the removal of the oil pan, the valve cover, side covers, and the throttle bodies. That ain't no 15 minute tec. If you are not prepared to do the above stock internals will not work.

I am working on a deal right now where we could use a few well placed plugs and check all the parts above by just removing a side cover or even better a timing access plug. I think it would be possible to check for stock rods and pistons, stock valves, stock transmission gears and even valve lift and valve spring pressure if we wished.

It would require the installation of several plugs for access. These could be installed without even tearing the engine down. Then a racer could be given the option of an engine tear down and or having inspection plugs installed in his engine allowing for much faster tecs.

I would consider either method above a tad anal but other racers would not feel the same way.

I am the type of person that would want to take the advantage away from people with hot rod motors. The simple rule of just adding extra weight for the old boat anchor zx12 motors made them obsolete, as if they needed help. The methanol weight did not do much to affect racer choice because most cars where already close to that weight anyhow. I would like to see this rule reversed and make the gasoline cars carry an extra 50 pounds. For one thing it is easier to cheat with gasoline, for the other thing methanol is a much safer fuel in case of a wreck and fire. It would be prudent to persuade the racers over to methanol as the fuel of choice. If for no other reason than "SAFETY". With our 60 psi flame throwers, gasoline could be a real problem in a wreck when the fuel line is knocked loose and the fuel pump does not shut off automatically.

The secret is finally, out it does not take a ton of money to convert one of these things over to methanol, there are already economy conversions on the market and DIY people can do it even cheaper. There are even automatic fuel pump cut off devices out there.

If a driver is too good for the competition make them carry extra weight. If built motors are too fast on larger tracks go for a smaller right rear tire.

Work on making the cars competitive don't worry weather or not the little 600cc cars are faster than us. If you let one of them 600cc guys drive an upright 1000 cc car they will be hooked and probably be looking for a car.

If I was just starting out I would want to feel the class I was considering was competitive and that anyone including myself would have the chance to run up front, whether they own a $4500.00 starter car or a $20,000 super duper pooper scooper all out brand new race car. We just can't outlaw money.

Honest Dad himself