Originally Posted by 98arpy:
I brought this up a while back but now have more information.
The crate engine sprint program is expanding. It started in Ohsweken Speedway in Canada with the 602 crate engine. In their first year they are getting close to 20 cars and everyone is happy with the program and are very competitive.
They are also running with the 305s at Mercer in PA.
Wilmot Speedway in Wisconsin just announce they are adding a crate engine division next year and are leaning towards the 604 engine.
The main difference is that the 602 engines at a $3,200 cost and a no rebuild policy versus $5,700 for the 604 engine that allows rebuilds at approved rebuilders.
Both run carbs on alcohol.
So far the 602 tracks are running with wings and Wilmot will be non-wing but the cars can run either way.
Racesaver 305 engines are advertised from $10,000 to $17,000.
Larry Kemp
See, 10-17k for a 305?
Like I said.. The builders have picked up on the growth: as the demand increases, so do the prices.. Wanna run a sprint car? Take a gander at the classifieds page for good 410 engines, then consider that cost vs a 305.
In regards to the crate stuff, it levels the pockets and playing feild with horsepower. We've got crate stockcars and late models down here in the south. Lots of cars, great racing, and affordable. Eliminates deep pockets for winning races, and allows the technical chassis guys to get creative. Then you go back to winning races on the scales instead of by how much you spend on a ultralight crankshaft.
If I were to crunch the numbers between a crate sprint and crate sportsman monte carlo, I'd be willing to bet the costs may come out pretty close.
-Justin