I still don't know where this rule came from. Initially, it seems just another money making scheme for NHRA contingency sponsors.
Like a lot of you, we've been racing without header "tethers" for hundreds of years. Now, for sixty bucks you can buy an approved pair of hose clamps and a length of garage door cable.
Gimme a break.
"Old age and treachery trumps youth and enthusiasm, every time!"