Could this be a growing trend?

Posted By: tboomer

Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 01:18 PM

While attending local bracket races,I talked to a couple of different drivers that have cars that are quite capable of running mid to upper 9.xxs. They have slowed down to run 10.10s or so and couldn't be happier. I believe the reasoning is they no longer have to do all of the crap that is required by the NHRA 9.99 and faster rules. On the other hand,I see the same cars running Sportsman(12.0 and slower) year after year. And a lot of these cars are a lot faster than 12.0! Sandbaggers!!!

This really discourages the people that are new to the sport watching the same cars win week after week...Discuss??

Posted By: Mr.Yuck

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 01:23 PM

I can see why somebody would want to slow it down from 9.90 to 10.0 but to run a 10 second car in a 12.0 index class is just wrong. I'm not a fan of index racing as it puts most racers in a class they either have to push to make et or sandbag away.

Posted By: smokinwoody

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 01:36 PM

they made it all a big bracket brawl.....

Posted By: tboomer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 01:38 PM

After I won the footbrake championship in 2006,I went up to Pro..My car went from 12.xxs to 11.30s. Can't remember what we did to it..I did win a few rounds but most of the time I had my butt handed to me!!

Posted By: moparacer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 01:49 PM

I went from running low 9s with a full fire suit in my Dart last year to running Mid 11s in a T shirt this year.

Posted By: MR_P_BODY

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 02:12 PM

I slowed my car from 8.90s to 10.0... I cant get my
NHRA license anymore so I didnt have a choice and it
is a lot cheaper due to certs and safety equipment..
before I started running 9s racing was more fun

Posted By: Dragula

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 02:15 PM

Quote:

I went from running low 9s with a full fire suit in my Dart last year to running Mid 11s in a T shirt this year.

The index racing I do not care for. Ran it once, and to say it didn't work out, is an understatement. Maybe if I had a car more suited to that, but I do not like slowing it down.

As for avoiding the 9.99 thing, I completely agree. I am working on getting our car legal for 9.99 or quicker, which I think all I need now is a -5 jacket and my license, but I plan on slowing it down for next season. Got into enough trouble without some of the gear, and I just can't see wearing a warmer jacket and such just to go a few tenths quicker...There are a number of rules for that ET that really do add up in cost...

We had a bad accident at our track a few weeks ago, and since then, they have annouced full enforcement of all the rules will be in place for the next race. We were lucky and just had $1k worth of upgrades and are almost totally legal. I think the solid throttle cable and gas pedal toe hook are the only two items left for us which I was not aware of...And apherently is what went wrong during the accident that got the driver impailed with a fence post at our track.

Posted By: tboomer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 02:27 PM

Whether I drive or not,I would like to see mine between 10.10-10.20...

Posted By: 73swinger

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 03:58 PM

If you move up to pro (ET wise) you should not be allowed to sandbag in a slower class, unless you truly de-tune the car to fit the class again.

Rock Falls has told people to run where they belong.

Posted By: moparacer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 04:06 PM

I should have been more clear. I have a Dart that runs low 9's but I am running my 11 sec. Barracuda Street car in footbrake this year.

I would never try to slow a car down 2 seconds without swapping to a lower HP engine.

I dont post my sob stories on here but I could ramble on for days about how trying to go fast has cost me wheelbarrow loads of money over the years.

Decided I would go slow and actually try to make it a whole season without breaking a bunch of stuff.

Posted By: MRMOPAR622

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 04:07 PM

I as well as most others stay away from the Tracks that want to go overboard on the rules!They may own the track an can enforce/make any rules they want,but they can't make you race there!It usually takes them about a year,of no one racing at their track to see the light.That's not the prefered way to do business but some times the only method that works.

Attached picture 7785658-mmp05.jpg.jpg

Posted By: StealthWedge67

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 04:09 PM

I only get out a few times a year. I'll be out this next weekend, and I anticipate the Satellite going 11.70's. I will, however, dial in at 12.00 no matter how fast it goes in order to stay in the sportsman bracket. I don't belong in Pro, up against regular's driving race-specific cars. Call it sandbagging if you want, but I want to have fun when I go to the track; In sportsman, I at least have a chance to be competitive. In Pro, I'm a duck.

Posted By: 73swinger

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 04:53 PM

Quote:

I only get out a few times a year. I'll be out this next weekend, and I anticipate the Satellite going 11.70's. I will, however, dial in at 12.00 no matter how fast it goes in order to stay in the sportsman bracket. I don't belong in Pro, up against regular's driving race-specific cars. Call it sandbagging if you want, but I want to have fun when I go to the track; In sportsman, I at least have a chance to be competitive. In Pro, I'm a duck.

I have no issues with occasional racers slowing down. I was directing comment more about people who do it in a points series at a local track. 9 or 10 second car in a 12.00 sportsman class is pushing it IMO, but i can always use my brakes at the top end and let them go by.

Posted By: 383man

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 05:22 PM

I understand not wanting to go faster then 10.0 in some cars. Thats how I feel about my 63 that if I make it a little faster over the next 10 or so years I wont make it in the 9's as I dont want to. But its a street car and I dont want to put a full cage in it since I drive it on the street alot and I dont have to worry about the other issue's when in the 9's. I dont bracket race much but when I do I dail my car by how fast it runs that day. Ron

Posted By: 383man

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 05:25 PM

Quote:

I only get out a few times a year. I'll be out this next weekend, and I anticipate the Satellite going 11.70's. I will, however, dial in at 12.00 no matter how fast it goes in order to stay in the sportsman bracket. I don't belong in Pro, up against regular's driving race-specific cars. Call it sandbagging if you want, but I want to have fun when I go to the track; In sportsman, I at least have a chance to be competitive. In Pro, I'm a duck.

You know I dont look at it like that. I dont race alot but I look at it like if I can cut a decent light with my car and run the number I dail I have as much a chance to win as anyone else. Course most of the time either my light or et is off.

Ron

Posted By: Sixpak

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 06:10 PM

Quote:

While attending local bracket races,I talked to a couple of different drivers that have cars that are quite capable of running mid to upper 9.xxs. They have slowed down to run 10.10s or so and couldn't be happier. I believe the reasoning is they no longer have to do all of the crap that is required by the NHRA 9.99 and faster rules. On the other hand,I see the same cars running Sportsman(12.0 and slower) year after year. And a lot of these cars are a lot faster than 12.0! Sandbaggers!!! This really discourages the people that are new to the sport watching the same cars win week after week...Discuss??

Slowing down from 9.90 to run 10's and not deal with the headache makes sense to me.
On the question of 'sandbagging' - to me, it depends how they are sandbagging. If they took timing out of the car, mechanically adjusted a mechanical secondary throttle stop prior to the race, or did it all with their foot, or via some other non electronic or pneumatic/hydraulic means, I might be more ok with it, than if it were done purely with say a pneumatic throttle stop under the carb, or they dialed it in via their ECU. Technically speaking most of the Super class cars do exactly what you are describing - they are built to run 1 - 2 seconds under the index and then slowed down/stopped to run the number.
I know it takes a certain amount of skill and know how to adjust throttle stops, electronic timers and such in Super class racing but I am more impressed if the guy can run the number without the electro-mechanical aids.
I also knew of a 12.0 bracket racer that if he had run a 4 barrel on the car it would have been in the low 11's, yet he chose to run a 4412 2 barrel. The car was very consistent with the 2 barrel. Was he sand bagging, or just building a savvy combo?
I'd also be interested in hearing from those who build an 8.0 motor and slow it down to go 10.0, rather than build a 10.0 motor and run it to the ragged edge of performance. Does the 8.0 motor live longer, require less maintenance, cost less in the long run?
And as far as those 12.0 sand baggers who could run a lot faster, and win a lot? I guess you see someone often enough in the winner circle ya get to not liking it...like John Force..

I know I feel that way..

No one said everyone eventually wins, and for those who get discouraged, well, that's just tough...pay your dues and learn ...

Posted By: Cab_Burge

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 06:34 PM

I decided to not go through the hassle of buying all new safety gear and the licensing process and expenses of running my new car in Super Po in excess of 9.99. I found out the hard way this past weekend that I can't have it run faster than 135 MPH also

I ran the car last month at Woodburn and it accidentilly ran 9:23 at 143. MPH, I was playing with the adjustments on the delay box and throttle stop, I missed the mark a bunch on the fastest run

I ran the car again at Woodburn this past weekend and ran 10:12 at 143.+ MPH, then 10:13 at 143.+ MPH with no changes other than time and running the other lane

I changed the shift RPM from 6600 to 6800 RPM and that picked the car up to run 10:05 at 143.+ MPH. I was thinking I had everything figured out,

first round I was not allow to race by the track management based on the car not being in certification and me not being licensed or having all the appropriate driving gear

I tried to fight them on that but they where able to show me that rule in the rule book on running faster than 135.0 MPH being a trigger also

I ended up trying to slow the car down on using the throttle stop a second time near the end of the run on Sunday, I turned it on a 9.0 seconds after releasing the trans. brake and never ran over 126.7 MPH on Sunday. I sure wish that NHRA would send us a rule book still, instead if having to go line or spend another $10.00 to get one

Rant Off

Posted By: RBDuster

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 09:41 PM

I like going fast but am in the process of building a 383 to slow the car down to low 10's. Anyone want a good low run 470?

Posted By: kissmyaspen

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 10:18 PM

Quote:

While attending local bracket races,I talked to a couple of different drivers that have cars that are quite capable of running mid to upper 9.xxs. They have slowed down to run 10.10s or so and couldn't be happier. I believe the reasoning is they no longer have to do all of the crap that is required by the NHRA 9.99 and faster rules. On the other hand,I see the same cars running Sportsman(12.0 and slower) year after year. And a lot of these cars are a lot faster than 12.0! Sandbaggers!!! This really discourages the people that are new to the sport watching the same cars win week after week...Discuss??

What you have people watching on a regular bracket race???? that's crazy.. but sometime you have the same people winning because they are the ones who do it week after week.. work hard and get the rewards....

and its bracket racing you have to do the same thing over and over.. and plus anyone can be beat on any day.

Posted By: dennismopar73

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 10:45 PM

MY 2 cents? I think people slow down cars to run in different classes so they can go back to winning,! It used to be you started out slow, got better faster,more equipment on the car you moved up classes ,Now when most get there everyone see all those heavy hitters on there , with bigger faster cars, and have trouble competeing so they jump back a class or too , then start dominating the lower classes, then it comes to a reverse domino effect, to the point where even the kids in street can not compete because there are dominating cars in it instead of street cars.Pretty sad when you see three o more s-pro cars pro cars running in street and sportsman all in 1 night

Posted By: bigtimeauto

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/22/13 11:58 PM

My s-10 will run 9.30 but I slow it down to run 10oh and dbbl enter it in the bracket race. Its so nice, no window net, no full cage, thin fire jacket, no fire pants, no gloves.......just makes for a fun day not to mention now i'm only taking it to 7K instead of 7800. Less maintenance!

Posted By: racealittle

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 12:01 AM

Quote:

I decided to not go through the hassle of buying all new safety gear and the licensing process and expenses of running my new car in Super Po in excess of 9.99. I found out the hard way this past weekend that I can't have it run faster than 135 MPH also I ran the car last month at Woodburn and it accidentilly ran 9:23 at 143. MPH, I was playing with the adjustments on the delay box and throttle stop, I missed the mark a bunch on the fastest run I ran the car again at Woodburn this past weekend and ran 10:12 at 143.+ MPH, then 10:13 at 143.+ MPH with no changes other than time and running the other lane I changed the shift RPM from 6600 to 6800 RPM and that picked the car up to run 10:05 at 143.+ MPH. I was thinking I had everything figured out, first round I was not allow to race by the track management based on the car not being in certification and me not being licensed or having all the appropriate driving gear I tried to fight them on that but they where able to show me that rule in the rule book on running faster than 135.0 MPH being a trigger also I ended up trying to slow the car down on using the throttle stop a second time near the end of the run on Sunday, I turned it on a 9.0 seconds after releasing the trans. brake and never ran over 126.7 MPH on Sunday. I sure wish that NHRA would send us a rule book still, instead if having to go line or spend another $10.00 to get one Rant Off

Cab you are better than that. Nothing has changed in the rule books with respect to a given ET and MPH. If you exceed one, the other, or both; you have to accept the fact that you are too fast for "their defined rules and circumstances".

Once you can't accept the rules, it is time to move on to where the rules are different, or get a new hobby. I have moved on to enjoying the car more with less and still have the necessary combinations of parts to get me in trouble with the rules in sanctioned racing. There is always No-ET racing if you can find it.

Posted By: Dragula

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 12:23 AM

Quote:

I like going fast but am in the process of building a 383 to slow the car down to low 10's. Anyone want a good low run 470?

I might be....Send me a PM with info.

Posted By: ProSport

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 03:18 AM

Quote:

I might be....Send me a PM with info.

RBDuster's engines are always fast, reliable, and consistent.

My Dart ran 9.80's so it was always very easy for me to back down to 10.00 at the strict tracks.

Posted By: 493_DART

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 09:24 AM

my car went 6.40 and then showed 60/330 times that were even quicker .

As soon as the track says something, I will back it down. We already have the COMPLETE B.S 2 year belt rule and now the new INSANE locking dipstick deal...

Im not paying $$$$$$ just to go 6.39.

I used to support the NHRA ,but now that Ive gotten into racing a faster car over the years....I am starting to despise them due to the fact they are raping the small racers with silly un necessary rules so they can make kickback money.

new nhra rule for 2014 = SFI helmet revision 32.1 = you must have an sfi approved , brand new helmet EVERY year .

Posted By: Dragula

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 11:34 AM

Quote:

my car went 6.40 and then showed 60/330 times that were even quicker .

As soon as the track says something, I will back it down. We already have the COMPLETE B.S 2 year belt rule and now the new INSANE locking dipstick deal...

Im not paying $$$$$$ just to go 6.39.

I used to support the NHRA ,but now that Ive gotten into racing a faster car over the years....I am starting to despise them due to the fact they are raping the small racers with silly un necessary rules so they can make kickback money.

new nhra rule for 2014 = SFI helmet revision 32.1 = you must have an sfi approved , brand new helmet EVERY year .

I am finding out it costs some cash to update the car for all the 9.99/6.49 rules. Why are all the rules seemingly applied at that speed?

Posted By: Sammy

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 12:30 PM

new nhra rule for 2014 = SFI helmet revision 32.1 = you must have an sfi approved , brand new helmet EVERY year .

Show me this in the NHRA rulebook.

Posted By: MR_P_BODY

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 12:42 PM

Quote:

my car went 6.40 and then showed 60/330 times that were even quicker .

As soon as the track says something, I will back it down. We already have the COMPLETE B.S 2 year belt rule and now the new INSANE locking dipstick deal...

Im not paying $$$$$$ just to go 6.39.

I used to support the NHRA ,but now that Ive gotten into racing a faster car over the years....I am starting to despise them due to the fact they are raping the small racers with silly un necessary rules so they can make kickback money.

new nhra rule for 2014 = SFI helmet revision 32.1 = you must have an sfi approved , brand new helmet EVERY year .

Can you post up the new helmet rule.. I didnt see it

Posted By: pattyboy 572

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 12:44 PM

SFI 32.1 = stock car fuel cell bladder???? helmet???

http://www.sfifoundation.com/Spec_32.1_032409.pdf

Posted By: Dragula

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 12:58 PM

Is there a rule for the diapers at 9.99?

Posted By: FlyFish

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 01:23 PM

I worked HARD at trying to slow my car down so I could run in Sportsman this year. I am only doing this for this year mainly as a money saving effort, but also because I LOVE foot brake racing (I don't have a T-brake), and I LOVE to race 1/4 mile. Pro at my track is all 1/8 mile, and the only foot brake category is sportsman at my track.

Yes, my car will run 10.80's (6.8's in the 1/8) and I normally compete in Pro. It took a while, but I de-tuned my car to run 12.0x under full throttle. NO I'm not sandbagging....the guys that try to dial 12.00 with a low 11 second car and hold you by a fender usually go home first round. Here's what I did:

1. Removed secondaries.
2. Retard timing to 32�.
3. Installed super small restrictive air cleaner (I had it sitting on a shelf).
4. Short shift at 5200 RPM.
5. Added as much weight to the car as possible (safely).
6. Launch the car in second gear.

All that to loose ~ 1.2 seconds, but it is very consistent and it didn't cost me a dime to do it.

And no, I didn't switch classes because I sucked at driving. I have always finished in the top 10 in points (except for last year when I broke my rear end...hence, the trying to save money this year). I'm currently tied for 1st place in point in the Monster Mopar points (sportsman category), and 4th or 5th in points at my local track (because it took me the first 3 races to figure out how to slow my car down correctly).

For all you haters out there...flame on

Posted By: MRMOPAR622

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 02:22 PM

Has anyone thought about running at a different track where they don't have or enforce all the BS rules?*?I can put a few more gallons of fuel in the truck and "Keep On Trucking" right passed tracks like that on my way to another!

If Racers won't race at those kind of tracks,they have only 2 choices back of some of the BS rules or close the track either one works for me.

"THINK ABOUT IT"

Posted By: tboomer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 02:41 PM

Hey,Billy!! I am feeling pretty good today...Here is another crap rule from my home track...For the big money,the winner of Pro has a run off with the winner of Super Pro...I have seen a Pro car win once in a while but not too often...Now I know how fast your car is.

So...You pull that box and run 1/8th mile against my beater and let's see how ya do!!

Just funnin' ya,buddy!!

Posted By: moparacer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 02:46 PM

Quote:

Quote:

my car went 6.40 and then showed 60/330 times that were even quicker .

As soon as the track says something, I will back it down. We already have the COMPLETE B.S 2 year belt rule and now the new INSANE locking dipstick deal...

Im not paying $$$$$$ just to go 6.39.

I used to support the NHRA ,but now that Ive gotten into racing a faster car over the years....I am starting to despise them due to the fact they are raping the small racers with silly un necessary rules so they can make kickback money.

new nhra rule for 2014 = SFI helmet revision 32.1 = you must have an sfi approved , brand new helmet EVERY year .

Can you post up the new helmet rule.. I didnt see it

Yes link to the new helmet every year rule please.

Posted By: 73swinger

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 02:56 PM

Quote:

I worked HARD at trying to slow my car down so I could run in Sportsman this year. I am only doing this for this year mainly as a money saving effort, but also because I LOVE foot brake racing (I don't have a T-brake), and I LOVE to race 1/4 mile. Pro at my track is all 1/8 mile, and the only foot brake category is sportsman at my track.

Yes, my car will run 10.80's (6.8's in the 1/8) and I normally compete in Pro. It took a while, but I de-tuned my car to run 12.0x under full throttle. NO I'm not sandbagging....the guys that try to dial 12.00 with a low 11 second car and hold you by a fender usually go home first round. Here's what I did:

1. Removed secondaries.
2. Retard timing to 32�.
3. Installed super small restrictive air cleaner (I had it sitting on a shelf).
4. Short shift at 5200 RPM.
5. Added as much weight to the car as possible (safely).
6. Launch the car in second gear.

All that to loose ~ 1.2 seconds, but it is very consistent and it didn't cost me a dime to do it.

And no, I didn't switch classes because I sucked at driving. I have always finished in the top 10 in points (except for last year when I broke my rear end...hence, the trying to save money this year). I'm currently tied for 1st place in point in the Monster Mopar points (sportsman category), and 4th or 5th in points at my local track (because it took me the first 3 races to figure out how to slow my car down correctly).

For all you haters out there...flame on

I wouldn't hate on that, you truly slowed the car down.

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

Posted By: tboomer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 03:07 PM

Quote:

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

Great question,Chris! I would think you would get the win....

Unless your opponet was one of the track managers "favorites"

Posted By: bigtimeauto

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 03:10 PM

Quote:

[

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

Posted By: Mr.Yuck

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 03:17 PM

Quote:

Quote:

[

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

no

I think (but could be wrong) double breakout 1st to finish wins, although I have won after seeing my win light come on and hitting the breaks just to make sure.

Posted By: 73swinger

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 03:20 PM

Quote:

Quote:

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

Great question,Chris! I would think you would get the win.... Unless your opponet was one of the track managers "favorites"

My thought was that I should be advancing on that one, I've always wondered about that situation. I don't have to deal with it at Rock Falls, as we don't have a sportsman class. I race trophy 9.0 to 12.99 trans. brakes allowed.

Ted, do let me know who I should be watching for sandbagging when I come to race sportsman at Cedar Falls.

Posted By: MR_P_BODY

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 03:21 PM

Lesser break out wins

Posted By: Jeepmon

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 04:09 PM

I'm starting to become a BIG fan of running 10.90 @ 157 mph...

Posted By: an8sec70cuda

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 04:40 PM

Quote:

Has anyone thought about running at a different track where they don't have or enforce all the BS rules?*?I can put a few more gallons of fuel in the truck and "Keep On Trucking" right passed tracks like that on my way to another! If Racers won't race at those kind of tracks,they have only 2 choices back of some of the BS rules or close the track either one works for me. "THINK ABOUT IT"

This is what I do. The only reason I ever got my cage cert'd and got my comp license was for the pump gas drags in Memphis. None of the tracks in the state of SC go by the rules. I think the only track in NC that goes by the rulebook is ZMax, but noone runs there anymore. ZMax is the only NHRA track around here. Everything else is either IHRA on not sanctioned.

To run mid 9s in my car, all I need is a helmet and single layer jacket. The jacket isn't required at my local track until you run faster than 6.50 in the 1/8. Most other tracks I run at don't care as long as you have a helmet...honestly, some of these little 1/8 mile tracks don't care if you have a helmet.

I let my cage cert expire, but I still have my comp license. It was a PITA to get, so I figure I'll keep it current.

Posted By: FastmOp

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 04:40 PM

I can slow my Valiant down from 5.90 to 6.50 with a 1/2 inch wrench and five seconds. I run a couple diffrent tracks and sometimes I will double enter it in B2 and 6.50 index. I leave it set to 6.50 when I do and use the B2 runs to dial in dead on 6.50. I like racing and the ET don't matter as long as I go rounds.
I rarely run it off the stop but the first 1.28 sixty after a month of 1.50's will remind you to raise the head rest on the bench seat lmao

Posted By: cudadoug

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 05:00 PM

Quote:

Quote:

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

Great question,Chris! I would think you would get the win.... Unless your opponet was one of the track managers "favorites"

Depends on the track. Back in the day, my 11.40 Dart would often be (nut and bolt) throttle stopped to 12.0X to be at the top of the Sportsman class. My local track changed that rule FOUR times in 2 seasons depending on who was complaining.

Posted By: Al_Alguire

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 05:21 PM

To each his own...

In my opinion you should run your car at a place you are comfortable and can AFFORD!! It is sad to me to see people out there running stuff they cannot afford, or seemingly cannot afford just to try and keep up with the jones'. So find a place that is comfortable financially and you want to race and then deal with the rules.

Posted By: slantzilla

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 05:34 PM

Quote:

I do have a senario question though.
Sportsman class, 12.0 cut off. What if, in eliminations, i dial my 12.60 opponent dials 12.01
I break out going 12.55 -.05, but opponent breaks out with an 11.98 -.03 ? I break out greater, but opponent breaks out of the class cut off.
Who advances? Does breaking class cut off cause an instant DQ in eliminations?
Just asking.

RT 66 used to throw you out if you broke out of class, but they don't anymore. Now it's only if you cross one of the safety equipment lines without said safety equipment on. (i.e. 9.99 on a 10.0 dial w/o jackets/pants/etc.)

I still think Sportsman should be for DOT street tires and mufflers only. Way too many Pro cars have parked in Sportsman to duck hunt.

Posted By: Cab_Burge

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 06:23 PM

Quote:

Cab you are better than that. Nothing has changed in the rule books with respect to a given ET and MPH. If you exceed one, the other, or both; you have to accept the fact that you are too fast for "their defined rules and circumstances".

Once you can't accept the rules, it is time to move on to where the rules are different, or get a new hobby. I have moved on to enjoying the car more with less and still have the necessary combinations of parts to get me in trouble with the rules in sanctioned racing. There is always No-ET racing if you can find it.

I had not seen or heard of the 135 MPH rule before being told about it on Saturday

My fault because it has been at the very front of the rule book in the ET rules and regulations for a long time evidentily

That is the only place it is mentioned or listed in the NHRA rule book

It(that limitation) is not in the general section or in any other location that I can find so the Stock and S/S/ racers can run in excess of 135 MPH with none of the safety equiptment that the ET racer is required to have once we go above 135.00 MPH

I traded my Duster off for this car due to E bodys selling easier than the A bodys do, my fault

Hopefully one of the several guys that express interest in this car at that race will buy it so I can move on to other endeavors

Posted By: Eric

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 07:19 PM

Quote:

Quote:

I went from running low 9s with a full fire suit in my Dart last year to running Mid 11s in a T shirt this year.

The index racing I do not care for. Ran it once, and to say it didn't work out, is an understatement. Maybe if I had a car more suited to that, but I do not like slowing it down.

As for avoiding the 9.99 thing, I completely agree. I am working on getting our car legal for 9.99 or quicker, which I think all I need now is a -5 jacket and my license, but I plan on slowing it down for next season. Got into enough trouble without some of the gear, and I just can't see wearing a warmer jacket and such just to go a few tenths quicker...There are a number of rules for that ET that really do add up in cost...

We had a bad accident at our track a few weeks ago, and since then, they have annouced full enforcement of all the rules will be in place for the next race. We were lucky and just had $1k worth of upgrades and are almost totally legal. I think the solid throttle cable and gas pedal toe hook are the only two items left for us which I was not aware of...And apherently is what went wrong during the accident that got the driver impailed with a fence post at our track.

What track and who wrecked??

Posted By: JSR1485

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 07:33 PM

Put a 2 barrel Carb on it, that will slow it down. I have friend that runs 11.50's just so he does not have to put a roll bar in his car and he runs with a Mechanical throttle stop, a bracket with a nut and bolt. Less of pain and more fun running in the 10's

Posted By: MRMOPAR622

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 08:47 PM

Quote:

Hey,Billy!! I am feeling pretty good today...Here is another crap rule from my home track...For the big money,the winner of Pro has a run off with the winner of Super Pro...I have seen a Pro car win once in a while but not too often...Now I know how fast your car is. So...You pull that box and run 1/8th mile against my beater and let's see how ya do!! Just funnin' ya,buddy!!

Now you are talking my kind of racing!

I wish the only box allowed was the oil,water temp and tach.and you either run a 3 or 4 speed your choice!

Not that its not now but put the driver in control of everything in the car and "Run what Ya Brung".

I like everybody else I am sick of having to jump through hoops to race.And I won't any more,and they have lighten up on the Rules other than needed safety rules,not just because of me but other racers as well won't race at their tracks.Get all the Racers together and go to the Track owner or who ever runs it and be frank with them,we have only one Track down here that sticks to his NHRA rules.He has 2-3 Big NHRA races a year and a Saturday night Bracket Race that does good to draw 20 cars total.

PS I understand what you are saying about the Pro vs Super Pro racer but don't mind it quite as bad being I am a S/P racer!

Down here we mostly have only 2 class Box & No Box,and they each have their own race.For some reason the Door-Cars want to run Door-Cars for the 1st 4 rounds then against the dragsters but I don't mind that.

Posted By: tboomer

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 09:32 PM

It would be fun...I know you piperack pilots have a little tougher time judging the 1/8th....I probably would take a whoopin but after I race someone...win or loose,I always make an effort to look them up and shake their hand and tell them good race!! Maybe next time!!

Posted By: quickd100

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/23/13 11:44 PM

Well I don't want to go faster than 10.0 in the truck, and probably a bit slower than that. The chassis just isn't stable enough to be running that fast. If it ever goes faster than 10.00 I will just bolt up the exhaust pipes and race through mufflers, ( they kill 117hp). I have to agree that in many cases it was more fun running 12's. Now it's try and make a pass without breaking or bending something.Dave

Posted By: MRMOPAR622

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 12:58 AM

Quote:

It would be fun...I know you piperack pilots have a little tougher time judging the 1/8th....I probably would take a whoopin but after I race someone...win or loose,I always make an effort to look them up and shake their hand and tell them good race!! Maybe next time!!

I try to be a good Sport as well! Had a Customer come up while ago before I finished but if the S/P & Pro each have their own race,I would ask for a small cash purse for each class,then another small purse for the winner between the Pro & S/P class winners.If enough racers asked for it,there's a good chance the track would go for it.Good Luck

Posted By: actionange

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 01:13 AM

Quote:

my car went 6.40 and then showed 60/330 times that were even quicker .

As soon as the track says something, I will back it down. We already have the COMPLETE B.S 2 year belt rule and now the new INSANE locking dipstick deal...

Im not paying $$$$$$ just to go 6.39.

I used to support the NHRA ,but now that Ive gotten into racing a faster car over the years....I am starting to despise them due to the fact they are raping the small racers with silly un necessary rules so they can make kickback money.

new nhra rule for 2014 = SFI helmet revision 32.1 = you must have an sfi approved , brand new helmet EVERY year .

And let's not forget header collector retention cables...
I did have one fall off last year but now have bolt together tabs on each and every tube but its still not gonna be legal.
If you weld them on you'll not need the cables.
They're available from Lokar a new NHRA sponsor...

Posted By: polyspheric

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 02:06 PM

they have annouced full enforcement of all the rules will be in place

Eventually, a smart lawyer is going to eat them for lunch. It begins with "On what engineering tests are the rules based?" (vapor lock).

Posted By: MR_P_BODY

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 02:28 PM

I really have to laugh at the locking trans dip stick..
I NEVER seen oil come out of it and you have a vent
down much lower than the top of the trans tube

Posted By: Dragula

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 02:47 PM

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

I went from running low 9s with a full fire suit in my Dart last year to running Mid 11s in a T shirt this year.

The index racing I do not care for. Ran it once, and to say it didn't work out, is an understatement. Maybe if I had a car more suited to that, but I do not like slowing it down.

As for avoiding the 9.99 thing, I completely agree. I am working on getting our car legal for 9.99 or quicker, which I think all I need now is a -5 jacket and my license, but I plan on slowing it down for next season. Got into enough trouble without some of the gear, and I just can't see wearing a warmer jacket and such just to go a few tenths quicker...There are a number of rules for that ET that really do add up in cost...

We had a bad accident at our track a few weeks ago, and since then, they have annouced full enforcement of all the rules will be in place for the next race. We were lucky and just had $1k worth of upgrades and are almost totally legal. I think the solid throttle cable and gas pedal toe hook are the only two items left for us which I was not aware of...And apherently is what went wrong during the accident that got the driver impailed with a fence post at our track.

What track and who wrecked??

It was Empire, and Skip Reap....I posted it on here, and almost nobody replied.

https://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Number=7756641

My work computer will not allow me to go to the gasser site, but its on there as well at:
Gasserracingseries.com

Posted By: cudasteve68

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 05:14 PM

A few of the tracks are allowing to double enter the same car. You are starting to see alot of pro cars double entering in street. Why does noone step up to super pro??? I can tell you now that pro is just as tight as super pro. With the new adjustable brake buttons you are basically running a non-adjustable delay box with out a bump down. When I say non-adjustable, I meen you can not roll numbers in & out with press of a button. you can add or remove shims, it just is a little more work. A buddy of mine stepped up from pro to super pro this year. He will be the first to tell you that there is next to no differance between the two. I have a buddy that got out of drag racing that has been bugging for a few years to run Pacemakers that allows you to double enter. If we were to do it i would not have a issue of footbraking it in super pro. What the heck, I still going to have to buy back after first round. lol

Posted By: slantzilla

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 05:35 PM

When RT 66 first opened Marlon Carter ran S/Pro and Pro footbraking the same car. He qualified for the Bracket Finals in both classes.

Posted By: Triple Threat

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 05:54 PM

A few of me and my buddies who normally run pro will enter super pro when its allowed. This weekend i'm taking part in a Door Car vs dragster shootout, and I'm doing it without a Box.

Posted By: JD Dart

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 06:21 PM

Good luck with that

Posted By: Dragula

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 08:11 PM

Quote:

Good luck with that

Sure a pipe rack with a glide has a better package for bracket racing, but you would be surprised at how consistant some of the foot brake door cars are...

We ran 4 runs two weeks ago, and 6.51, 6.52, 6.52, 6.50...Door car on a foot brake in the 1/8th mile gasser class. There was a considerable amount of time between runs as well, and the car still runs the number. We changed rear tire presure by 1-lb and that was the difference. Otherwise I bet all our runs would have been the same.

Posted By: Triple Threat

Re: Could this be a growing trend? - 07/24/13 09:14 PM

Quote:

Good luck with that

I like the challenge.