The SEB is all over the map on trying to write a revised rule for stock
shocks. You probably read the distilled draft of the rule in Fast-track last
issue. While I appreciate the effort, after mighty debate, it has brought
forth a rule that says that shocks for stock class cars cannot have remote
reservoirs. This isn't even close to good enough. The debate for all
practical purposes is dominated and limited to those very few stakeholders
with a vested interest in maintaining the status quo, which means more money
than everyone else would even consider spending, or that they make their
living at servicing them. It is not healthy for the sport, but I think they
were surprised to hear from an "ordinary" member. The response was
interesting. Someone on the SEB asked me (I think sincerely) for specific
language. I am proceeding on the premise that a Koni 2800 or a Penske on a
Stock car is as stupid as R Compounds and that a workable shock rule can be
centered around restrictions on cost. If you don't agree with that, you need
to write your own letter because thats where I'm coming from, and here is
what I have:
"It is the intent of this rule that Stock Class serve as the entry class to
the sport and that cost containment is of primary importance to that goal.
Shock absorbers costs are best controlled by limiting shocks to units
economical enough that outright replacement of a unit is the mandatory
alternative in lieu of rebuilding.
1) Shocks shall be limited to one external adjustment, except when OEM.
2) Shocks are limited to "off the shelf" units available for general
distribution street use to the public typically including, but not limited
to: OEM, Koni single adjustable, Bilstein, Tokiko, KYB, or available "house
brands", or other such units that meet the criteria and intent of the rule.
3) The use of Koni 2800, Olin, Penske, Fox, DMS, or other such units
specifically manufactured for the specialty racing market are specifically
disallowed.
4) Shocks shall be installed "as manufactured" and shall not be purchased
from a third party in a modified condition or opened up for any reason by an
entrant or a third party. Revalving, machining, or modifying a shock
absorber for any reason is specifically disallowed. Except as supplied as
OEM, the use of remote reservoirs, alloy bodies, adjustable perches, or
welded off coil-overs is prohibited.
5) Cost of each unit is limited to $250 per unit or 125% of OEM, whichever
is greater."
So, how close did I came? This gets added to the usual other stuff there.
Also, if anyone can tell me if the cost item #5 does not work for them (like
what does a 996 shock cost anyway?) or you can add to the list of
allowed/dis-allowed, I would appreciate it. The other smoke and mirror thing
you hear a lot of is enforceability (as though anyone who can get past a
dipstick couldn't find tons of legal horsepower and tons more of
undetectable horsepower) so they are worried that the guy in the next pit is
going to cheat. its just a screen to not change a situation that has evolved
to the ridiculous.
Be good,
Tony
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