MHKitchen@aol.com wrote:
>
> Ely;
>
> I hear you and agree. A "spec" series (like Fords) can equalize things much
> more than some of the other classes. It can also work to keep costs "in
> line" (you can spend as much as you want, but the low budget racer can also
> be competitive).
>
> I've raced open wheels myself in the past (Ford and Russell/Mazda) and found
> them to be competitive and fun, but personally, I prefer having fenders (and
> a roof, esp when its raining!).
>
> Along these lines, I just received a mailing yesterday from RMVR, announcing
> a new engine policy aimed at keeping "cheaters" in line. It requires
> everyone to submit an "engine displacement form" filled out by the owner, and
> engine builder (if applicable). Random physical inspections will be done at
> the tracks, including pumping for displacement. Racers are required to bring
> the necessary gaskets to facilitate pumping. Pumping would start on those
> who are much faster than other similar cars in their class. New and/or
> rebuilt engines require a "sign off" of the bore/stroke before the head is
> assembled.
>
> Anyone found with "illegal" motors will be removed from the event results and
> will be listed (along with the engine builder....I see attorneys waiting in
> line...) in the RMVR newsletter. Falsifying the form will result in a "major
> penalty".
>
> As one who prefers to drive, rather than wrench, I find this an onerous and
> potentially expensive requirement. I would suggest a "tear down" bond be
> posted, like SCCA does (used to do?).
>
> There certainly needs to be a balance between what's authentic and original,
> and what's safe and cost effective. I agree that radical changes can be
> argued to be safer, but a line needs to be drawn. The problem is one line
> just doesn't work for every case. A suggestion is that each race group
> (i.e. EP, DP, BSR, FF, FV, etc.) have their own technical committe, made up
> of racing participants who set the rules and draw the lines for each class.
> If the AP guys agree that roll cages that locate suspension points are OK,
> then so be it. CSRG at least queried all the production car drivers prior to
> laying down new tire rules. The results have been well accepted by all the
> production car people as far as I can tell. This, more interactive, approach
> seems to work well.
>
> Its also interesting to note that often times those that complain the loudest
> are not the ones competing regularly and supporting their local club(s).....
>
> Myles
Pumping engines for displacement has been done by SVRA on a random basis
for the past couple of years, especially on production based vehicles.
According to Jack Woehrle, Chief Scrutineer (vintage term, O.K.?) for
SVRA, the overwhelming majority of the cars he has tested are of legal
displacement. All of the front running cars in SVRA should expect to be
tested at least once per season.
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