Based on feedback from Racer Soundoff responses through NHRA.com and other conversations throughout the year concerning the Automatic Horsepower Factoring System (AHFS), the NHRA technical department is proposing the following changes for the 2004 season. In an effort to streamline the process, as well as give a more level effect for varying seasonal weather conditions, the tech department has developed the following proposed changes:

1. Limit the analysis and changes of the AHFS to two periods per year, instead of the current three evaluations. This adjustment would lower the impact of the good weather conditions that triggered changes in the first adjustments under the current system. It would balance out the spring condition with summer-like conditions.

2. Any run less than 0.50-under the index will not be used in the averages for horsepower changes. This will take away some of the problems encountered when a person has a vehicle that runs fast at one event and then goes to the next race and sandbags to pull down the average. It will also make a difference in those classes with high car counts with the same combination. The slower runs have pulled down the average where the combination is not being factored; under the new proposal, the slower times would not have the same impact.

3. Make it mandatory that two runs by the same combination or the same class that are 1.15-second or quicker under the index are required to trigger the system within a given period. This will help those who have a one-time fast run. It will also serve the needs of the few racers who are the only participant using a particular combination. With the change, two runs from the same driver or two different drivers would have to be posted to trigger the system and cause changes.

4. Change the 1.50-second and under automatic hit at any race (national, divisional, National Open) to 1.400-second and under. With the other changes proposed and a harder criteria for combinations to be affected, the top end of the AHFS needs to be adjusted down from the current 1.50-second under to the proposed 1.40-second under to control any runaway situation.

As a reminder, these are just proposed changes for the 2004 season, and the NHRA Technical department is seeking your feedback on these proposals. Send your comments, concerns, and opinions on the proposed restructuring of AHFS to racerinput@nhra.com.