After reviewing racer input regarding possible changes to the Automatic Horsepower Factoring System (AHFS), the NHRA Technical department is releasing the following changes for the 2004 season.

"In August, the NHRA Technical department, through NHRA.com and National DRAGSTER, presented the AHFS changes being considered to the racers who would be affected by these changes. By an almost unanimous voice, the racers agreed these changes would enhance the current system," said Len Imbrogno, Director of Sportsman Racing and Member Tracks. "NHRA is striving to create a better balance between all the cars and combinations and, by making subtle changes to the Automatic Horsepower Factoring System, over time we can achieve this goal. "

In an effort to streamline the process, as well as give a more level effect for varying seasonal weather conditions, the tech department has adopted the following changes for 2004:

1. Beginning Jan. 1, 2004, the AHFS evaluation period will be conducted on a twice per year basis; once at the midpoint of the year and the other at the conclusion of the racing calendar.

2. Any run less than 0.50-under the index will no longer be used in the averages for horsepower changes. This will help filter out runs that are way under the index in categories that have a large number of cars competing.

3. For 2004, two runs by the same combination or the same class that are 1.15-second or quicker under the index during the evaluation period will trigger the AHFS process. 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. This will help filter out "one-time fast runs" in categories where there are one or few numbers of a specific combination.

4. With the other changes proposed and a harder criteria for combinations to be effected, the top end of the AHFS will be adjusted down from the current 1.50-second under to the 1.40-second under to control any runaway situations. Therefore, beginning next season, an immediate horsepower or index adjustment will occur if any car runs 1.40 and under. As last year, this will be in affect at national, divisional, and national open events.

These changes will not affect the final AHFS evaluation period in 2003.