NHRA News: Alcohol Class Rule Proposals For 2005 (08/27/2003)

Alcohol Class Rule Proposals For 2005

08/26/2004

Below are the proposals for Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car that have been given consideration for implementation in 2005.

To allow the use of automatic (rpm based) shifters in Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car. This request is for both the low-to-second shift and both shifts. This rule change is designed to help teams save parts, reduce the amount of breakage, and improve the quality of the program.

To require an oil-retention device below the engine and/or driveline components for Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car, similar to the rule enforced in Funny Car and Top Fuel in 2004. This measure is designed to have the same effect on the Pro Sportsman show as it has on the Professional level, by helping reduce the amount of oil, and strengthen the divisional shows.

The third proposal deals with parachutes in both Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car. The proposal wording is based primarily on the current Pro Stock requirement.

In Top Alcohol Dragster, the request would change the current wording to read, "Dual parachutes mandatory. Parachutes must be assisted by a launcher system - either air or spring - that is located behind the parachute pack. A pilot spring does not constitute a launcher but is acceptable as a secondary launch unit. Rear of parachute pack can not be forward of rear edge of rear tires. Forward/mounting surface of parachute pack must be installed at an angle of at least 15 degrees forward of vertical. Pneumatic launcher must use minimum 3/8-inch O.D. line; can not use separate air supply from other pneumatic functions. Two separate shroud line mounting points mandatory. A bushing over the mounting bolts is mandatory. See General Regulations 4:8."

For Top Alcohol Funny Car, the rule would read, "Dual parachutes mandatory. Parachutes must be assisted by a launcher system - either air or spring - that is located behind the parachute pack. A pilot spring does not constitute a launcher but is acceptable as a secondary launch unit. Rear of parachute pack can not be forward of rear tip of spoiler. Forward/mounting surface of parachute pack must be installed at an angle of at least 15 degrees forward of vertical. Pneumatic launcher must use minimum 3/8-inch O.D. line; can not use separate air supply from other pneumatic functions. Two separate shroud line mounting points mandatory. A bushing over the mounting bolts is mandatory. See General Regulations 4:8."

Require a standardized tow hook for Top Alcohol Funny Car. This proposal would speed up the program at both national and divisional events.

Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car racers are asked to review the proposed changes and provide input to the NHRA tech department by sending comments to racerinput@nhra.com.