ParkerTech Racing Services has signed Danny Townsend to drive their Lane Automotive Dodge R/T Top Alcohol Funny Car in the 2004 NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series.

Townsend, from Muncie, Ind., is well known in Top Alcohol Funny Car racing. He has brought home seven NHRA Division 3 Championships and won numerous NHRA national events.

Townsend is pleased with his new ride, saying "I've watched the Lane Automotive team grow from a start-up three years ago to a top contender. Having owned, tuned and driven my own cars, I'm looking forward to this great opportunity to concentrate just on driving."

Dan Parker, co-crew chief and father of team owner Frank, can't wait for the season to start. "Danny and I raced against each other in Competition Eliminator, so I know first hand what he can do," he said.

The Lane Automotive team also welcomes aboard Mark "Sleeve" Gildersleeve and Barry Pilatowski. Sleeve, who recently retired Mopar Performance, will be responsible for the clutch system. Pilatowski is the owner of Audio Video Architecture in Toledo, Ohio. He will assist Sleeve with the clutch and Rob Cunningham with other between-round duties. John Oen will again be applying his famous cooking skills to keep the team fueled and to enhance sponsor hospitality.