Circle Track October 2017

Happy 35th Anniversary, readers! Before I dive too far into this month’s column, I’d like to say what an honor it’s been to be part of this historic and wonderful publication. I’d also like to thank you for your continued support. It’s obvious that we wouldn’t be able to keep doing this without all of you. This month’s issue was a lot of fun to put together. You’ll notice stories comparing where things were 35 years ago versus where they are now. You’ll also notice a few things have been moved around a little bit. Don’t worry. We’ll be back to normal in the next issue. We just wanted to make sure we could cram in as much good anniversary content as possible. The evolution of Circle Track and short-track…

I was made aware recently of a couple of incidences of complete disregard for safety and equipment at a couple of tracks. I won’t go into detail about whom or where, you can Google search on Youtube to find videos, I’m sure. But in both instances, everyone watching was asking the lead title question. In the first, the driver got out of a car that had begun to burn. The “fire-safety” truck crew drove up behind the car, downwind of the smoke no less, and then proceeded to watch as the car nearly burned to the ground with no effort to put it out. The driver and a helper from somewhere grabbed fire extinguishers out of the “fire-safety” truck and were able to put out the flames. It’s one thing…

Writer’s note: When your editor, Matt Panure, and I discussed this month’s “Enginology”, he suggested that I share some of my experiences around that point in time when CT was evolving. That was a very polite way of suggesting that I’m old, but I decided to follow his recommendation to depart from our regular format and drag up a few topics that might be worth discussing. He also urged me to share any overriding perspectives I might have about writing technical material. Once he reads this, it may turn out to be the last time he makes such a request. If you’ve had an opportunity to read the C.J. Baker piece in this month’s issue, you’re aware of how the magazine came to be. And in that context, you also likely…

A Classic Build I race up at Kalamazoo Speedway in Kalamazoo, Michigan—a NASCARsanctioned track. I am thirdgeneration racer, and our team has won more than 34 championships. This year we have built one of the nicest race cars I have seen. I race the Pro Stock Class. Although, a majority of the racers in my class are running ’80 to ’88 Monte Carlos. I have built a 55 Chevy. —Josh Garrett That is a great-looking car! We have been seeing more and more of these types of bodies showing up in Street Stock and Pro Stock Classes. It’s nice to see something a little out of the norm on the track. They sure are a great conversation starter, as well. Thanks for sharing your pictures and good luck this season.…

Weiand’s IMCA Approved SBC Manifold The 7541-1 Weiand X-CELerator manifold is now approved for the IMCA Stock Car and Sport Mod Classes. This aluminum intake has the common Holley 4150 fourbarrel bolt pattern and fits the ’57 to ’86 small-block Chevy 262-400 iron heads and 1987 and later GM factory aluminum heads. The intake has an effective rpm range of 2,000rpm to 6,500rpm and works best at a higher compression ratio. The manufacturer recommends using a 650- to 750-cfm Holley HP carb. For more information call (866) 464-6553 or visit www.holley.com. Next-Gen Quick Change for Crates Winters Performance has the Quick Change you need for your crate-engine car. The Second- Generation Quick Change takes performance to a new level with a full-size, lightweight magnesium housed rear axle featuring an 8-inch…

PRESENTED BY 1 K&K INSURANCE HONORED BY INDIANA RACING MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION Fort Wayne, Indiana—K&K Insurance Group was recognized by Indiana Racing Memorial Association during a dedication ceremony held May 2017. The company was recognized as a vital component of Indiana’s motorsports industry and history. During the dedication ceremony, the Indiana General Assembly and Mayor Tom Henry issued official proclamations making May 10 K&K Insurance Day in the state of Indiana and the city of Fort Wayne. A permanent marker was also placed in front of the home office during the ceremony. K&K Insurance was originally founded by Nord and Teddi Krauskopk to help provide racers with insurance products. Nord was a team owner and sponsor, which gave him insider perspective for the coverage needs of the motorsports industry. K&K Insurance…