NEWS ABOUT THE DON SCHUMACHER NHRA TEAMS
Agent 1320 operatives have said that former Bob Gilbertson crew chief Tommy DeLago will tune the Jack Beckman driven MTS backed Fuel Coupes of Don Schumacher’s and that Jerry Toliver has turned his operation over to Don Schumacher and that he will drive a car tuned by Phil Shuler. The car reportedly carries Schumacher sponsorship but it is not known if Tolliver will be driving a Toyota or will carry a Rockstar beverage sponsorship. [1/8/2008]
LOWMAD' UNDERGOING OVERHAUL
Toney Russell's popular ’55 Nomad Pro Mod is on the jig at Bob’s Pro-Fab in Culeoka, TN, undergoing chassis modifications to improve weight distribution and driver comfort for new pilot Bob Mandell, owner of the chassis shop. The car's notoriously short front overhang has been modified to allow a larger fuel cell to be placed up front.
“While the overall weight of the car was reasonable, distribution front to rear was very poor,” Mandell said. “These changes should provide a nice balance.”
The "LowMad" also will be re-skinned and returned to a variation of its fan-favorite yellow paint scheme. Russell and Mandell have formed a partnership for the 2008 season that will see the team compete on the entire ADRL tour, select AMS events, and local Quick 8 races when time allows. Mandell’s sons, Bob and Jeff, along with Dan Elkins and Joe Griffin will perform crew duties while Russell handles the car's tune-up. (Jeff Burk photo) [1/8/2008]
W.J.'s OLDS ON THE AUCTION BLOCK
No, it's not your father's Oldsmobile, but it did once belong to the Professor of Pro Stock. Warren Johnson's 1987 Oldsmobile Firenza will go up for bids at some point Jan. 12-20, during the 37th Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Scottsdale, AZ. The car has been restored to original NHRA Pro Stock racing condition, complete with a W.J.-built 500 c.i. first-design DRCE engine. The Professor himself is scheduled to drive the car on stage, autograph the rear wing and pose for pictures with the new owner. The Agent wonders whether driving lessons are included. [1/8/2008]
LAUENER BENEFIT A SUCCESS
The Winter Rod and Speed Show, a benefit for Capitol Racing crew chief Jeff Lauener, attracted over 600 spectators for a one day event and netted $6,500 for the Lauener family. Not to bad considering the event was planned less than two months ago and had only a $150.00 ad budget.
The show held in Albany, Oregon had a 100 percent car turnout plus some late entries including the NASCAR simulator of Kevin Harvick's retired cup car and an A/fuel dragster which really added some pazzaz to the show. The event was so successful that a show is planned for next year. [1/8/2008]