Fastlane Magazine - Issue 19

fastlane lane EDITION 19

S E P T E M B E R

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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL DRAG RACING ASSOCIATION

Salute Salute

Champions to our

As the 2017/2018 Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series speeds on, we take a look back at our champions of 2016/2017

STAGING TSUMMIT 2017/18 YWHO’S RACER ECH TALK CALENDAR OUR DD? PROFILE

LANES

ANDRA AFACES T RACES

NEWS

SUMMITRACING.COM

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contents CLICK TO VISIT

STAGING LANES

SALUTE TO OUR

CHAMPIONS SUMMIT SPORTSMAN SERIES

POINTS & CALENDAR

RACERPROFILE

ANDRANEWS

Fastlane is produced by the Australian National Drag Racing Association LTD. Editor: Amanda Jackson (media@andra.com.au) Design: YBI Creative (www.ybicreative.com.au) Photography: Cackling Pipes, John Baremans, David Hope, Outlaw Images, Bob Taylor, Jon Van Daal, Jim Read Collection

ANDRA Staff

WHO IS YOUR DD?

RACERPROFILE

Acting General Manager: Brett Stevens Accounts: Susan Branscombe Business Manager: Jackie Mills Business Development Manager: Jennifer Harrison Licensing and Membership: Kylie Hazelhurst Media & PR Officer: Amanda Jackson Technical Officer: Scott Halfyard

Contact Details

Phone: 08 8271 5355 Fax: 08 8721 6988 Email: info@andra.com.au Street: 11 McInnes St, Ridleyton SA 5008

TECH TALK

FACES AT THE RACES

ANDRA Board

Terry Jongen (WA) Nathan Peirano (QLD) - Acting Chairman Grant Goodall (SA) Grant Wilson (SA) Peter Kapiris (VIC) Geoff Crisp (NSW) Grant Hamon (NT)

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staginglan PERTH RENEW WITH ANDRA FOR 2017/18 SEASON

As owner and manager of Perth Motorplex, VenuesWest has renewed its agreement with the Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) for a second year as the sanctioning body for Drag Racing for the 2017/18 racing season.

“ANDRA has a long association with Perth Motorplex and we’re excited to once again be involved with the venue and the Perth drag racing community,” ANDRA Acting General Manager, Brett Stevens, said.

The drag racing season at the Perth Motorplex kicked off on 1 October with the 2017 Nostalgias Drag Racing event.

“ANDRA has consistently proven themselves in providing outstanding sanctioning services, both to Perth Motorplex and other motor sports venues around Australia. We look forward to working with them to produce another great season,” VenuesWest CEO, David Etherton, said.

VenuesWest delivers world class sport and entertainment experiences across its portfolio of thirteen venues which include

Perth Arena, nib Stadium and Perth Stadium due to be completed in early 2018.

These are in addition to HBF Stadium, HBF Arena, WA Athletics Stadium, Bendat Basketball Centre, SpeedDome, Perth Motorplex, Champion Lakes Regatta Centre, WA Rugby Centre, State Netball Centre and the Western Australian Institute of Sport High Performance Service Centre.

NEW COPPER ANDRA CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY One of the most prized trophies in Australian championship drag racing has always been the ANDRA Christmas Tree trophy.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘holy grail’, it is the one everyone wants to show off to family and friends.

Now, ANDRA has introduced a new edition to the championship line-up: the copper ANDRA Christmas Tree.

Following the announcement in June of the 2017 Summit Racing Queensland Championship series, ANDRA approved the addition of the copper trophy for all class winners.

“When we were putting together the concept for the Summit Racing Queensland Championship we

wanted to come up with something unique which initially was to be a half scale silver Christmas tree trophy,” ANDRA General Manager, Brett Stevens, said.

“But after some more thoughts, we agreed on a full-size trophy in copper. We are hoping that it will stimulate some interest from not only local Queensland racers but also some interstate racers who want to add a copper tree to their display cabinet.”

The tri-series has already hosted rounds one and two at Palymra Raceway and Benaraby Raceway respectively, with the Grand Final to be held at Ironbark Raceway on November 4th.

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NEW ANDRA LOG BOOKS ROLLING OUT

From August 2017, a new Log Book system and new ANDRA log books are being implemented. The new Log Books will be perpetual and will follow the vehicle’s history. Upon Log Book and tech inspection renewal a Chassis Identification Tag will be issued and when this next comes up for renewal, the current Log Book must be returned to the ANDRA Head Office, where all current pages will be scanned and kept on electronic file under the Vehicle’s Identification Number.

When a vehicle is sold the Log Book must be passed onto the new owner. A Technical Inspection is required to be undertaken every two years and vehicle owners will be required to ensure that they send the Perpetual Log Book, along with a completed Technical Inspection and Log

Book Renewal, to ANDRA Head Office every two years from the date of the current Technical Inspection.

A letter will be included with each log book explaining the chassis tag process. Please note, the new log book is the same sizing as the rule book to fit securely in the ANDRA wallets.

ANDRA’S MEMBER BENEFITS PROGRAM The Australian National Drag Racing Association is proud to offer you the opportunity to join ANDRA’s Member Benefits Program.

The program has been created to offer its loyal members the opportunity to receive discounts to products from supporting companies.

By joining the program, your products will be promoted to a performance-based target audience. Utilising our database of over 5000, this is the perfect platform to launch new products, advertise monthly specials and any other sale promotions you may have.

As a participating business of the ANDRA Member Benefits Program, you will receive promotion through our database of over 5000 members and race fans, exposure through the ANDRA website, our quarterly FASTLANE digital magazine and our fortnightly MotorMail email newsletter.

To apply, click here for the application form or contact Jennifer Harrison for more information on jennifer.harrison@andra.com.au

ANDRA WELCOMES NEW TECHNICAL OFFICER Last month, ANDRA was pleased to welcome Scott Halfyard to the team as the new Technical Officer.

involvement and has also worked in Precision Farming as well as for Shannons.

Based in the Adelaide office Scott has a background in Metallurgy with NDT (Non-Destructive Testing)

To communicate with Scott, message the ANDRA Technical Facebook page or email him on scott.halfyard@andra.com.au

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA CONTACT DETAILS Western Australia Division Director, Terry Jongen, is currently taking a well-earned overseas holiday and will return on November 30, 2017.

Western Australia members can contact Murray on 0408 093 987 or at waalternate@andra.com.au for all Divisional information.

During Terry’s absence, Alternate WA Division Director, Murray O’Connor will be filling the position. Murray is a long-time ANDRA competitor and has been a Divisional Council Delegate since 1994.

As Alternate Board Director to Terry Jongen, Murray will also join Grant Goodall, Grant Wilson, Nathan Peirano, Geoff Crisp and Peter Kapiris on the ANDRA Board during this period. While Terry Jongen is on leave, Nathan Peirano is the acting chairperson of the board.

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT PRO SHOP

READ FULL STORY HERE

Summit Racing Equipment continues its support for Australian drag racers by extending the Summit Racing Pro Shop to include full ANDRA licence holders.

As a Pro Shop member, racers qualify for exclusive discount pricing on performance equipment from the biggest brands in Motorsports.

In addition, ANDRA red licence holders will be granted the same access as their US counterparts to tech advice, plus fast and easy special ordering on those hard-to-find parts.

Racers can create an account by sending a copy/scan of

their licence, address, phone number and email address to ProShopAU@SummitRacing.com TERMS & CONDITIONS: • Summit Racing Pro Shop account is for racers personal use and is not to be shared with friends or relatives.

• The Credit card used must belong to the racer on the account • Racers need to renew accounts annually • Failure to follow these guidelines will result in loss of Summit Racing Pro Shop privileges.

• For the full story please CLICK HERE

fastlane ANDRA TEAM BOOSTED WITH NEW APPOINTMENT The Australian National Drag Racing Association is pleased to announce a new addition to its team: motorsport media specialist, Amanda Jackson.

After more than a decade spent in public relations and media management roles across the motorsport industry, including many years working within the drag racing industry, ANDRA feels Jackson is the perfect fit for the role of ANDRA’s Media and PR Officer moving forward.

“Amanda is respected in the area of media and public relations for not only motorsport across the board, but for drag racing in particular,” ANDRA acting General Manager, Brett Stevens, said.

“We are very pleased to welcome her to the team and in doing so, to see what is already a strong operational outfit boosted even further. With the addition of Amanda, ANDRA is now better

situated than ever to take advantage of a wider range of opportunities for members, while still providing a highlevel of customer service.

“We hope you will join us in welcoming Amanda to the team.”

Jackson is the proprietor of Jigsaw Communications, which services a range of motorsport clientele with media, public relations, copywriting and social media services. Over the years, Jackson has worked extensively within the drag racing industry as media manager for Willowbank Raceway and the FUCHS Winternationals for seven years, and also with individual teams and drivers.

ANDRA joins a stable of clients including national motor racing series, up and coming top-level drivers, and small businesses. For more on Amanda, visit www.jigsawcomms.com.au To contact Amanda, email media@andra.com.au

CHANGES TO LICENCING FEE STRUCTURES At the beginning of the new financial year, changes were made to the licensing fee structure as part of ANDRA’s commitment as a memberbased organisation to continually striving for member benefit while moving the sport forward.

As a result of the 2017 fee review there have been a number of changes, which flow positively onto members, tracks and promoters. These changes include:

• The decreasing of Group 1 licence fees to $700 • The decreasing of Unlimited GP2 licence fees to $395 • The decreasing of Unlimited GP3 licence fees to $315

Junior dragster licence fees also remain sponsored by Summit Racing Equipment and are unchanged at $70, while Super Street licences and membership fees remain unchanged for 2017/2018.

Casual Licences, initially introduced to enable racers to compete at one-off ANDRA events, will also decrease to $150 per month (current medical and ANDRA membership requirement still applicable).

These price changes become applicable from 1 July 2017. If your licence was renewed or issued after 1 July 2017, please contact us on 08 8271 5355 or info@andra.com.au to arrange credit to be applied to future transactions.

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Salute Salute

Champions to our

ANDRA congratulate the 2016/2017 Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series Champions!

TOP DOORSLAMMER JOHN ZAPPIA

John Zappia claimed an unprecedented tenth back-to-back ANDRA Top Doorslammer Series title with his Fuchs Holden Monaro when he claimed Perth Motorplex’s Westernationals in March.

The victory added to his record of dominance in what is one of Australian drag racing’s most competitive categories - and winning the Westernationals on his home turf was an added bonus.

Putting his number of titles into double digits was definitely on Zappia’s mind right from the start of the season.

“We were focused on the ANDRA championship because we were after those ten in a row and we didn’t want to spread ourselves too thin. It was too big of a milestone not to concentrate on,” the veteran racer said at the time.

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TOP ALCOHOL JOHN CANNULI

With victory in Adelaide earlier this year, John Cannuli clinched back-to-back ANDRA Top Alcohol Championships.

While the 15/16 championship was clinched by the penultimate round, for the 16/17 title Cannuli would race to the end in his new Top Alcohol Funny Car which made only made its debut at January’s Australian Nationals.

At that event the current Top Alcohol Funny Car World Record Holder dominated, before announcing to his crew in the winner’s circle that they would race on and look to clinch a back-to-back titles in the new car.

“Yeah the crew had no clue what my plans were after the Nationals, so I sprung it on them at Calder”, laughed Cannuli at the time.

PRO STOCK LEE BEKTASH

Lee Bektash dominated Pro Stock at the 2017 ANDRA Grand Finals, not only top qualifying, but also resetting the ANDRA 1000ft National ET and National MPH records for the class on his way to winning the event and as a result, his second Pro Stock ANDRA National Championship.

The Adelaide outing was the final ANDRA event in the Victorian racer’s farewell tour, after he announced earlier in the year he would step away from drag racing for the foreseeable future following the close of the 16/17 season.

Bektash’s 16/17 title was his second consecutive ANDRA National Pro Stock title, after he broke through for his first in the 15/16 season. It capped off a racing career of 25 years across a variety of brackets.

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TOP FUEL MOTORCYCLE DAMIEN MUSCAT

Damien Muscat took out the ANDRA Top Fuel Motorcycle National Championship against four former champions in what was only his first full season of competition in the bracket.

On his way to the title, the Mackay racer impressed on his ‘Nitro Phoenix’ motorcycle, coming within a one-hundredth of a second of the national ET record for the class.

In a shock move, the champion decided to step away from the sport once again following the conclusion of the 16/17 season to put his focus back on his business – Crane Logistics. However, he has refused to rule out a return, noting that prior to this latest chapter of his racing career, he had been out of the sport for ten years.

COMPETITION CRAIG GEDDES

Heading to the Adelaide Grand Final, Craig Geddes was unbeatable on the maximum 300 points following his successful WA swing at the Goldenstates and the Westernationals. For those who know Craig Geddes, you would have to agree that he’s always smiling and upbeat. Maybe we should all call him the smiling assassin!

Not only is he a gun tuner and driver, but he’s also one of the nice guys in the sport. Geddes is always helping others, and giving advice - even sometimes to the opposition. He’s the perfect package as a sportsman racer.

Right now, Geddes is on the top of his game. Having worked his way up the ladder starting in Super Gas, today he is a fourtime ANDRA champion – with one in Super Gas and three in Competition eliminator.

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SUPER STOCK JAMIE CHAISTY

Jamie Chaisty followed in his family’s footsteps when he took out the Super Stock championship, emulating the title success of his father and brother.

The 24-year-old mechanical engineering student said at the time that it had always been a dream of his to follow in his dad’s and brother’s footsteps by winning the Australian Super Stock Championship.

Jamie enjoyed his first ever national event at Calder Park in 2017, after starting his championship season in Darwin in July 2016. Now, he joins his two-time champion dad, Geoff Chaisty (1998 and 1999) and brother Jake Chaisty (2014) in holding the honour of a Super Stock national title.

SUPER COMPACT ANDREW DYSON

Andrew Dyson has been racing since he was 16 years old after being born into a drag racing family. Now 44, Dyson lays claim to the 2016/2017 Super Compact title.

Fun with friends and family is not only a major drawcard of the sport for Dyson, but is also a key to his on-track success, with the Geelong racer thanking his twin brother Craig as well as Andrew Darby from Moolap Mufflers for all the unpaid hours of work they do on his car.

This season, he is hoping to see more and more Super Compact guys out and racing. Away from the track, Dyson is a farmer.

His main product is something you might not expect: flower bulbs. “It is something completely unrelated to anything automotive, it makes working on cars more interesting I think because it is so different,� he explained.

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SUPERCHARGED OUTLAWS ADAM MURRIHY

The Northern Territory’s Adam Murrihy has been rewarded for travelling the Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series tour across the last two seasons with two back-to-back Supercharged Outlaws titles.

After a strong opening to the season, he headed to the Adelaide Grand Final event earlier this year 10 points shy of a few competitors ahead of him on the points table. It was a good outing for the racer - after top qualifying, he was able to progress through to win the event and the Championship all in one hit.

Now, Murrihy has his eyes on securing a third consecutive title, although he will be looking to make up for lost time with a blown engine during testing seeing him miss round three.

TOP SPORTSMAN JASON STARES

Two-time and back-to-back Top Sportsman Champion Jason Stares had a troubled run to his second title, but it couldn’t hold him back.

The grand final of the championship saw Stares back at the wheel for the first time since an accident in late 2016.

Stares was working at home on a boat when it rolled over him and pinned him to the ground. In shock and unable to move, Stares called for help and thankfully a neighbour who lived some 100 meters away heard the calls for help and ran to his aid.

Fortunately, thanks to a strong start to the season and an impressive comeback at the Grand Finals, Stares was able to clinch the title despite missing out on the Australian Nationals event while he recovered.

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MODIFIED CRAIG BAKER

For Craig Baker, winning the title was all about not taking things too seriously. The Modified champ tells us “coming back from Alice Springs where we went out in the first round, we realised the pressure to win was hanging over us. We decided to just focus on having fun and having a good weekend away. From there, things started to just turn around for us. We started going rounds and particularly at the two rounds at Calder Park, everything just sort of came together for us, our family was there and everyone was enjoying it, and we had great success.�

For this season, Baker will be applying a similar approach: taking each round as it comes and focusing on having fun, instead of worrying about winning the next title. In the meantime, he sends a special thank you to his wife Audrey, for keeping him calm and keeping things ticking along. Without her, he says, it would be so much more difficult.

SUPER SEDAN GEORGE TIPOUIKIDIS

For Tipouikidis, the fight for the Super Sedan championship was a true family outing, with the champ vying for the title against his cousin Johnny Kapiris. When the pair faced off against each other in the semi-finals of the Adelaide Grand Final, Tipouikidis would take the win. From there, he had to win the final to take out the title, and that is exactly what he did.

The South Australian racer tells us the highlights of the season for him, aside from taking the title, came from travelling all over Australia as part of the championship chase. It was the second year of properly pursuing the title for the racer, who was the runner-up in the 15/16 season and said he was over the moon when all of his “hard yakka” was rewarded.

In reflecting on the title win, Tipouikidis thanks his crew, his mechanic – Con from Competition Automotive – and major sponsor Cousins Produce for their support.

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MODIFIED BIKE BRYAN FINN

Bryan Finn secured his second Modified Bike title with an event win at the Adelaide Grand Finals, also securing the John Storm Memorial Trophy in the process.

Finn’s victory in 2017 backed up a 2016 title. In the current season, he is looking to clinch a record-breaking third consecutive championship. Finn says he also has his eyes on another John Storm Memorial Trophy, stating that winning the trophy in 2017 was a big deal for him not only due to its historical importance, but because “he just likes it.”

The racer will be competing at all Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series rounds this season, pointing towards his bracket as one which boasts tough competition and talented riders.

SUPER STREET CHRIS TATCHELL

With his victory, Chris Tatchell became Sunraysia’s first ANDRA Super Street Champion. A semi-final finish in the Grand Final saw the racer clinch the title with 260 points.

It was the first time Tatchell had chased the championship, with his season including wins at Mildura and Calder Park. His appearance at Mildura was also accompanied by another accomplishment – a 000 light on his way to victory.

Tatchell tells us a key part of his success is his kids – Jordan, Claudia and Rylie work on the car while their dad is away for work in the mines and also help out at the track, while four-year-old Ruby is dad’s biggest cheerleader. Tatchell also thanks sponsors Benetook Auto’s Shell Service Station and Aline Trading Component Supplies for their support.

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JUNIOR DRAGSTER KELLY DONNELLY

Year 12 student Kelly Donnelly was a dark horse heading into the final round of the Summit Racing Equipment Junior Dragster title chase. The South Australian racer didn’t let that stop her however – coming through to win the Adelaide event and by doing so, clinch the title.

Spending time at the race track with people who the entire Donnelly family have become good friends with is a key to the 17-year old’s enjoyment of the sport, and while she might not be actively racing this season, you can expect her to never be too far away.

Indeed, while for this season she has handed her championship-winning steed over to younger sister Sarah, Kelly is currently working hard with sister Michelle and father Mark on a new project – a Super Street entry.

SUPER GAS COLIN GRIFFIN

In reflecting on his title season, Colin picks out Calder Park Raceway’s event as especially pleasing as his family was there with him, cheering him on. Adelaide’s final was also a highlight, with Colin having to race his mate ‘Spence’ (Graeme Spencer) in the final for “all the marbles”.

“The last time I won the championship my family was very young and wasn’t able to travel with me, so it was great to have them with me this time around,” he said, thanking his wife as well as VPW, Sonoco Race Fuels and Nostalgia Panels.

“Super Gas is what I can afford to do and what I WANT todo. It was very gratifying to be able to come out on top with a car I built in the garage some 23 years ago against some really awesome cars that have come from the US.”

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GETTIN LINKED HOW TO SET UP DUAL CARBURETOR LINKAGE Story and Photos by Mike Petralia

NG D

I’ve built and tuned so many supercharged engines over the years, I’ve lost count. And every time I build a Rootsblown engine, the one thing I look forward to the least is setting up the carburetor linkage. If the engine is running just a single carb, that’s easy. Dual carbs mounted inline is almost just as easy. But I’m talking about sidemounted double pumpers. They’re the kind of carburetors that work

best on blown engines. They also look the coolest sticking through your hood what with all of the rod ends and stainless bolts and fuel lines and anodized tube nuts running all around the top of the blower.

But setting up all that stuff can be a pain. The blower manufacturers aren’t too much help here either.

The instructions they send out with the linkage kits usually just include a parts list, a photo of the linkage

set up on a blower, and maybe an exploded diagram showing how all the pieces go together. But that’s only marginally helpful, especially if you’ve never done it before. Over the years I’ve figured out a few tips and tricks that will increase your chances of setting up carburetor linkage right the first time—and maybe even help you to enjoy the process.

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This document shows the carburetor linkage for a dual carburetor setup on a Weiand supercharger in an exploded view and as-assembled. It’s a lot of parts, we’ll show you how to properly set up the linkage.

LINKAGE KIT PART #6980, #7166 Linkage rods (#4) may be positioned on either side of Lever Arms (#7).

Item #

Qty. Description

1

(1)

2

(1)

3

(2)

4 5

(3) (3)

6

(3)

7 8

(5) (2)

9 10

(2) (2)

11

(1)

12

(1)

13 14 15

(2) (4) (2)

16 17 18 19 20

(2) (2) (6) (2) (4)

Blower Case Bracket for “T” bar Linkage “T” Bar with Bearing 7/16” x 3” Blower Studs (Not Shown) 4” Aluminum Hex Shaft 10-32 Left Hand Male Rod End 10-32 Right Hand Male Rod End Splined Lever Arms Linkage Support Bracket 5/16” Male Rod End 5/16” I.D. Locking Collar 5/16” x 12” Splined Shaft 5/16” x 1 3/4” Splined Shaft Brass Rod End Spacer Brass Linkage Pilot 10-32 x 7/8” Socket Head Cap Screw 1/4”-20 Hex Head Bolt 1/4” AN Washer 10-32 Nylon Lock Nut 5/16”-24 Nut 10-32 x 1” Socket Head Cap Screw

W543

2

The first thing to do when you get your linkage kit is to lay out all the pieces and organize them by size, length, etc.

3

The next step is to completely close the throttle blades by backing out the idle speed screws of both carburetors until the throttle arms stop moving.

4 If the rod ends did not come threaded onto the aluminium hex shafts, that is the next step. There should be an equal amount of right- and left-hand male threaded rod ends. Hex shafts should have one end marked with a groove cut around it, like the upper ends in the photo. This typically indicates left-hand threads. Left-hand threaded nuts might be a different color too, like the brass nuts shown. Don’t crossthread the aluminum shafts by forcing the wrong rod ends into them! If they don’t start threading in easily, try the other end of the aluminum shaft. Turn all rod ends all the way in, and make sure they are all close to the same length and are easy to turn in and out. Light oil or anti-seize on the threads can help.

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If a rod end can’t be turned using just your fingers, mount it in a vise and turn the aluminum shaft or opposite rod end back and forth with a 5/16 inch wrench until it’s easy to turn.

6

Your kit should come with two large male rod ends.

Screw them all the way into the black anodized linkage support brackets as shown in the photo, then back them out a half-turn. Mount the linkage support bracket in a bench vise and tighten the lock nut using a 1/2 inch wrench while holding the rod end with needle nose pliers. Make sure the rod end remains perpendicular to the bracket.

7

The throttle cable tower bracket with its small pressed-in bearing—aka the “T Bar” or “bell-crank” bracket—has off-set mounting holes. Be sure to mount the bracket with the holes closest to the blower as shown. This will provide clearance you’ll need later.

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9

Next, deburr the main shaft’s splines using a wire wheel on a bench grinder. Go with the grain of the splines, not across them. You’ll see a slight color change and the splines will feel considerably smoother when this is done. You’ll thank me later for this tip.

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10

Most linkage kits do not come with carburetor mounting fasteners.

Most guys like using studs, but the studs in a regular kit will be too short for the two linkage support brackets. I prefer using 11/4 inch long stainless socket cap screws and lock washers instead. They’re easier to work with than carb studs when setting up the linkage. I use a long, quarter-inch ball end wrench to install and remove them. You can swap to studs after setting the linkage up, but trust me—socket cap screws are the way to go.

Using a solvent tank or a pan with some paint thinner in it, take the time to “hone” the linkage arms on the stainless steel main shaft by sliding them up and down the splines repeatedly.

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It’s important to have the fuel lines in place when setting up the linkage. Otherwise, you may have to readjust everything after you put the lines on.

Your linkage kit will come with several 10-24 thread stainless socket cap screws. Two should be shorter than the rest. Don’t mix them up.

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You should also have two 1/2 inch longer blower studs, show at left, to mount the main blower case bracket.

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15

16

17

Remove the two center blower studs on the left side of the engine. Use doubled nuts if they’re stuck. Then install the longer studs from the kit, leaving about 1 inch above the washer as shown.

Use a torque wrench to tighten the blower studs to 10 ft-lbs.

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Most blower cases have flat, counter-sunk mounting holes that play havoc with your main blower case bracket. Leave the existing washer underneath the bracket as shown. You don’t need to add another washer on top of the bracket when you tighten the stud’s nut again. This method will also raise the bracket to clear tall valve covers.

The linkage kit comes with several 10-24 nylon lock nuts.

Don’t use these for mocking up the linkage. Use regular 10-24 thread hex nuts like these. Another tip you’ll thank me for later.

Two of the splined lever arms go on the long end of the splined shaft, which faces the rear of the engine and connects the bell crank to the main shaft assembly. The arm at the rear of the shaft (marked C) connects to the rear carburetor. The front arm (B) goes to the vertical link from the bell crank. Set the distance between them (V as I call it) at a minimum of 1 1/4 inch to no more to 1 1/2 inch apart as measured at the screw-hole centerlines.

You might not beable to get it exact, but close is good enough.

19 Assemble the rest of the splined shaft components exactly as shown. Pay close attention to the orientation of all parts—flip one around and you’ll be in for headaches later on. The two splined lever arms on the ends marked A and C need to be as close to parallel as possible. In all my years of doing this, I’ve never found one shaft that has the splines cut exactly equal end-to-end, so just get them as close as possible by laying the assembly down on the bench as shown and making sure both arms are close to touching the worktop. Do not tighten the lock screws on any of these pieces yet. They need to slide around for now.

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Splined lever arm marked A in the previous photo is for the front carburetor. Attach one rod end to it and the other end to front carb’s throttle arm using a pair of the brass linkage pilots that should be in your linkage kit.

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Attach rod end C (arrow) to the back side of the rear carb’s throttle arm as shown. This is a spot where many people get messed up and accidentally attach it to the front of the throttle arm. Repeat after me: “Back carb, back side. Front carb, front side.”

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Here’s where one of two small brass rod end spacers gets used (arrow). It goes between splined lever arm B and the rod end to prevent binding. This is important so don’t leave it out. Sometimes it’s easier to thread this screw in with the linkage pulled open as shown before. This way you can also check that the splined lever arms clear the fuel lines at wide open throttle too.

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Mount just the rear linkage support bracket (arrow) loosely to the rear carburetor. You should be able to slide the shaft assembly up and under the fuel lines to get the long splined end into the support bracket’s rod end (right hand in photo). You can loosen the fuel lines a bit to help.

This might take some wiggling, but it will fit. Note the forward carb linkage support bracket I’m holding with my left thumb and forefinger is not secured yet. You can bolt this bracket down after the splined shaft is in the rear bracket.

22 Attach the other rod end on the back carb’s shaft to the back side of the splined lever arm as shown. Note I’m holding the front splined lever arm down with my left thumb to make accessing the back arm easier.

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And here’s why we mounted the throttle cable tower bracket with the offset screws pushing it away from the blower. At wide open throttle, we will have just enough clearance for the socket head to clear the blower’s support rib in the side of the case This is where the other small brass rod end spacer gets installed.

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Now’s a good time to fine-tune each threaded rod by hand, watching the carb’s linkage arms for any signs of movement. Hold the splined lever arm steady and twist just the aluminum shaft very carefully. You want to take up any slack, but not move the arms when turning the aluminum shaft. You’ll probably have to do this a bunch of times, switching between carburetors. Each time you’ll get a better feel for taking up all the slack. This step is necessary to make sure one carburetor doesn’t open sooner or later than the other.

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Set up the bell crank lever arms’ spacing as shown.

This should give you enough travel for wide open throttle operation without anything binding.

27

Here’s the lever arm shown in its most rearward position as it should appear at wide open throttle.

28 After cycling the linkage several times, it will settle into proper location. Now you can go back and tighten the two 5/16 inch I.D. locking collars using a small 3/32 inch Allen wrench. If anything binds, loosen and adjust only one item at a time and see if that fixes the problem.

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32 series championship

COMPETITION Craig Geddes

Mark Newman

SUPER STOCK

Jim Ioannidis Tom Dimitropoulos Rob Dekkert Steve Norman Marino Prodan

SUPERCHARGED OUTLAWS Justin Russell Alan Mahnkoph Shane Kramer Tim Stewart Mark Hunt

TOP SPORTSMAN

Greg Damiani Jason Arbery Vlado Turic Chris Theodorakopoulos Jeff Lewis

PTS 60 20

PTS 110 80 60 20 20

PTS 230 190 160 150 140

PTS 230 210 200 100 80

POINTS

MODIFIED

PTS

SUPER SEDAN

PTS 250 210 160 160 130

Tim Bryan Michael Bridges Johnny Kapiris Harry Harris Graeme Cooper

MODIFIED BIKE

PTS

SUPER GAS

Sergio Bonetti Matt Czerny Bradley Hicks Adam Mundy Dean Radcliffe

Peter Tzokas John Kapiris Ashley Smith Leon Davies Ned Karanovic

Gordon Crawford Gavin Dohnt Johnny Ireland Danny Rickard Dan Dycer

230 170 120 110 100

290 210 140 130 110

JUNIOR DRAGSTER

PTS

SUPER STREET

PTS

Bradley Bishop Jackson Perri Samuel Perri Tommy Turic Brodie Zappia

Graeme Spencer Roy Romeo Adrian McGrotty Bailey Datson Warren Bull

CLICK HERE FOR FULL CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS

230 210 180 150 140

170 140 110 100 100

PTS 140 140 120 80 80

ROUND 1

ROUND 6

ROUND 2

ROUND 7

HIDDEN VALLEY DRAG STRIP, NT

JULY 21-22

CALDER PARK, VIC

NOV 25

ALICE SPRINGS INLAND DRAGWAY, NT

SOUTH COAST RACEWAY, PORTLAND VIC

ROUND 3

ROUND 8

JULY 29-30

MILDURA,VIC

SEPT 23-24

ROUND 4

ADELAIDE INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY, SA

OCT 14

ROUND 5

PERTH MOTORPLEX, WA

NOV 11

JAN 20-21

CALDER PARK, VIC

JAN 26-27

ROUND 9

PERTH MOTORPLEX, WA

MAR 3-4

ROUND 10

ADELAIDE INTERNATIONAL RACEWA, SA

MAR 23-24

33

who is your DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR? Division Director Victoria/Tasmania Divisional Council

Paul grew up at the race track as a child, with his dad both a racer and also heavily involved with ANDRA. It was a true family affair, with Paul’s mum, two sisters and himself always on-hand to support his father – Paul Rogers Snr – with his racing.

“When I wasn’t racing, I was always tagging along with him. I loved nothing more than being at the races!” said Paul, who lives in Ballan (Victoria) after growing up in Bacchus Marsh.

“Ever since I travelled to race tracks all around the country with dad, the race track has always been my ‘happy place.’”

After working on his dad’s car throughout his teens, at the age of 19 Paul had the opportunity to drive the car himself and snared a runner-up result at his very first event. He would race on until the end of the 1997 season, when at that point he became a ANDRA volunteer, first as a steward, then as tech inspector before earlier this year, he moved into the role of Division Director for the Victoria and Tasmania areas.

“I have many fond memories from my time at the track from seeing Dad win many events to the awesome feeling of seeing the last pair go down the track at a large meeting that you had a part in running,” said the 40-year-old.

“But overall, my fondest memories would have to be the time that Dad and I spent racing our current car back in the mid to late 90s.

As you get older and wiser in life your perspective changes a little and you learn to appreciate the things that you took for granted at the time, especially when you realize that those things don’t last forever.”

Paul Rogers Jnr Email: victoriatasmania@andra.com.au Victoria/Tasmania Council Members Peter Pisalidis Darren Parker Bill Caris Douglas Anderson Stephen Crook Robert Cassar

Alongside his work as Division Director, Paul also runs his own business – Paul Rogers Performance Transmissions – which specializes in high performance and drag racing transmissions.

Prior to beginning this business, he worked as a Project Manager for a large US-based Defense Contractor.

“I feel a number of skills I developed during that time are applicable to the role of DD, as I find myself dealing with various stakeholders in situations both at and away from the track,” Paul said.

“Often, I find that the best thing to do is to first listen to what someone has to say, then put yourself in their position to better understand their requirements and how you can best satisfy them while achieving a positive outcome for all involved.”

For any questions or assistance Victorian or Tasmania racers may need, Paul Rogers Jnr is the man to go to.

“I would like to pass my sincerest thank you to the administrative pioneers of our sport who laid the foundation for what ANDRA is today, such as John Storm, Dennis Syrmis, John Taverna, Tony Thornton, George Bailey, my Dad (of course) and also the many others who are not listed,” Paul said.

“I would also like to thank each and every ANDRA Steward or Tech Inspector who donates their time to help with this great sport that we all love.

“I also need to give a special thank you to my amazing wife, Rachel. I could not ask for a more understanding wife who allows me to spend as much time away from home as I do for my racing related activities. Without her support and understanding I would not be able to be as involved as I am in chasing my dream.”

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fast feature 36 fastlane

JACKSON PERRI

racerprofi profile Name: Jackson Perri Team: Perri Racing Age: 15 years old Hometown: Sydney School: Mater Maria Catholic College, Year 9 Started Racing: 2015 Classes competed: Junior Dragster Best ET and Speed: My best speed is 84 Mph and my best time on index is 8.00 Sponsors: Topform Concrete, Marco steel, SCM race engines and Scott’s Panel and Paints.

Favourite Race Vehicle: A 67 Shelby mustang GT500 Doorslammer by far Favourite TV Show: To be honest I’m not that big on TV but if I am free I watch whatever is on Favourite Food: I hate this question because I love all food but I’m going to have to go with pizza for this one Favourite race track: The one and only, Sydney Dragway

What do you love about racing?

One thing I always say is you can never find better people than at the race track. Drag racing is filled with great humble people. I also get the best adrenaline rush when I go down the track.

What is it like racing your brother?

Well what can I say, there are a lot of tough racers out there but my brother to me is my main competition. I’ve raced a lot of great drivers, but staging a car next to my brother in a final was one of my most toughest races yet and also my favourite.

How did you get into racing?

I got into racing most likely how most of the other racers did – from my parents. My dad used to race not too long ago and I can’t thank him enough for stepping down for a bit and letting us have a bit of fun. But if there’s one person I couldn’t have done it without, it is my brother Samuel. He begged my dad for a Junior for ages and when he finally got one I had a test drive and got the bug too.

What do you consider as your racing highlights?

My highlights in racing is I get to see great people, have fun learning, meet new people and most importantly get the adrenaline rush when I drive down the track.

What do you love about Junior Dragster Racing? Why should others get into it?

The main thing I love about Junior dragster racing are the unique but simple cars. I believe more children should step into this category because there is no better sport than this one. It helps kids become humble people and gives them an opportunity that not every child has the privilege of.

What is your ultimate racing goal/dream?

It has always been a dream that I intend to become real and it is to race a 67 Mustang in the Top Doorslammer class.

What do your school mates think about what you do?

Most of my school friends aren’t educated in this type of sport, but from what they know they think it’s different and a pretty cool sport.

Is there anyone you would like to thank for being part of your drag racing journey?

I can’t do this without my dad, uncle, crew chief Max and Samuel. I would also like it to thank the race tracks, ANDRA and all the people I have raced.

Behind the Wheel with Jr. Dragster Racer Alanah Cope.

“I like racing because it’s a combination of many forms of engineering. Unlike other activities, drag racing includes components of skill, strategy. science, IT, mechanics, and mathematics—which makes it a truly unique motorsport.”

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fast feature 38 fastlane

staginglanes

DENSO ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP WITH ANDRA’S SUPER STREET CATEGORY ANDRA is pleased to announce DENSO (Australia) have signed up with a partnership for Super Street at all Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Championship rounds.

DENSO is a leading supplier of advanced automotive technology, systems and components for all the world’s major automakers and have offices all over the globe, including Melbourne, Victoria.

The winner of Super Street at Summit Racing Series events will, on top of the normal merchandise pack and vouchers they receive from summit, receive a voucher for a set of spark plugs from DENSO.

“Our Company are excited with this opportunity to join ANDRA with this partnership. Being able to link our business name with drag racing and the Super Street category is a fantastic way to target a grass roots market,” DENSO Marketing Manager, Steven Molinaro, said.

All Super Street competitors must run with the DENSO decals on their car during events.

This partnership with DENSO commenced at the Sunset Strip Nationals in Mildura and will continue for the remaining rounds of the 2017/18 Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series Championship.

“We are excited to be announcing this partnership specifically benefitting our Summit Racing Equipment Super Street competitors,” ANDRA Business Development Manager, Jennifer Harrison, said.

“This partnership with a company of DENSO’s pedigree is exciting and we are looking forward to building a relationship together.”

DENSO are constantly striving to break new ground with innovative solutions for today’s demanding automotive needs. All of our aftermarket products are built to OEstandards and incorporate the latest upgrades — a promise only an OE manufacturer can make.

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fastlane

DUBBO LOOKING TO WELCOME WORLD-CLASS DRAG STRIP Following the receipt of development approval from the Dubbo Regional Council, the Dubbo City Car Club is hoping to build what is mooted to be a world-class drag strip.

be great news for the region, as not only do you have the activity of the drag strip, you also have people travelling to Dubbo from other locations such as Mildura, Adelaide, Sydney or Melbourne to race, and that brings further dollars to businesses.

Not only does the project propose to fill a gap in the market in regional New South Wales, but it is also intended that the new strip will represent a world-first as the first ever ‘zero emissions’ facility.

“This can only be a good thing, and we are pleased to be able to throw our support behind it. When the strip is established, we look forward to it playing host to rounds of the Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series.

While the club has approval from the council, it also needs an investment of between $4 million and $5 million to get the initial stage of building underway. As such, it has called on the state and federal governments to get behind the project.

“We are also very interested to hear of the Club’s zeroemissions plans, which would be a world-first. They plan to use solar panels and potentially wind energy, and while drag racing’s emissions are not as high as other motorsports, it is still a good thing to alleviate what we can.”

The Australian National Drag Racing Association is proud to support the project, with Acting General Manager Brett Stevens recently travelling to the proposed location as part of a launch for the program with local media.

The Dubbo City Car Club projects that once funding is secured, it will take around 12 months for the project to be completed, with more than 100 people expected to be employed during construction. Plans are also in the works to eventually establish driver training services for both individuals and vital public service organisations such as the Rural Fire Service, the State Emergency Service and the NSW Police.

“With New South Wales representation our biggest member base, to see another facility provided for them is fantastic in our book,” Stevens said.

“The establishment of a Dubbo drag racing facility would

Photo Credity: Dubbo Photo News, John Ryan.

39

fast feature 40 fastlane

GROUP 2 SUPER SERIES TRIAL APPROACHES

ANDRA will soon be trialling an exciting new race format to be known as the ‘Super Series’.

Following input from the Index Review Committee and the promoters at Calder Park and the Perth Motorplex; and approval from the Division Directors, the trial will take place at the November 25 round of the Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series, otherwise known as The Rowe Memorial.

WHO IS INVOLVED?

Group 2 categories which have fields at The Rowe Memorial – Competition, Super Stock, Competition Bike and Super Comp – will be involved in the trial.

These categories will be known as the Competition Eliminator Super Series, Super Stock Super Series, Competition Bike Super Series or the Super Comp Super Series.

WHAT ARE WE TRIALLING?

The system on trial still provides some of the advantage that the quicker cars/bikes may have compared to their index, whilst providing further opportunity for competitors that are slower against their index by allowing them to come back and race rather than being eliminated in the first round of traditional eliminations.

By removing the index adjustment between rounds and the finalists

only being the quickest winners from the third round, it should remove some (not all) of the back off passes and as such, improve the show for spectators.

The trial, titled Super Series trial seeding, would see all competitors in Group 2 complete qualifying as per normal processes before being seeded into a maximum 16 car field.

From there, each competitor would get to race in three ‘Elimination’ rounds where points would be issued for a win and lose. The highest points scorers from the ‘Elimination’ rounds would then compete in a final which would decide the winner and runner up.

Some points to note: • National Records and Indexes will be as per current • National Records can still be set as per the rulebook: “In Group Two any runs capable of supporting a new National Record during eliminations and a maximum of one run from qualifying will be used to calculate the new record.”

• There will be NO index adjustments between rounds of eliminations

Points will be allocated on the basis of 20 points for a round win and 10 points for a round loss.

Where more than two competitors are tied on the highest points after three rounds, the tie breaker will be best performance against the index in Elimination Round Three. If there still remains a tie, then the second tie breaker will be best performance against the index in Elimination Round 2.

HOW WILL THE POINTS WORK?

The points will be allocated towards the championship as follows: • Top Qualifier: 10 points

• ET/ Speed Records: 5 / 5 points • Winner: 100 points

• Runner-up: 80 points

• Win three Elimination rounds, but do not make the final: 60 points • Win two Elimination rounds and lose one round: 50 points

• Win one Elimination round and lose two rounds: 40 points

• Lose three Elimination rounds: 30 points If you have questions about the Super Series trial, please contact your Division Director.

fastlane GRANT HAMON JOINS ANDRA BOARD

The Australian National Drag Racing Association was pleased to recently welcome Grant Hamon to its board.

Hamon brings to the ANDRA board a wealth of knowledge and experience following some 35 years spent in motorsport, both as a competitor and a sports administrator.

In 2007, Hamon was a driving force behind the creation of MotorSports NT Inc. As the peak motorsports body in the Northern Territory, Motorsports NT acts on behalf of its affiliated motorsport clubs in liaising with the Northern Territory government.

After a long tenure, August of this year saw Hamon step down from his volunteer role as President of this important organisation.

Hamon’s motorsport experience is not restricted to his Motorsports NT involvement by any stretch of the imagination.

In the 1980s, he spent time in Speedway before taking on the role of President of the Darwin Karting Association at Hidden Valley through the 1990s. He was also President of the Northern Territory Motorsports Council, which in 2002, was the peak body for motorsport operating at Hidden Valley Raceway.

“I have some strengths in relation to governance across 20 different affiliated clubs under MotorSports NT and how we have grown that over time. I also have knowledge of risk management and understand governance.

Hamon is regarded as one of the most significant and influential people in Territory motor sports, so to have him sit on the board is a huge coup for ANDRA and its members.

“I’m looking forward to working closely with the ANDRA board and providing a positive contribution to drag racing and motorsport.”

“I have grown to like the sport of drag racing thanks to MotorSport NT and its involvement with the successful Nitro Up North event,” Hamon said.

ANDRA hopes you will join with them in welcoming Hamon to this new appointment.

“There is a lot of passion and a lot of great people in the sport and I believe it has a lot of potential to grow and expand.

“I recently retired from my position with MotorSport NT and had been in discussion with ANDRA over the past six months.

“It’s exciting to have Grant agree to join the ANDRA Board, with his many years of experience across various types of motorsport and a long list of achievements it can only be a positive step forward and I look forward to working with Grant,” Acting ANDRA Chairman, Nathan Peirano, said.

“I certainly needed to keep myself occupied,” he laughed, “and in the end, I was more than happy to consider it and have a go.

41

fast feature 42 fastlane

ANDRA TOP QUALIFYING AWARD EXPANDS

The Australian National Drag Racing Association is pleased to announce the Top Qualifying medallion has expanded with support from ‘The Tile Co – The Shower People’, thanks to Eddy and Maria Carranza.

The Carranza family have been strong supporters of ANDRA over the past five years and they wanted to give something back to a sport they love.

“We have enjoyed racing with our son Daniel over the years,” Eddy said.

“He’s always been around fast cars and even before he was old enough to drive, Daniel said he wanted a Junior Dragster.

“ANDRA Drag Racing is a fantastic sport that has given us many opportunities for our family. We’ve met many amazing people over the years, many who we now call friends.

As all parents, we want to make our kid’s dreams come true.

“ANDRA drag racing has given Daniel the opportunity to race with his BatDan Junior Dragster. It’s strengthened us as a family and the

sport has given us a platform for our “Racing To Raise Awareness For Autistic Kids” campaign.

3. A Summit Pack including voucher, cap, decals, lanyard, wrist band, notebook and more.

“Maria and I started talking about giving back to the sport and following discussions with ANDRA, we are pleased to announce support for the Top Qualifier Medallion during all Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series championship rounds over the 2017/18 season.”

“It is encouraging to see members such as the Carranzas assisting their organisation and fellow members with such support,” ANDRA’s Business Development Manager Jennifer Harrison, said.

KC Tools, who are proud sponsors of the BatDan Junior Dragster, has also come on board with a voucher to all Sportsman Top Qualifiers.

Included in the Award are: 1. The Tile Co – The Shower People Top Qualifying Medallion 2. 1 x 25 percent off RRP Voucher at any KC Tools outlet.

“We encourage other members that wish to contribute back to the sport to contact us to explore many other opportunities.”

If you are looking for business opportunities within ANDRA Championship Drag Racing, please email Jennifer Harrison on jennifer. harrison@andra.com.au

43

PETER TZOKAS

racerprofile Name: Peter Tzokas

Team: HES-TIKA racing DOB: 11/11/1968 Hometown: Salisbury, South Australia Status: Married with four children Occupation: Civil Construction Started Racing: In 2016 at Alice Springs in a Super Sedan LX Torana Classes competed: Super Sedan ANDRA Racing highlights: Wins at Alice Springs in 2016 (on debut) and 2017 Best ET and Speed: 9.18s @ 145mph Sponsors: Marz Civil, Joe’s Towing, JMT Joinery, Smart Road Auto Wreckers Hobbies: Drag racing!

Favourite Race Vehicle: Zap’s Rat Favourite TV Show: Everything, I love my TV Favourite Food: Who can pick just one!

Favourite Race Track: Alice Springs and Mildura are a tie

What excites you most about drag racing?

I just love the competition, it is great fun and a great feeling to compete.

Why Super Sedan?

The Super Sedan field is very highly contested, we get great numbers and the level of competition on offer is always very high.

Do you have any pre-run routines or superstitions?

As soon as they call Super Sedan to the start line I always head straight to the toilet. Once in the staging lanes, I also always get a kiss from my wife and then I am ready to rock.

What drives you to keep on drag racing?

The thrill of the speed and the competition always keeps me coming back.

I also really enjoy the banter and fun we can have with most of our fellow racers.

What are you aiming to achieve this season?

We just want to do as well as possible and as much as we can, take the wins!

Most of all though, we want to have fun.

Are there any special people you would like to thank for being part of your drag racing journey?

All of my racing would simply not be possible if it wasn’t for my wife, Stefani.

She is my biggest supporter. Thanks also has to go to my sponsors and also the drag racers around me who all form part of my extended family. In particular, Ned Karanovic, Mic and Fatty Jennings, Steve Hunt, Brett Matthews, Michael Bridges and Simon Lazzaro have become part of the family – we always pit together and are eager to help each other out whenever it is needed.

43

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at the

races

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