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For the last couple months, Tony Sleath and I have been working on an updated rules package for Sports 2000. Our objective has been to improve & update the
class while controlling costs and guaranteeing a place for existing cars. We intend to submit a proposal that includes the following:
1) An updated Pinto spec that will permit the use of an alternate camshaft and carburetor. The cam drops in and the carburetor bolts directly to the manifold -- no modification, machining, etc. required. We expect these parts to produce approximately 170 horsepower and cost around $800 -- the cost of one set of tires. This configuration will form the "baseline" HP for the class. Final specs will be selected pending dyno evaluation, which will likely take place after the Runoffs. Ivey has volunteered to conduct the testing for us.
2) 5-speed gearboxes. Sequential transmissions will be permitted with a 25 lb. weight penalty, following the precedent set by Formula Atlantic.
3) Aluminum brake calipers (with some restrictions intended to keep costs down).
4) A new engine, namely the 2009 2.0L MZR (the architecture from which the UK Duratec was derived), that shall be equalized to the updated Pinto. Final specs TBD.
With regard to the last point, we have selected the 2.0L MZR after talking to Mazdaspeed & Mazda North America. They have agreed to provide technical support and sell new engines & parts to racers at reasonable prices. A contingency program will be established, details TBD (pending rules implementation, etc.) -- look at their existing programs for a sense of what's to come.
Mazdaspeed sells the current MZR, complete, for $3,380. The 2009 engine will bring an improved crankshaft and connecting rods, but no other changes. They expect the price to be slightly higher but in the same ballpark. A basic long block may be available at a slightly lower price. We're working on the details.
A preliminary draft of the proposal is available for download here:
http://www.direnzoracing.com/files/S2Proposal.pdf
Additional copies will be made available at the Runoffs Formula & Sports Racing meeting. I encourage Runoffs competitors / attendees to discuss this at the meeting.
The CRB has given us a clear timeline. A final document will be posted well in advance of any vote. A vote will not occur until some time next year (spring); if approved, the proposal will not be made effective until 2010. Obviously, there's a great deal of work to be done between now and then, primarily on detailed engine specifications. Fortunately, we've received a lot of support from people w/real resources who can help expedite the testing and development process.
NOTE:
As I've made clear, none of this is final. The proposal will eventually appear in FastTrack and will sink or swim depending upon competitor input. That being said, we see no other practical way to proceed and do not intend to alter the content of our proposal. If you disagree, then write the CRB at the appropriate time.
However, if you feel the proposal as written contains a mistake or oversight, then please let us know. If you require clarification on any point, just ask. For the sake of clarity, please take other conversation elsewhere.
1) An updated Pinto spec that will permit the use of an alternate camshaft and carburetor. The cam drops in and the carburetor bolts directly to the manifold -- no modification, machining, etc. required. We expect these parts to produce approximately 170 horsepower and cost around $800 -- the cost of one set of tires. This configuration will form the "baseline" HP for the class. Final specs will be selected pending dyno evaluation, which will likely take place after the Runoffs. Ivey has volunteered to conduct the testing for us.
2) 5-speed gearboxes. Sequential transmissions will be permitted with a 25 lb. weight penalty, following the precedent set by Formula Atlantic.
3) Aluminum brake calipers (with some restrictions intended to keep costs down).
4) A new engine, namely the 2009 2.0L MZR (the architecture from which the UK Duratec was derived), that shall be equalized to the updated Pinto. Final specs TBD.
With regard to the last point, we have selected the 2.0L MZR after talking to Mazdaspeed & Mazda North America. They have agreed to provide technical support and sell new engines & parts to racers at reasonable prices. A contingency program will be established, details TBD (pending rules implementation, etc.) -- look at their existing programs for a sense of what's to come.
Mazdaspeed sells the current MZR, complete, for $3,380. The 2009 engine will bring an improved crankshaft and connecting rods, but no other changes. They expect the price to be slightly higher but in the same ballpark. A basic long block may be available at a slightly lower price. We're working on the details.
A preliminary draft of the proposal is available for download here:
http://www.direnzoracing.com/files/S2Proposal.pdf
Additional copies will be made available at the Runoffs Formula & Sports Racing meeting. I encourage Runoffs competitors / attendees to discuss this at the meeting.
The CRB has given us a clear timeline. A final document will be posted well in advance of any vote. A vote will not occur until some time next year (spring); if approved, the proposal will not be made effective until 2010. Obviously, there's a great deal of work to be done between now and then, primarily on detailed engine specifications. Fortunately, we've received a lot of support from people w/real resources who can help expedite the testing and development process.
NOTE:
As I've made clear, none of this is final. The proposal will eventually appear in FastTrack and will sink or swim depending upon competitor input. That being said, we see no other practical way to proceed and do not intend to alter the content of our proposal. If you disagree, then write the CRB at the appropriate time.
However, if you feel the proposal as written contains a mistake or oversight, then please let us know. If you require clarification on any point, just ask. For the sake of clarity, please take other conversation elsewhere.
