NASCAR to implement double-file restarts in Camping World Truck races
NASCAR Camping World Truck Series drivers compete in the Nextera Energy Resources 250 at Daytona International Speedway in February. // David Griffin, NASCAR Scene
TALLADEGA, Ala. – Double-file restarts will become a part of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2010, a rule change that was part of several concerning the series announced Friday.
The Truck series will go to the restart format that the Sprint Cup Series adopted in June and the Nationwide Series later began using as well.
In other changes, the pit-road rules requiring teams to stop for either fuels or tires, but not both at the same time, will be eliminated, but teams will only be allowed to have six members of the crew over the wall. This year, in a cost-saving move, teams were limited to five crewmen over the wall (instead of the previous seven). Next season, teams will be allowed to fuel and change tires on the truck in the same stop. They also will be allowed to use a fuel can that will be self-venting and not require a crew member with a catch can over the wall.
NASCAR also changed some engine rules. Next year, teams will not be allowed to use a new, unsealed engine in more than two consecutive races (with the exception of Daytona and Talladega). This year, the rule is they can’t use a new engine in more than three consecutive races.
Teams also will have the option of using the spec motor used in the Camping World East and West series on tracks 1.25 miles in length and shorter. That will allow a team on a small budget to run the cheaper engine, and it would allow an East or West team to have fewer engine costs if it wants to move to the Truck series.
“These rule adjustments are the results of ongoing conversations NASCAR has had with team owners, drivers and crew chiefs,” said Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president of competition. “They will not only continue to assist teams with their costs, but they will help intensify the tough competition of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.”
NASCAR Truck series director Wayne Auton said the rules are designed to benefit the current teams as well as to encourage new teams.
“I am excited about the continued progression of NASCAR’s efforts to contain the costs in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series,” said Kevin Harvick, co-owner, Kevin Harvick, Inc. “The truck counts have been great this year and I hope with all these changes they will continue to grow and I believe the competition will be as tough as its ever been.”
