[buzzinhalfdozen]

Out of line costs this are certainly an issue, however not sure it's the cost of building the engines that's the biggest issue. You can easily find a decent piece on the cheap (outdated comp or S/S engine) that will get you in the game. The real issue is the game. The expenses have increased, entry fees, fuel and travel costs, this and that new rule, chassis certs, physicals, seat belts, lic. fees, lost work days (3 day points meets). There will always be some that will do it no matter the costs, just look around the pits at the new cars and combos, however most are current racers. Some merely shrugged their shoulders and went to the next race, while some chose to maybe skip this or that race and eventually found themselves parked for any number of reasons from lack of money, desire, or other interests. The next generation, isn't exactly beating down the door, except for a few 2nd or even 3rd generation racers, it's pretty lean as far as new blood. The reason is easily found, just go to your local race track and talk to the racers, explain the classes, rules, expenses, and payout and watch their faces. Most of the Next generation have little interest (other than the idea of just driving one) in class racing, it just doesn't make sense financially. Most all the "kids" I know plan their racing on the PAYOUT that is the first thing they concern themselves with, with location and entry fee being the 2nd and 3rd. It's obvious that you're looking for a way to increase participation but in my opinion you will not lure new or parked racers by bringing back 20 year old rules. My 2 cents