Just got word back from NHRA that the design would be acceptable. The spacing the model shown was exaggerated slightly to help show that there was a separation of the firewall and midplate. In reality the front surface of the midplate will only be 1" from the firewall. With the LS style engine they actually have no bellhousing flange like a traditional SBC, so the mass of the engine is already offset to the rear over an inch. The engine really has to be offset from the firewall or the head will basically be touching it.
