Crate Motor Class

[Michael Beard]

I don't know why we're allowed 10.5" tires. I've always run 9" M/T's myself.

Originally Posted by Stocker 2

One of the reasons NHRA stock racers do not like Crate Motor class is the engines used are not Crate Motors. If Crate Motors were actually used the factorys would be pressuring NHRA to have the classes in Stock. Chrysler was ready to back the deal until it came to light that racers were not using Crate Motors bought from the dealer. Racers were buying a pair of heads and making the Crate Motors themselves.

That's a rather confusing statement... who's buying a new small block '69 Camaro from the dealer? They're not. You're using pieces with the proper part numbers available on your NHRA engine spec sheet that the factories have already produced and sold. Crate Motors still match the original spec sheets (except for the addition of the R/T heads, which NHRA has also allowed in SS)... unlike the magical "superseded" parts some "traditional" stockers have... I'm sorry, but my crate motor car is a lot more "stock" than some "real" Stockers out there!

I don't know about the "crate motors are cheap" argument. Parts are easier to find, but otherwise, they're built to spec just like traditional Stockers. And the statement about "take a crate motor and put it in a bracket car and go racing" makes about as much sense as "take a Stocker motor and put it in a bracket car and go racing." Obviously, some people are 1) unfamiliar with today's bracket cars or 2) don't understand the incredibly simple concept of Crate Motor Stock.

That being said, NO, I don't think NHRA needs to add Crate Motors. (or Stock GT for that matter) It's kind of a silly argument, from either side, actually. If your Stocker doesn't have any superseded parts, a questionable origin, wheelie bars, a fuel cell, $5,000 cylinder heads, aluminum trans, a tiny battery, an "empty" battery, an alternator that doesn't work, and/or an electric water pump, then feel free to look down on Crate Motor cars.

Personally, I appreciate all cars.