Quote:
Originally Posted by GOT-Torque
So the wheelbase requirement stated in the rules of 158" which was apparently a misprint and not enforced in 2012 wasn't updated for 2013?
Why is it that that every other 4x4 class that PPL offers has a hitch requirement that promotes fair competition regardless of wheelbase except for the 2.6 class?
Super Stock 4x4 lists:
wheelbase maximum 134"
hitch height maximum 26"
point of hook to centerline of rear axle shall be no less than 27% of truck wheelbase
Super Modified 4x4 lists:
wheelbase maximum 133"
hitch height maximum 26"
point of hook to centerline of rear axle shall be no less than 36% of truck wheelbase
2.6" Diesel 4x4 lists:
wheelbase maximum 158" (supposedly implied at 172")
hitch height maximum 26"
Hook point must be no closer than 44” of centerline of rear axle (regardless of wheelbase) WTF?
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I can't speak for PPL, but what I have seen over the years is:
Only some classes have an equalizing set of rules front and rear. While many have a percentage for hitch based on wheelbase, most are still 60" for weight from centerline of front axle (giving a longer wheelbase an advantage). Some orgs have tried to remedy this by using a distance from centerline of rear axle (some argue even this is not 100% a leveling measure as the front axle still plays a role, but I think it comes close).
Many orgs did not want guys cutting their beds to run a short (even if legal) hitch, so they came up with a distance rule that pretty much guaranteed a longish hitch irregardless of platform. 2.6 originally was a street/streetish/streetable class so I'm assuming that is why it was originally a distance vs percentage.
I agree with your WTF comment only because it is NOW a purpose built class and moreso with the addition of hand throttle and hydraulic steering, and any chance of a street truck being competitive (against those that know what they are doing) is highly unlikely, so a percentage rule would seem to make the most sense.
The only thing that may make sense is if that is what other neighboring clubs/orgs use and they are trying to keep that universal. I'm not sure if that is the case or not.
Or it could be a case (as has been the case with us), that rules end up being a compromise or made by people who don't fully understand the class.