Gang,
before I get into the usual catch-up game in the shop I'd like to throw my couple cents in here.
From my personal point of view.
First of all, where else can you get involved in setting the rules for your class. Us guys make the rules for us. That alone is in my opinion HUGH.
OK, now let me look at this as a sponsor.
What I really find interesting in this class is the fact that average Joe can build his truck for this class and compete. In other words, get new folks involved in racing their trucks. BUT to do this, the build should be doable at a somewhat reasonable price.
I would tighten up the rules a bit in order to allow "everyone" to compete and not being scared away from this class by the big dogs with hugh funds.
Nothing against the big dogs! They're doing great for the diesel sport! BUT average Joe just does not have the funds to compete with them. The big dogs have other opportunities / races / classes to push the limits.
I believe the SS class is a good thing if it can get more people involved in racing. Let's consider this for a moment as an "entry level" into racing.
With this being said I would:
1) Weight 6500. It's easier to add weight to the older trucks than having to cut the new trucks to get to 6000. Aaron's truck is the perfect example. Even without the hood 'n stuff he was still way heavier than the trucks he had to compete with....
2) Stock axel(s). Any internal mod to them is OK.
3) Stock transmission with a converter, any internal mods allowed. With "stock" meaning any transmission as found in any diesel truck truck of that brand. ( In poor words, a 48 into a 6.7L that had a 68 behind it is OK. )
4) Stock ECM's, no standalones.
5) No ECM tuning allowed during the quick 16 eliminations. Get it dialed in during the test sessions....
That should keep the $$$$ needed to compete in the class at reasonable level.
OPS, I forgot to mention...
6) Anybody who does not behave himself in the after hours is out. LOL
Just kidding here! Yet, I really enjoyed the very friendly feeling we all had during and after the race. The Diesel brotherhood at it's best!
Let me get this clear one more time. The above is just my personal idea.
It's just food for thought for the guys who will have the burden to take the final decision.
Whatever you guys will settle on I will keep supporting this race.
Thanks for listening!
Marco