I've been very reluctant to post on this topic but I have been keeping up with the posts.
I will say there are really valid points for both sides of the argument. I like index racing, I like heads up racing, I like class racing.
I'll keep this response around TSM only:
IF Stage blocks were allowed:
-Who would actually attend/participate in the TSM class and point series?
-How many of the "stage" engines are actually out there that have TSM turbo?
-What weight penalty be put on stage block? Cars are too heavy now.
-How does this affect current TSM participants that have iron heads/small cubic inch?
Let's say that the rules are opened up to allow stage blocks. How many would we really gain in participation? How many would we lose?
IMO, it would be a wash. If we gained 5 new TSM Stage players, we'd lose about the same.
IF, big if, there are 10 or so more stage block 71 turbo cars out there that would actually make the events maybe we should look at opening it up.
What we need are less events that allow budget minded racers to focus on fewer trips/races and would in turn increase participation.
Also, while on the subject cubic inches, filled blocks, extra bolts, street cars, etc., I'll answer a few questions about my setup.
My car is under legal cubic inches, no hard block in cylinders, no extra head bolts, hydraulic camshaft, no exotic parts like titanium, uranium, or unattainable etc. Most people that have seen my car up close knows it's not "top of the line" by any measure.
I drive my car around town with my sons, drive to car shows 20+ miles away, drive to the local track to make test passes, dirve 25 mile stop and go cruises in 95+ degree weather to compete in our local heads up classes and usually win. I really don't consider my setup to be all out drag only. If I can't drive it around I wouldn't be interested in it as much. The stock 109 block will take the abuse of many passes and street driving if it's tuned and maintained properly.
I ran 9.17, 9.11, 8.96, 9.01, 9.05, and 9.10 at BG and drove it on the trailer. I will change the plugs and head out to two more races before the end of the year to test a 67 turbo on my setup. I ran all this year and only inspected the engine before BG and everything went right back together. Didn't replace anything, just replaced gaskets.
You know why I'm not having the problems everyone else says will happen with a 109?
I've taken my time to tune and test and creep up on this setup. It doesn't happen over night. Many people have thrown a lot more money at this and end up with catastrophic results as seen in other posts. You can't throw parts at something and turn it WFO on the first pass..
Food for thought.
How about a list of Stage Block with 71 turbo owners?