Reynolds! wow what an event.
9.274 @ 145.74 mph what an exciting way to end the TSM season!
It is people like Dick Kereny who lays down a 9.005 pass in TSM trim last year, Don Cruz who runs in the 8’s at a TSM event this year, and then backs it up with an 8.894 in TSM trim, that inspre us all to work a little harder on these cars. These guys not only race you hard but also lend a hand if you need it at the track.
I have several to thank my accomplishment:
First off is my wife. I am very fortunate to have someone who is as passionate about this as I am. I am impressed with how well she has developed as driver this year. When we got married I never imagined she would attain an NHRA Completion Drivers License. This has been exciting journey and when Austin Coil says he and John get along like a married couple I completely understand what he means.
My Friend Patrick Hall for helping me understand everything I am doing with Toni’s car. I was in so far over my head when I started building this car, and I leaned heavily on Pat’s shoulder. Pat is pretty much the Bernie Fedderly of this team. Thanks for being a great Friend and helping so much with everything. I would have never started this project with out knowing I was going to get your help.
Chris Jacobsen, who built and installed the NHRA certified roll cage into the car. Chris your dedication to getting this project completed was incredible. I could never afford to repay you for all the hours you have put into our car.
Tim Galloway, for laying down a killer paint job on a really, really, tight budget. While working 50 to 70 hours a week Tim made several trips to my shop. Then managed to get the cars body and paint looking like it does in about 10 weeks. His air brush work on the deck lid is a small example of the level of dedication he provided. Even though he has a heavy work load, every time I go to the track he is offering help to me.
Scott Kleppinger, who loaned me a small sheet metal welder for over a year. Also made several trips out to my house in the middle of nowhere and turned the Fred Flinstone mobile into a solid body with rust free floors.
My friends Tony Maez, and Mark Gantner for their help this weekend getting the car prepared for each round of eliminations.
Cottons Performance Center for having an incredible inventory, and Gerry who gets stuff sent out ASAP for me. The custom down pipe Brian Cotton made me is working great. Jack thanks for the great deal on the Moser 12 bolt, it is getting the job done.
Dan Strezo and DLS engine development for all the components that get the job done. The advice and parts I get from Dan is one of the main reasons why this engine is working so efficiently. Dan thanks for working those late hours and Sundays for me. This ET would have never happened if you didn’t work 7 days a week. I enjoy driving out to your shop because every visit gains me a little more knowledge. PS….My son Garrett asked for you not to ever take down your swing set at the shop.
Extreme Automatics for building me a killer turbo 400 that made it through this whole year’s brutal abuse.
G Body parts mostly for offering an amazing cooling system. That 3 row radiator and dual fan set up never got above 170 all weekend long!
Hartline Performance……….Cal, I know I have annoyed you to death this year, with phone calls, text messages, and emails. You are the Encyclopedia Britannica of the XFI. No one knows more about the FAST system than you do, not even the guys at comp cams. You have taught me so much. Right now I feel like I am in my first semester of engineering school and know there is allot left to learn. I can’t forget Holly for getting us all those electronic gadgets that allow us to accurately analyze the vitals.
HR Parts N Stuff for a proven suspension system that makes the car hook on dirt! Dave England and Jason White (2008 TSM champ) are the guys with the wisdom which I owe the most gratitude too. Jason I can’t believe you gave me parts off your own car to help me when I was struggling.
RJC intercooler for keeping the air intake temps low and steady, and that thing inbetween the oil pan and block holding everything togethor.
Turbo Regal Custom parts for the aerodynamic headlight covers that hang on for deer life!
On my quest to put Toni deeper into the 9’s I got stubborn at times and hurt stuff by not listening to all of you. Thank you for being patient with me, letting me learn at my own pace, and still tolerating me when my ideas did not work, and I humbly came back for more advice. You all have been a huge help in getting me the ability to achieve my personal goals. I am going to savor this ET over the winter. Man it felt great driving the car down for photos even though we were only runner up
, are truly the definition of going fast with class!!!
