I know how to set valves; that's why I don't want them.
I've rebuilt small block Chevy's, big block Chevy's (a .030 over
454 yielding about 610HP), big block Fords (helped a guy do a side
oiler), Datsun Z's (a .040 over L24 yielding about 230HP), and even
an International truck engine (the pistons had dishes in them
adequate to hold a nice helping of ice cream). I have rebuilt the
top ends of Chapparal's, Kawasaki's, AMW's, and now the 494 Rotax
(I don't do bottoms).
Let me tell you why I like this class and, in doing so, I will
exclude the normal economic, logistical, and technical reasons. IF
you don't know these by now, you need more help than this site can
provide you.
I work a 50-60 hour week. Unfortunately, I have a life outside of
racing. I work out, eat out, attend meetings of other subject
groups, and like to get a good night's sleep. Sound like you?
Probably so. I do NOT eat, sleep, and live racing. I AM an
enthusiast but, I am NOT obsessed. Some of you are obsessed; the
rest is like me.
I have no crew, attend most races alone (hence the electric
starter), have no sponsors, my employer is associated with neither
the motor sports nor the transportation industries, and therefore
pay right out of the pocket with no help. I am NOT complaining.
However, racing solo (alone; not around pylons) requires planning,
sacrifice, and is somewhat disadvantageous when seeking a second
opinion. I barely have time to service the car as it is without
having to adjust valves (spare me the sealed engine sermon), change
crankcase oil, and check lift. I cannot afford a collection of
springs, shock valves, sway bars, gear box sets, lightened CV's,
check/adjust shift linkage, and STILL get dressed, buckled in and
to the grid. The mental transition from mechanic to driver can be
an awesome undertaking.
I am NOT unusual. I would predict that there are literally dozens
of racers in this class just like me. We need a simple solution to
our racing. Minimal variables. Easy loading/unloading. Low
storage costs. Modest shop space.
This class will NEVER be EVERYTHING to EVERYBODY. If it is for
you, please accept the class for what it is; no more, no less.
Warts & all. If not, I personally wish you well in your racing and
if you see me at the track and need something, please drop by. I
believe there are enough people interested in this class to sustain
its presence in the club. What I believe we need to do is whatever
is necessary to retain those people without degrading the class by
introducing unwarranted universality in an attempt to please all
the people, all the time.
Dave Gill
