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TORQUE THRUST IS BACK IN NITRO RACING

American Racing has re-entered the Top Fuel wars with their Torque Thrust wheel, which is currently on the Fuelers of Darrel Russell, David Baca (photo), and Paul Romine, with more to come.

The wheels meet the new tougher SFI spec and according to American Racing representatives, "The phone has been ringing off the hook for racers to get their hands on them." (Zak Hawthorne photo)[2-12-2003]

OOPS IN THE PITS

Even though Tony Pedregon managed to pull off the Funny Car victory at Pomona, there were concerns at the 9:30 Sunday morning warm-up when the Syntec Mustang just wouldn't fire. After a bunch of head scratching and cross-team consultation, it was time to remove the supercharger. Well, it seems that during the previous night's preparation for eliminations, one of the crew members neglected to remove the metal cover plate they use when storing the superchargers at Force Racing, then bolted the blower in place.

Everyone had a good laugh AFTER the car fired. (Zak Hawthorne photo) (2-12-2003)

WHERE'S THE 2003 MOPAR DODGE STRATUS?

Larry Morgan's controversial Dodge Stratus R/Ts did make it to Pomona for the Winternationals and did attempt to qualify, but since both his and teammate Gene Wilson's cars were in pieces as of the Tuesday prior to Pomona, there was a lot to do. New car bugs hampered Morgan's and Wilson's qualifying for the stout Winternationals Pro Stock field with a 6.811 bump spot. Morgan mustered a best of 6.868 for #33 and Wilson a 6.895 for #37.

The other two factory-backed Stratus (Stratuses? Strati?) will be delivered to team owner Alan Johnson and Darrell Alderman prior to the Gatornationals. (Zak Hawthorne photo) [2-12-2003]