Forum: SCRAFAN.COM Forum (go)
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OCTOBER 21, 2010
DICK JORDAN


2011 RPM LIMITS FOR MIDGETS AIMED AT COST REDUCTION


Midget Engine RPM limits effective for the 2011 racing calendar were announced today by USAC targeting reductions in the cost of engine builds and increasing time between maintenance cycles. RPM limits were achieved due to an extensive and ongoing program of data acquisition and analysis commissioned by USAC for Ilmor Engineering throughout 2010.

Data was derived from a large number of comparable chassis dyno power curves representing the most efficient platforms, along with racing data acquired from a large variety of racing venues including big and small ovals, dirt and pavement.

The following RPM limitations are in effect for the 2011 season: 8700 RPM for Push Rod Engines (166 c.i.), 8800 RPM for Crossflow engines (174 c.i.) and 9800 PRM for Single Overhead Cam (161 c.i.). These limitations result in a performance difference of less than 4%.

Additionally, the Esslinger EST has been approved as a sealed engine platform eligible for competition at all USAC midget racing events beginning with the 2011 racing season. The Esslinger EST is sealed and approved with a factory RPM limit of 9400 RPM.

USAC will continue to monitor and evaluate RPM limits throughout the 2011 racing season, with several review points planned.

USAC personnel are currently working with the ignition suppliers (MSD and EFI) to ensure that additional costs are not incurred by Midget owners for RPM controls and an easy solution for validation is provided to USAC and other sanctioning bodies for trackside evaluation.

Ilmor Engineering will conduct a seminar of their findings for interested midget teams and suppliers during the December trade shows, the time and date to be announced in the coming weeks.

“USAC has done their diligence on studying RPM limits through the Ilmor Engineering analysis,” says Dan Esslinger, President of Esslinger Engineering. “The timing is right for controlling RPM as a means to help contain cost escalation in midget racing over the years."

Another "cost cutting measure"that will for sure cost more,sounds like a government deal to me

ROB

Well let's say that if you and I were to build a new midget and you buy one of the $30-$40,000 motors and I buy an Esslinger EST for $18,000 I'll bet I win more races then you do ! !

Does anyone else see the debacle that was the Starter rule for midgets of the early 90's all over again.

They are costing teams way more money beings that you will have to either buy a Mopar or Toyota at over 40k to compete or Do some expensive R&D with your Esslinger to compete. Either way it is more Money when that is the problem already.

No one likes to go out to run for 6th or worse, we all go out to have a chance to win

I agree with RMR6nm here, they had to start somewhere. If you think 410 non-wing cars might be endangered, count your stars if you haven't hooked your wagon to midgets. RPM limits at least let you run what you have rather than just outlawing certain motors entirely. The guys at Esslinger are sharp enough that they will catch up. Why the outfit making the lowest cost motors is in a position where they are the ones being legislated against is another story entirely. This was a no-win deal that wasn't going to make anyone happy but I think it's a right step forward in saving these cars.

The cool thing about the new Esslinger motor is that it's pretty much the cheapest motor out there AND it's competitive AND it runs below the 9800 limit (9400 per USAC ).

Uses less fuel, runs cleaner and less RPM for less money and it's a competitive deal -- and the best part is that you don't have to buy it if you don't want to.

I've heard that this motor is making plenty of power and has had some very impressive runs in few BADGER and NEMA race's. Let the naysayer's say and the results speak for themselves