This is the backside view of one version of a switch they claim can be used to offer delay from Zero to .05 of a second. Just keep hitting the bottom bulb, then remove the different size sleeves to give you more or less travel so you can let go at the same time but the travel of the switch will be longer or shorter. Just another delay box in disguise. (This is the "normal automotive type switch NHRA refers to?")
Now I see things changing again. It seems that every year you see more and more “professional sportsman” racers bring two, three or more cars to a national or divisional event. If they can afford it and it is within the rules, I think they are smart to do that. More seat time, less time sitting around, and more chances to win and recover their travel expenses. Winning a national event in Comp, Super Stock or Stock can be worth $15,000 to $20,000 or more if you have the right decals and products and can stand the delays in getting paid for contingency awards. The actual cash prize money is embarrassingly meager for the $200+ entry fees.
Here is what I see as a nasty little development in the sport. A lot of “Professional Sportsman” racers are now doing it for a living. This creates a situation where they need to get better and better in order to keep turning on win-lights, and that has resulted in what may become a serious circumventing of both the spirit and the actual rules for the classes.
First, I will deal with the classes that CANNOT run a delay box: Stock, Super Stock and Comp. Here is what the NHRA rulebook says about “Delay Devices” for these classes:
“Section 8:2 2007 NHRA Rulebook.
Delay Boxes / Devices:
Prohibited in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro-Stock, Pro-Stock Motorcycle, Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, Comp, Super Stock and Stock; permitted in all other categories (E.T. rules may vary by division; contact division office). A delay box or delay device is defined as any device (electric, electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, etc) built for the express purpose of creating a delay between the release of the trans-brake or line-lock button, or release of foot or hand brake, or release of clutch pedal/lever, and resultant action of the vehicle.
“In categories that prohibit delay devices; Changeable vehicle components, legal unto themselves (solenoids, throttle linkage components, hoses, springs, etc.) even though the removal and replacement of that component may affect the reaction time of the vehicle in
relation to the driver’s action, is not considered a delay device. Wiring may consist of a single (i.e., “one” or “1”) continuous wire from a power source to a switch (or button), and a single continuous wire from the switch to the trans-brake or line-loc solenoid. One splice (no quick-disconnect) is permitted from the two-step to the solenoid (i.e., between the switch and solenoid). All switches, buttons, wiring, solenoids, etc. must be for normal automotive use; i.e., not intended to create a delay (adjustable or non-adjustable) between release of the button and the resultant action of the solenoid. All line-loc / trans-brake wiring before and after any switch must be separate from any other wiring and fully visible. Computer wiring, sensors, relays and the like may not be wired to the solenoid wiring. Two-Steps or other rev limiters that are adjustable by thumbwheel, replaceable chips, and the like may not be within the driver’s reach and will preferably be located outside the driver compartment.”
That all sounds simple enough, right? Well, perhaps, but I think I can see a major problem brewing.
