The Duke of Oil makes his second outing-
The "Red Green" show arrived at ThunderHill Friday (they don't just call it
that because of all the duct tape...its a very green Jeep and very Red TR) in
anticipation of a fun weekend.
Perfect weather, in the hi 70's to mid 80's all weekend, and no rain (unlike
previous local races). A nice field in all classes (27 in group 3 with the
Duke) and the track was clear, clean (they swept it each night) and fast.
After a good practice with The driver tryin to learn the track, the trouble
began. The car looked good between sessions, but sometimes we just can't
leave a good thing alone. It seemed like a good idea to warm the fluids up
just before the race, but the starter just made a weird noise! Rock the car
in gear...no difference, grab a wrench to turn the starter shaft...seems to
turn too easily! OK, out with the starter, still have time and a spare
starter. Off with all the cool air ducting to the starter, and out with the
starter. What was that? Sounds like metal falling into the bellhousing! Why
is there no bendix on this starter? These are all good questions and
unfortunately, we all know the answer. It appears as though the nut at the
end of the started shaft stripped itself right off with the predictable
outcome of everything else sliding off the shaft as well. Yeah, the trans had
to come out.
Sunday dawned just as nice and The Duke performed well in practice even
though the points closed up toward the end of the session. These are not new
points, Lucas, with the "red" rubbing block and lubed. Had to start last
because of the no show in the first race, but managed to pass 10 cars before
the points started closing up again and a miss coming in at ever lowering
rpm's. Overall a great weekend as the Duke went back on the trailer looking
pretty much the same as when he came off, the driver had great fun and also
came home dirtier, but happier than when he left.
I didn't get too much of a report of the other races as the driver was a tad
busy, but there did not appear to be excess business at the black flag
station, nor anyone on the hook with any body damage (although an Alfa lost a
motor big time in the middle of a fast corner and a Spitfire either broke a
crank or sheared the flywheel off)
All in all, the Duke gives the weekend and HMSA a big "Thumbs up"
What's up with points these days...
Nick in Nor Cal
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