2018 Nascar rule changes / Updates

StandOnIt

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Some of the larger changes:
The aerodynamic shifts will be achieved through use of a common splitter and radiator oil cooler, which Stefanyshyn says will drop downforce by approximately 225 pounds (185 in the front, 40 rear) to a level of 1,650 pounds.

Changes are also in store for the NASCAR Xfinity Series, which will enter a transitional year for the new flange-fit composite bodies ahead of a full 2019 rollout. The series will also make improvements in the area of superspeedway bump-drafting, using a lower front fascia at Daytona and Talladega. The goal of mismatched front and rear bumper heights is to deter teams from locking on in the aerodynamic draft, a practice that’s currently officiated from race control.
The Xfinity tour will also expand the use of the aerodynamic package that debuted last year at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to largely positive reviews. That package — which utilized a taller rear spoiler, a restrictor plate and aero ducts to reduce the advantage of a leading car in ‘clean’ air — will also be used at Pocono Raceway and Michigan International Speedway this season.

Common pit guns will be in use for the 2018 season, in an effort to reduce the performance premium on equipment and place the emphasis on the pit crews’ athletic performance





https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2018/02/01/2018-nascar-rules-updates/
 
Also one less pitman over the wall.

We’ll have to see what ends up breaking with the aero change, who knows, maybe they finally fixed something for once. I remember being disappointed when tandem racing became a thing, then the single file draft that proceeded it.
 
Optional this year in the trucks they are calling the Ilmor engine the NT-1 engine. Some of the little guys will have something to race with. Should make a wild series even more so hope hope
 
If I am reading that right if you go to a backup car at any time you go to the back. That being, what is the use of qualifying if you go to the rear anyway? More will be revealed I guess
 
No more time outs on the track


this is in part to Hawkeye I believe. Cars have to be scanned before they take to the track. If the car is out of tolerance it can't go out for practice until it passes..sooo probably penalties for numerous tries I'm guessing
 
If I am reading that right if you go to a backup car at any time you go to the back. That being, what is the use of qualifying if you go to the rear anyway? More will be revealed I guess

Like you and if I'm reading it right if you bring out a backup you get sent to the rear. Prior to qualifying.?
 
If I am reading that right if you go to a backup car at any time you go to the back. That being, what is the use of qualifying if you go to the rear anyway? More will be revealed I guess
Pit stall selection?
 
I don't see the reason for requiring a pre-qualification car change to go to the back. I -assume- there's a presumed technical advantage gained by switching cars before Q, but darned if I know what it is.
 
How much longer until a grading system is developed, similar to what Pro Football Focus does in football, in regards to rating crew members for each team?
 
How much longer until a grading system is developed, similar to what Pro Football Focus does in football, in regards to rating crew members for each team?
I don't know squat about the rating system you describe, so I'll ask who uses its grades and ratings. If it's mostly used by fantasy football players, you likely won't see something similar for pit crews since they don't factor into fantasy NASCAR. If the grades are mostly used by teams to evaluate potential hires, there may already be a system and we're just not aware of it.

Completely random, uninformed thoughts.
 
Not sure they covered every loop hole with the sealed engine rule, but they look like they are trying
 
The Jackman also goes to the pokey:
If a wheel is improperly installed and comes off after exiting the team’s assigned pit stall, the crew chief, tire changer responsible and jack man each will be suspended four races. Adding the jack man to those suspended for such a violation is new.

Rear steer violation looks like they lose points, money, some get a vacation but the win isn't taken away:
If a car does not pass the rear wheel steer inspection after qualifying, the car’s time is disallowed. If a car does not pass the rear wheel steer after the race, the L1 penalty is a $65,000 fine, loss of 35 driver and owner points and a three-race suspension for the crew chief. Rear wheel steer will be among the areas examined by the new Hawkeye inspection system.

New tries:
Cup teams will have a new right-side tire at Las Vegas, Bristol and Talladega in the first third of the season. Cup teams will have a new left-side tire at Auto Club Speedway, Texas, Kansas, Charlotte and Pocono in the first third of the season.

http://nascar.nbcsports.com/2018/02...inish-becomes-a-phrase-of-the-past-to-nascar/
 
On Cup Series cars in 2018, the fender component will be made of composite material (the same being used for Xfinity Series bodies) instead of steel.

The change is intended to ensure that side skirts will hold their original shape unlike the steel side skits that could be deformed. Bending or flaring out a side skirt in front of the rear tire can provide more downforce and sideforce.
http://nascar.nbcsports.com/2018/02...rts-will-be-made-of-new-material-this-season/
 
This has been going on for a long time
From 2014:
No skirting the issue: Controversial side skirts on NASCAR’s radar
https://www.foxsports.com/nascar/st...oversial-side-skirts-on-nascar-s-radar-102114

From 2015: banning them didn't work:
NASCAR bans flared side skirts, fender manipulation
Teams are no longer permitted to yank on fenders in an effort to give their drivers an aerodynamic advantage.

https://www.sbnation.com/nascar/2015/1/26/7917565/nascar-bans-flared-side-skirts-fender-manipulation


usa-today-8219631.0.jpg


Will the composite flares work or will teams find a way. something to watch for.




 
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