International Model Drag Race Association Forum

I agree with Direct Connection.
What about these 100 mph+ cars that get out of control ? is IMDRA going to slow them down?
Bobby D.

Speaking on the speed thing Bobby D, didn't the NHRA impose a gear selection when the Fuel Cars started comming up on the 300 MPH mark?

This is a typical and usual response from any group that is in charge of making rules. Someone voices a valid ( in their mind ) concern, and a group that isn't really looking at all the safety issues makes a ruling. I've been on those committees and realize that one fire must be addressed at a time. Mark's defensive comments are somewhat understandable considering the amount of free time one invests in these meetings and such. This is not constructive, however, if it alienates potential racers.
My only additional comment would be that energy please be spent on:

1) fully effective car containment, especially in light of the 22+ lb. 1/4 scale cars running within the confines of a 10th scale track and wall facility, as well as 100+ mph trap speeds in some 10th scale classes;

2) containing a potential tire/foam disintegration, which most of us have experienced / witnessed.....

I am willing to help in any way constructive, at the Board's pleasure.

Eric Johnson

With the brushless and LiPo technology at our disposal and racers attaining these 100 MPH speeds, It only makes sense to be proactive in regards to safety. Both from a common sense approach and more importantly, a liability standpoint. It only takes one accident and one greedy, litigious prone individual to screw up the whole thing for everyone with a law suite.

Accept it racers, with the increased speeds will come the need for more rules. It was bound to happen. This post had good intentions but seems there are some details missing as to how "Mandatory" is interpreted. I.e. posting this requirement but are unable to provide details if a full bodied car with a shell of 0.030 will meet the requirement. Lets just hope any remaining rules are sensible and well thought out before being implemented. It would be nice if the BOD would post the "Proposed Changes" and solicit the racers feedback. Sometimes, a good idea might just shine through all the mud.



Remember, In the end, It's just a hobby....

I guess I'll ask it again and MAYBE I'll get an answer this time. What happened to IMDRA's policy of getting member votes on new rules?

Jim Eich

Guys,
We did think this thing through a lot and we were reluctant, but with so many new direct drive cars coming out, we felt the need to put some rules in place. We all know that some people will go to the extreme to make the rotating mass lighter, and this may result in somone getting hurt. It would be impossible to police with no major manufacturer making these cars. Most of them are made by individuals that know nothing about material strength, some of the racers do know. We can't afford to carry a piece of equipment around to test the tensil strength of the drive shafts, so the easiest way is to put this rule in place. They do have a shield in real race cars to protect the drivers.
We do get the racers input in all rule changes for classes, but we as a BOD, have to always put safety of all racers first. I welcome your input and appreciate you taking the time to voice your opinion. I just don't want one of these things becoming a projectile in the pit area. The BOD will meet and discuss the cover for Full Bodied cars. We have not met since that was discussed, but we will get back to you with a decision.

I hope the Board keeps in mind that there are many inherent differences between the "dogbone(r)" type system and the "u-yoint" or "double u-yoint with captured drive shaft in between" systems as seen in my and Patricks pics above. To require a scattershield for these self restrained types would be a stretch even for our Bored Board.........I hope.

To understand this post may be more of a stretch I fear.........lol.

Jim

I hope too!!!!........ My drive system has an internal hardened steel 5mm shaft that runs from the motor shaft to the pinion shaft... no way for the parts to exit without a destructive failure of the 3/8" 7075 aluminum yokes AND one of the three steel internal shafts.

If the board is going to pursue this paranoid vein of overkill, the next logical step would be to insist on a fully enclosed driveshaft for nitro cars. A driveshaft could just as easily exit from the bottom of the car while while being revved on the bench or on the way to the start line. Who knows where a table level ricochet could end up.... maybe in the eye of the guy at the next table.... OMG!

Well said Pat couldnt have said it better my self.
Troy