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Tyler Ankrum returns to McAnally-Hilgemann Racing for 2025 Truck season

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by John Knittel for SpeedwayMedia.com.

Tyler Ankrum will be returning as the driver of the No. 18 LiUNA! Chevrolet Silverado RST entry for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing (MHR) for the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season.

The news comes as the 2018 ARCA Menards Series East champion from San Bernardino, California, is coming off his fifth full-time campaign in the Truck Series and first with MHR. In his first season with MHR, Ankrum made the 2024 Truck Series Playoffs and finished in eighth place in the final standings. He also notched career-high stats in top fives (six), top 10s (12) and laps led (92) while also tying his career-best average-finishing result of 13.4, the same he generated in 2020, throughout the 23-race schedule.

For the 2025 season, Ankrum will also have continuous crew chief support from Mark Hillman, the latter of whom returns for his fourth Truck season as a crew chief for MHR.

“I’m really glad to be staying at MHR with Mark and the entire LIUNA team,” Ankrum said in a released statement. “This last year was probably the best of my career with the consistency we showed throughout the season. Making the playoffs was a huge goal for us and we were in the mix all the way to Martinsville, so we want to take another step and make it to Phoenix in 2025. We all want to get back to victory lane, and I think keeping this group together and continuing to develop as a team will help us get there.”

Ankrum made his Truck Series debut in 2018, the same season where he would claim the ARCA East title. Driving the No. 54 Toyota for DGR-Crosley at Martinsville Speedway in October 2018, Ankrum started 19th and finished 18th in his debut. He would make an additional start at Phoenix Raceway in November, where he finished sixth.

The following season, Ankrum moved up to the Truck Series to drive the No. 17 entry for DGR-Crosley. After being absent for the first three-scheduled events due to age restrictions, he spent his first nine events racing between DGR-Crosley and NEMCO Motorsports due to sponsorship woes. Then at Kentucky Speedway, he claimed his first Truck career victory and earned an automatic berth to the Playoffs. Despite being eliminated from the Playoffs following the Round of 6, he settled in eighth place in the final standings and wrapped up the 2019 Rookie-of-the-Year title.

Ankrum would proceed to spend his next two Truck seasons racing for GMS Racing. During the two-year span, he made the Playoffs in 2020 and settled in ninth place in the final standings on the strength of 10 top-10 results. He also recorded his first career pole for the series’ inaugural event at Circuit of the Americas in May 2021. The following two seasons, he transitioned to Hattori Racing Enterprises, where his best points result was 12th in 2022, before he made his recent move to MHR in 2024.

Through 136 current starts in the Truck Series, Ankrum has recorded one victory, one pole, 16 top-five results, 50 top-10 results, 236 laps led and an average-finishing result of 13.4 as he strives to extend the momentum from this past season towards a return to Victory Lane and another Playoff bid in 2025.

“Tyler had his strongest season in 2024 and the best is yet to come,” Bill McAnally, team owner of MHR, added. “He, Mark (Hillman), and the whole LIUNA team worked well together, made a strong playoff run, and put themselves in position to win some races. The growth of MHR we have for 2025 will make the No. 18 team stronger and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish with Tyler next season.”

With his plans for next season set, Tyler Ankrum’s 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season is set to commence at Daytona International Speedway on February 14. The event’s broadcast time is scheduled to commence at 7:30 p.m. ET on FS1.

Wyatt Coffey kicks off relationship with JS Racing & Development with win at Screven

By
Official Release
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Wyatt Coffey raced to victory during the 602 Bandit feature on Saturday night at Screven Motorsports Park, his first since partnering with JS Racing & Development.

SYLVANIA, Ga. (Nov. 25, 2024) – The new relationship between Jeff Smith’s JS Racing & Development and rising star Wyatt Coffey got off to a fast start Saturday night at Screven Motorsports Park.

Competing in the 602 Bandit class during the Georgia State Outlaw Championship, Coffey piloted the No. 2 602 Late Model to victory in his first night working with JS Racing & Development.

“I feel great being able to win in my first night racing with Jeff and Zack Smith,” said the 11-year-old Coffey. “To be able to work with someone like Jeff and to be able to learn from him is incredible. I’m so glad we could win in our first night together and hopefully it’s the first of many.”

Coffey qualified fourth for the 15-lap feature, setting him up for a strong run once the green flag waved at the third-mile clay oval.

He moved into third on the opening lap and was second by lap five before making the race-winning pass on the ninth circuit. He would go on to lead the remainder of the event, crossing the finishing line first with a comfortable 1.816-second buffer on the runner up.

The win signifies the start of a new partnership for Coffey, who will work with JS Racing & Development as he continues his ascent up the racing ranks following a successful season that saw Coffey win multiple championships and countless races.

JS Racing & Development is led by veteran Dirt Late Model competitor Jeff Smith and his son Zack Smith. Jeff Smith is the son of legendary dirt racing star Freddy Smith. A winner with both the World of Outlaws Late Model Series and Lucas Oil Late Model Series, Jeff Smith is excited to work with Coffey and help guide him as he navigates his way up the racing ranks.

“The opportunity to mentor and coach people in racing has intrigued me for a long time. I have done it in the past and really enjoyed it,” said Jeff Smith. “This was my 40th year behind the wheel and I have been involved in racing my whole life with my Dad and Grandfather. To be able to share my knowledge and experience with others is very satisfying.

“Having the opportunity to meet Wyatt through Tonya at MPM Marketing was perfect timing. Wyatt has accumulated quite a list of accomplishments already at such a young age. I’m looking forward to helping him continue to progress in his racing endeavors.”

Wyatt Coffey would like to thank Longhorn by Wesley Page, his mom, dad, poppy, Jeff, Zack and RE, Tonya McCallister and MPM Marketing, along with his sponsors Coltman Farms Racing, Atlanta Paving & Concrete Construction Inc., ArborLife Professional Tree Care, United Tire & Auto, Bradley’s Trucking, R&M Automotive, Bennett’s Hometown Garage, Payne’s Enterprises, Todd Rental, Mt. View Auto Sales, Checkered Flag Graffix, CB Industries and Triple R Cattle.

About McCallister Precision Marketing

McCallister Precision Marketing (MPM) focuses on assisting up-and-coming race car drivers with career advancement and promotion. McCallister Precision Marketing helps drivers build confidence in front of and behind the camera, giving them the tools they need to advance to the next level. The company also provides companies with a strategic plan for their sales, marketing and promotional needs. We believe in building positive relationships with our clients so that we may provide them with the most professional, yet personal guidance they need, in order to achieve their racing goals. Our clients include race car drivers, race team owners, companies and racing series’. We also work closely with charities and charity events. For more information on McCallister Precision Marketing, visit www.MarketWithMPM.com, email TonyaMac44@MarketWithMPM.com or call 803-361-6199.

RAFA Racing’s 2024 Season Ends Too Early at COTA Six Hour

By
Official Release
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The RAFA Racing by JDX Porsche Cayman Was in Contention For a Podium Before Being Punted Off Track With More Than Two Hours Remaining

AUSTIN, Texas (November 24, 2024) – RAFA Racing by JDX saw the 2024 championship-winning season end more than two hours shy of the Porsche Endurance Challenge season finale’s checkered flag on Sunday at Circuit of the Americas.

Co-drivers Ian Porter, Rafael Martinez and Caroline Candas were fighting back through the mixed-class field featuring Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars and in-class Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsports, running fourth with two-hours, 15-minutes remaining in the six-hour race. With Candas in the car, a multiple-laps-down GT3 Cup car piloted by Alan Metni hit Candas in the rear through the Esses, putting her into the wall and ending Porter’s hopes of adding a second championship to his rookie season of racing.

Porter entered the race tied for the Porsche Endurance Challenge point lead, then put the No. 85 Grid Finder Porsche Cayman on pole for the race during Saturday’s qualifying. He led the opening stint of the race, handing off to Candas and then Martinez in the opening two hours.

Though the team stumbled with a pit stop timing error early and received a penalty, each driver handled the track and the traffic and the trio sat on the lead lap at the half way point of the race.

Running a trio of professional racing rookies against a field of drivers ranging in FiA rating from Bronze all the way to Platinum, the RAFA Racing team remained on the lead lap and in contention for a spot on the podium as the clock ticked toward the two-hour-remaining mark.

But just two laps into her stint, Candas was hit from behind through the esses and the day, and the season, came to an end. The offending car served a drive through penalty while the RAFA Racing by JDX Cayman sat in the Circuit of the Americas garage.

It was an unfortunate end to a successful first season of racing for the team. Porter captured wins driving solo in the one-hour races at both Road America and Sonoma, and added 12 more on his way to the Porsche Sprint Challenge North America championship in the same car. Candas added two wins of her own in Porsche Sprint Challenge, finished second in the standing, and collected the Porsche Junior and Mobil 1 Female Development titles in the class. Martinez got in on the action, earning a podium stateside in the Porsche Sprint Challenge West race at Sonoma and an SRO European Championship Pro-Am podium at Hockenheim.

The RAFA Racing team, which runs with the motto “Race As Family Always,” completed the 2024 season with family members Grid Finder, 8Twelve Wheels, the team and crew at JDX Racing, Sphere, Nine Banded Whiskey and Random Golf Club by its side. The team now turns its attention to the 2025 season, with an announcement of the full scope of plans in the coming weeks.

RAFA Racing Quote Board

Rafael Martinez, Driver: “The result wasn’t what we were going for, but what we showed is that we have a lot of potential. We had three rookies and have never done an endurance race before, and we held our own against some serious talent. The fact that we held our own, and showed that we had the potential to compete, if not for the win, but for a podium for sure. We kind of shot ourselves in the foot with some user errors as rookies, but we were in fourth place and a chance to come out in third and potentially second before we got taken out. I’m really happy with the team and the big turn out we had.”

Caroline Candas, Driver: “We were really good on the race pace. If we take out the two penalties, we were really competitive. I think at the end of the day we could have been on the podium and that’s why I’m really disappointed with what happened on track. I’m really disappointed for Ian, because we were here to help him with his championship, and we were fighting for it. Ending in this situation is not what I wanted. It was my first endurance race and I appreciate all of it. It’s what I want for my future. I want to do the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and this was a little taste. It allowed me to discover what it’s all about and it was a pleasure to share it with Ian and Rafael and I’m thankful to them for the opportunity.”

Ian Porter, Driver: “The season itself has been really good. I think it was a really strong showing. It was a cool moment out here at the six hours because I could compare my lap times to the people I aspire to be. It was cool to see my lap times were pretty close even though I’ve only been doing this for a year. It was an unfortunate ending, but I don’t think we were set up for the most success with an amateur lineup when other teams were flying people in from around the world. It was a lot of fun.”

About RAFA Racing Club:

RAFA Racing, utilizing the motto “Race As Family Always,” is a motorsports club and race team founded by and made for high-performance auto drivers, supporters, and fans of all types. Started by Rafael Martinez, the Club aims to create a space for high-performance car enthusiasts to enjoy like-minded individuals, network and share ideas on and off the track, and bond as one team with a common interest. The RAFA Racing Team made its debut in 2023 with a runner-up finish in the McLaren Trophy Europe Series, and expands that footprint to include Porsche Sprint Challenge North America and SRO GT4 Europe in 2024. The Club’s off-track presence can be felt on social media and beyond, including YouTube, Instagram and Facebook and at RafaRacing.Club.

How to Troubleshoot Common Car Problems

By
SM
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Photo by Syda_Productions at https://depositphotos.com/

Owning a car is convenient, but it also comes with its share of headaches. From strange noises to warning lights, many car problems can be confusing and stressful. Learning how to troubleshoot common issues can save you time, money, and unnecessary trips to the mechanic. Here’s a guide to help you identify and address some of the most frequent car problems.

The last thing anyone wants is your or their car to have a mechanical failure that causes an accident. If you or a loved one was involved in a collision due to another driver’s negligence with the maintenance of their vehicle, contact a New Haven accident lawyer today for legal assistance.

Engine Won’t Start

This is one of the most alarming car problems, but the solution might be simpler than you think.

Possible Causes:
A dead battery is a frequent culprit, especially if you hear a clicking noise or nothing at all when turning the key. Faulty starters can cause grinding noises or a single loud click. Fuel issues, like an empty tank or clogged filter, might also prevent the engine from starting.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Test the battery using a multimeter; it should read around 12.6 volts when healthy. If the battery is dead, jumpstart the car using cables and a working vehicle. The Environmental Protection Agency has a guide for disposing dead auto batteries should you need to replace your old one. Also, ensure there’s enough fuel and that the fuel pump is functioning.

Squealing or Grinding Brakes

Brakes are critical to your safety, so don’t ignore unusual sounds.

Possible Causes:
Squealing often means brake pads are worn and need replacement. Grinding noises might indicate damage to the rotors. Dirt or gravel caught in the brake mechanism can also create odd sounds.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Inspect the brake pads and replace them if they’re less than a quarter-inch thick. Pay attention to warning signs like squealing that stops after braking. If grinding persists, seek immediate attention. Cleaning the brakes with a hose can help remove debris.

Check Engine Light Is On

The dreaded check engine light can mean many things, from minor to serious.

Possible Causes:
A loose gas cap is a surprisingly common cause. Faulty oxygen sensors can impact fuel efficiency, while catalytic converter issues may lead to engine damage.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Tighten the gas cap—it’s often a quick fix. Use an OBD-II scanner to read error codes and identify the problem. If the light continues flashing, consult a mechanic immediately.

Overheating Engine

An overheating engine can leave you stranded and cause significant damage.

Possible Causes:
Low coolant levels are a primary cause of overheating. A faulty thermostat can prevent proper coolant flow, and a broken radiator fan may hinder engine cooling.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Check coolant levels, but only when the engine is cool to avoid burns, and add coolant if necessary. Inspect for leaks under the car and check the thermostat and radiator fan for proper function. If you’re unsure, consult a professional.

Vibrations While Driving

Unusual vibrations can make driving uncomfortable and may signal a deeper issue.

Possible Causes:
Unbalanced tires are a frequent cause of vibrations, particularly at high speeds. Worn suspension parts, like shocks or struts, and warped brake rotors can also contribute.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Ensure tires are properly inflated and balanced. Inspect the suspension for signs of wear, such as leaking shocks. If vibrations occur only during braking, have the rotors inspected.

Strange Smells

Smells often indicate trouble brewing under the hood.

Possible Causes:
A burning oil smell could indicate a leak or overheating engine. A rotten egg odor might point to a failing catalytic converter, while a sweet smell often signals a coolant leak.

Troubleshooting Tips:
Check for leaks beneath the car and inspect the engine for smoke or burnt residue. Address strange smells promptly, as prolonged issues can worsen damage.

When to Seek Professional Help

While these tips can help you troubleshoot, some problems require professional attention. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing a repair, it’s always best to consult a trusted mechanic.

Understanding common car problems and their solutions can save you stress and money. By being proactive and learning basic troubleshooting skills, you can keep your car in good shape and reduce unexpected breakdowns. Regular maintenance is the key to preventing many of these issues in the first place.

Your Ideal Destinations for Exciting Betting and Formula One Passion

By
SM
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Digital technology is giving us pleasures that are more exciting than ever before. For those who are trying their luck or trying to enjoy, platforms like Dewatogel are the best spot. It provides a great online gambling experience with smooth and safe access to games that excite millions of people. Additionally, websites like pitpass.com go deep into the heart of Formula One racing, providing players with outstanding information.

These platforms show the ideal blend of risk and strategy, each engaging in its own way and bringing its audience closer to the excitement they seek. Whether you are playing an online slot machine or learning about the latest F1 technologies, all of these offer a fun experience.

Attractive Power of Gambling

  • Online gaming has grown to its peak, and the DewaTogel.com platform is leading the way with its safe, entertaining, and smooth deals. The platform provides realistic settings for betting fans, including attractive slots with great winning chances as well as classic games such as online poker and e-lottery.
  • The standout feature of it is the user-friendliness and security. Using advanced technology and stable servers, the platform ensures smooth gameplay and secure transactions. This trustworthiness makes it a favourite among players, who trust the platform for both its transparency and its promise of big rewards. They stand out for the following reasons:
  • The slot games in this online gambling are popular for their high payout percentages and engaging themes. As packed with features like free spins and progressive jackpots, they attract more new players.
  • It is designed for both beginners and experienced players, so games like online poker on the platform boost strategic thinking and help to sharpen decision-making.

Each game comes with user-friendly navigation and stunning visuals, ensuring a satisfying experience. Whether you are a casual player or a serious bettor, online offers an environment where fun and rewards coexist seamlessly.

Formula One: A World of Speed and Strategy

Formula One is a sport where dedication, speed, and accuracy combine to provide life-changing experiences. It is a goldmine of F1 information, with full coverage of races, drivers, and behind-the-scenes details that only true fans can give.

Formula One is not just a race, it is an experience with twist and turns. Each turn you make and every second you cut off the track time reveals a story of strategy and determination. For fans, the experience is about more than just watching; it is about connecting with the matches and keeping up with every twist and turn of the season.

The Passion Behind F1 Racing

Pitpass stands out for its dedication to freedom and the truth. In contrast to other sources, this site stays away from rumours and advertising techniques in favour of truthful reporting of the Formula One industry. Their dedication to the sport is the motivation behind this website, which aims to highlight the spirit of Formula One while offering entertaining and educational information.

This webpage is popular among F1 paddock personnel as well, who value its honest reporting and humorous tone. It is not just for fans. It conveys the excitement and fun of Formula One racing and offers a portal to all the action for anyone wishing to learn more about this sport.

Whether you are placing a bet on a secure platform or diving into the details of Formula One with detailed insights, these destinations promise to keep you entertained and engaged.

With Pitpass, Formula One fans can explore their desire for the sport in a space where truth and fun coexist, while online gaming enthusiasts can turn to DewaTogel for a reliable and exciting gaming journey. Together, they represent the ultimate blend of risk, strategy, and passion—perfect for anyone seeking a taste of thrill.

E36 Long Tube Headers: A Comprehensive Guide to Boosting Performance

By
SM
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The BMW E36, the 3 Series shape that most people will recognize, is favored by many motoring fans both for the balanced overall chassis as well as the undying look and performance. While many wonder what the stock configuration of E36 provides in terms of drive, many owners seek FoD policy tuning to unlock its potential. One important mod for the E36 is long tube header upgrade.

This guide seeks to discuss all the relevant details about the E36 long tube headers, their application and functionality as well as their advantages and the factors to look out for when buying appropriate headers for your automobile.

The Concept of Long Tube Headers

Long tube headers are designed to facilitate the expulsion of exhaust fumes from the engine more efficiently and are sold as aftermarket performance parts. Long tube headers, unlike stock exhaust manifolds which are all about cost and size, prioritizes performance. Each cylinder has its own long tube which is connected to the exhaust system at an angle which reduces backpressure and increases scavenging.

For E36 owners, this translates into a higher improving sound where the engine becomes less restricted providing more efficiency as well HP and torque gains across the board.

How Long Tube Headers Function

To explain the efficiency of long tube headers, it is important to examine how the exhaust process occurs in the engine. When the cylinder fires, it opens the exhaust ports to discharge the exhaust gases. In a stock manifold, these gases exit through the individual ports and are quickly collected into a single collector which is in most cases not good due to turbulence and backpressure that.. can be formed

Long tube headers are meant to equalize the length of tubes connected to every cylinder for a smoother exhaust outflow. With longer length, exhaust pulses become evenly spaced and this creates a scavenging effect. Quite simply, this effect serves to better evacuate exhaust gas from the cylinder so as to allow for the next air-fuel charge to come in. Consequently, this results in a more powerful engine especially at higher RPM where the efficiency of the engine is demanded.

Benefits of Installing Long Tube Headers on an E36

Suppose you want to build an E36 that performs exceptionally well. In that case, considering long tube headers for the vehicle’s engine should be prioritised as such upgrades promise so many advantages. These are some of the advantages you can expect:

Increased Horsepower and Torque

Without a doubt, the most important gain which should motivate you in investing in e36 long tube headers is power. Long tube headers will help provide better engine efficiency. It means that the engine will produce more power and will hardly work when driving. If you plan to make an E36 dedicated for the track or want to get a more responsive vehicle in the streets then long tube headers are essential.

Enhanced Throttle Response

Since there are no restraints in the exhaust system, with better scavenging also present, the time it takes for the throttle to be acted on will also be shortened. Thus, this allows for thrilling use of the E36 as it will become more lively and daring.

Improved Sound

One of the major enhancements that become noticeable is in terms of sound. Long tube headers will completely change the way your E36 sounds for the better. Deep sounding profiles tend to have more of a sporty feel and the enhanced tubes will provide exactly that. This is the best aspect for many enthusiasts when making the upgrade.

High-RPM Performance

Most of stock exhaust manifolds are built for a blended performance but do not do well at high RPMs. Long tube headers, on the other hand, are designed specifically to be maximally effective in high-range RPMs making them the best choice for aggressive driving or uses on the track.

Reduced Engine Stress

Also, long tube headers enable the expulsion of exhaust gases and therefore the engine does not have to work as hard. This in turn, can enhance durability and reliability particularly when other performance enhancements are done.

Choosing the Right Long Tube Headers for Your E36

It is important to understand that not all long tube headers are the same, thus choosing them for your E36 needs some considerations. Here are some factors to keep in mind while making your choice:

Material

Usually, long tube headers are made out of stainless steel, mild steel or steel ceramic coated steel. The most common is stainless steel steel since it has great properties such as excellent strength, corrosion resistance and lightweight. Heat resistant ceramic coatings also reduce underhood temperatures.

Fitment 

The space in the engine bay of the E36 is constrained and therefore care must be taken when selecting headers for the model. Using universal headers is not recommended as they tend to be ill fitted and require unnecessary work. Make certain that the headers are suited for your engine variant for easy installation (M50, M52, S50, etc). 

Primary Tube Diameter 

Choosing the diameter of the primary tubes also has some effect on the exhaust characteristics and performance, The smaller the diameter the better for naturally aspirated engines as they help maintain exhaust gas velocity. On the other hand larger diameters are ideal for turbocharged or heavily modified engines setup where maximum flow is the requirement. 

Brand Reputation 

Other reliable brands such as Active Autowerke, Supersprint and Turner Motorsport have been proven to work effectively regarding E36 long tube header fabrication. Some trustworthy brand should be sought after since they provide reinforcement and efficiency. 

Installation and Considerations 

While adding long tube headers to your E36 is a worthwhile upgrade there are several difficulties that one will experience. A few tips are able to ease the process of installation and promote its success: Professional Installation Recommended Although adding long tube headers is possible for most DIY people, it can be tedious. Getting a professional installation prevents the chances of fitment, alignment and sealing which mitigates leakage issues.

Compatibility with Other Mods When shopping for headers, remember that some performance modifications, like a cold air intake or a tuned ECU, may already be installed in your E36. It may be necessary to custom tune to get the full potential out the headers.

Heat Management Long tube headers will definitely create more heat than stock manifolds, and this could impact other surrounding elements. You can try to use heat wrap or ceramic coatings to reduce the amount of heat transfer to delicate components.

Exhaust System Integration Long tube headers will also require additional work to your existing exhaust system such as the insertion of a mid-pipe or a new catalytic converter. Be ready to do some more work so that everything fits correctly.

Maintenance and Longevity

As stated before, once long tube headers are fitted they require little or no maintenance. Still, periodical check-ups are needed to ensure that they do not get damage or disrepair. Look out for any indications of leaks, fractures or corrosion, especially if you often drive in extreme conditions. Keeping your headers clean and free from debris will also contribute to their longevity.

Are Long Tube Headers Worth It?

For E36 owners looking to unleash every bit of performance from their car, this is one of the ideal upgrades a long tube header certainly is. Be it building a track car, having an insane daily, or simply needing the thrill of an adrenaline rush while driving, long tube headers can certainly give you what you expect & much more.

But, keep in mind the cost, installation difficulty, and the requirement of additional modifications if any before spending money on it. For E36 owners who are willing to go the extra mile, long tube headers can be of tremendous help to increase the performance of the vehicle.

Conclusions

The BMW E36 is a car that can take an insane amount of modifications and make it better, which includes long tube headers as one of the best upgrades. Starting from quicker revs and better throttle responses along with better sound producing engines, these headers are surely capable of so much. Understanding how to utilize them, the right fit and the right application—You can bring your E36 to another level and make it an absolute monster!

Pro Football Hall of Famer, FOX NFL Analyst Michael Strahan To Drive Pace Car at 109th Indianapolis 500

By
Official Release
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INDIANAPOLIS (Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024) – Michael Strahan, a Pro Football Hall of Fame member, two-time Daytime Emmy Award winner, longtime “FOX NFL Sunday” analyst and “Good Morning America” co-host, has been named honorary Pace Car driver for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, live on FOX. The announcement was made during today’s “FOX NFL Sunday.”

Strahan, who was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame alongside the entire “FOX NFL Sunday” cast, will drive the 1,064-horsepower 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 coupe – capable of 233 mph, the highest top speed of any car ever made in America by an auto manufacturer – and lead the field of 33 drivers to the start of the “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Exact Pace Car details, including the livery, will be announced at a later date.

“Michael is an impressive addition to the lineup of all-star athletes and celebrities to serve as honorary Pace Car driver for the Indianapolis 500,” IMS President J. Douglas Boles said. “From the gridiron to the broadcast studio, Michael is no stranger to leading a fast-paced field. As we kick off a new era of INDYCAR and the Indy 500 on FOX, Michael will have one of the best seats in the house for the start of the world’s greatest race.”

Previous recent Pace Car drivers include Morgan Freeman, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Robin Roberts, Patrick Dempsey, Ken Griffey Jr., Tyrese Haliburton and many others.

FOX Sports is the new exclusive home of all INDYCAR action, with all 17 NTT INDYCAR SERIES races set to broadcast on network television via FOX in 2025. This includes the world-famous Indianapolis 500, annually the largest single-day spectator sporting event on the globe. Coverage of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” will be extensive for fans across the country, with a five-hour Race Day window on FOX.

The Pace Car driver announcement continues FOX’s promotional kickoff for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES season and the Indianapolis 500. The announcement of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES Grand Prix of Arlington, coming in March 2026, was featured during FOX’s “America’s Game of the Week.” In addition, FOX College Football analyst and Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram arrived for FOX’s “Big Noon Kickoff” in Bloomington, Indiana, in an INDYCAR SERIES car, continuing to deliver the message that INDYCAR’s home in 2025 will be FOX.

Visit ims.com to submit a ticket application for the 109th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on Sunday, May 25 and for more information on the complete Month of May schedule at IMS.

Elliott, Allgaier and Caruth win Most Popular Driver Awards

By
Angie Campbell
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(Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

The National Motorsports Press Association announced the 2024 Most Popular Driver Awards on Friday evening at the NASCAR Awards Banquet at the Charlotte Convention Center. Fans vote annually to determine the award’s recipients.

Chase Elliott- NASCAR Cup Series

“Thank you to the fans,” Elliott said during the awards banquet. “The fans have meant so much to myself, my career, my family and beyond. When I look at that award, regardless whether I won it tonight or not, I’m grateful for the fans across the country and around the world for what they do for me, but I’ve always looked at it as a little bit of just an opportunity to honor and appreciate the legacy that my family has really set up for me. I think at the end of the day, I’ve always just tried to carry myself and represent that as they would want me to and try to make them proud.

“As I look at my fans and the people that genuinely want to see us do well, I just see a lot of dedication and people that are willing to spend their hard-earned money on T-shirts and hats and to come to the races and support us. I see a lot of that at the race track, and I don’t want anyone to ever think that I take any of that for granted.”

Bill Elliott – 16 times (1984-1988, 1991-2000, 2002)
Dale Earnhardt – 2001
Dale Earnhardt Jr. – 15 times (2003-2017)
Chase Elliott – 7 times (2018-2024)

Justin Allgaier – NASCAR Xfinity Series

It was Allgaier’s fifth NASCAR Xfinity Series MPD award. He previously won in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023 and the 13th straight for JR Motorsports among whose previous winners include Allgaier, Danica Patrick (2012), Regan Smith (2013), Chase Elliott (2014-2015), Elliott Sadler (2011, 2016-2018) and Noah Gragson (2022).

“This is such an incredible honor to win this award,” Allgaier said. “I can’t thank the fans enough for all of their support, and for this No. 7 BRANDT Professional Agriculture team at JR Motorsports who worked so hard all year long to make this championship happen. It means the world to me.”

Rajah Caruth – NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series

Caruth won the Most Popular Driver Award in only his second full-time season in the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. It was a breakout year for him as he also scored his first career victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway in March earning him a spot in the series Playoffs this year and finishing in seventh place in the points standings.

Caruth thanked his fans in a video posted by NASCAR from the Banquet Awards.

“What’s up fans? I want to thank you for voting me for Most Popular Driver in the Craftsman Truck Series,” Caruth said. “Appreciate all y’all’s support and we’ll see you in 2025.”

NASCAR will return for the 2025 season with an exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 2 at 8 p.m. ET.

Eli Tomac and Shane McElrath dominate down under with FIM World Supercross Championship Australian GP clean sweep

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Official Release
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Eli Tomac and Shane McElrath extend FIM World Supercross Championship leads with WSX and SX2 clean sweep at WSX Australian GP at HBF Park in Perth. Eli Tomac and Shane McElrath staged a dominant performance at the double-header 2024 WSX Australian GP by completing a victory clean sweep in the FIM World Supercross Championship’s WSX 450cc and SX2 250cc classes.

In their respective categories, Tomac and McElrath were the class of the field on Saturday and Sunday at HBF Park, with both riders staging near-perfect weekends by coming out on top in almost every single session in Perth. For Tomac, his weekend started off on the wrong foot when two-time WSX vice champion, Joey Savatgy, won SuperPole on Saturday, and after a slow start to the first moto of the weekend, it appeared that the eight-time AMA Motocross and Supercross title winner was struggling for pace.

But by staging a resurgent comeback, Tomac was able to silence his early critics, winning GP Race 1 on Saturday before dominating the rest of the round by leading every lap and taking victory in each remaining moto, from GP Race 2, all the way to the SuperFinal. On Sunday, this domination only continued although Tomac finally met his match in the form of Savatgy, who came out on top in a scintillating GP Race 2 in the third round of the season.

With three wins, however, Tomac’s advantage was ultimately unbeatable, with a 1-3-1-1 record on Sunday handing the CDR Yamaha Supported by Star Racing rider a third overall WSX victory of the 2024 season.

Eli Tomac, Rider, CDR Yamaha Supported by Star Racing, said: “It’s been a very memorable weekend – I only missed out on the win in one moto. It was awesome for us to win seven out of eight races and then win SuperPole on Sunday. Perth was a very interesting track, with soil we don’t race on normally so that was challenging all weekend, and then just another great weekend on points. I’ve built up a solid lead, I was happy with the motorcycle all weekend, and then my starts were awesome in all of the races. I’ve had a great stay here in Perth, and I’m excited to go to Abu Dhabi which is a new place for me, another new culture, and I’m excited to see it and showcase some supercross.”

Over both rounds in Australia, Savatgy and Ken Roczen were Tomac’s closest challengers, with Roczen finishing as the runner-up on Saturday and placing third on Sunday, while Savatgy outperformed the German on Sunday to secure second overall after finishing third on Saturday. For WSX’s defending two-time World Champion, Roczen, the weekend overall was difficult, with the Pipes Motorsports Group rider consistently playing catch up after losing ground with slow starts and making several small but costly mistakes.

His 2-3-2-2 record from Saturday and 3-2-3-2 run on Sunday place him second in the WSX Riders’ Standings with 257 points – 46 points adrift of Tomac who leads with 303 points after taking 10 individual race wins this season.

Ken Roczen, Rider, Pipes Motorsports Group, said: “I have mixed feelings. My starts are still not great, and I have to say, and this is not an excuse by any means, but I struggled with this dirt big time – it’s just not my favourite at all. I’m also on new suspension so I just felt a little bit unfamiliar, but I tried as hard as I could. The most important thing is that we’re healthy and we tried everything we can to do the best, and now we have 10 days now to reset, come back in Abu Dhabi and try to win there. I’m excited for the next race – it’s unique there and very hot.”

Savatgy, who was the only rider other than Tomac to win a WSX session in Perth, holds third in the WSX Riders’ Championship and trails Roczen by just six points heading into the 2024 season finale – the WSX Abu Dhabi GP, taking place on 4 December at Etihad Arena.

Joey Savatgy, Rider, Fire Power Honda, said: “I’m happy. My starts were better on Sunday and to be honest, it’s just been an intense weekend with a lot of racing. It was very hot on Sunday as well. In the final moto I knew I could finish behind Ken and still get second overall, and the track was gnarly so I just mailed it in. I’m ready for a day off to rest and recover for Abu Dhabi.”

In SX2, Shane McElrath was as equally dominant as Tomac, taking the overall victory on both Saturday and Sunday while coming agonisingly close to an elusive clean sweep in both rounds, taking three wins out of four in each. On Saturday, the Fire Power Honda rider’s night started out with a thrilling battle against Coty Schock in the first moto, and although McElrath was pipped to the top spot, he was able to outrace the Rick Ware Racing rider as the night progressed.

While Schock was a close match throughout, his mistakes proved to be costly, with a spectacular accident in GP Race 2 denting his overall and handing the advantage to McElrath and crucially, his team-mate, Enzo Lopes, who ended Saturday second overall, going 3-2-3-2. Schock’s record, 1-5-2-3, was good enough for third in round two, with the native of Dover, Delaware, claiming his first GP Race victory in the FIM World Supercross Championship.

On Sunday for the third round of the 2024 season, McElrath continued where he left off although both Schock and Lopes remained a consistent threat. After topping SuperPole, and GP Races 1 and 2, the North Carolinian was dethroned in GP Race 3 when Schock cruised to a controlled win, but by winning the SuperFinal, McElrath again took the overall victory.

Shane McElrath, Rider, Fire Power Honda, said: “I’m really happy with my weekend. It’s been a heavy weekend of riding, the track was very technical, it was changing throughout the races, it was really hot, and it was tough having the back-to-back races. The temperatures went down on Sunday afternoon and in the evening which helped the track and helped my body out, but praise the Lord, this has been a good weekend. It’s been hard, but we always keep fighting. I stayed present, continued executing, and I’m happy with how I did that. It gave me strength. I’m really excited for Abu Dhabi, we’re looking good on points and I want to keep winning and doing my job.”

Thanks to his win in GP Race 3, Schock finished as the runner-up on Sunday but faces a significant 57-point disadvantage in the SX2 Riders’ Standings, with McElrath leading with 293 points compared to Schock’s 236.

Coty Schock, Rider, Rick Ware Racing, said: “I wouldn’t say Sunday was any better than Saturday, but in terms of the result, it was better. I’m really happy with my riding, and just trying to minimise those little mistakes is part of racing. Shane has done his time, and it’s really showing now, and I know that one day, I’ll get there. Right now, I’m just paying my dues. The fans this weekend have been awesome. I didn’t even know that I had fans in Australia, and Perth is a really cool city. I’m going to explore a bit more of Australia, but I’m pumped for Abu Dhabi. I’ve never been there and it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.”

Lopes, who was Schock’s primary threat for the runner-up spot in round three, finished third overall after being dealt a cruel blow in GP Race 3 when a box cover got caught in his rear wheel and forced him to retire. Despite this, the Brazilian superstar is just two points adrift of Schock in the SX2 Riders’ Championship.

Enzo Lopes, Rider, Rick Ware Racing, said: “I’m a bit disappointed about Sunday because I’m on the podium, but I missed the third moto. I think I could have had the win in GP Race 3, because it was the only good start I had over the weekend. I’m disappointed, but I’m happy – I’m healthy, got two overall podiums, and I’m third in points so there’s a lot to be proud of. I’m really excited for the next race in Abu Dhabi. I’m flying out early so I can enjoy a bit of time there. For the finale I want to get my starts down, and I want to focus on my technique, but I felt like this weekend was good. I felt like I was the fastest rider in SX2, but I just couldn’t get my starts right – Shane was better.”

The 2024 FIM World Supercross Championship season will conclude on 4 December with the WSX Abu Dhabi GP where the series will crown four World Champions at Etihad Arena.

For more information, please visit www.wsxchampionship.com.

DAVID WILSON EARNS PRESTIGIOUS BILL FRANCE AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE

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Official Release
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Photo credit: Toyota Racing

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (November 22, 2024) – Retiring TRD U.S.A. president David Wilson was honored at the annual NASCAR Awards ceremony this evening with the Bill France Award for Excellence, one of the highest honors in NASCAR. The award recognizes those who have made a significant impact on the sport.

“To be called up on stage by my dear friend, Jim France, and to be recognized – and as I said, and what I believe and what is in my heart – again, on my very best day, I’m simply a reflection of a wonderful team that has supported me, that has trusted me, that has empowered me to serve,” said Wilson. “I’m still soaking it in. I had no idea. I’m beyond humbled, and incredibly grateful.”

This is just the 29th time this prestigious honor has been given. Goodyear’s Rich Kramer was honored last year, while Toyota team owners Jimmie Johnson (2020) and Joe Gibbs (2019) are previous recipients.

Wilson announced his impending retirement at his home track – Richmond Raceway – earlier this season. The Army veteran earned a mechanical engineering degree from Virginia Tech University and has played a significant role in many achievements within TRD over the past 35 years. Wilson’s leadership has been evident over the last 11 seasons in Toyota’s racing efforts as the President of TRD. During his tenure, Wilson has overseen Toyota’s first three NASCAR Cup Series championships with Kyle Busch and Martin Truex Jr. and first Daytona 500 wins with Denny Hamlin. His legacy will continue on through his passion for the celebrated Toyota Driver Development (TD2) program, which has seen many drivers, including multi-time Championship 4 driver Christopher Bell, achieve lifelong dreams in motorsport.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 63,000 people in North America who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 47 million cars and trucks at our 12 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 13th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 29 electrified options.

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

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