NASCAR Cup Series

Will full usage of new Ford engine solve handling issues?

Published Jun. 10, 2010 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

I think the new Ford engine, the FR9, is going to go a long way in helping the manufacturer’s teams. First off, it has given the teams more power when using it, now that it has pretty much proven itself. So for Ford teams to make the switch to it completely will be a benefit.

In addition to more power, teams are finding it actually gives them better gas mileage. It’s also helped the handling of the cars, too. Teams have found they can run a little more tape on the nose of the car and get away with it. I had heard that going back and forth between the old engine and the new one had caused some handling issues. Now, by going totally to the FR9, some of those handling issues can be sorted out.

I think it is totally realistic that we might see some marked improvement from the Ford teams this weekend at Michigan International Speedway. I am hoping, for their sake, that when we get to Michigan this weekend that it’s true. I think the optimism in the Ford camp is created by the belief that Michigan may be the weekend that turns the Ford teams’ season around.

Historically, the Ford teams run well at Michigan. They know what it takes to win there. So I expect Ford and its teams to bring a total A-game to the track this weekend. I expect we will see the Biffles, Edwards‘, Kahnes, Kenseths, etc., of the Ford world make some noise.

If this turns out to not be the weekend for them, some Ford fans, particular Roush Fenway fans, might think it is time to panic. I disagree. I’ve worked for Jack Roush. He isn’t one to panic. Will the frustration level be higher? Sure, without a doubt. He is used to being a weekly contender for the win. When that isn’t happening, Jack doesn’t panic, he simply works that much harder.

I just have this feeling about Michigan. It was like when I worked for Junior Johnson. When it came time to run North Wilkesboro, nothing was left on the table. That track was in Junior’s backyard and he expected us to win. There was a lot of pride and bragging rights when it came to winning that race.

A moment of thanks

Starting back in Dover and all through the month of May, I was so fortunate to have the chance to spend time with folks in our military. Last Sunday was the 66th anniversary of D-Day, the invasion of France. I am reminded all the time by these fine folks in the military of how they embraced NASCAR. They tell me how the Armed Forces Network keeps them in tune with what’s going on in our sport. It’s something they and their families love and look forward to.

I once again say we cannot tell these folks thank you enough. Without them, without what they have done and without the sacrifices they make on our behalf, NASCAR wouldn’t be what it is today. It’s a great marriage between NASCAR and our armed forces, so I just wanted to say thank you one more time.