Darnell Optimistic After Atlanta Test Session

CONCORD, N.C. (January 25, 2008) – When changes were announced to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series engine rules for the 2008 season, speculation was that speeds would be down and closer racing would result from the tapered spacer placed between the carburetor and intake manifold. When teams unloaded on January 22 for a pre-season test at Atlanta Motor Speedway, speculation became reality.

According to Tracy Shawver, engine tuner for Roush Yates Engines, the changes made have knocked some 80 horsepower off from the 2007 engine package. According to Erik Darnell, driver of the No. 99 Northern Tool + Equipment Ford, the races in 2008 will have a very different look than in years past.

"The first run I made today, I held it wide open for three laps," said Darnell. "I never lifted. If this is any indication, the draft will really play into things more now than it has in years past. It's going to be more like speedway racing everywhere we go."

"I think you'll see a lot of races wind up looking like Daytona in a way," added crew chief Matt Puccia. "I think you're going to wind up seeing big packs racing together. I don't think you'll see all the passing that you do at the superspeedway races, but we have the feeling that it's going to be a lot harder for someone to really pull out and get away from the pack. I think we'll have some exciting finishes this season."

Darnell turned the 11th-fastest time on both Tuesday and Wednesday. "Last year we struggled with our mile-and-a-half program," added Darnell. "I don't want to say this test is an indication that we've got things completely resolved, but we feel like we've made some steps in the right direction. We've made a number of improvements in the off season, and it's evident to us that they are going to show up on the track this year."