Author Topic: Window rules  (Read 1842 times)

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Royce

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Window rules
« on: May 16, 2023, 03:14:15 PM »
Just finishing up a tube chassis glass 57 Thunderbird. My question is about window rules.. I am running in the 10.0s  don't want to do all it takes when you go faster.. are side windows or nets required?  What if I use arm restraints instead?  How about back window? Is one required
1955 Thunderbird Competition Coupe Altered Chassis "War Bird" 383 Lincoln Y block 520 hp
1955 Thunderbird 292 275 hp Y Block
1956 Ford Victoria 292 Y block

1957 Mercury 2dr Wagon "Battle Wagon" drag car 
1957 Thunderbird Glass body Tube Chassis drag car 333 cu in 500 hp Ford Y block
1961 Starliner 390/375 clone
1965 GT40 tribute w/FE
1966 Falcon Pro Touring project
Kaase Boss 547. 840 HP 698 Torque  pump gas
1992 BMW V-12 5.0
2001 Lincoln 5.4 4 cam.
1968 Cougar XR7

jayb

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #1 on: May 16, 2023, 08:30:17 PM »
Window nets are not required until you go 9.99 or quicker, or 135 MPH or faster.  Not sure about the other rules...
Jay Brown
- 1969 Mach 1, Drag Week 2005 Winner NA/BB, 511" FE (10.60s @ 129); Drag Week 2007 Runner-Up PA/BB, 490" Supercharged FE (9.35 @ 151)
- 1964 Ford Galaxie, Drag Week 2009 Winner Modified NA (9.50s @ 143), 585" SOHC
- 1969 Shelby Clone, Drag Week 2015 Winner Modified NA (Average 8.98 @ 149), 585" SOHC

   

JERICOGTX

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #2 on: May 18, 2023, 05:55:37 AM »
Why wouldn't you want the windows in for aerodynamics?

machoneman

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #3 on: May 18, 2023, 06:52:14 AM »
Need to get a copy of current NHRA Rules on the window issues.
Bob Maag

Royce

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #4 on: May 18, 2023, 08:07:04 AM »
Jeff, it has a Y block so aero is not an issue when you have more power than you need.  LOL.. It's a 10.0 car..  Are you on the land speed record car team?
1955 Thunderbird Competition Coupe Altered Chassis "War Bird" 383 Lincoln Y block 520 hp
1955 Thunderbird 292 275 hp Y Block
1956 Ford Victoria 292 Y block

1957 Mercury 2dr Wagon "Battle Wagon" drag car 
1957 Thunderbird Glass body Tube Chassis drag car 333 cu in 500 hp Ford Y block
1961 Starliner 390/375 clone
1965 GT40 tribute w/FE
1966 Falcon Pro Touring project
Kaase Boss 547. 840 HP 698 Torque  pump gas
1992 BMW V-12 5.0
2001 Lincoln 5.4 4 cam.
1968 Cougar XR7

JERICOGTX

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #5 on: May 18, 2023, 08:27:41 AM »
I am NOT on the Land Speed team. I have enough irons in the fire, to not get involved with that project. I'll go with and help when that day arrives, but until then, it's not something I'm passionate about.

I'd just assume, you would want to run windows so you aren't in a cotton candy machine racing down track? LOL.

frnkeore

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #6 on: May 18, 2023, 11:42:42 AM »
Is the top re moveable?
Frank

Falcon67

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #7 on: May 18, 2023, 04:49:58 PM »
NHRA 2023 Rule Book - https://www.nhraracer.com/content/general.asp?articleid=47000&zoneid=132

SECTION 4A
SUPER PRO, PRO, SPORTSMAN
7.50 (*4.50) seconds & slower
(10.00 = 6.40 per the rule book)

Full-bodied vehicles: Must have full top and windshield. All fullbodied cars must have two driver exits. Four stock production
fenders mandatory, fiberglass duplicates permitted. Fenders
may be trimmed for tire clearance; altered fenders must have
edges re-rolled or beaded.
FIREWALL
Mandatory. See General Regulations 6:1, 7:4.
FLOOR
Mandatory. See General Regulations 6:1, 7:5.
HOOD
Optional. Carburetors must be covered by flash shield or scoop.
Hood scoop permitted. See General Regulations 1:4, 7:6.
WINDSHIELD, WINDOWS
Altereds, dragsters: Optional. Windscreen mandatory. See
General Regulations 7:7, 7:8.

Stock-bodied vehicles: Mandatory, must be in good condition
and free from cracks. May be replaced with shatterproof
material, 1/8-inch-minimum thickness. OEM windshield may not
be cut for scoops, carb, etc. Windshield/window tint must meet
the applicable state requirements. Windows must be closed
during races, need not be operable. Decals permitted on rear
quarter and rear window only. See General Regulations 7:8.

7:7 WINDSCREEN
On open-bodied cars, or any other class car without a
windshield, a metal or other fireproof deflector must be installed.
Minimum size on Street Roadster and Altered class cars is 5
inches x 12 inches. The deflector should divert wind, liquids,
and foreign matter over the driver’s head, be securely mounted,
and installed in such a manner that it does not obstruct the
driver’s frontal view in any way. Tape of any kind prohibited
on any transparent windscreen. The use of any temporary or
permanent shielding, including paint, that obstructs the driver’s
vision (e.g., blinders, staging aids) and that is attached to the
helmet or windscreen is prohibited.

7:8 WINDSHIELD, WINDOWS
Windshields and/or windows on all cars, when called for
under Class Requirements, must be of safety glass, Plexiglas,
Lexan, or other shatterproof material, minimum 1/8-inch thick.
Windshields may not be attached with self-locking fastener
buttons. In all Camping World Drag Racing Series and Lucas Oil
Drag Racing Series vehicles, windshields and/or windows must
be clear, without tinting or coloring, except factory-tinted safety
glass. In all other applications, windshield/window tint must
meet the applicable state requirements. Windshield/window
must be in good condition and free from cracks. Competition
number decals are permitted on any window, windshield or
backlite, except as noted in Class Requirements. Tape of
any kind prohibited on any windshield or window. The use of
any temporary or permanent shielding, including paint, that
obstructs the driver’s vision (e.g., blinders, staging aids) and that
is attached to the helmet, window or windshield is prohibited.
Permitted shielding not to exceed 4 inches by 8 inches is
permitted at this time provided that (a) it has a permanent
attachment to the vehicle, such that it requires tools for removal,
and (b) that the shielding is deemed safe by the driver in the
driver’s judgment and so long as the driver can demonstrate
to technical inspectors that the purpose of the modification
is to reduce distraction in the driver’s field of vision. By using
such a shield, the driver acknowledges and agrees that the
driver deems such modification safe in the driver’s judgment
consistent with the driver’s obligations in Section 1, Participant
Agreements and Administrative and Procedural Rules, set forth
above, and that the shield does not impair or interfere with the
safe operation of the driver’s vehicle. Tape, tie straps, binder
clips, hook-and-loop fasteners, glue, etc. are prohibited for
attachment purposes. Vehicle-mounted shielding is allowed to
pivot as long as it remains permanently attached. See General
Regulations 10:7.
« Last Edit: May 18, 2023, 04:52:04 PM by Falcon67 »

Royce

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #8 on: May 19, 2023, 08:42:06 AM »
Top is removable.   Not sure what class this car would fit into.It's  just for vintage. exhibition. and occasional bracket race... Possibly up to the track?  Don't want to drive 500 miles and get turned away.. Adding side windows would be a PITA.  My other car is a full body on a altered chassis.. No windows, Arm restrains required but that's  centerline seating with a cage. Thought we might have a tech inspector on the forum..
1955 Thunderbird Competition Coupe Altered Chassis "War Bird" 383 Lincoln Y block 520 hp
1955 Thunderbird 292 275 hp Y Block
1956 Ford Victoria 292 Y block

1957 Mercury 2dr Wagon "Battle Wagon" drag car 
1957 Thunderbird Glass body Tube Chassis drag car 333 cu in 500 hp Ford Y block
1961 Starliner 390/375 clone
1965 GT40 tribute w/FE
1966 Falcon Pro Touring project
Kaase Boss 547. 840 HP 698 Torque  pump gas
1992 BMW V-12 5.0
2001 Lincoln 5.4 4 cam.
1968 Cougar XR7

Falcon67

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #9 on: May 19, 2023, 09:00:56 AM »
I'd call ahead - some track inspectors are "different", some pretty understandable.  IHRA Div 4 inspector required that I carry a fire extinguisher in the car, NHRA Div 4 guy made me take it out LOL.  Yes, pretty much any open cockpit unit will require arm restraints - center or left side.  I can't recall seeing a car with just a top and no side windows at the track, so I'm ??? like you.  Depending on the speed/ET, you might not need anything or they might want at least window nets. I'd bet on the nets. 

Note that NHRA ( and I think IHRA now) allow manufacturer unaltered street cars to run as quick as 10.0 without much additionall safety equipment other than helmet and jackets.

pbf777

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #10 on: May 19, 2023, 09:41:27 AM »
     I would say that a "stock-style" bodied car in most instances is going to be expected to have side windows.  Though as stated previously, different tracks and inspectors are going to interpret the rules which some variation, but if you leave the side widows out of your build be prepared to have to argue your legal position; and I never have gotten far in changing the decision of the all powerful "Tech-Inspector" after the gavel has fallen!   ::)

     Scott.

Royce

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #11 on: May 19, 2023, 11:34:35 AM »
Ditto on the all powerful inspector/track owner.. Al Corda would not allow me to run because my car could not fit into a class... Had all the right safety gear..  My head explodes reading the rules and then everyone's interpretation.  I asked the question on Yellow Bullet and one guy claimed anything above 10.0 did not need them.. Another guy says WRONG!  Of course trying to explain the situation to an inspector over the phone might not give a favorable response. I emailed the tech guy from North Central NHRA.. Crickets....
1955 Thunderbird Competition Coupe Altered Chassis "War Bird" 383 Lincoln Y block 520 hp
1955 Thunderbird 292 275 hp Y Block
1956 Ford Victoria 292 Y block

1957 Mercury 2dr Wagon "Battle Wagon" drag car 
1957 Thunderbird Glass body Tube Chassis drag car 333 cu in 500 hp Ford Y block
1961 Starliner 390/375 clone
1965 GT40 tribute w/FE
1966 Falcon Pro Touring project
Kaase Boss 547. 840 HP 698 Torque  pump gas
1992 BMW V-12 5.0
2001 Lincoln 5.4 4 cam.
1968 Cougar XR7

frnkeore

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #12 on: May 19, 2023, 02:01:36 PM »
Your car will fall into the same class as my Austin Healey. I have a 8.5 cert on it and is covered by the SECTION 4A, SUPER PRO, PRO, SPORTSMAN

The term "convertible" is what applies.

ROLL CAGE
A roll cage is mandatory in cars running 10.99 (*6.99) or
quicker or any car exceeding 135 mph. In full-bodied cars, with
unaltered firewall,
floor, and body (from firewall rearward, wheel
tubs permitted),
running between 10.00 (*6.40) and 10.99 (*6.99),
roll bar permitted in place of roll cage. In convertibles running
10.99 or quicker or exceeding 135 mph, roll cage mandatory.
See General Regulations 4:4, 4:11, 10:6.

Cars at 9.99/135, you have to run window nets and neck collars, for all cars.

This is what it says about arm restraints:

ARM RESTRAINTS
Mandatory in open-bodied cars running 11.99 (*7.49) or quicker.

So it looks like if you do have a top, it may not apply.

Whether open body applies in the term "convertible" you'll have to find out. I can't run a top on mine so, I didn't get into it.

« Last Edit: May 19, 2023, 02:13:57 PM by frnkeore »
Frank

pbf777

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #13 on: May 19, 2023, 02:39:25 PM »
How about back window? Is one required

     I'm assuming it was intended to be operated as a "closed-bodied" car?   :-\

     Scott.

Royce

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Re: Window rules
« Reply #14 on: May 19, 2023, 03:29:59 PM »
Yes  That is correct..
1955 Thunderbird Competition Coupe Altered Chassis "War Bird" 383 Lincoln Y block 520 hp
1955 Thunderbird 292 275 hp Y Block
1956 Ford Victoria 292 Y block

1957 Mercury 2dr Wagon "Battle Wagon" drag car 
1957 Thunderbird Glass body Tube Chassis drag car 333 cu in 500 hp Ford Y block
1961 Starliner 390/375 clone
1965 GT40 tribute w/FE
1966 Falcon Pro Touring project
Kaase Boss 547. 840 HP 698 Torque  pump gas
1992 BMW V-12 5.0
2001 Lincoln 5.4 4 cam.
1968 Cougar XR7