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Knoxville Raceway Announces 2016 Rule Changes

Knoxville raceway officials have released rule changes for all three sprint car divisions for the 2016 season. The majority of rule changes are safety related to protect both the competitors and the fans.

In 2016, kingpin tethers will be required in all classes, as well as steel fasteners on mud covers, and no slip tubing anywhere in the chassis for all cars competing at Knoxville Raceway. For the World of Outlaws two-day event in June and the Knoxville Nationals in August, the 2 ½" x .083 axle will not be allowed. This axle will not be allowed in any events in 2017. The 410 class will be limited to one allowed axle size in 2017, which will be a minimum diameter of 2 3/8", and a minimum wall thickness of .095".

"The rule changes that Knoxville Raceway has adopted for the 2016 season and beyond were done so after great consideration to the safety of our competitors and our fans," said Race Director John McCoy. "We want to follow the recommendations from the World of Outlaws, as well as other tracks and safety personnel that meet annually to update safety rules in our sport."

In the 305 class, cockpit adjustable wing sliders will be allowed in 2016 for the first time. Knoxville Raceway will also allow an approved spec engine for the first time.

"By allowing the drivers control over their top wing, we're hoping it helps them when the track slicks off," McCoy said. "We'll announce part numbers and more specifics on the spec engine soon. Other area tracks are have expressed interest in allowing these engines, as well, and with all of us on the same page, it keeps the rules more simple for the competitors."

The 410 class at Knoxville Raceway will be allowed to run a new 18" right rear from Hoosier Tire. Teams will also have the option of using up to a 2" wickerbill on the top wing. The 430 ci engine option will no longer be allowed.

"The new tire introduced by Hoosier is a harder compound," McCoy explained. "The hope is that these will make the cars more maneuverable than the softer 16" tires we were using in the past. The harder compound may also allow teams to run longer without the need for tire changes."

While there were no major changes for the 360 class, changes in the rule book regarding sportsmanship and safety go across all classes.

The full list of rule changes is as follows:

All Classes:

• Kingpin tethers are required
• No slip tubing allowed anywhere in the chassis
• Protest rule adopted for engines and tires
• Updated alcohol and drug policy
• Updated online conduct policies
• Updated unsportsmanlike conduct penalties
• Updated safety information regarding drivelines and seats

410 Class Updates:

• 430 Cu. In. option removed from competition
• W18 Hoosier RR Tire entered in to allowed tires
• Maximum 2" removable wickerbill allowed
• Front axle size specifications changed
• Updated safety information

360 Class Updates:

• Updated safety information
• Front axle updates by 2017

305 class Updates:

• Approved spec/crate engines allowed (information to follow)
• Additional roller rocker definitions added
• Titanium Valve spring retainers, not valves, are allowed, maximum lifter diameter size rule amended
• No lightweight crankshafts
• Cockpit adjustable wing sliders approved

For more information on Knoxville Raceway, including the full 2016 schedule, please visit www.knoxvilleraceway.com. Updates and exclusive content are also posted on facebook.com/KnoxvilleRaceway and @knoxvilleraces on Twitter.

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