I have a few questions perhaps some of the senior members could help me with. I'm happy to take those off forum via a PM or my email directly; chainplates-AT-hotmail-DOT-com rather than risk airing any unwelcome comments here. [But, here is OK with me]
I acknowledge that the SCCA GCR says;
"Effective 1/1/97, those cars formerly known as Sports Renault and/or Spec Racers or any variants of this chassis/drivetrain/bodywork combination will not be allowed to compete in ASR in any SCCA sanctioned event."
Was this rule made to "encourage" conversion to the SRF? Now nearly 23 years on, it seems a bit out dated, and I imagine those reaming few Sports Renault will most likely not convert to a Gen3, given costs, and availability of transaxles (I've heard) becoming an issue.
Or, was this made for perceived safety issues due to weight or speed differentials in the ASR group? I currently run in SEDiv as a SPU. Other Sports Renault in other divisions are racing in the Vintage class. In either class/run group (SPU/Vintage) there are significant weight and speed differentials, yet not perceived to be a problem.
Was the ruling made with respect to the vehicle's construction? In a previous thread there were questions inquiring if the SRF met today's GCR "safety standards." I don't agree with that original questioner, as I find the construction of the chassis to be on par with the several formula class vehicles, that are readily converted to Sports Prototypes. The numbers of safe racing hours in the class suggests this is not relevant issue.
I am clearly "late to the party" to submit a letter to the Board, But want to gather information before considering that approach.
I am grateful for the opportunity to run in these classes. The Sports Renault is iconic (OK - quirky), and can be cost-effective vehicle for competition without some of the encumbrances associated with meeting "Spec" requirements. A non-sealed engine/transaxle makes for some interesting performance enhancements (Dual Side-draft Webers, ignition, camshaft) and cost effective maintenance, the choice of brakes, shocks, tires also effectively lowers the costs of competition. Additionally, as the GEN2 SRF is now a Regional Only Class, a simple pen and ink change to the GCR changing the sentence to read;
"-------- Those cars formerly known as Sports Renault and/or Spec Racers or any variants of this chassis/drivetrain/bodywork combination ----- may -------- compete in ASR in any SCCA sanctioned event."
Car count goes up, more racers participate, lowering costs, all good. The option for those wanting to convert to GEN3 may do so.
I anxiously wait for comments/inputs.
Thanks and Regards, Jim