Thursday, September 26, 2019

Welcome Video From First Test Session

Sorry for bombarding everyone with more stuff from our first test session but I am just now getting the time to pull it together and post everything. This is a video of our welcoming get together of all of our friends and family before we made any runs. Everyone thought I was crazy for inviting everyone to be there at our first outing but it was a big deal to me. My extended family is very important to me. It is a little long but those of you that know me and our extended family may enjoy it! Those of you that don't know me will know me better after you see this, ha!

Most people don't think of a drag strip being a place where God is walking amongst us but He was sure there for our test session! Our old friend and pastor Jerry Clements was there to make sure we gave credit where credit is due, to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

We were also blessed to have our local Racer for Christ chaplain, Fred Williams there for support.

Considering the magnitude of what was about to happen (Old rookie driver in a very powerful, homebuilt car!!!), I felt very comfortable because of all of the support and prayers. 

Having the Janis's there to tune the car didn't hurt either, ha!


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Sunday, September 15, 2019

Second Test Session

Folks, We are doing our second testing session on the 24th and 25th at Houston Raceway Park. We are going to be focussing on our servicing routines and running to the 1/8th mile to get ready to go racing in the Midwest Pro Mod Series next year.
We have made several improvements to the car to make it run better, be easier to drive, and easier to service.
Some of the things we did are:
  • Removed the simulated dash in the car to make more room for me to get in and out of the car more easily. The Racepak dash is now mounted directly to the frame. Much safer now!!!




  • Changed the stator in the torque converter to let the engine RPM rise a little more while it is on the transbrake. The car was trying to roll through he staging lights last test session because the torque converter was tight.
  • Added a line lock roll control solenoid on the front brakes to help hold the car while it is on the transbrake.
We will be on our own this time but Mikey said he would be available by phone if we need help! It is so nice to have his support!

If any of you are in the neighborhood, feel free to stop by the track. It will be another night session again this time.
We are excited to push the car and driver a little harder this time.

Monday, September 2, 2019

This Says It All!!!





Most of you know that we had our test session for the Pro Mod a couple of weeks ago. Even though we were cut short by rain, I do not think it could have gone better! Only a couple of goof ups by the driver/builder and everyone else made up for that.

I am posting a video that was made by Bobby Hanson of Texas Designworks. Bobby is an incredible videographer. He was everywhere during our test session. He also utilized footage taken by my son-in-law.

One of our awesome customers recommended Bobby and I am so glad he did.

That being said, I want to thank Mike Janis Sr. And Mike Janis Jr. for helping me through the process of building this car and taking a totally green driver down the track 4 times without a bobble. The Mikes X2 are an incredible team. They showed up a few hours early, checked over the car, made adjustments, tuned the engine, coached me, and gave me confidence!

We went faster and further each run and the car went straight as an arrow. Only professionals who care about you could take a green builder, green car, green crew, green track, and a green driver down the track 4 times without a mechanical failure, or any problem to speak of. Not only are they an incredible team but they are my friends!

I also want to thank Austin Hayward, the track crew, the safety crew, and Houston Raceway Park for being great hosts and prepping the track the way the Janis’s wanted it. Austin is a fine young man and has a brilliant future ahead of him. I can also call Austin my friend!

I also want to thank “The Crew” my rag tag group of people who volunteered to help us keep the car going. We didn’t know much when we showed up but we know a lot more now! They asked the Janis’s a million questions an improved with each run. Love you guys and gals!

I am also honored by the amount of people that showed up to watch us. We had family, friends, customers, preachers, employees, and every kind of person you could think of. Most people thought I was crazy for inviting them all to watch a newbie look like an idiot. Afterwards, everyone understood that my extended family is what makes me who I am!

Lastly, I want to thank my “Sunshine” for always being there and encouraging me. She is a rock through it all! I know she was worried, but she never fails to be there, be strong, and help me do crazy things. I love you more than ever, Sunshine!!



I hope you all enjoy the video and share with others what the power of God makes possible. Just read Luke 1:37 For nothing will be impossible with God!