Complete your PRI Show experience by capitalizing on these rare educational and training opportunities from PRI Show exhibitors.

One of the many benefits of attending the PRI Show is the outstanding educational opportunities available. Not only is there the slate of PRI Education seminars, but PRI exhibitors also present information that is helpful for racing entrepreneurs to put into practice soon after returning home to their businesses.
Intercomp takes advantage of this opportunity to meet with and also educate its dealers and customers at the PRI Show. On Thursday, December 12, and Friday, December 13, the team at Intercomp will present the “Shock Dyno & Load Stick Seminar,” which will teach racers the latest developments in shock dyno technology and how reading various types of graphs can help maximize a shock program in any form of racing. Load stick technology will also be covered as to how to benefit from using one to four wireless load sticks in place of a shock when setting up your vehicle.
“The PRI seminars are one of the most efficient and time-effective ways to gather technical knowledge at PRI that you can directly apply to the upcoming race season,” said Intercomp’s Aaron Van Heel.
Last year, Naethan Eagles of TotalSim US was part of the PRI Education program, and he returns this year with “TotalSIM: Race Car Aerodynamics Discussion and Q&A.” Scheduled for Friday, December 13, Eagles’ seminar will provide an overview of the role aerodynamics plays in race car performance and how different race series use aerodynamics, from grassroots to dirt series to NASCAR, IndyCar, and Formula 1. It will also cover how shapes and devices can be used to create improved lap times across all race series. A short presentation will be followed by a Q&A session.

If you have any questions about aerodynamics, don’t miss this opportunity to ask Eagles directly and learn from his 30 years of experience across every major race series across the world.
Chris Graner of Speed Sport will host three seminars. Thursday’s “Streaming Video 101 for Promoters” is focused on providing beneficial streaming information and understanding for track promoters, as well as answering promoter’s questions regarding streaming: What are you missing? How can you leverage the technology? Where is the broadcast video headed? There will be an open Q&A session for attendees.
Friday’s “Video Production Aces. What Makes the Best the Best?” will focus on the habits, knowledge, and execution practices used by the best video production professionals in grassroots motorsports. Do you want to step up your game or just confirm you are where you should be with your skills? This seminar is designed for anyone currently involved or is new to grassroots motorsports video production.
Saturday’s “Race Track Audio Bootcamp: Audio Engineering 101 For Anybody Touching Audio Equipment” is for those who work with audio and have never “cracked open” a manual. Designed to break down a variety of fundamental track audio topics in a simplistic way, this seminar will cover the do’s and don’ts and common problem-solving methods. You’ll get equipment suggestions and step-by-step instructions, and gain a deeper understanding of the science of sound.

Never underestimating the importance of safety in motorsports, “Racing Goes Safer” returns on Friday. This year’s panel includes Dr. Terry Trammell, FIA’s Nuno Costa, and John Patalak, PhD, PE, at NASCAR. They will share new developments in racing safety that you won’t want to miss.
On the technical side, “How to Pick the Best Spring Combination to Win - For Circle Track Asphalt and Dirt Teams” by Lynnie Doughton of DRP Performance Products will take place on Friday, along with Haltech’s “NSP Software Advanced User Training - Thinking Outside the Box.” Gain insight into the many advanced features of the NSP software, with training provided by Haltech’s elite team of software specialists. Training seminars are also available from Bigstuffefi and McLeod.
Wrapping up the lineup are chapel services by Racers For Christ on Friday and a panel of UNOH students asking diesel industry leaders questions regarding the future of diesel fuel vehicles and what jobs will be available in “DIESEL Vehicles - What is the future?” on Saturday.

For the complete Exhibitor Seminar schedule at the 2024 PRI Show, visit here.

The GM 6L80 transmission is a widely used 6-speed automatic transmission known for its versatility in rear-wheel, all-wheel and four-wheel-drive vehicles. Found in models like the Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado and Corvette, the 6L80 outclasses in performance and efficiency, thanks to its wide gear ratio spread and clutch-to-clutch operation. However, as with any high-performance transmission, the 6L80 is prone to wear and failure, particularly in its clutch packs. Raybestos Powertrain has developed a range of high-performance friction materials to address these issues, enhancing durability and performance while mitigating common failure points.

This article explores the role that friction materials play in the 6L80 transmission, focusing on thermal stability, torque management and long-term wear resistance. It also discusses how Raybestos Powertrain's GPZ® clutch packs, Stage-1 frictions and Gen2 Blue Plate Special surpass standard OE components.

The Importance of Friction Materials in the 6L80 Transmission

At the heart of the 6L80's operation are its friction materials, which are responsible for smooth gear shifting, power transfer and overall transmission performance. The friction materials are primarily located in the clutch packs, where they engage and disengage to facilitate gear changes. In high-torque applications such as towing, off-road driving or high-performance racing, these components are subjected to extreme stress and heat, making the quality of friction materials critical for longevity and performance.

Raybestos Powertrain has engineered a range of solutions specifically designed to address the unique issues posed by the 6L80, offering advanced materials capable of withstanding the demanding conditions associated with high-torque and high-heat environments.

1. Thermal Stability: Controlling Heat and Preventing Failure

One of the primary challenges in high-performance transmissions is the generation of excessive heat during operation. In high-torque applications, the friction materials in the 6L80 clutch packs are subjected to extreme thermal loads. Without proper heat management, the friction materials can break down, leading to glazing, loss of friction coefficient and eventual clutch failure.

Raybestos Powertrain's GPZ® friction plates are specifically designed to handle the extreme thermal conditions present in the 6L80 transmission. Manufactured with a proprietary blend of advanced fibers—such as Kevlar, ceramics, and Carbon—these friction plates offer superior heat resistance. The GPZ® High Energy Clutch Pack improves heat dissipation during clutch engagement, reducing the risk of heat-related failures. The use of advanced resin impregnation technology enhances the material's ability to absorb and dissipate heat efficiently, ensuring a stable friction coefficient even at elevated temperatures.

By improving thermal stability, the GPZ® clutch packs provide a substantial upgrade over OE components, which are prone to thermal degradation in high-stress applications.

2. Optimizing Torque Transmission and Shift Performance

Efficient torque transfer is essential for smooth gear shifts and overall transmission performance. Friction materials with inconsistent friction coefficients can cause erratic gear engagement, leading to harsh shifting or slippage under load. This is especially critical in high-performance vehicles like the Corvette or in commercial or heavy-duty vehicles that frequently tow heavy loads.

Raybestos Powertrain's Stage-1 Performance frictions offer an enhanced solution for improving torque transmission. These friction plates are designed with a high-strength organic matrix, which allows for greater holding capacity and more consistent engagement under load. The increased surface area on these frictions distributes the load more evenly, preventing localized wear and hotspots that can reduce performance.

For extreme racing applications, the Gen2 Blue Plate Special Clutch Pack delivers unmatched performance. Designed for rapid energy absorption, the Gen2 Blue friction plates are engineered for high-torque racing applications. Their ability to provide consistent torque transfer under extreme conditions ensures smooth, fast shifts with minimal shock, making them ideal for drag racing or high-power vehicles that demand quick response times.

3. Improving Durability and Wear Resistance

In applications like towing, heavy hauling and high-performance driving, the durability of friction materials is critical to avoid premature wear and transmission failure. The 6L80's 3-5 Reverse and 4-5-6 clutch packs are common failure points, particularly in vehicles exposed to long-term heavy-duty use.

Raybestos Powertrain's ZPak® clutch systems provide a comprehensive solution to clutch durability issues in the 6L80. These clutch packs use single-sided friction plates to reduce wear from coning and heat distortion, a problem commonly found in multi-plate systems. By incorporating advanced materials like Kevlar and carbon, the ZPak® frictions resist shear forces and offer advanced wear resistance. The redesigned ZPak® clutch systems for the 6L80, specifically the 3-5 Reverse ZPak® (RZP-005) and 4-5-6 ZPak® (RZP-006), outperform OE components by offering higher torque capacity and longer service life, even in the most extreme conditions.

4. Application-Specific Solutions for the 6L80

Raybestos Powertrain designs its friction materials with specific applications in mind, ensuring that the right material is available for any driving condition.

• GPZ® friction packs are tailored for heavy-duty and performance applications, providing enhanced thermal stability and durability.
• Stage-1 Performance frictions are ideal for street performance and mild strip use, offering affordable yet effective upgrades for increased holding capacity.
• Gen2 Blue Plate Special clutch packs are perfect for racing environments, where quick shifts and minimal wear are critical to success.
• ZPak® clutch systems are engineered to solve common failure points, making them indispensable in high-stress applications like towing, heavy-duty hauling and commercial driving.

Friction materials are the backbone of the 6L80 transmission's performance. Raybestos Powertrain's advanced friction materials, such as the GPZ® clutch packs, Stage-1 frictions and Gen2 Blue clutch packs, provide must-have enhancements in thermal stability, torque capacity and durability, ensuring the 6L80 transmission can withstand the toughest conditions. Whether it's racing, towing or everyday driving, Raybestos Powertrain offers friction materials tailored to meet the specific demands of the 6L80, extending the transmission's life and upgrading its performance.

To learn more about Raybestos products, please visit raybestospowertrain.com.

Exhibitor Service Desk

Monday, December 9 – Friday, December 13 • 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Saturday, December 14 • 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.; Sunday,
December 15 • 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Yellow Lobby Meeting Room and
Lucas Oil Stadium

When exhibitors have questions about their shipping containers
and crates, drayage, electrical, and anything else exhibitor related, stop
by the Exhibitor Service Desk.

Trailer Rig Parking Lot Shuttle

Monday, December 9 – Wednesday,
December 11 • 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.;
Saturday, December 14 •
12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Exhibitors can transfer between the Indiana Convention Center (ICC) and the trailer rig parking lot via a shuttle that drops off and picks up at the Maryland Street entrance to the ICC and at Trailer Rig West Street, located at the intersection of Abbott Street and West Street in downtown Indianapolis.

Media Center

Wednesday, December 11 • 1:00 p.m. –
5:00 p.m.; Thursday, December 12 • 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Friday, December 13 • 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Saturday, December 14 •
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Speedway Lobby

PRI’s Media Center is exclusively for credentialed members of the media to pick up their 2024 PRI Trade Show badges and get complimentary access to exhibitor press kits and releases, power outlets, Wi-Fi, open work tables, coffee, tea, and water, private meeting space (by reservation). *Badge pick-up begins at 1 p.m. on Wednesday. Located in Green Hall, Rooms 116–117, across from the Business Center and Press Conference Center.

Hotel Shuttle Program

Thursday, December 12 • 6:00 a.m. –
8:30 p.m.; Friday, December 13 • 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Saturday, December 14 •
7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Complimentary shuttle service is available between Indianapolis Airport hotels (Crown Plaza Indianapolis Airport, Wyndham Airport, Delta Hotel Airport, Courtyard by Marriott Airport, and Hyatt Place Airport) and Plainfield area hotels (Embassy Suites Airport, Courtyard by Marriott Plainfield, and Residence Inn by Marriott Plainfield) and the Indiana Convention Center. All shuttles pick up on the Maryland Street entrance to the ICC. Shuttles run approximately every 30 minutes during peak times.

Coat Check

Thursday, December 12 • 7:00 a.m. –
8:30 p.m., Friday, December 13 • 7:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, December 14 •
 7:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Speedway Lobby & Lucas Oil Stadium

For a reasonable fee, store your coat in this supervised area while you walk the Show floor.

Mobile Scooter Rentals

Thursday, December 12 & Friday, December 13 • 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.; Saturday,
December 14 • 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Near Show Registration &
Maryland St. Entrance

For special show rates and daily onsite rentals visit Indy Scooter Rentals, located near the Registration Area. Call 317-855-3158 or 765-610-4375 for more information.

Food Options

Open During Show Hours
Pit Stop Café: Green Lobby &
Lucas Oil Stadium
Food Courts: Yellow Lobby &
Green Lobby

Refuel with food and beverages from PRI’s Pit Stop Café located in the Green Lobby near the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow (HROT) and the other in Lucas Oil Stadium. Several Food Courts are located throughout the PRI Show: Capital Ave. Food Court, near the hanging car; Crossroads Food Court near the Media Center; and the Maryland Food Court next to the escalators to the Marriott Downtown.
Numerous downtown restaurants are walking distance to the ICC. For more on those, turn to page 194 for PRI’s Guide to Indianapolis.

Business Center

Monday, December 9 – Saturday, December 14 •
8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Speedway Lobby, Next to Room 111

The RICOH Business Center on the first floor of the Indiana Convention Center provides office supplies, fax/copy/print/bindery, laminating, rentals, and shipping. Advanced ordering can be coordinated by contacting 317-262-4496. For more information, visit icclos.com/exhibitors/business-center.

International Center

Open During Show Hours
Green Lobby

The International Center is located at the bottom of the escalator coming from the Westin Hotel, near the Registration Room. This lounge will provide our international guests with a dedicated space to take a break, grab a coffee or water, charge electronic devices, get work done at a desk, or even reserve a meeting room to conduct business.

PRI Gear

Open During Show Hours
Yellow Lobby & Green Lobby

Show off your pride for the Performance Racing Industry and pick up some new T-shirts, jackets, hats, socks, and more apparel and gear. PRI Members receive a discount.

Press Conference Center

Thursday, December 12 • 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Friday, December 13 • 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.;
Saturday, December 14 • 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Speedway Lobby

PRI’s Press Conference Center is the best space for motorsports media to learn about breaking motorsports news and announcements. Exhibitors use this space to unveil new partnerships, race series schedules, awards and more in this 50-seat room with a stage, podium, microphones and presentation capabilities. Keep an eye out for the 2024 PRI Trade Show Press Conference schedule featuring the latest news from motorsports manufacturers, sanctioning bodies, race teams, and industry powerhouses. PRI Press Conferences are open to PRI Exhibitors.

Track operators worldwide face constant pressure to manage complex racetrack environments, where even minor oversights can lead to catastrophic consequences. The motorsport industry, though significantly safer due to advances like the Halo and TecPro barrier technologies, still suffers from fundamental challenges related to track infrastructure. With decentralized asset management, paper-based records and inconsistent maintenance schedules, these issues can quickly escalate, compromising safety and operational efficiency and inflating costs. TrackWalk was developed by motorsport professionals to address these exact challenges, transforming how racetracks operate.

The Challenges Track Operators Face

Despite the innovations spearheaded by tracks, suppliers and governing bodies, the risk in motorsport isn't confined to drivers alone. Poor track maintenance, disjointed workflows and inefficient data handling can endanger spectators, officials and teams.

Real-world incidents highlight these dangers: in the past two years alone fans have witnessed cars crash into grandstands, loose manhole covers halt racing and more. Such preventable issues underscore a dire need for a system that centralizes information, enforces rigorous inspection standards and optimizes maintenance.

TrackWalk is designed to do precisely this.

Operational Efficiency

At the heart of TrackWalk's efficiency solutions is its centralized asset management system. Racetrack operators gain access to a cloud-based, comprehensive digital record of every asset and even the condition of the asphalt itself.

Instead of relying on paper records stored in various locations, operators can now view and update the status of assets instantly. By automating workflows and standardizing processes, TrackWalk reduces administrative burdens, freeing up resources for crucial trackside activities. This means faster decision-making and response times, helping teams to act swiftly when an issue arises​​.

For example, by incorporating automated, pre-defined inspection protocols, operators spend less time managing paperwork and more on proactive safety measures. The system's intuitive interface allows for seamless coordination, reducing human error and ensuring that all tasks, from inspections to repairs, are handled with precision. These efficiencies don't just save time but also significantly minimize the risk of errors that can lead to costly repairs or hazardous situations​​.

Enhanced Safety Standards

Safety is non-negotiable in motorsport, and TrackWalk elevates safety protocols to a new level. The platform ensures standardized survey and inspection protocols, ensuring every asset is scrutinized with the same rigor, regardless of the operator.

Consistency is crucial in minimizing risks, as irregular or subjective inspections leave room for critical safety gaps. Furthermore, TrackWalk's detailed, auditable incident reporting builds a comprehensive safety record, ensuring accountability and preventing recurring problems​​.

Cost Savings and Financial Protection

Racetrack maintenance isn't just a matter of safety; it's a financial imperative. TrackWalk introduces cost-effective maintenance scheduling by leveraging data analytics in conjunction with site survey data to suggest optimal repair and upgrade intervals. This strategic planning extends the life of track assets and curtails expenses. By reducing emergency fixes, operators avoid the financial strain of unplanned shutdowns and high repair costs, leading to better budget management​​​.

Moreover, TrackWalk provides a substantial shield against potential legal liabilities. The platform's detailed asset and incident histories create a reliable evidence trail, demonstrating due diligence and adherence to safety regulations. In the event of an incident, having comprehensive, easily accessible records minimizes the risk of costly legal battles. Operators can not only prove that inspections were conducted properly but also illustrate a history of proactive safety management​​.

"TrackWalk allows us and our customers to manage their circuits as efficiently and effectively as possible. The application ensures that there is accurate real-time data on the condition of the asphalt and the trackside infrastructure, it supports the homologation process and allows facility management teams to forecast and schedule crucial maintenance whilst minimizing disruption."

-  Mark Hughes, MRK1

Key Features in Focus

• Automated Workflows: Reduces administrative overhead, allowing personnel to prioritize safety-critical tasks​​.
• Cloud-Based Centralisation: A single source for all asset information, eliminating scattered data and inefficiencies​​.
• Granular Reporting: Provides detailed incident documentation, allowing operators to demonstrate compliance with standards and reduce litigation risk.

TrackWalk isn't just an asset management tool; it's a comprehensive solution built to make racetrack operations safer, more efficient, and financially sustainable. By addressing the pain points of scattered data, manual processes, and unpredictable maintenance schedules, TrackWalk empowers track operators to uphold the highest safety standards with minimal hassle. As motorsport continues to evolve, TrackWalk is here to ensure that racetracks are as safe and efficient as the machines that race on them.

Learn more about how TrackWalk can transform your racetrack operations today. Visit Trackwalk.com or contact our team directly at hello@trackwalk.com. Let's drive the future of circuit safety, together.

From the PRI Washington, D.C., office

Vehicle owners and businesses acting on their behalf received a three-year exemption from federal copyright infringement laws when accessing, storing and sharing vehicle operational data, including diagnostic and telematics data, the Librarian of Congress (LOC) recently declared.

In establishing an exemption to the Digital Millenium Copyright Act, the United States statutory prohibition on circumventing technological protection measures (TPM) that control access to copyrighted works, the LOC, in consultation with the U.S. Copyright Office, is protecting vehicle owners and the automotive business of their choice from being subject to copyright infringement when they download, copy and use non-copyrightable data that is stored on electronic control units and other copyrightable works in their vehicles.

This exemption will help to preserve consumer choice by ensuring that vehicle owners can decide who works on their vehicles and the parts that are used. The Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) requested the Class 7, Computer Programs exemption in 2023, which SEMA and PRI supported in its comment to the LOC and U.S. Copyright Office.

The LOC also provided a three-year extension for the current exemption for "Computer Programs--Vehicle Operational Data" that protects vehicle owners and third-party service providers that circumvent the TPMs to access computer programs primarily designed to control vehicle telematics and entertainment systems. This exemption was first created in 2015 for vehicle owners and was expanded to include third-party service providers in 2018.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.

Need pricing help? What about social media? Finding sponsors?
The lineup for this year’s PRI Education program is bound to include a seminar that can offer ideas to launch your business into 2025.

Shiny new racing products that fill the aisles of the PRI Show may attract tens of thousands to Indianapolis every December for the annual motorsports trade show, but there is so much more available than solely adding new product lines and services. In fact, tailored business advice from industry experts—which could cost hundreds of dollars per session outside of the Show—is available free of charge to PRI Show attendees. Take a look at this thoughtfully curated lineup of PRI Education seminars for this year and make plans to add some of these to your Map Your Show itinerary, or on the PRI App, to bring home fresh ideas to quickly implement into your business.

Sponsorship Guidance

Just the word alone—sponsorship—piques the interests of both racers and marketing professionals alike. PRI will present two seminars this year to guide racers in their quest for sponsor dollars and how to form lasting relationships, plus offer tips for those on the receiving end of those sponsorship requests.
To guide racers as they convert their requests into monetary support, sponsorship expert Ken Ungar of CHARGE will present, “Customizing Sponsorship Decks: Dialing in the Perfect Pitch to Find Sponsors.” He will lead an engaging seminar on Thursday, December 12, that focuses on the crucial skill of tailoring sponsorship decks to attract sponsors in the motorsports industry.
This dynamic session will equip attendees with cutting-edge strategies to create compelling, personalized sponsorship decks that resonate with target partners. Ungar will share his sponsorship experience, offering invaluable insights into topics including decoding sponsor expectations: identify the critical elements sponsors seek in your deck; strategic alignment: master the art of researching and aligning with sponsors’ objectives; and value proposition refinement: learn techniques to reframe your deck, personalizing the value proposition for each potential sponsor.
“You probably wouldn’t visit a restaurant with only one item on the menu,” said Ungar. “Just like you want choices that suit your appetite, sponsors want solutions that address their exact needs. That’s why customizing a sponsorship deck to a sponsor’s objectives is so important.”
This seminar is perfect for motorsports professionals seeking to secure new sponsorships, experienced teams looking to refine their sponsorship strategies, and marketing managers aiming to enhance their proposal techniques.

Returning to the PRI Education lineup is marketing and sponsorship guru Alex Striler, who will present “Sponsorship 101: Why Brands Sponsor and What They Want” on Friday, December 13. He will share what drivers and teams need to know about the business of sponsorship. This session is one of Striler’s most popular seminars at PRI and covers why brands sponsor and what they expect from representation.
Striler will explain how to meet new sponsors, when to send a deck and when to send a proposal (and what the differences are between the two), how companies measure ROI, and how you and your team can generate value for them—even when you’re not racing.
If you’re wondering how to find sponsors and what to offer them, or if you have ever sent out a deck or proposal and didn’t get a return call, then this session is for you. It starts with the basics of how sponsorships have changed today and covers everything you need to know about finding, retaining, and renewing sponsors.
Social media coach Megan Meyer will join Striler at the end of the seminar and will outline the latest best practices for creating value through today’s rapidly changing social media platforms. This session is intended for racers, but always draws marketing directors who want to learn new ways to work with teams. Arrive early, as this session fills quickly and has been standing-room-only for the last three years.

Best Practices

Learn online advertising best practices and tips from Bryan Robb, who is a 20-plus-years veteran in digital advertising on Thursday, December 12. During “Online Advertising Lessons Learned & Best Practices,” he will show what his company, Digital Throttle, has learned from the major digital platforms such as Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and more. This will be a detail-filled seminar with downloads, handouts, and examples from specific and recent online advertising campaigns.
You can expect to learn about how to set up reporting, conversion tracking, audience ad targeting, keyword research, and ad designs. Robb will also show real examples of using AI (artificial intelligence) tools like Chat GPT and Copilot in your online advertising.
This is a tactical session where you will leave with several action steps you can immediately apply to your marketing plans.
Digital marketing has so many choices and technologies. Unfortunately, all these choices can lead to a big time expense while you learn or experiment. Robb’s goal is to save you time and money by helping you avoid common digital advertising mistakes.

Another important business topic is pricing, so PRI Education veteran presenter Rich Barsamian of Advanced Clutch Technology and Eugene Zelek Jr. will offer “Pricing Policies: Everything You Wanted to Know but Didn’t Know Who to Ask.” This Thursday seminar will provide an in-depth look at how to effectively protect your company’s investments in R&D, engineering, sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support by implementing the right pricing policies. Attendees will gain valuable insights into strategies that help prevent resale price erosion and foster stronger relationships with distributors and resellers.
Three key takeaways for attendees include effective methods to prevent or combat resale price erosion, understanding the flexibility allowed by the law in pricing strategies, and identifying which pricing alternatives work best in specific business scenarios.
Friday’s Education programming kicks off with the return of Women in Motorsports. Moderated by Jeanette DesJardins of CarChix, this year’s panelists include Megan Meyer, who will share her insights about social media and sponsorships, which she has learned over the years with her drag racing career; Victoria Thomas, co-owner of Kelly-Moss Motorsports, the winningest team in Porsche history; Madison Conrad, EFI calibration technician at Roush Yates Engines; and more to be announced.

Social media, and how to navigate those ever-changing algorithms, are always hot topics at the PRI Show. Jennifer Cario returns with “Facebook & Instagram 2024: Work Smarter, Not Harder.” Join her on Friday, December 13, when she will reveal how you can spend less time on your social media marketing and see a higher engagement. Really, it can happen.

Tech Help

Tech-focused presentations are also on the docket, including Dan Agnew’s “Using Multi-physics Simulation to Optimize Your Camshaft,” on Thursday. Agnew will show how modern computer simulations can speed up the development process, save you money, and increase your understanding about what’s going on in your engine. These CAE tools can be applied to most anything, but this seminar will focus on camshaft development, where he will simulate hundreds of dyno runs in a very short time, then carry that information forward to an engine calibration that must manage a variable timing camshaft.

Dan Begle and Randy Neal will return for their ever-popular tech presentation on Friday, and will be joined by Kevin Feeney. In “Shake, Rattle and Roll 2.0,” they will bring new data/illustrations on fastener clamp load effect on clamping components. Engine bearing seizure data, internal oil flow from bearing/ bore distortion, along with block and crankshaft harmonics will also be covered. Plus, they will end their session with a Q&A panel discussion that also features Jon Kaase and Tim Wilkerson.
Two tuning seminars are on tap this year with The Tuning School’s Bob Morreale returning to share “Unlocking Power with Modern Tuning Techniques” on Friday, and Elite Tuned School’s Mike Carnahan presenting his “GM Gen 5 LTX Tuning Seminar” on Saturday.
With the rapidly growing popularity of sim racing, Asetek’s André Eriksen will lead “How the Right Simulator Setup Can Give You Advantages On Track,” which will take place Saturday morning.
Crossing the lines of technology and business, motorsports PR expert and SAE Southern California representative Dean Case will be joined by BOOSTane’s Ian Lehn for “SAE: Building the Future of Motorsports via Business-Academia Collaborations,” for a Saturday lunchtime session.

For the complete PRI Education schedule at the 2024 PRI Show, visit here.

Aftermarket manufacturers find customers and fresh ideas by unveiling new racing products at the PRI Show.

With thousands of racers, engine builders, fabricators, and speed merchants in attendance, the annual PRI Show in Indianapolis is the best opportunity for new-product manufacturers to introduce their merchandise and reach their target markets.
“PRI is the ultimate platform to introduce new products into the racing market. It provides direct access to the most engaged and knowledgeable audience in the racing industry,” said Crystal Covarrubias of FiTech Fuel Injection, Riverside, California, which will be unveiling a new universal 4500-style throttle body.
“Everyone walking the floor at PRI is involved in some form of racing, and when they come to our booth, they’re either looking for a solution to a question or concern, or in search of a product or technology that can give them an edge on the competition,” said Todd Ryden of Powermaster Performance, West Chicago, Illinois.
The company will debut new alternators for 14- and 16-volt batteries and will also visit with racers to determine future product development. “Generally, we already have a product to answer their questions, but if we don’t, their input and request goes right back to our engineering team so we can work on a product to answer their needs,” added Ryden.
“We’re always trying to come out with innovative products from direct feedback from customer needs,” agreed David Zampierin of Zamp Racing, Meridian, Idaho, which offers Italian-made helmets and other driver-related accessories. “We’ll have five new products introduced at PRI, plus have much more safety gear from head to toe.”
One of the longest exhibiting companies at the Show is fastener manufacturer ARP in Ventura, California. Keeping up with new powertrain platforms always means that new bolt kits or specialty fasteners are introduced at the Show. This year ARP will show off a new head-stud kit for the popular Dart LS Next block. However, ARP doesn’t always use the Show to introduce high-demand products.
“As a company, we go after Audi, Vauxhall, BMW, Suzuki, and others,” explained Chris Raschke. “We don’t just go after LS and small block Chevys. We’ll go after some of the unusual applications. The PRI Show is great for attracting attention to those new products. For this year, we’ll have kits for Duramax, BMW, Toyota, and more.”
Over at McLeod Racing in Anaheim, California, a new 7.250-inch four-disc clutch that has been engineered for sand buggies and desert racing will be unveiled along with a host of products from McLeod’s sister companies in the Wharton Automotive Group.
“With the acquisition of Competition Clutches, we will feature a small sample of brand-new products our team created,” explained Will Baty. “You can expect to see something from each brand on display at this year’s PRI Show.”
While most of the new products are designed to increase power or help race cars go faster, some are designed to make life easier or more productive for race teams. Powerbuilt Tools, a division of Alltrade Tools in Cypress, California, will display an underdash creeper to help those in charge of wiring vehicles and need to get into tight spaces with comfort.
“This will be our third year attending PRI,” said Desiree Martinez. “We have found our customers at PRI and found significant value in attending the Show. We have a great engineering team that can develop and create just about anything that is needed. We listen to what our customers are asking for and how we can help make things easier for them.”
“PRI is an excellent show to introduce new products and connect with customers,” added Jeannette Ladina of Flaming River Industries, Berea, Ohio. “The location in Indy works well for ease of access and strong Midwest participation.”
With the number of new parts being introduced at PRI, one of the best ways for attendees to get a quick look at many of them is to browse the Featured Products Showcase located in the ICC Capitol Connector between the Convention Center and the Lucas Oil Stadium. This easy-to-navigate collection features all types of racing equipment, including engine and suspension components, fabricating tools, electronics, and more. Along with each part on display is a brief description and company booth location.
The following is a preview of a selection of the new products that will be featured at this year’s PRI Show.

ProSimu

T7 Pro Simulator

High-end racing simulators have increased in popularity for many reasons, the least of which is improved features that authentically replicate a race car’s performance on the track.
“Our T7 Pro simulator incorporates both oversteer and understeer capabilities and sets a new benchmark among 6 DOF simulators,” said Patrick Kubieniec of ProSimu, Le Mans, France. “Purposefully engineered for driver performance and training, it delivers exceptional responsiveness and features a low center of gravity, marking a significant advancement in the sector.”
Kubieniec said the latest innovations have prompted some automakers to utilize the T7 Pro in the development of future vehicles.
“Furthermore, we have established a strategic partnership with IPG Automotive, integrating its CarMaker software for professional simulation applications, ranging from autonomous vehicles and ADAS to powertrain and vehicle dynamics,” added Kubieniec. “Our PRS 200 and 300 actuators are equipped with a decompression valve to mitigate positive or negative pressure within the actuator, ensuring optimal performance while promoting energy efficiency through reduced electricity consumption. In addition, our PRS 50, PRS 200, and PRS 300 actuators comply with the strict ISO standards required by leading industries, including aerospace, medical, military, and automotive sectors.”

McLeod

7.250-inch Four-disc Clutch

McLeod’s new 7.250-inch clutch is targeting the sand buggy and Baja-style off-road market.
“This four-disc clutch was designed to hold 2,000-plus horsepower and last,” said Baty. “The other clutch option in this market, although similar, has a history of not being able to hold the big power and then wearing out quickly. In some cases, one trip to the dunes would destroy the clutch. We have solved these issues with increased strength on the disc design to help eliminate disc cracking and/or breakage.”
The clutch was also engineered to provide the driver with improved clutch feedback and control. McLeod also designed a dedicated flywheel in either billet steel or billet aluminum for this clutch. “This eliminates the need to use a flexplate to start the engine, like other designs,” added Baty.

Powerbuilt Tools

3-in-1 Underdash Creeper

Here’s a versatile tool for the shop that can be used as a floor creeper, under-dash creeper, or a knee pad.
“No more back yoga,” said Martinez. “There is nothing else on the market like this. Similar, yes, but not like this.”
As a floor creeper, the unit rolls on six 3-inch polyurethane caster wheels. When set up as an under-dash creeper, it features spring-loaded adjustable height so that the headrest section inside the vehicle is just over the door sill for comfortable access. In this mode, the caster wheels are disengaged to prevent unwanted rolling. Under-dash height adjustment is from 15.7 inches up to 21. The unit will support up to 400 pounds and features thick, padded-foam cushions. Finally, the design allows for easy fold-away storage.
The removable headrest can also be used as a portable knee pad on hard surfaces. Five rubber feet prevent it from sliding.
The company will showcase rolling seats in its booth at the Show, including deluxe models with expandable trays.

ARP

1/2-inch Head-stud Kits for Dart LS Next Block

These kits are available for both the 15- and 23-bolt applications. The half-inch studs are constructed from 8740 chromoly steel, while the 8-mm helper studs are made from ARP 2000 material.
“The head studs have a tensile strength of 200,000 psi, and the helper studs have a tensile strength of 220,000 psi,” noted Raschke. “The kits come with nuts, washers, instructions, and lubricant. They’re all black-oxide coated.”
ARP studs undergo a unique heat-treat process where all studs are placed vertically in a special rack. This step ensures complete heat penetration, unlike other manufacturers that may fill baskets randomly and hope for equal heat penetration. Following heat-treat, each stud is centerless ground for improved concentricity and then thread-rolled. Other studs may be threaded prior to heat to save costs, but fatigue strength is compromised.

Flaming River Industries

Tilt Steering Column

Designed for mid-1980s muscle cars and trucks, this new steering column features an integrated turn-signal arm with wiper control and cruise control, offering modern convenience in a classic design. Other features include an innovative low-beam/high-beam microswitch for driving safety. The tilt design and compact shroud help provide a comfortable driving experience.
“It has a sleek, black powder-coat finish, so this column is both stylish and durable,” said Tyler Greene. “It’s available in both floor shift and column shift options. It’s the perfect upgrade for those looking to blend vintage appeal with modern functionality.”

Powermaster

HPR Alternators for 14- and 16-volt Batteries

With race cars implementing more electronics, car builders are turning to higher voltage 14- and 16-volt batteries. In turn, there’s a need for alternators that can support these higher voltages. Powermaster now offers its high-output HPR alternators in several preset voltage outputs: 16.8V for 14-volt batteries, and 17.5V or 18.2V for 16-volt batteries.
“Running a 14- or 16-volt battery requires an alternator that can maintain the battery at full charge, especially when vehicle electronics are sapping the battery’s power at full demand,” explained Ryden. “Our new HPR Preset Voltage Alternators ensure your 14- or 16-volt batteries stay charged from idle speeds to redline rpm. We offer four different preset voltage models, depending on the battery’s required charging voltage, and two amperage ratings to support the electrical amperage demand.”
One of Powermaster’s new products is designed to solve problems and enhance safety. “In the past few years we’ve seen many racers mounting their alternator to the chassis in a reversed position. This causes two issues: The alternator doesn’t cool as well, and there’s a safety concern of the pulley spinning off due to the thread direction of the shaft,” said Ryden. “Explaining this to a racer, you can just see their eyes light up as they did not consider it. We developed an alternator that is set up for CCW rotation with the correct cooling capabilities and, more importantly, left-hand threads on the shaft.”

FiTech EFI

Universal 4500 Throttle Body

The new 4500 throttle body is a larger footprint version of the company’s popular 4150 throttle body.
“With modern drag-and-drive racing events growing in popularity, racers are pushing the limits of their equipment not only on the track but also in terms of drivability,” said Covarrubias. “They need systems that perform well during intense racing and maintain reliability for street driving, often covering distances of up to 500 miles between locations. With that in mind, we developed the 4500 Universal Throttle Body to excel in both extremes, offering high performance on the track and smooth, reliable drivability on the streets.”
The throttle body is offered in either a brilliant polished or matte black finish.
“From the start, our goal was to create a complete package that includes a basic sensor set, eliminating the need for racers to source additional sensors and mounting hardware,” added Covarrubias. “Our all-in-one design simplifies the setup process. Additionally, we offer options to enhance the system, such as our secondary TPS, which allows ECUs to utilize dual throttle angle for improved fuel flow control.”

Zamp Racing

Series 8A Head-and-neck Restraint

This new head-and-neck restraint from Zamp Racing features a high back to provide a more natural pull angle and allow for easy side-to-side movement. It also has shorter arms with little restriction in the shoulder and chest areas.
“Zamp is always trying to come out with innovative products from direct feedback from customer needs,” said Zampierin. “We meet some of the highest safety standards in the world, including FIA8860 Super Standard, plus part of the FIA IWG development group.”
The Series 8A also features stainless-steel hardware, Kevlar webbing tether that connects the helmet to the restraint, and replaceable padding that is easy to clean. Sizes include small, medium, and large. The restraint is SFI 38.1 certified.

The PRI team attended the Cup Karts North America Grand Nationals 8 at New Castle Motorsports Park (IN) earlier this month, which included a unique new event, the "Outta the Box Challenge," created by PRI member and PRI Show exhibitor Briggs & Stratton. Associate Editor A.J. Hecht was on hand to document the race, which put a spotlight on not just the drivers but the teams and crews supporting them.

Imagine going to the Super Bowl for your first football game, Game 7 of the World Series for your first visit to an MLB ballpark, the Wimbledon final for your first tennis match.

That was essentially my introduction to the world of karting, the Cup Karts North America (CKNA) Grands 8, held earlier this month at New Castle Motorsports Park (NCMP), located about an hour East of PRI HQ in Indianapolis.

With 585 drivers and 627 entries spread across nine categories, it's among the largest karting events in the country and the result of explosive growth in the four-cycle karting world. In just two years, the Grands have grown from around 400 entries in 2022 to the 600-plus entrants that descended on NCMP to compete for the title this year. Although the NCMP grounds are expansive, the host facility--owned by former Rolex 24 at Daytona winner and IndyCar driver Mark Dismore--seemingly used every square inch of the facility to accommodate the record-breaking field.

Walking through the massive paddock, you could see that it was a diverse field, too, drawing entries from across the United States—36 of them, to be exact—and a handful of countries, including drivers from as far north as New Brunswick, Canada, and as far south as New Zealand. The age range was, somehow, equally expansive. Entrants in the Kid Kart class were as young as 5, and the oldest driver--competing in the aptly named "Legends" class--was 74.

However, each driver and kart had something in common: the Briggs & Stratton 206 racing engine. Each participant---whether they were 5 or 74, from Australia or Alabama--pulled onto the track with power from the same engine, providing an even, affordable playing field that puts the performance in the hands of the drivers and their teams.

With that in mind, Briggs & Stratton and CKNA brass came up with a different kind of race, one that put the crews and team support in a spotlight usually reserved for the drivers.

True to its name, the "Outta the Box" Challenge had some unusual, albeit simple, rules. Unlike a typical race—karting or otherwise—the starting grid would not be determined on the track. No, this time it would be settled in the pits.

The brainchild of Dan Roche, director of product for motorsports and turf at Briggs & Stratton, the event challenged teams to take a Briggs Racing 206 engine straight "outta the box," install it and race it.

"It was really a way to celebrate the teamwork that goes on with these race teams and put a spotlight on the mechanical side," Roche said. "We also wanted to demonstrate how easy it is to install the Briggs 206 on a traditional kart and get it running. So, we figured why not make it part of the race?"

Early in the afternoon, participants gathered in the pits with their engine-less chassis, tools, tables and anything else they would need to make the install go as smoothly as possible. Once settled into their stations, they gathered for a relatively informal "drivers" meeting, one that included four crew members from each team. In front of a pile of brand-new, still-in-the-box engines--all hand-numbered with marker--CKNA National Director and Co-founder Greg Jasperson gave a loose run-down of the rules.

The rules:

• Teams will randomly draw for their engine.
• DO NOT open the box until the horn blows.
• Once the horn blows, the timer starts. First to start their engine wins. This will set the starting lineup.
• Penalties will be assessed in tech for any missed items or components. Engines will be sealed.
• DO NOT open the box until the horn blows.
• Teams will get a 10-minute session on track to break in the engine.
• Prior to the race, there will be a 10-minute practice, followed by a 10-minute chassis-tuning window.
• DO NOT open the box until the horn blows.
• 12-lap race, grid set by build-off results.
• DO NOT open the box until the horn blows.

Once the rules were firmly established, teams randomly pulled a number and took their corresponding engine back to their temporary workstations, ready to get wrenching. The participants had clearly thought through the process, all neatly preparing and organizing their tools and instruments ahead of the horn, streamlining the build process as much as possible. One team I noticed seemed ready for anything, but at the last second, realized they had missed one key detail: a boxcutter.  

A few moments later, the horn blew, and chaos broke out. Teams scrambled for tools and parts, barking orders at one another as they thrashed on the bright orange Briggs engines. Then, moments later, the first engine roared to life, faster than just about everybody—except for maybe the crews themselves—thought possible.

"They were done a lot faster than I thought," Roche said. "We had no idea that they could get it done in under 5 minutes."

The winning time was a few ticks under 3 minutes.

Although surprising, the lightning-fast install proved the very thing Roche and Briggs & Stratton intended to showcase.

"It tells me that there's a lot of unsung heroes that work in the background," he said. "We've got one name on the kart, one guy or gal sitting in the kart, but there's often a team of people behind it.

"This event really put a spotlight on the fact that they have to plan on how to do this. This took a lot of innovation and creativity and preparation," he added, noting the process normally takes about two hours on your own.

With the build-off settled, the action turned to the track, and it was every bit as chaotic as the off-track portion. (You can watch the whole race here.)

Under the lights, North Carolina's Caleb Gafrarar rolled off the grid first thanks to his MGM team, who secured him the pole position with their quick and precise install--but a problem on the second lap meant he would not be the first-ever winner of the "Outta the Box" Challenge.

Clashes continued throughout the field, culminating in a last-lap collision that claimed leader James Overbeck with only two corners left in the race. The melee left the door open for Camryn Reed, who won the inaugural race after taking the white flag in seventh position. Although the race was mostly for bragging rights, Reed was able to take the Briggs Racing 206 engine home with her, along with the memories of a hard-fought win.

Ultimately, that's why Briggs & Stratton was eager to support the Grands 8 in such a unique way, Roche said, along with its usual, ubiquitous presence in the paddock.

"We're in a position to build engines and there's not that many companies that do that," he said. "We're just very honored to be in that position and to take some of our engines and use them to help make family memories.

"Everyone here is racing Briggs and that's really important from a brand perspective," Roche continued. "But it's really about us giving back and giving families something to wrap their free time around that is productive, that is difficult, is challenging and super rewarding."

For more information on CKNA, visit cupkarts.com.

For more information on Briggs & Stratton, visit briggsracing.com.

Irwindale Speedway and Dragstrip will close following the 2024 season, track officials announced.

Since opening in 1999, Irwindale has been home to NASCAR-sanctioned races, street-legal drag racing, numerous Formula Drift events and more. Its final event, Irwindale Speedway's Farewell Extravaganza, will mark the end of the speedway's operation on December 21.

Events will continue through the remainder of 2024. The Dragstrip will close on December 7 with the Mooneye Christmas Party featuring drag racing, a classic car show, live entertainment and more.

Irwindale Speedway’s Farewell Extravaganza will include a full day of NASCAR short-track races, Figure-8 and trailer races, a drift invitational, the ARCA Menards Series West and more.

After closing, Irwindale's assets and events will move to Kevin Harvick's Kern Raceway in Bakersfield, California.

For more information, visit irwindalespeedway.com.

Ticket sales and general registration are officially open for the highly anticipated Mustang Week Texas—a multi-day event for Ford and Mustang enthusiasts—taking place from April 24-27, 2025, in Galveston, Texas, and the greater Houston area.

All-Access tickets grant entry to all Mustang Week Texas venues, including Motor Speedway Resort (MSR) Houston, Houston Motorsports Park (HMP), and Moody Gardens in Galveston. Ticket holders can also register to participate in a wide array of events, including:

• Road racing, karting, and autocross at Mustang Week Track Attack at MSR Houston.
• Drag racing, spectator drags, and drifting at the Mustang Week All-Ford Drag Day at Houston Motorsports Park.
• All-Mustang Car Show and All-Ford Cruise-In at Moody Gardens.

Saturday's festivities will wrap up with Mustang Week MAYHEM! at Moody Gardens—a high-energy festival-style event featuring music, food trucks, drifting, burnout competitions, dyno challenges, carnival games, a mechanical bull and a fireworks display to cap off a legendary night.

For more information and to secure tickets and registration, visit mustangweek.com.