Dennis Taylor Houston wrap-up

Houston Yields One Up, One Down for Taylor

ANAHEIM, CA — Dennis Taylor and his Plumbing Concepts crew worked hard during the O’Reilly Springnationals, following Friday’s first run that didn’t produce the desired results. Taylor fought for traction in that first stanza, as the Camaro Funny Car moved out of the groove and was shut off, carding a 9.60-second run. Dennis mentioned, “It had too much wheel speed early (in the run) and shook the tires.” Co-crew chiefs Ora Vasquez and Terry Morrow analyzed the causes while the rest of the crew performed their normal between-rounds maintenance.

For Friday’s second qualifying attempt, Ora added, “We knew weather was threatening Saturday’s action, so we backed it down (took power away) in order to get it in the field.” That philosophy was successful, as Taylor cruised to a decent 5.75 at 252.52 mph, securing the number nine position.

As things progressed, Saturday’s qualifying was totally washed out and NHRA was forced to cancel the third and final qualifying session, locking the 16-car field after only two attempts. Dennis said, “Missing on our first run and losing the third hurt us. After running that 5.75, we knew which direction to go in, and I feel we had a top-five car, although we were pleased to be in the show.”

Sunday’s start was delayed by re-occurring showers, but when the call came, Taylor was on his game. Dennis was sharp on the starting line, grabbing a seven-hundredths (of a second) advantage and ran a fine 5.71 at 252.52 mph, to outdistance his opponent. The second round pitted Taylor against number-one qualifier, Bob Newberry, who won lane choice thanks to his quicker first-round. Newberry was anxious approaching the line, but still managed to leave on Dennis and powered through for the win, running 5.66 to Taylor’s 5.79. Dennis added, “We ran well and should be in good shape for Las Vegas in two weeks.”

For more information on Dennis Taylor’s marketing partners, please use the following links, or call the phone numbers below.

PlumbingConcepts.com — Southern California’s most progressive contactor and private-party services provider.

DeltaFaucet.com — America’s largest manufacturer of residential and commercial faucets, with 55 years of product innovation, Delta’s motto is “We work wonders with water.”

LucasOil.com – See why professional and sportsman competitors in all racing disciplines worldwide rely on the superior protection of Lucas Oil Products. Choose Lucas Oil Products for your street car, truck, boat, or off-road vehicle.

Taylorfreezers.com — Since 1965, Taylor Freezers (no relation) of Southern California has been distributing and maintaining a complete line of quality food service equipment. Its professional staff can assist with selection and supply, installation, store design, training, and after-sale service. Financing and lease options are available for a variety of profitable equipment. Call (800) 927-7704.

AdamsPolishes.com — Discriminating gearheads use the complete line of premium car care products from Adam's Polishes.

TaylorMotorsports.com — Serving your racing safety and crew apparel needs, Taylor Motorsports is drag racing’s most knowledgeable Hans® supplier.

MetroMMP.com — For the best in weatherstripping, seals, and moldings, look to Metro Moulded Parts to “Seal the Deal” and help bring your automotive project back to “like-new” condition. Call (800) 878-2237, or click for free catalog. Metro can also serve your industrial weather-sealing needs.

Moroso.com – Nearly 40 years ago, Moroso Performance pioneered the development of unique racing products, and that commitment continues today.

Shaker Shirts — Specializing in personal, team, or business-related screen printing, Shaker Shirts offers premium graphics design and top-quality, brand name apparel. Call (626) 960-3333 for your screen printing needs.

Bear State Heating & Air Conditioning — Serving Southern California’s HVAC needs for residential and commercial properties. Call (714) 237-1740.

Contact: Randy Fish
Email: zoomrf@earthlink.net