Jayski's NASCAR Archives

NASCAR Confiscates No. 98 Oil Pan at Martinsville

“The G-forces in the tight, hairpin-like turns at Martinsville also affect performance. Basically, everything pushes to the right, including the fluids in the car. John Andretti’s (#98 RCA Ford) team apparently tried to counteract that effect, and improve the efficiency of their engine, by installing an oil pan that was offset about a quarter of an inch from the authorized position. Officials confiscated the oil tank before qualifying Friday and had it in the NASCAR transporter Saturday. Spokesman Kevin Triplett said NASCAR will keep the oil pan, but he doubts the infraction will lead to a fine.(News & Record Online)(9-28-97)