So if Penske goes to Dodge, what happens to the #77? According to crew chief Ryan Pemberton, the #77 will continue to field Fords regardless of Penske South’s decision and the partnership will remain status quo until Jasper is told otherwise. Sources inside Dodge insist that the Penske deal is complete, so that probably leaves Penske-Jasper Engines with additional Ford power plants that won’t be used in 2003. Despite Jasper’s consistent performance this season — Dave Blaney has completed 98.3 percent of all laps, more than any driver on the circuit — it would be difficult with 28 mechanics to make a transition to another manufacturer this late in the year even if it was considered part of the Penske package.(Sporting News)(9-19-2002)
