The lead engine builder for the new Toyota program, according to Detroit sources, will likely be Larry Wallace. Larry Wallace decided not to renew his contract with Penske Racing at the end of last season, and Wallace is reported to have moved back into his former shop, not far from Lowe’s Motor Speedway. Meanwhile, Toyota’s first wind-tunnel runs with its NASCAR Truck didn’t go well, according to NASCAR sources, who report that Toyota engineers didn’t tie the Truck down tightly enough during the runs at the Langley (VA) wind tunnel a few weeks ago. The Truck tore loose from its moorings and did serious damage to the facility, forcing it to close for two weeks for repairs. No word on how much Toyota had to pay for damages.( Winston Salem Journal )(2-24-2003)
