Phoenix: Kurt Johnson Friday summary

KJ Opens Phoenix Qualifying in Third Position

Kurt Johnson opened the defense of his 2004 Checker Schuck's Kragen Nationals in fine form, as he powered his ACDelco Cavalier to the third position during the first day of qualifying at Firebird Raceway. After opening with a solid 6.813-second run on his first attempt, Johnson came back in the evening to record a 6.746-second, 204.51 mph pass, which was the quickest pass of the session in the left-hand lane, putting him in a good position entering Saturday's final qualifying runs.

"We're in the same predicament as we were in Pomona. We're using a brand-new engine combination, one that has never been down the track in my car. In addition, I had to tune a new set of carburetors for it, so I needed that first run to see where I was fuel-wise. After that, we made some adjustments for tonight's run.

"Even though it was still a little light on the clutch, it made a pretty good run, so I believe this DRCE III will also be a player. Our ACDelco Cavalier is also making our job easier, because we can predict what it's going to do. Overall, I'd have to say we're pretty pleased."

-j2r-