Seattle: Cory McClenathan Saturday summary

FRAM Boost Dragster Runs 4.714 Seconds

KENT, Wash., July 22, 2006 -- Crew chief Wes Cerny and assistant crew chief Tony Shortall began to get to know the new chassis under the Carrier Boyz Racing FRAM Boost Top Fuel body panels during qualifying for Sunday's Schuck's Auto Supply Nationals at Pacific Raceways Saturday.

And what they learned should help driver Cory McClenathan in the first round of eliminations.

The new tubing is thicker than any previously used and it reacts differently to tune-ups, said Shortall. "We have to do things differently with this chassis but there are a lot of similarities, too. Wes and I are going to go over everything and get ready for the first round."

McClenathan's best run of 4.714 seconds at 310.63 mph put him 12th. He races David Baca (No. 5, 4.642 at 319.90 mph) in the opening round.

"The biggest thing for us," added McClenathan, "was getting the car to react liked the old one. It was definitely better on our last pass and I think it will be good to race with Sunday. I'm proud of Wes, Tony and the guys for the work they're doing."

The team debuted the chassis a week ago in Denver but were limited in what they could learn because combinations are far different than those used at sea level.

Hot weather -- the temperatures were near 100 degrees both days -- will play a role in who wins Sunday. "It's anybody's game because the sun will be out and it will be hot," concluded McClenathan.

-cbr