WISSOTA Promoters Association - Racing Across America

The Late Model car count really started to come into its own when a definitive engine rule took shape in the mid-'90s. The rule came with the creation of a "spec" engine. Now, WISSOTA Late Model racers have two options for their engines. The first is a cast-iron head, iron block engine with a maximum displacement of 362 ci. This car (with driver) must weigh a minimum of 2,300 pounds. The second option is a restricted engine. This iron block engine uses a 1 1/8-inch restrictor plate, but can reach 410 ci. The use of this engine means a weight increase as car and driver will need to weigh in at 2,425 pounds (2,450 with aluminum heads). The use of the spec engine has brought success to some drivers while reducing their engine bill by 70 percent.

The engine continues to be the biggest expense for the Late Models. Specific tires have kept costs at manageable levels. WISSOTA-approved Hoosier D10, D20, D30, and D55 tires may be used, with D10 tires used only on the front of the car.

For Modifieds, tire rules changed in 2003. Beginning on June 15, no grooving or siping of tires will be permitted. Rear tire options include Hoosier A40, D40, and H40. Front tires must be the Hoosier "Dirt Bozz," "Super Bozz," and "Hard Bozz" choices.

Modifieds also have a spec engine in the class with an option that prevents claiming. Likewise, those running the spec engine cannot make a claim against a competitor.

The spec engine is up to 362 ci with specified heads listed in the rules for each make eligible for competition. Spec engine cars (which must have the words "spec engine" on the hood) get a great weight break at 2,450 pounds. The next class of engines up to 410 ci could be forced to weigh as much as 200 pounds more. No aluminum blocks or heads are permitted.

Engine claim rules are straightforward. Cars finishing between first and fifth can be claimed. The claim must be made by a driver finishing between 6th and 12th. First time track visitors have no claiming rights. Claim refusal carries a $1,000 fine and 30-day suspension for the first offense. The penalty is stiffer for the second refusal with a $2,500 fine and a year suspension.

In addition to the Modifieds and Late Models, WISSOTA oversees several other racing classes, including Street Stocks, Super Stocks, and Mod-4s. The sanction extends to 60 tracks in six states and three Canadian provinces.

Drivers compete for national points at WISSOTA-sanctioned tracks and events. Points are awarded for heats, consolation races, features, and show-up. There are more than 2,200 racers who carried WISSOTA licenses into the 2003 season.

WISSOTA is the largest non-profit racing sanction in the sport and the third largest sanctioning body in racing. The efforts of the individuals, some still active from the start-up, has yielded the desired results. In an area where racing was threatened with extinction, the sport is again thriving, due in large part to the continuing efforts of the WISSOTA Promoters' Association.

(Special thanks to Scott Hughes of All The Dirt for assistance.)

WISSOTA has approved the testing of a sealed Vortec fuel-injected engine at Fox Ridge Speedway in Arcadia, Wisconsin, in the Modified class for the 2003 season. Cars using the engine will be eligible for track points and purse, but not national awards.

The engine, developed by Tim Schwanke, may be used on a trial basis at other tracks within the sanction in 2003.