MASSEY’S GRENADING ISSUE IN READING LENDS CAUSE FOR CONCERN

Spencer Massey experienced a massive engine explosion during Saturday’s first qualifying session at the Auto Plus NHRA Nationals. As spectacular as the boomer was, Massey, the Prestone-sponsored driver said it paled in comparison to the one he suffered Friday evening.

The fact he’s able to make a comparison, Massey believes, makes a statement on when the team has an issue they need to rectify quickly.

“We thought we had it figured out, but obviously we didn’t,” Massey said. “We’ve looked everything over and believe we’ve found out what the issue is.”

Massey said he didn’t know what the issue was.

“It was a pretty big bang,” Massey said. “Last night was worse because I had a lot of fire come around to the front, around the windshield and cockpit. It got very hot behind the seat. This was my first big fire and definitely the largest explosion I’ve experienced.”

Friday’s carnage was also the worst damage he’s ever seen a race car he’s driven sustain.

Massey is expected to have an enclosed cockpit for next season. Friday’s fire, while not entering the cockpit, had the potential to be a lot worse.

“You see fire; having the extra protection is something you don’t mind having,” added Massey.

UPDATED: According to team owner Don Schumacher, the Friday evening engine failure was attributed to an electronic issue. The second, he said, is still under investigation.

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