Pulling isn't cheap (or easy), and they guy with the most money usually wins (and if not, generally has an advantage). That is indisputable.
The problem myself and others have with it is there is NOW/CURRENTLY very little cost difference between 2.6, 2.8, and OEM drivetrain 3.0.
Some don't require as much safety in 2.6, but most do. That being said to be on TOP in National 2.6 pulls (where duel fuelers are allowed), you have spent just as much money on axles, driveshafts, motor, fueling, safety equipment, suspension, etc., and just about the only difference is turbo's and injectors and price differences of those components between classes is not that much (at least from what I have seen between 2.6 and 2.8).
Some say 2.6 turbos are cheaper therefore the class is cheaper, but I suspect many guys haven spent more on their custom 2.6 chargers than those in 2.8....
Motorsports is not cheap, but it should be cheap enough AT THE BOTTOM to encourage new pullers to start and/or step up a level. Many don't want to look at it this way, but 2.6 is at the bottom. Yes, Workstock and most brush pulls are lower, but 2.6 is the bottom for organized pulling. Yes let the big classes spend their inheritence as that is what many like to see, but give the sport an opportunity to GROW instead of stunting it.
The funny thing is there are those that complain about others people's agendas but they seem to have their own (even if they don't realize it). People talk about those who are crying, but there are some in 2.6 who have spent a ton of dough to dominate a beginner class and they seem to cry the most.
Not directed towards anyone in particular: Before thinking about what should or shouldn't be a rule, please look at the ramifications for those wanting to get into the sport. Think about the 17 year old who doesn't stand in Daddy's pockets and wants to compete. He's pulled a few times at brush pulls and has done OK and wants to step up in a year or two to competitive organized pulling. Rules should allow him to get into the sport and do well enough to want to strive for more (and be reachable). I'm not saying he should win his first years out (actually he shouldn't as he doesn't have seat time or experience), but he shouldn't get his ass handed to him by 150' either if he gives an honest effort.
Right now without spending a TON of money, there is no chance of doing well in most areas of the country in 2.6 and that is not good for the sport *bdh*
Edit: As I've said before the 2.6 classes have been good for the sport as it has allowed many "nobody's" to become "somebody's" and gather interest in the sport. The problem is with the influx and competition it has raised the bar for what is average (or the norm) and started putting it out of reach. As it gets furthur out of reach (from a dollar perspective) and in this economy, there is going to be a point where people don't take the plunge into pulling which is unfortunate. We don't need to make it an "everybody plays" or "everybody wins" sport, but be concious of putting it out of reach for the willing....
wned:
