The racing world is full of interesting characters on both sides of the coin. From the publicity loving drivers to the crew chiefs who’d prefer that they dealt with dynos and data only. There are a rare few who have been proficient at both ends of the job. Guys like Warren Johnson come to mind as well as drivers like Mark Donohue who could wrench with the best of them. Outside of those scant few, two man tandems have been the majority rule.
We wish we remembered who said it to us, but years ago, a man far wiser than we said, “If you want to impress others grab the wheel. If you want to impress yourself, pick up a wrench.” For every Fireball Roberts there was a Smokey Yunick, for each Willie Borsch there was a Mousie Marcellus. One hand washed the other, elevating both at the same time.
So today’s question of the day is pretty simple. Are you a driver or a crew chief, and why? Is your preference finding the power or putting it to use?
Driver. Although I can turn wrenches, I am far better at going fast than making it happen. I wish I was both, but I am not.
Crew Chief. I get more satisfaction from figuring out problems, then fixing them.
Not quite both. I’m about 60%/40% driver/crew chief Love to work on them and dial it in, but most of all, love the thrill of going fast then braking and down shifting while matching rpms with the gear (toe-heal) all at the same time. I’m a right foot braker so that’s my favorite thing to do. Just love racing!
Driver who wishes he had the skills & patience of a crew chief..!
Assistant Tire Wiper. My one time as crew chief was a complete failure.
When I was stationed in San Diego, I was crew chief for Hellbound 1950 Plymouth Business Coupe, Fallen Angel Chrysler Conquest, and Widowmaker Plymouth Savoy between US Navy deployments. It was one of my best times I had in San Diego.
Currently now between work and HVAC school I am working to get my Duster back to the street/ quarter mile.
Driver, but I wouldn’t survive in todays world of corporate bullshit. I like my privacy and I keep to myself. I think in the racing world of 30-40 years ago maybe.
been both, set several records each way at Maxton
When you reach a certain age, your reaction times just aren’t as fast as youth. Since I am old and crotchety I’ll crew where I have time to mull over things and sort out a load of BS I have heard through the years. You’re more focused in life when you mature.