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News From the Snake Pit, A Final (13/07/2003)

By:: Doug McNeely

Ralph Burch Jr. wins ROAR 1/8 Open Nationals

Ralph Burch Jr. has captured his 27th National Championship at this years ROAR Open On Road 1/8 National’s. Ralph concluded an almost perfect week of racing by leading every lap in the 45 minute A Final, against some great competition. The drivers were challenged by a very hot and greasy track as temperatures approached 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Equipment Used

Ralph’s Serpent 950 did not miss a beat the entire race. The car was always on line with the LC 2 speed and Centax II clutch working perfectly. In this heat the 4 step adjustable shocks were a great advantage which allowed for some quick adjustments after the pre-race practice. His NovaMega EV 5 SX-21 was really strong the entire race using 30% fuel with NovaMega #7 cold conical plug. Ralph really liked the power band that the new NovaMega conical header provided. As always, standard Ellegi Tyres provided the grip that was so hard to come by on this very hot and slick race track. The automatic Hudy tire truer was used for perfect tire diameters and taper. Ralph used KO Propo electronics for precise and accurate control of his race car. The car was built, set up, and maintained by using only Hudy precision tools and fixtures.

Teamwork Pays Off

Ralph’s 950 was prepared and tested by Serpent Master Mechanic Art Carbonell in his Serpent USA workshop back in Miami. During the event Serpent Master Mechanic Mark Blackketter took over maintenance and set up duties for Ralph’s car. Team Drivers Brian Berry and Jared Scott tried different set ups and exchanged ideas freely with Ralph and vice a versa. This allowed all three Serpent Team Drivers to make the A Final.

The RCRCNT Club put on a very good National’s in some really hot weather. The entire Serpent Team thanks you for your efforts and a really great ROAR Natioinal’s.

Ralph after victory

Ralph's 950 being prepared for Final

Art and Mark working togrther