Dateline Daytona: Let the Games Begin with NASCAR Testing

In an effort to derail the two-car tandem drafting that has evolved on the super speedways, NASCAR may bring back pack racing. That may result in some really big wrecks like we have seen in the past.

NASCAR testing for the Sprint Cup cars is taking place at Daytona International Speedway, Jan. 12-14. Teams are getting a chance to tweak the new Daytona rules package for 2012.

In a press release Robin Pemberton, NASCAR vice president of competition, said, "It's a chance for them to get comfortable with the cooling package, the smaller spoiler and to practice drafting for next month's Daytona 500."

The laptops will be in overdrive as engineers work with the crew chiefs and teams to determine the impact of the new cooling systems with the engine packages.

New changes include the following:

• Smaller radiators with maximum of two gallon capacity
• Smaller overflow tank with maximum capacity of half a gallon
• Radiator inlet is moved up closer into the front center bumper area
• Rate reduction in the springs (softer springs)

• Smaller rear spoiler

The Daytona 500 will be only the third Spring Cup Series point race on the repaved surface of the high-banked tri-oval.

With electronic fuel injection, the fresh track surface and changes to the rules, teams will pull out the stops to gain advantage with drafting and making the aero package work.

The unknown is about to unfold as some drivers adjust to new teams, cars and crew chiefs. The unexpected will be lurking in every turn as we get our first glimpse of the new season for NASCAR's elite.

Drafting is here to stay at super speedways. In an effort to separate cars we may end up with better racing, but there may unfortunately be even larger "big ones."

Fans will be treated to Daytona Preseason Thunder Fan Fest with driver autograph sessions in addition to viewing the test sessions.

The unofficial kick off of the NASCAR 2012 season is here, though Speedweeks at Daytona is still about a month away.

Let the games begin.

Quotes and information courtesy of NASCAR.