Preparations are in full swing at MAHLE Clevite Inc. for the Seventh Annual Clevite Engine Builder Showdown. The finals for this year are scheduled for May 23rd at the NASCAR Technical Institute in Mooresville, NC.
The Showdown pits NASCAR’s top engine builders in a race to build and successfully run a NEXTEL Cup 357-cubic inch Ford engine in the shortest time possible. Through a process of three rounds of preliminary and semi-final eliminations, the competition culminates in a final showdown between the two fastest teams.
The winning team receives the prestigious Randy Dorton Memorial Trophy in addition to a cash prize of $26,000. The runners-up receive $9,000. Overall, the competition awards a total prize package of more than $50,000.
"The Clevite Engine Builder Showdown draws contestants who are at the top of their game in one of the toughest, most competitive arenas of all – professional racing," said Bill McKnight, director of brand development for MAHLE Clevite Inc. "The contestants come from NASCAR NEXTEL Cup, Busch and Craftsman Truck series teams and engine shops and bring a naturally high level of competitiveness and excitement to the event."
Introduced in 2000, the Clevite Engine Builder Showdown is a tiered, four-round competition designed to highlight the art and skill of those who build some of the finest and most powerful engines we see on America’s race tracks. The competition consists of four rounds. In the first round the teams race against the clock to finish in the shortest time with the fastest eight moving to round two. The second, third and fourth/final rounds pit the remaining teams against each other in a heads-up, high-profile, decisive battle for the top prize.
According to McKnight, "It’s a win-win for all participants. While the Showdown shines the spotlight on some of the most coveted talent in engine building today, it also provides MAHLE Clevite an opportunity to work with the top engine businesses in motorsports."
The advanced technologies that MAHLE Clevite develops for NASCAR engine builders also yield benefits for performance enthusiasts and the automotive aftermarket industry. "Our work for NASCAR often gives rise to the innovative design and engineering developments you find in MAHLE Clevite’s aftermarket products for enthusiasts." McKnight said.
MAHLE Clevite Inc. is one of the world’s largest suppliers of pistons, valve train parts, engine bearings, piston rings and engine gaskets. MAHLE Clevite brands include MAHLE pistons Clevite engine bearings and engine parts, Victor Reinz gaskets and Perfect Circle piston rings. In addition, Clevite, Victor Reinz and Perfect Circle are official NASCAR Performance Products. MAHLE Clevite’s Internet address is www.engineparts.com.
