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"My proudest achievement is raising two well-adjusted, successful children," says Bill Werner. This is a glimpse of insight into a man whose dazzling triumphs so often over shadow any of his other dimensions.
Bill Werner plans to include a new flat track team in 2010 with Jay Springsteen
Werner is a legendary, AMA Hall of Fame, racing mechanic. From 1966 to 2004 he worked for Harley Davidson's race department, wrenching the motorcycles that carried Gary Scott, Jay Springsteen and Scott Parker to a total of 13 AMA Grand National Championships and 150 total wins.
Harley aficionados claim when Werner was born on April 26, 1944, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, it wasn't merely fitting - it was an omen. Werner's interest in motorcycling was sparked when a friend talked him into going up to nearby Cedarburg Fairgrounds to watch AMA National Champion Carroll Resweber. He was barely 16, watching Resweber that fateful day, when destiny stepped in. Shortly after he embarked on his own racing career.
Werner began by running in local scrambles events, but soon progressed through the ranks as a novice, junior and ultimately earned his expert license. He never raced as an expert though, looming responsibilities and injuries saw to that. Racing did however lead him to meet Ralph Berndt. Berndt was the tuner for Resweber. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Bill Werner and his Kawasaki Team
"Well, yes, being involved with flat-track racing and being born in Milwaukee helped create opportunities for me. I was a neighbor of Ralph Berndt who was Carroll Resweber's tuner during the years when he was number one, even though he worked for the Harley Factory. He built all of Resweber's equipment at home and was a kind of mentor to me. He helped me get a job at the Harley factory in the Racing department, which created many opportunities for me to get involved with people like Jay Springsteen, Scott Parker, Bryan Smith, and many more in the flat-track world," recalls Werner.
Bill Werner receives support from Kawasaki for his racing activities
Some say that luck, or fate is merely preparedness intersecting with timing, Werner however calls them accidents, which is how he says his relationship with Kawasaki happened.
"I was at the Daytona Road races in 2007 to help my old friend Jay Springsteen in the endurance series there. He was riding a Kawasaki Ex 650 Ninja and I volunteered to carry tires back and forth to get mounted. Before you know it, I got recruited to do more than just carry tires. Within a few weeks after that race I was approached to be the crew chief for the team. With Jay being involved I just couldn't say no."
"I knew nothing about the bikes, but thought heck it's a motorcycle, I guess I will just muddle through it and figure it out. Shortly after that I got a call from Ken Saillant at the AMA, who asked me if I would build a dirt tracker for the new Basic Twins Class that was being introduced to flat-track racing. And again, I couldn't say no."
"I chose the Kawasaki because I thought it was a neat little engine and easy to work on. Next thing I knew I was even more involved in racing than ever before, building road racers and dirt trackers. So much for retirement," quips Werner.
"I had the opportunity to meet several people from Kawasaki at the races - Jeff Herzog, Jan Plessner and Bruce Stjernstrom. And before you know it I was getting some support for my racing activities. I can't tell you how great the people at Kawasaki have been to me. During a visit to their headquarters I ran into Walt Fulton, an old factory Harley racer who works there, small world this motorcycle fraternity."
For 2010 Werner's plans include fielding a new flat track team along with his good friend Springsteen. Springsteen's contribution will be as a mentor and test rider in the AMA Grand National Twins Series and the AMA Grand National Singles Series, and his nephew Chas will be a a rider in the AMA Pro Singles Series.
"We are going to announce the team riders as soon as we finish with all the commitments with sponsors. That way everyone can get the recognition they deserve. I can tell you that all riders will be on Kawasaki's though," adds Werner.
"My relationship with K&N started back in the early '70's, when we first put a set of air filters on a Harley XR750, and were thrilled with the results on the dyno and flow-bench. We made more power with the air filters on, than with no filter at all. Anyone that knows something about the XR 750, and its cams, will understand how this is possible. Currently I use the air filters and oil filters on all my race bikes and in my transporter as well. I think they are the best - period," concludes Werner.
K&N Universal Chrome Top Round Tapered Universal Air Filter, part number RC-5131
K&N Universal Chrome Top Round Tapered Universal Air Filter, part number RC-1624
K&N Universal Chrome Top Round Tapered Universal Air Filter, part number RC-1601
K&N Universal Chrome Top Round Tapered Universal Air Filter, part number RC-1637
K&N Universal Chrome Top Round Tapered Universal Air Filter, part number RC-1620
K&N Universal Chrome Top Round Tapered Universal Air Filter, part number RC-1586
K&N has developed several new chrome top round tapered universal air filters for a wide range of makes and models. K&N has sold millions of air filters for just about
anything with an engine. Our latest cone shaped universal air filters are
perfect for air intake projects. They simply clamp-on for a secure attachment.
K&N universal air filters come pre-treated with K&N filter oil so they are
ready for use right out of the box. They are also warranted against defective
material or workmanship for one year from the date of purchase with no mileage
limitations.
The RC-5131, like most K&N universal air filters, features a pliable flange that can stretch up to 1/16th (1.5mm) to fit sizes in-between the filter’s actual flange diameter. This universal air filter has a flange inside diameter of 2.75 inches (70 mm) as well as a height of 5.531 inches (140 mm).
The RC-1637
universal air filter has a flange inside diameter of 3.25 inches (83 mm) and a total height of 5.5 inches (140 mm).
Part number RC-1624
has an inside flange diameter of 2.375 inches (60 mm), a height of 4.438 inches
(113 mm) and its flange is offset.
K&N RC-1601 comes with an
inside flange diameter of 3.875 in (98 mm) and its height is 6.313 inches (160
mm). Part
RC-1620
has a similar look only it has a slightly larger inside flange diameter of 3.938
in (100 mm) and the same height of 6.313 in (160 mm). Finally the
RC-1586
round tapered chrome top universal air filter has a flange inside diameter of
5.781 inches (147 mm) and a height of 6.688 inches (170 mm).
K&N invented the high flow technology used in offering the best air filter on the market. K&N manufacturers more air filters than any other manufacturer of similar products. We offer thousands of air filters for just about any air filtration need including generators, snowmobiles, tractors and other applications. K&N consistently adds new filters to its extensive catalog. Regardless of the shape or size K&N probably has a universal air filter to fit your specific needs.
K&N universal air filters are also washable and reusable. K&N air filters provide outstanding air flow and motor/engine protection.
Ford made the 1967 Mustang to stand above its competition more than 40 years ago. Ford designers wanted it to be more muscular and powerful than the Pontiac Firebird, Mercury Cougar and Plymouth Barracuda.
1967 Mustang with a 351 Windsor Engine Modified by GT Motorsports
Modified K&N Sprint Car airbox is part of the GT Motorports Mustang
In 1967, the Mustang was designed to hold a big block engine. In 2010, Tom Cope of GT Motorsports designed his modified 1967 Mustang to hold a 351 Windsor engine.
1967 Mustang will be on display at the 2010 Grand National Roadster show
Flaming River Rack and Pinion Set up steering column matches the Dupont Hot Hues hot apple red on the Mustang exterior
The hot apple red over psycho silver is one of the first things you notice. The car seems to move with the sunlight as it hits the ten coats of Dupont Hot Hues. "The paint is incredible," said Cope. "I also had the black leather in the interior stitched in red to match."
Modifications on Cope’s 1967 Mustang include:
Engine Upgrades:
Ford Racing Victor Intake
A304 cylinder heads
Roller cam and rockers
Valve covers
Plug wires
Water pump and accessory pulleys
Holley 750CFM Ultra Street Avenger Carb
Modified K&N sprint car air box
Transmission:
Ford AOD with 3000 stall converter
B&M deep sump pan
Exhaust:
Ceramic coated Hedman hedders
Fully polished stainless steel Magna Flow exhaust system
Suspension:
Maier Racing Auto cross set up with adjustable rear swaybar
Panhard rod
RCD shocks
Steering:
Flaming River power rack and pinion set up
Brakes:
Ford Racing Special Edition 13" front and 11.65" rears
Custom brackets by GT Motorsports
Interior:
Upholstery: Got U Covered
Seats: Black leather with dove gray suede inserts, and red stitching
Interior panels: Door panels, doors, quarter panels, dash pad, center console, and trunk panels all have been wrapped in black leather
Audio kick panels: MP Products
Gauges: MP Products
Steering wheel/column:
Cobra wheel with blood wood stain finish, polished billet tilt Flaming River Column
Shifter:
Ford Racing Pedals
Noise and Heat Insulation: Hushmat
Seals, Gaskets, Restoration Parts: Scott Drake
Exterior:
Body Mods: Maier Racing Eleanor hood, '67 Shelby nose and taillight panel, fiberglass front fenders
Factory side scoops inverted and made functional. Front end molded together to make it one piece
Paint: Dupont Hot Hues, Hot Apple Red over Psycho Silver
Grill: Stainless steel mesh with inboard Shelby headlamps, built by GT Motorsports
Wheels: Foose Design (Monterrey)
Audio:
Head Unit: Eclipse / Arc Audio EQ
Ampliers: Arc Audio
Mids/Highs: Arc Audio
Subs: Arc Audio
Battery: Optima yellow top painted in body color
Cope has used K&N air and oil filters for thirty years. “I would not use anything else on the cars we build,” he said. “K&N is cost effective because the air filters are washable and reusable and provide excellent filtration and engine protection.”
The GT Motorsports 1967 Mustang was a feature vehicle at SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) in Las Vegas, Nevada last year. It will be on display at the Grand Nationals Roadster Show in
2010.
Kevin Yoder clinched the Sportsman Class Championship in the final round of the 2009 VORRA Series. It’s the first time a Rock Buggy competed in an entire desert series and walked away with the title.
The King of the Hammers will kick off the 2010 racing season for 2009 VORRA Sportsman Champion Kevin Yoder
Yoder started the 2009 season with his eyes on the grand prize. “I knew I had a shot at the title through consistency, but I didn’t think I would win races,” said Yoder. “I chose this series because it involved a mix of short course racing and desert racing. I was also looking for the next challenge.”
The VORRA Series combines desert racing and short course off road racing
The veteran off road racer, rock crawler and open desert racer took two first place finishes in the long 250 mile desert races and was only two minutes shy of a third win. “VORRA has a long history of great racing and competitiveness and it remains a family type event,” said Yoder. “I look forward to participating in VORRA again this year.”
The final round of racing was a short course race in Prairie City, California. Yoder began the race and rolled the rock buggy 1 ½ times in the 3rd turn. It took place right in front of the grandstand crowd. On the restart Yoder choose the more conservative throttle control option. He did not need to race to win the championship, but his competitive spirit took over and managed to maintain the lead for about half a lap. He finished mid-pack and clinched the season championship by 101 points.
“The rock buggy has less top speeds than most desert cars, but he 4WD allows me the ability to drive harder out of the corners and through the rough courses,” said Yoder. “We’re looking forward competing this year and sport our new fast red color.”
Yoder’s first race will begin with the King of Hammers Off-Road Race in February. He is anticipating another 20 plus race season after the Hammers with VORRA, Nor Cal Rock Racing, CalRocs and the Grand Slam Off-Road Series.
“I’ve used K&N products for at least 20 years,” said Yoder. “I use K&N because I come up with the specs I need for my vehicles and go through the K&N catalog and find the K&N filters I need. K&N is also cost effective and gives me great filtration as it protects my engines from course debris in off-road racing.”
2009 NHRA Lucas Oil Super Gas Champion Ray Connolly has been a feared competitor in the NHRA Super Classes for the last decade, racking up over a dozen national event victories in Super Comp and Super Gas.
K&N sponsored racer Ray Connolly is the 2009 NHRA Super Gas Lucas Oil World Champion
The K&N sponsored racer has been a consistent top ten finisher in the NHRA national standings. His 2009 Super Gas World Championship comes on the heels of back-to-back top ten finishes in that category. He was seventh in 2008 and fourth in 2007. Connolly earned the 2009 title on the strength of a dominating campaign in Lucas Oil Divisional events, where he claimed victory on four occasions.
Ray Connolly plans to start the 2010 NHRA racing season around the end of February
“I don’t really have an explanation for my 2009 success at divisional events. I’ve been chasing the NHRA tour since 2002,” said Connolly. “I don’t think I did anything differently, it just fell that way last year.”
Connolly needed every bit of his outstanding 699 point total, (the highest Super Gas total
last decade) to fend off K&N sponsored racer
Mike Ferderer, whose score was 689 points. The two racers engaged in a back and forth battle for most of the season, with each posting consecutive victories on their respective coasts throughout the 2009 campaign.
Early on, Ferderer looked to be the runaway 2009 champion, but Connolly overtook him in the standings in August on the strength of back-to back LODRS wins in Stanton, Michigan and Cordova, Illinois.
Connolly then scored his national event conquest of the season, at the JEGS SportsNationals in Columbus, Ohio. That win came after his allotted points in national events had been completed, and did not count toward his final tally.
Connolly’s national event triumph was bitter sweet. Ferderer claimed a third LODRS victory of his own that same weekend, and won the Division 6 finale at Champion Raceway. That put Ferderer back in the lead for the championship chase
with only one more event to win for both drivers.
Connolly entered the NHRA Division 2 finale in Reynolds, Georgia will a tall order. Win the event and surpass Ferderer in the points chase or settle for second place. Connolly did the unthinkable and won the Super Gas category. He also doubled with a victory in Super Comp. Connolly also posted a perfect 9.900 elapsed time to cap his perfect day.
“This is a great accomplishment, and I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to pursue the title and come out atop a great group of competitors,” he said. “My hat is off to Mike Ferderer, Mike Sawyer, Val Torres, Jr., and the rest of the top ten, along with all of the NHRA Super Gas racers. If this class was not so tough, this accomplishment would not mean so much. I also want to thank my sponsors including K&N Filters. K&N filters protect my engines from track debris and help me get to the podium.”
Connolly plans to start the racing season by the middle of February. “I slipped on some ice in Ohio and broke my ankle,” he said. I’m going to pass on racing
at the start in Florida, but I should have almost the same schedule as last year.”
Until then, Connolly has plans to attend a NHRA Division 3 awards banquet in Indianapolis. “I’m going to hobble up to the podium,” he said. “But I’ll be back in my cars soon enough.”
