Presented by global automotive supplier Federal-Mogul Corporation, the MOOG Problem Solver award is presented to the crew chief whose car posts the greatest improvement in average lap speed from the first half to the second half of each Sprint Cup event. Harvick’s Budweiser Armed Forces Tribute Chevrolet delivered a race-best 0.442-second-per-lap change while gradually moving into position for an “overtime” win at Charlotte.
Harvick, who started in 28th position, asked for Martin’s help early and often in adjusting the car’s MOOG-equipped steering and suspension system. After a series of modifications, Harvick had the handling precision he needed to make a run toward the front. He had advanced to fourth by Lap 310 but didn’t appear to have a chance at victory until fuel strategy came into play when the race was extended by two laps due to a late caution. The car had just enough fuel to make it to the finish, while race leader Dale Earnhardt Jr. ran dry half a lap short, giving Harvick his third victory of the season.
“Great teams never give up, and Kevin and Gil just kept battling all night long,” said Federal-Mogul Motorsports Director Tim Nelson. “Their car wasn’t quite right in the first half of the race, but Gil and the Richard Childress Racing team corrected those early issues and then made some great calls at the end to help earn the win.”
As the automotive service industry’s “Problem Solver,” MOOG steering and suspension components are the leading choice of crew chiefs and automotive repair professionals. MOOG parts have helped drive an unprecedented 45 consecutive NASCAR Cup champions to victory.
