For decades, Austin Coil has been recognized as one of drag racing’s most seasoned tuners. He’s also been acknowledged as one who doesn’t mince words either.

Coil resigned his position with John Force Racing on Tuesday afternoon, ending a 25 year working relationship which resulted in 15 world championships.

“I thought I’d give (CompetitionPlus.com) a quote, but I really don’t have a lot to say,” Coil said. “Let’s just say that I have not been overwhelmingly happy with the financial arrangements ever since the restructuring caused by the economy.  After having won the championship again, and being fairly (financially) secure, I figured this would be a great time to take some time with my wife because we really haven’t had much time together for the last 26 years.  We’re going to take an extended tour of the country and do some things we want to do.  I’ll probably be shopping for a job about next year (for the 2012 season).”

For decades, Austin Coil has been recognized as one of drag racing’s most seasoned tuners. He’s also been acknowledged as one who doesn’t mince words either.

Coil resigned his position with John Force Racing on Tuesday afternoon, ending a 25 year working relationship which resulted in 15 world championships.

“I thought I’d give (CompetitionPlus.com) a quote, but I really don’t have a lot to say,” Coil said. “Let’s just say that I have not been overwhelmingly happy with the financial arrangements ever since the restructuring caused by the economy.  After having won the championship again, and being fairly (financially) secure, I figured this would be a great time to take some time with my wife because we really haven’t had much time together for the last 26 years.  We’re going to take an extended tour of the country and do some things we want to do.  I’ll probably be shopping for a job about next year (for the 2012 season).”

Prior to joining Force in 1985, Coil tuned Frank Hawley to the 1982 and 1983 championships on a shoestring budget. His ability to make the most with the least is what attracted Force, a self-proclaimed dreamer in the earliest days of his drag racing career. Together they won 132 national events and won all but one championship in the 1990s.

Coil and his wife Lisa have taken an interest in the Nostalgia Funny Car movement.

“I am interested in a nostalgia Funny Car deal if somebody had one that Lisa could drive,” confirmed Coil. “I might be interested in helping with the tuning duties to help her have an opportunity to have a good ride.  Those without deep pockets need not apply.”

John Force hasn’t publicly commented on Coil’s resignation and isn’t likely to do so, according to team spokesman Elon Werner.

Force did likely make reference to the incident during the NHRA’s championship press conference.

“I know the rumor MILLS are going crazy, and I have to address it.  But it’s part of what John Force does.  My heart’s pounding today over some things that have hurt me real bad, and I don’t understand.  I’ve got to go find out.
 
“But I will be strong.”

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