Later this week Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com will publish a detailed analysis of recent developments in chassis materials use and the arguments in favor of each. In the meantime, usually reliable sources have reported that a new Top Fuel chassis spec that’s destined to replace the currently used standard (2.3M) may be instituted within a month or two. This new spec should be in place and included in the 2008 NHRA rules, and is likely to contain language that no longer calls for the use of heat treated tubing in the lower bottom frame rails of dragsters. That spec has been in place since about 2005, and while there’s always been opposition to its inclusion from some quarters, the recent rash of chassis-related incidents in Funny Car has brought the issue to the forefront. Whether or not the proposed new spec will result in team owners facing expensive repairs prior to the ’08 season remains to be seen.