What do you think, Will Jerry Bird Continue with Nitrous on No Prep Kings & The Last One Remaining!?
The thrilling world of No Prep Kings (NPK) racing has always been a battleground for innovation and competition. Among the myriad of power adders, one racer stands out for his dedication to a traditional yet powerful setup: Jerry Bird and his nitrous-powered car. However, as the landscape of NPK evolves, Bird faces a critical decision that could shape the future of nitrous in this high-stakes arena.
Jerry Bird currently holds a unique position in NPK as the only racer running a nitrous car. This distinction comes as other notable racers, such as David Gates and Kye Kelley, have transitioned to different power setups. Gates, for instance, has shifted to a screw-blown engine, while Kelley abandoned nitrous two years ago. The roaring 959 cubic inch nitrous motor in Bird’s car, with its characteristic flames and visceral power, has become a rare sight in NPK.
Yet, the future of Bird’s nitrous setup is uncertain. Recently, Bug Racing Engines, the renowned builder behind Jerry Bird’s motors, announced their retirement. This development poses a significant challenge to Bird’s program, as the engine production and servicing he relied on will no longer be available. The retirement of Bug Racing Engines is not just a logistical hurdle but a profound turning point that forces Bird to reevaluate his racing strategy.
In a recent NPK live feed, discussions hinted at Bird’s potential shift from nitrous to a boosted combination. This transition, while not immediate, is under serious consideration. The current season may see Bird continue with his nitrous setup, but the complexities and inconsistencies of tuning a nitrous engine make the switch to a boosted combination, such as a ProCharger, increasingly appealing.
The tuning of a nitrous engine involves managing a multitude of variables: nitrous kits, timing, fuel, and a lockup torque converter. These factors contribute to the engine’s inconsistency and the difficulty of tuning compared to screw-blown or ProCharger setups. Despite the nitrous car’s undeniable power and speed, its performance variability poses a competitive disadvantage in the highly regulated and demanding environment of NPK racing.
Looking ahead, the possibility of Jerry Bird adopting a new power setup next year seems plausible. Transitioning from a 959 cubic inch nitrous motor to a 560 cubic inch ProCharger motor involves more than just an engine swap; it requires extensive modifications to the car’s chassis, wiring, and overall configuration. Such a transformation is no small feat, indicating that if Bird does decide to make the switch, it will be a meticulously planned and executed endeavor.
In the meantime, fans of Jerry Bird and nitrous power can relish the continued presence of his nitrous car in NPK. The sight and sound of Bird’s 959 cubic inch motor remain a testament to the raw, unfiltered power that nitrous can deliver. However, the winds of change are blowing, and the future of nitrous in NPK may hinge on Bird’s next move.
As the racing season progresses and Jerry Bird contemplates his options, one thing is certain: the spirit of innovation and competition that defines No Prep Kings will continue to drive racers like Bird to explore new horizons and push the boundaries of what is possible on the track. Whether he stays true to nitrous or embraces a new power setup, Jerry Bird’s journey will undoubtedly captivate fans and fellow racers alike, marking a significant chapter in the ever-evolving saga of NPK racing.
