Month: September 2017

The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Grades-September 30, 2017

By David G. Firestone

Austin Dillon #3 Chevy Accessories Chevy SS-Same scheme as #31, same A grade.

Reed Sorenson #15 Ol’ Hick Hickory Pellets Chevy SS-It’s a smooth look with a good color scheme, no complaints here! A

Daniel Suarez #19 Comcast Business Toyota Camry-Same scheme as last year, same D- grade.

Matt Kenseth #20 Sirius/XM Toyota Camry-While it still needs work, it’s much better than the #77! the color scheme is better, as is the design scheme. I’ll give it a B+.

Corey LaJoe #23 Schroth Racing Toyota Camry-It’s an ugly, over designed mess, with a bad color scheme, specifically, the shades of yellow used. It’s hurting my eyes, so I’m going to give it the F it deserves.

Chase Elliott #24 NAPA Brakes Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as NAPA but with BRAKES on sides. A

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion-Its got a good color scheme, but in terms of design, it is over designed. I don’t like amount of stripes, and the lack of red doesn’t help. It’s still a decent scheme, and it earns a C-.

Gray Gaulding #55 Wind River Toyota Camry-This scheme would work with if the green on the front were used as the scheme OR the fade were used, but the combination of the two looks awkward and forced. It just doesn’t look good, and it earns an F.

Brett Moffitt #83 Super Donut Toyota Camry-Everything I said about the #23 applies here, but the addition of red just makes this worse. F

The Driver Suit Blog-One Of The Kings Of Pro Stock

By David G. Firestone

Minnesota might not seem like it, but they have a decent drag racing pedigree. They have Brainerd International Raceway, and the legendary Brainerd Zoo. Minnesota is also the home to a number of Pro Stock drivers, including Warren Johnson, Kurt Johnson, Jason Line, and Greg Anderson. Between them, they have won a combined total of 273 national events, and 13 Pro Stock Championships.

Greg Anderson’s road to NHRA stardom had some help from a legend. Anderson got his start tuning Warren Johnson’s Pro Stock car for many years, and winning three championships in 1992, 1993, and 1995. The 1995 championship was marred in controversy, with the feud between Warren Johnson and Wayne County Dodge driver Scott Geoffrion taking center stage. This was referred to as a war, and this led to an infamous incident at Houston where the two had a burndown, and a war of words. Later that season, the Wayne County Dodge team shop was broken into, and the engines of the cars were vandalized. Wayne County Dodge was also alleged to have illegally used Nitrous, and the team shut down soon after.

In 1998, Greg Anderson started racing in Pro Stock. He took to the class well, winning 86 races, and four championships. He won 12 races in a single season in 2003. In 2004, he set the record for most #1 Qualifiers in a season with 16. His career almost ended in 2014, after heart surgery. He rebounded, and had a solid showing in 2015, finishing second in the championship standings, as well as finishing second in 2016.

In 2010, he won 5 events, Norwalk, Seattle, Charlotte, Dallas and Las Vegas, and wound up winning the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series Pro Stock Championship. One of his crew members was issued this white hat in celebration.The cap is in great condition. It has a Full Throttle Energy Drink logo, as opposed to an NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series logo.The left side features PRO STOCK CHAMPION embroidered into the side with black and yellow accents.The back of the cap has an NHRA logo and CHAMPION embroidered into the Velcro closure strap.The right side has 2010 embroidered into the bill.The top is pristine, and the cap has a white squatchee.The inside of the cap is black, has some light stains, and a Main Gate tag.Greg Anderson’s 2017 season is going well too. He has had solid showings at every event he has raced at, and has two wins, and has a good spot in the point standings. He will be a threat for the championship this year. He is 11 wins away from being the all-time win leader in Pro Stock.

Next week, I will discuss a Ron Capps championship hat.

The Driver Suit Blog-Throwback Thursday-Cory McClenathan-1999

Cory McClenathan took the 1999 US Nationals, his second title, in his MBNA dragster

Our last Top Fuel entry is this Cory Mac edition from 1999. Black and green could work better if the green didn’t closely resemble the black. It just looks too similar, and it doesn’t stand out as much. The white MBNA logos are good, and they work well with the overall scheme. It’s not a terrible scheme, it needs a little tweaking of the green to make it great. I’ll give it a B+. Next week, we start Funny Car.

The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Tracker-September 27, 2017

By David G. Firestone

CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #1

Jamie McMurray #1 GearWrench Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black, with yellow, and red stripes across bottom. A

Jamie McMurray #1 Cessna Chevy SS–No change. B+

Jamie McMurray #1 Cessna/McDonald’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, blue front, red rear, stripes between. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Chevy SS–No change. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Grand Mac Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black, with green front and cutting edge design. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s/Cessna Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Cessna/McDonald’s, but with colors reversed. A

Jamie McMurray #1 Credit One/Cessna Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as McDonald’s/Cessna but white replaces red. A

Jamie McMurray #1 Sherwin Williams/3M Pro Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Sherwin Williams but with diamond pattern on the rear. C-

Jamie McMurray #1 Bass Pro Shops/National Wild Turkey Federation Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, slight redesign, rounded camo has been replaced with orange stripes. F

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s $1 Any Size Soft Drink Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as McDonald’s, but with $1 Any Size Soft Drink on hood. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Signature Crafted Recipes Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as McDonald’s, but with Signature Crafted Recipes on hood. A

Jamie McMurray #1 General Hydroponics/Cessna Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Cessna, but with General Hydroponics on hood. B+

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on the #1 Hawaiian Tropic scheme raced back in the day. A

TEAM PENSKE #2

Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Lite Ford Fusion–No Change A

Brad Keselowski #2 Alliance Truck Parts Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Wurth Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Auto Trader Ford Fusion–No Change D-

Brad Keselowski #2 SKF Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Genuine Draft Ford Fusion–Throwback scheme that ran from 1990-1996. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Detroit Genuine Parts Ford Fusion–No change. C-

Brad Keselowski #2 Fitzgerald Glider Kits Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Yellowish-green with black Penske template. D

Brad Keselowski #2 Elite Support/Freightliner Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Penske template with silver front, blue rear. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Lite Patriotic Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with American flag motif on middle of car. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Freightliner Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Penske template with silver front and blue rear. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Wurth Ford Fusion–No change. A

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #3

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, black front, with red designs near wheel well, white fade across quarter panels. A-

Austin Dillon #3 AAA Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but with a few minor stripe changes. D+

Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but many of the stripes have been removed. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/Quikrete Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Dow but with Quikrete on quarter panels. A-

Austin Dillon #3 Lucas Oil Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, similar to 2016 Dow, but with Lucas Oil on quarter panels, and the black stripe is curved. B+

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/World Water Day Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black front, water motif with a curve in front of the door number. D-

Austin Dillon #3 Okuma Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as AAA, but with a black, white, and blue color scheme. D+

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Energy and Water Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, black with curve motive, blue water motif inside curve. C

Austin Dillon #3 New Era Cap Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white hood and roof, large New Era Cap logos on sides. B+

Austin Dillon #3 Intellifresh Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Dow Energy and Water. C

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, American Flag and wood motif across whole car. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, silver with blue star motif across hood, stars and stripes patterns on sides. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/Kilz Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Dow but with Kilz on sides. A-

Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, faded glory American flag motif across whole car. A

Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Earnhardt’s Wranger scheme. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/Molykote Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same color scheme, wave design with gear motif. C

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Automotive Magma Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black and red carbon fiber motif. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Therm Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, blue hood and roof, red and white sides. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Univar Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Dow, but with Univar on the sides. A-

Austin Dillon #3 Chevy Accessories Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #31. A

STEWART-HAAS RACING #4

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, all blue with more detail in the mountains. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Jimmy John’s Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Light Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as 2017 Busch, but with Busch Light on quarter panel. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Bucks Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, green cash motif, Busch logos on sides, Busch Bucks logo on hood. B+

Kevin Harvick #4 Mobil 1 Annual Protection Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as #41. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Mobil 1 Annual Protection, but red replaces gold. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Outdoor Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, some slight changes to the can design. C

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Throwback Chevy SS–No change. A

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #5

Kasey Kahne #5 Farmers Insurance Chevy SS–No Change. C+

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips Chevy SS–No Change. D+

Kasey Kahne #5 Liftmaster Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, silver, with black door, and red stripes. A

Kasey Kahne #5 UniFrst Chevy SS–No Change. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Drive To End Hunger Chevy SS–No change. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Mountain Dew Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with green and yellow jagged stripe on sides. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Liftmaster Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, white replaces silver. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on the first scheme Hendrick Motorsports raced in 1984. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Microsoft Windows Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, all blue with subtle designs on sides. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips/Shark Week Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, dark blue with teal shark outline on bottom and shark teeth on front. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Rated Red Road To Race Day Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black front and rear, with red center. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips Strong Against Cancer Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, red, yellow and red with a crayon motif. A

ROUSH-FENWAY RACING #6

Trevor Bayne #6 Liberty National Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue with silver and white across sides, white roof. B-

Trevor Bayne #6 Performance Plus Motor Oil Ford Fusion–Except for the change from 16 to 6, no change. B-

Trevor Bayne #6 Advocare Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with multi-colored checkerboard pattern on bottom. A

Trevor Bayne #6 Roush Performance Ford Fusion–Aside from changing from 16 to 6, no change. A

Trevor Bayne #6 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, similar to 2016 #17, but with patriotic motif replacing old design. B+

Trevor Bayne #6 Roush Performance/Hines Park Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Roush Performance, but with Hines Park on the hood. A

Trevor Bayne #6 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as patriotic, but stars have been removed. A-

Trevor Bayne #6 Advocare Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Mark Martin’s Stroh’s Light Throwback Ford Thunderbird. A

TOMMY BALDWIN RACING #7

Elliott Sadler #7 Golden Corral Chevy SS–No change. A

JJ Yeley #7 Accell Construction Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as previous, but red hood has been replaced by black hood. C

JJ Yeley #7 Accell Construction Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, American flag motif across whole car. A

JJ Yeley #7 Zombie Auto Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with yellow Zombie Auto logos on sides and hood. A

Hermie Sadler #7 We’re Game Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with green designs on side. C-

STEWART-HAAS RACING #10

Danica Patrick #10 Code 3 Associates Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white front, green stripe, and blue bottom. A

Danica Patrick #10 Aspen Dental Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, lighter blue, Post-It motif replaced by silver wing, and some minor color changes. F

Danica Patrick #10 TaxAct Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but side and front stripes are bigger. A

Danica Patrick #10 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as #41. A

Danica Patrick #10 Code 3 Associates Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue with white hood and roof, silver stripes between the two. A

Danica Patrick #10 Wonder Woman Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, red front, fades to white rear, Wonder Woman logos on sides and hood. A

Danica Patrick #10 Nature’s Bakery/Feeding American Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, orange replaces blue. A

Danica Patrick #10 Code 3 Associates/CSU One Cure Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Code 3 Associates, but with CSU and One Cure on the side. A

Danica Patrick #10 Colorado State University One Cure Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, green, gold, and white with paw motif. B+

Danica Patrick #10 Ford Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Jarrett’s 1999 Championship winning car. A

Danica Patrick #10 Warrior by Danica Patrick/HSN.com Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, teal front, blue rear, cutting edge designs across whole car. C-

JOE GIBBS RACING #11

Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, lighter blue, with an orange paintbrush design on sides. B-

Denny Hamlin #11 SportClips Toyota Camry–Slight changes for 2017, door number colors reversed, stripe colors reversed as well. C-

Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Cares Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, orange replaces silver, much more simple design. A

Denny Hamlin #11 Sport Clips Throwback Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, based on Ray Hendrick’s Modified scheme. A

GERMAIN RACING #13

Ty Dillon #13 Geico Chevy SS-No change. A

Ty Dillon #13 Twisted Tea Chevy SS–Aside from the new team, no change. A

Ty Dillon #13 Geico Military Chevy SS–No change. F

Ty Dillon #13 Geico Smokey Yunick Throwback Chevy SS–No change. A

STEWART-HAAS RACING #14

Clint Bowyer #14 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, white top, red and white stripe across side, blue bottom. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Haas Automotion Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, red top, black bottom, white stripes across sides. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Rush Truck Centers Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white hood, roof, and decklid, red, yellow, and black triangle sides.A

Clint Bowyer #14 Haas Demo Days Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Haas, but with Demo Days on hood. A

Clint Bowyer #14 HAAS CNC Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, colors reversed. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Cars 3 Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, same as #42. B+

Clint Bowyer #14 Nature’s Bakery/Feeding American Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #10. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Mobil 1/Rush Truck Stops Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Mobil 1,but with Rush Truck Stops on sides. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Carolina Dodge Dealers Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Mark Martin’s #1 Bill Davis Ford Thunderbird used from 1988 to 1991. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Five Star Urgent Care Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, red, white and blue stripe with wave form pattern on bottom red stripe. B

PREMIUM MOTORSPORTS #15

Michael Waltrip #15 Aaron’s Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, blue photo motif across car, white hood, yellow door numbers. D-

Reed Sorenson #15 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with white numbers. A

Reed Sorenson #15 The Maids Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, yellow with blue lettering and numbers. A

Reed Sorenson #15 VIP Racing Experience Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with white VIP Racing Experience logos on sides and hood. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Xchange of America Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with Xchange of America logos. A

Joey Gase #15 Sparks Energy Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with yellow paint splatter on sides. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Harrah’s Casino Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, silver has been removed, black with white numbers and logos. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Internetwork Engineering Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, all black with Internetwork Engineering logo on hood. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Low T Center Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #55. F

Ross Chastain #15 Protect Your Mellon Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red, with yellow and white stripe across sides. A

Reed Sorenson#15 Energex.com Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Energex.com logos on sides and hood. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Corrigan Oil Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white stripe across bottom, black with red and blue stripes across sides. A

Kevin O’Connell #15 SBC Construction /Apollo Opening Roofing System Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, American flag motif across whole car. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Loser’s Bar Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Loser’s Bar logo on sides and hood. A

Gray Gaulding #15 La Colombe Draft Latte Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red, white, and blue vertical stripes. A

BJ McLeod #15 American Campus Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017 black with white American Campus logos on sides and hood. A

Gary Klutt #15 Fusilo Construction/Color Compass Corporation Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue and white stripe across the side. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Low T Center Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, white replaces black. F

Reed Sorenson #15 Xchange Of America Throwback Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, based of Bud Moore’s Motorcraft scheme from the 1980’s. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Ol’ Hick Hickory Pellets Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white Ol’ Hick logos on sides and hood. A

ROUSH-FENWAY RACING #17

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Sunny D Ford Fusion–No change. F

Rickey Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Commemorative Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but the colors have been reversed. A

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Ford Fusion–No change. A

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Ford EcoBoost Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, red top, blue and white striped side. D-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr.#17 Go Bowling Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, red, and black with bowling pin and lane motif on sides. B-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fifth-Third Bank Ford Fusion–No change. A

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fifth-Third Back Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, dark blue with yellow and light blue designs on side and hood. B-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Patriotic Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, design reversed, red removed. A-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 NESN Fuel Ford Fusion–Aside from the change from #16 to #17, no change. B-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fifth-Third Bank Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Darrell Waltrip’s Western Auto scheme. A

JOE GIBBS RACING #18

Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Toyota Camry–Aside from moving the characters around, no major changes for 2017. A

Kyle Busch #18 Snickers Crispier Toyota Camry–No change. B-

Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Toyota Camry–No change. A

Kyle Busch #18 Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry–No change. F

Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Patriotic Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same as red Skittles, but with white stripes across bottom, and star motif on hood and roof. A

Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Caramel Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue with orange M&M’s on sides, and a multi colored design on hood. A

Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Patriotic Toyota Camry–No change. A

Kyle Busch #18 Pedigree Toyota Camry–No change. A

Kyle Busch #18 Snickers Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, brown with red, white and blue stripes and designs on sides. B-

Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Sweet Heat Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, dark purple with fire motif on sides and hood. A

JOE GIBBS RACING #19

Daniel Suarez #19 Arris Toyota Camry–Same basic scheme as 2016, Aaris replaces Surfboard. A

Daniel Suarez #19 Stanley Toyota Camry–No change. B+

Daniel Suarez #19 Subway Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but white on sides has been removed. A-

Daniel Suarez #19 Arris Toyota Camry–Same basic scheme as last year, but gray replaces orange on quarter panel. A

Daniel Suarez #19 Irwin Tools/Lennox Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue front, fade to white, with red lettering on rear. A

Daniel Suarez #19 Comcast Business Toyota Camry–No change. D-

JOE GIBBS RACING #20

Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt/Flexvolt Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, yellow, with black stripes up the sides and hood. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry–New sponsor for 2017, same as 2016 #18. F

Matt Kenseth #20 Tide Pods Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017 orange front with subtle designs, blue rear with subtle designs. F

Matt Kenseth #20 PEAK Antifreeze Toyota Camry–New sponsor for 2017, similar to 2016 #15, but spikes are more pronounced. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Blue Def Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as PEAK but with colors reversed. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Toyota Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with red, white, and silver cutting edge design. F

Matt Kenseth #20 Circle K Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, white top, orange stripe down center, red bottom. A

Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt/Wounded Warrior Project Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as DeWalt, but with subtle camouflage effect on yellow. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Freightliner Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, all white with Freightliner logos. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Toyota Care Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, slightly toned down design, with white replacing black. D-

Matt Kenseth #20 Circle K Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, stripe curves up at rear, white numbers are changed to orange. A-

Matt Kenseth #20 American Red Cross/Toyota 4 Good Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as white Toyota Care but with adjusted logos. D-

Matt Kenseth #20 Sirius/XM Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with wave blue designs on sides. B+

WOOD BROTHER RACING #21

Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Ryan Blaney #21 OmniCraft Auto Parts Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, orange replaces red. A-

Ryan Blaney #21 Quick Lane Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, blue and white numbers replace gold numbers, larger Quick Lane logo on sides. A

Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft/SKF Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Motorcraft but with SKF on sides. A

TEAM PENSKE #22

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Ford Fusion–No change D

Joey Logano #22 AAA Ford Fusion–No Change. D

Joey Logano #22 Auto Trader Ford Fusion–No Change. D-

Joey Logano #22 AAA of Southern California Ford Fusion–No Change. D

Joey Logano #22 Pennzoil Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all yellow, with some lighter yellow geometrical designs across car. A

Joey Logano #22 Duralast Brakes Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, yellow front, modified Penske template, checkered black middle to rear. A

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, orange front, white rear, Penske Template. A

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Jimmy Vasser’s 2002 scheme. A

Joey Logano #22 American Red Cross Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Red and white Penske template. A

BK RACING #23

Joey Gase #23 Best Furnishing Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue with paintbrush style white and yellow designs across side. F

Joey Gase #23 Schluter Systems Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but stripes have been replaced by geometric designs D-

Joey Gase #23 Dr. Pepper Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but angled lines replace curved lines. B+

Gray Gaulding #23 SunFrog.com Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, green front, black and green middle to rear. C+

Gray Gaulding #23 Bubba Burger Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, digital camouflage with patriotic stripe across side. F

Gray Gaulding #23 Addiction Campuses Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue and white sunburst design which fades from light to dark. D+

Alon Day #23 Earthwater Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with bright green and blue designs on sides. D-

Corey LaJoie #23 Dr. Pepper Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, plain dark red with Dr. Pepper logos. A

Corey LaJoie #23 Lehigh Valley Phantoms Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Phantom logos and motif across car. A

Corey LaJoie #23 JAS Trucking Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, similar to #83 but all black has been removed. A

Corey LaJoie #23 Dr. Pepper Throwback Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, based on Davey Allison’s 1984 Pontiac Grand Prix. A

Gray Gaulding #23 Sweet Frog Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, light green and white with pink and white waves on sides. F

Corey LaJoie #23 Jewel-Osco Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, red and black cutting edge designs on sides. F

Corey LaJoe #23 Schroth Racing Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with silver and yellow designs on sides and hood. F

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #24

Chase Elliott #24 NAPA Auto Parts Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but with yellow accents across sides. A

Chase Elliott #24 Kelly Blue Book Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, design similar to #11 FedEx. A

Chase Elliott #24 Sun Energy Chevy SS–No Change. F

Chase Elliott #24 Hooters Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, white sides with orange stripes, orange roof. C-

Chase Elliott #24 Little Ceasers/Mountain Dew Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with orange trim and logos. A

Chase Elliot #24 Mountain Dew Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as #5 but black replaces white as the primary color. A

Chase Elliot #24 NAPA Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Bill Elliott’s 1976 #9 scheme. A

Chase Elliott #24 NAPA Brakes Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as NAPA but with BRAKES on sides. A

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #27

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Richmond Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, black front, yellow sides, black at bottom of wheel well. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Peak Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with Peak colors. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Valvoline Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with 2016 setup. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/FVP Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017 Menard’s template with FVP colors, black replaces silver. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Jack Links Beef Jerkey Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, Menard’s template with red front and quarter panel. B-

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Duracell Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with black and gold. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Dutch Boy Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template, with Dutch Boy blue, and the chipped motif has been removed. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Libman’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template, with Libman colors. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Rockstar Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with black Rockstar motif. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Knauf Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with Knauf blue on sides and hood. B-

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Tarkett Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, Menard’s template with Tarkett colors. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Moen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with black and blue. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Sylvania Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with Sylvania colors. F

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Dutch Boy Throwback Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as regular scheme, but with vintage Dutch Boy logos on sides and hood. A

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #31

Ryan Newman #31 CAT Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with black cutting edge design on front, black stripe across hood and top of car. B-

Ryan Newman #31 Granger Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, red replaces green, black replaces white and red. A

Ryan Newman #31 Kalahari Resorts Chevy SS–No change. C-

Ryan Newman #31 Chevrolet Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white and gold stripes up the side. A

Ryan Newman #31 Okuma Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #3. D+

Ryan Newman #31 CAT/Granger Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with red, black, and yellow stripes across sides. A

Ryan Newman #31 Velveeta Shells and Cheese Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, yellow with shells and cheese motif across car. A

Ryan Newman #31 Chevy Accessories Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Chevy but with Chevy Accessories on sides and hood. A

Ryan Newman #31 Caterpillar Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Earnhardt’s Wranger scheme. A

Ryan Newman CAT D100 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as CAT, but with D100 motif on sides. B+

GO FAS RACING #32

Matt DiBenedetto #32 EJ Wade Foundation Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with blue ribbon design on sides. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Cosmo Motors Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme for 2017, but circle around door has been removed. B-

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Can Am/Kappa Ford Fusion–No change. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Keen Parts Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with black stripe and red roof and door numbers. A

Matt DiBenedetto #32 EJ Wade Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, white fade to black across whole car. A

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Incredible Bank Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, green top, orange and green checkered flag motif across sides. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Reddit Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white with orange and black cutting edge designs on side. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Anest Iwata Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, blue front, fade to white and red on sides. B

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Weir’s Motor Sales Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, black with green and yellow zigzag designs across the sides. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Dick Stevens Snacks Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white front and rear, green checkered patter in middle. C-

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Keen Parts Bobby Allison Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Bobby Allison’s famous #12 Miller High Life Buick. A

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Incredible Bank/TMNT Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, comic book motif across whole car. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, blue with white, silver, and black diagonal stripes on sides. C-

CIRCLE SPORT/TMG MOTORSPORTS #33

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Starter Chevy SS–Aside from the new team, no change. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Starter, but with no logos. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Superior Logistics Services Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter but with Superior Logistics Services logo on hood. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Nice Ride Apparel Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter but with Nice Ride Apparel logo on sides hood. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Detail 2U/K1 Speed Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter but with Detail 2U logo on hood and K1 logo on sides. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Towne Bank Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter, but with Towne Bank logos on sides and hood. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Hulu Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, green top, white bottom, black on front. A

Boris Said #33 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Hulu, but without the logos. A

Boris Said #33 Genesee Light Beer Ford Fusion–No change. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Hulu Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Earnhardt’s Lowe’s Foods scheme. A

Jeffery Earnardt #33 HULU/TMNT Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, comic book motif across whole car. F

FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #34

Landon Cassill #34 Love’s Truck Stops Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 Starkey Hearing Foundation Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Front Row template has been revamped, with blue and white color scheme. A

Landon Cassill #34 FR8 Auctions Ford Fusion–No change. D+

Landon Cassill #34 The Pete Store Ford Fusion–Aside from switching from #38, no change. A

Landon Cassill #34 CSX Play It Safe Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 Loves/Winstar Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Love’s, but with Winstar logo on hood. A

Landon Cassill #34 A&W Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 MDS/#checkitforandretti Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as 2016 MDS, but with #checkitforandretti on sides. A

Landon Cassill #34 CSX Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as CSX, but with red, white and blue. A

Landon Cassill #34 CSX Play It Safe Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 Love’s Truck Stops Support The Troops Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, black elements replace yellow elements. F

Landon Cassill #34 Jacob Companies Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, same as #38. C-

Landon Cassill #34 Love’s Truck Stops Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as last year, but stripes have been straightened. A

JTG DAUGHERTY RACING #37

Chris Buescher #37 Cottonelle Chevy SS-New team for 2017, white sides with blue roof and bottom. A

Chris Buescher #37 Kroger Checklist Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #47 Kroger. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Bush’s Baked Beans Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, aside from team change, no change. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Natural Light Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, light blue with white and dark blue patriotic designs. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Scott Products/Kingsford Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Cottonelle, but with silver numbers. A

Chris Buescher #37 Velveeta Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with red designs on sides. A

Chris Buescher #37 Kingsford Chevy SS–Aside from changing from #47 to #37, no change. A

Chris Buescher #37 Cars 3/Kleenex Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, based on Lightning McQueen’s design from Cars 3. C

Chris Buescher #37 Maxwell House Max Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white letters, and red design on side. A

Chris Buescher#37 Liberty Tax Service Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue and white with patriotic motif. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Coffee Mate Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, patriotic motif across whole car. A

Chris Buescher #37 Bryers Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with green stripe on bottom. A

Chris Buescher #37 Clorox Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger, but with Clorox on sides. A

Chris Buescher #37 Bush’s Grilling Beans Chevy SS–No change. A

Chris Buescher #37 Cheerios Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Patty Moise’s Crico scheme. A

Chris Buescher #37 Nature Valley Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, yellow with black stripes across sides. A

FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #38

David Ragan #38 Camping World/Good Sam Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue front, yellow and red oval design on rear. B-

David Ragan #38 Jacob Companies Ford Fusion–New sponsor for 2017, blue with white and silver zig-zag design across car. C-

David Ragan #38 Juice Battery Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue, tan, black and red with a series of stripes across the whole side of the car. F

David Ragan #38 Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, white with gold numbers. A

David Ragan #38 Overton’s Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue with cloud motif across car. A

David Ragan #38 Dockside Logistics Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as 2015 #34 Dockside Logistics. A

David Ragan #38 Shriner’s Hospital Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white with red and gray design on sides. A

David Ragan #38 Jacob Companies Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, red and black with Jacob companies logos on sides. F

David Ragan #38 Shriner’s Hospital Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, blue replaces white. A

David Ragan #38 Good Sam Throwback Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, based on older Good Sam logo. A

David Ragan #38 1000 Bulbs Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white with red and black cutting edge designs on sides. D+

STEWART-HAAS RACING #41

Kurt Busch #41 Monster Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Kurt Busch #41 Haas Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Kurt Busch #41 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, same as #14, but with green replacing blue. A

Kurt Busch #41 Mobil 1 Annual Protection Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as other SHR Mobil 1 schemes, but with gold trim. A

Kurt Busch #41 Haas Demo Day/Monster Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Haas/Monster, but with Haas Demo Days on sides. A

CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #42

Kyle Larson #42 Credit One Chevy SS–Aside from the new car number, no change. F

Kyle Larson #42 Target Chevy SS–No change. A

Kyle Larson #42 Coca Cola Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, red with frost motif. A

Kyle Larson #42 Target/Cars 3 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, Target front, Cars 3 motif across sides. B+

Kyle Larson #42 Credit One Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but with patriotic elements added. F

Kyle Larson #42 Energizer Chevy SS–No change. C-

Kyle Larson #42 Huggies Chevy SS-No change. D+

Kyle Larson #42 First Data Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white fade to blue with circuit board designs across whole car. A

Kyle Larson #42 Credit One Bank Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Kyle Petty’s Coors Light scheme. A

RICHARD PETTY MOTORSPORTS #43

Aric Almirola #43 Smithfield Ford Fusion–No Change. B+

Aric Almiroa #43 U.S. Air Force Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, same basic scheme, but with more lightning. A

Aric Almirola #43 STP Ford Fusion–No change. B-

Aric Almirola #43 Fresh From Florida Ford Fusion–No change. F

Aric Almorla #43 STP Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Richard Petty’s 1984 Pontiac Grand Prix that he won his 200th race in. A

JTG DAUGHERTY RACING #47

AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Stouffers/Cheez It’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with blue diagonal stripes, and black and red curves across sides. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Ralph’s/Checklist/Oscar Meyer Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger but with Ralph’s logos. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Fry’s/Checklist/Velveta Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger but with Fry’s logos. B+

AJ Allmendnger #47 Dillon’s Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger, but with Dillon’s on hood. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Harris Teeter/Express Lane/Heinz Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger, but green replaces blue. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Bryers/Velveeta Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Terry Labonte’s Piedmont scheme. A

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #48

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, light blue with diagonal stripes and geometric patterns on side. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Kobalt Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, dark blue with diagonal stripes and geometric patterns on side. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Hitachi Chevy-New scheme for 2017, same a Lowe’s, but with Hitachi on quarter panels. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowes/AO Smith Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Lowe’s, but with AO Smith on sides. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with a series of patriotic designs on sides and hood. A

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Jimmie Johnson Foundation Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, blue with black, yellow and blue stripes across bottom. A

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Throwback Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, based on a 1986 Lowe’s truck. A

RICK WARE RACING #51

Timmy Hill #51 Spoonful Music Foundation Chevy SS-New team for 2017, white with racing stripe design on hood, plain white sides. A

Cody Ware #51 Spoonful Music Foundation Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #51 white, but black and colors reversed. A

Timmy Hill #51 Dashub Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with silver, white, and red cutting edge designs across signs. B-

Timmy Hill #51 Bubba Burger Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue, with red, silver, and white stripes on sides. A

Timmy Hill #51 Go Parts Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as black Spoonful, but with Go Parts logos on hood and quarter panels. A

Timmy Hill #51 Fenton Motors Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Bubba Burgers, but with Fenton Motors on sides and hood. A

Timmy Hill #51 SleepFresh Mattress Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with dark red and light blue stripe up the sides. A

Timmy Hill #51 Lilly Trucking Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with white and blue designs on side. B+

Timmy Hill #51 Charlie’s Soap Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with red and white letters, and Charlie’s Soap logos on sides and hood. A

Cody Ware #51 ECU Pirates Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with white and yellow stripes on sides. A

Cody Ware #51 Clemson Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, based on Clemson’s football helmet. A

Josh Bilicki #51 Marriott/Climate Fieldview Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with red and white cutting edge designs on sides. F

BJ MacLeod #51 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Clemson, but without logos. A

Josh Bilicki #51 Prevagen Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Prevagen logos on sides and hood. A

BJ McLeod #51 Corrigan Oil Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #15. A

BJ McLeod #51 Nex Transport/Spoonful Music Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black, with red and white curve on sides. A

Cody Ware #51 Bubba Burger/Pray For Texas Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, based on the Mello Yello schemes of the 1990’s. A

BJ McLeod #51 Bubba Burger Texas Strong Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Camaro stripes, and logos on sides and hood. A

Ray Black Jr. #51 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with water motif on right side. A

PREMIUM MOTORSPORTS #55

Derrike Cope #55 Wade Tractor/adrenalinpwr.com Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Wade Tractor on hood, and adrenalinpwr.com logo on sides. A

Derrike Cope #55 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with white numbers. A

Derrike Cope #55 Low T Center Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with green and white polka dot motif near rear. F

Reed Sorenson #55 Xchange of America Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #15. A

Derrike Cope #55 Ckezepis Law Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Ckezepis Law logo on hood. A

Derrike Cope #55 Twin Peaks Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Twin Peaks logos on sides and hood. A

Derrike Cope #55 Star Com Fiber Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with green polka dot motif on sides. B-

Tommy Regan #55 OscaroParts.com/Capri Tools Chevy SS-New sponsors for 2017, white with blue OscaroParts.com logo on hood, and Capri Tools on sides. A

Reed Sorenson #55 Royal Teak Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black replaces white. A

Gray Gaulding #55 Check It For Andretti Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black carbon fiber motif with Check It For Andretti logos on sides and hood. A

Derrike Cope #55 Mane N Tall/Straight Arrow Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Derrike’s 1995 Ford Thunderbird. A

Derrike Cope #55 La Colombe Draft Latte Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #15. A

Gray Gaulding #55 US First Responders Association Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red and white, similar to Bodine throwback, with US First Responders logo on hood. A

Gray Gaulding #55 Wind River Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, green front, white fade to black on rear. F

CARL LONG MOTORSPORTS #66

Carl Long #66 Poker Palace Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, green front, red, yellow and white rear. D-

Timmy Hill #66 Waltrip Brothers Charity Championship Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Poker Palace, but with Waltrip Brothers Charity Championship logo on hood. D-

Timmy Hill #66 U.S. Chrome Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Poker Palace, but with U.S. Chrome on hood.

TRISTAR MOTORSPORTS #72

Cole Whitt #72 Florida Lottery Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, black sides, orange and blue hood to roof. D-

Cole Whitt #72 Rinnai Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with black and red Rinnai logos on sides and hood. B+

Cole Whitt #72 Standard Plumbing Supply Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white and red letters and logos. B+

Cole Whitt #72 SoCal Chevy Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with white logos on sides and hood. B+

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with orange cutting edge designs on sides. F

Cole Whitt #72 RTIC Coolers Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, lighter blue and ice motif replaces darker blue, black carbon fiber hood. A

Cole Whitt #72 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, plain black with white and black numbers. A

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with orange and white cutting edge designs on sides. C-

Cole Whitt #72 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, plain black with white numbers. A

Cole Whitt #72 RTIC Coolers Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but with patriotic elements. A

Cole Whitt #72 Moen Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with blue design across sides. B

Cole Whitt #72 Unique Pretzel Company Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with vertical fade to white, and white hood. A-

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with Bad Boy Mowers logos on sides and hood. A

Cole Whitt #72 Ted Whitt Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Ted Whitt’s race car from the 1970’s. A

BEARD RACING #75

Brendan Gaughan #75 Beard Oil Chevy SS-New team for 2017, all black with white logos and numbers. A

Brendan Gaughan #75 Beard Oil Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Beard Oil from Daytona, but with logos on sides. A

FURNITURE ROW RACING #77

Erik Jones #77 5-Hour Energy Toyota Camry–New team for 2017, red front, red and yellow lightning stripe across black sides, red rear. C-

Erik Jones #77 5-Hour Energy Extra Stength Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as 2017 5-Hour Energy, but with Extra Strength on sides and hood. C-

Erik Jone #77 Sirius/XM Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue and silver designs across whole car. F

Erik Jones #77 Toyota Service Centers Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as 5-Hour Energy, but with Toyota Service Center logos. C-

Erik Jones #77 SportClips Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, slightly modified version of #11 from 2016. C-

Erik Jones #77 Gamestop Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue circle designs on hood and quarter panel. A

Erik Jones #77 Toyota Care Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, red, white, and black with a series of curved stripes on sides. F

Erik Jones #77 GameStop/Cars 3 Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, based on one of the cars from Cars 3. A

Erik Jones #77 5-Hour Energy Mosaic Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as 5-Hour Energy, but throwback photos have been placed across whole car. F

FURNITURE ROW RACING #78

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Furniture Row Toyota Camry–No change. A

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Auto Owner’s Insurance Toyota Camry–No change. A

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, red and black stripes with a camo stripe at the bottom. C-

Martin Truex Jr. #78 5-Hour Energy Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as #77. C-

Martin Truex Jr. #78 5-Hour Energy Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, fewer stripes, but same basic scheme. B+

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops/NRA Museum Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black with American Flag motif on sides and hood. A

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Wix Filters Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with green cutting edge designs on sides, and sublimated Wix Filter logos across whole car. F

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops/Ducks Unlimited Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as Bass Pro Shops, but light green fade to light purple replaces orange. F

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops/Tracker Boats Throwback Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the introduction of tracker boats. B-

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Auto Owner’s Insurance Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as last year, but with hearts added on sides. A

BK RACING #83

Corey LaJoie #83 Dustless Blasting Toyota Camry–No change. B-

Corey LaJoie #83 JAS Trucking Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black with blue door numbers and white lettering and white stripes. D-

Corey LaJoie #83 BK Racing Graphics Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with red and silver stripes across sides. B-

Corey LaJoie #83 Bubba Burger Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black with flame motif. A

Corey LaJoie #83 RMC Events Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue with black and white designs on sides. B+

Corey LaJoie #83 EJ Wade Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same color scheme, but cutting edges have been flattened. A

Corey LaJoie #83 Hope For Warriors Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017 silver replaces red, much more streamlined design. C

Ryan Sieg #83 J&S Trucking Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, white has been removed entirely from design. A

Ryan Sieg #83 BK Racing Graphics Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black, with red, silver, and red cutting edge stripe across sides. B-

Stephen Light #83 Dustless Blasting Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, black replaces white. F

Brent Moffitt #83 Northwestern Technological Institute Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue and white stripes. A

Corey LaJoie #83 HMS Motorsports Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black, with red, white, and blue curves from front to center. F

Corey LaJoie #83 Safeway Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with red Safeway designs on sides, and white rear. F

Corey LaJoie#83 Champion Machinery Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, white with blue checkered flag on front, and blue stripes on sides. C

Brett Moffitt #83 Super Donut Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with red, yellow, and white stripes on sides. F

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #88

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, blue design similar to last year’s. with blue vertical stripes next to silver door numbers. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, yellow front, a series of red and yellow geometrical designs across sides, red rear. F

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Mountain Dew-S-A Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, light blue with white stripes, and dark red letters. C-

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Childrens Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, white with rainbow stripe, and multi-colored butterflies on sides and hood. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr.#88 Axalta/Maaco Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Axalta but with Maaco logos on sides. F

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with a more minimalist patriotic scheme. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Mountain Dew Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, metallic gold, with yellow, light green, and dark green cutting edge designs on sides. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale’s #3 AC Delco scheme from the Xfinity Series. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale’s Budweiser scheme, his first paint scheme in the Cup Series in 1999. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta/Ducks Unlimited Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black hood and top, Front Row template based design, camouflage on sides. F

LEAVINE FAMILY RACING #95

Michael McDowell #95 K-LOVE Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same colors, but with stripes across front half of sides. A

Michael McDowell #95 WRL Contractors Chevy SS–No change. A

Michael McDowell #95 Leavine Family Surfboards Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, vintage “Woody” design. A

Michael McDowell #95 Winn Dixie Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red with black and yellow stripe on sides. A

Michael McDowell #95 Tommy Williams Drywall Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, drywall motif with blue lettering on sides and hood. A

Michael McDowell #95 WRL Contractors Camouflage Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, camouflage replaces white. F

Michael McDowell #95 WRL Contractors Alan Kulwicki Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Alan Kulwicki’s 1986 Quincy Steakhouse scheme. A

Michael McDowell #95 Race Wipes Chevy SS-New sponsors for 2017, blue front with green stripe, and darker blue bottom, green stripe down middle, white rear. C-

Michael McDowell #95 Devour Frozen Meals Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black front, green and silver cutting edge designs on sides. C

Michael McDowell #95 Procore Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with orange hexagon on sides. A

GAUNT BROS RACING #96

DJ Kennington #96 Lordco Toyota Camry-New team for 2017, blue front, black middle, white rear, curve stripes between the three. C-

DJ Kennington #96 Triad CNC Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with a series of triangle logos on sides. B+

The Driver Suit Blog-The Camstang…An Odd Racing Mashup

By David G. Firestone.

Editor’s Note: I’ve discussed my opinions on the weekends events on my other page, so I don’t feel that I need to discuss them here.

Racing and improvisation have always gone hand in hand. Race cars have, for generations built by hand, and as a result, builders will improvise new technologies in these cars. Some of these are within the letter of the law, others are not.

Mashups in racing are somewhat less common, but they can be successful. One such example is the Mosler Consulier GTP, which was a mish-mash of auto parts, but was so successful, it was banned by IMSA. One other mashup that had some success more recently was the “Camstang.” “What is a “Camstang?” you may be asking, well, let’s discuss it.

John Force is one of, if not the greatest drag racer of all time. To his name, John Force has16 Funny Car championships, 148 National Event wins, and over 100 different NHRA records, many of which will never be broken in my lifetime. His team has won almost 40% of all Funny Car races in the NHRA. He is one of the best owner-drivers in auto racing.

In 1996, Force made a switch from Pontiac Firebirds to Ford Mustangs. With Ford as a manufacturer, Force would win 13 championships,11 as a a driver, and two as an owner. He was very consistent, and knew he could count on Ford. Ford had more success in the NHRA than they did in NASCAR, yet in 2013, Ford made the announcement that after 2014, they would pull out of the NHRA. John was understandably upset, but he decided to press on. John didn’t seem to be concerned about time, and took his time working out a deal with a new manufacturer. His patience paid off, and after the 2014 season, announced that he had signed a deal with Chevrolet.

This lack of concern for time almost instantly came back to bite him. After signing the deal, he quickly realized that it would take a full year for Chevy to design a Funny Car body for the team. The deal was announced in January, with the season starting in the first week of February. This work was impossible to do in time, so John Force was in trouble, and he knew it. He couldn’t use Mustang bodies as he had a deal with Chevy. Chevy couldn’t build a new body in time, so what to do?

John’s solution would prove to be controversial, but effective. Somebody came up with the idea to take the old Mustang body, cut the nose off, and replace it with a Chevy Camaro nose, and re-decal the back to a Camaro design. Force asked both Ford and Chevy, who gave their blessing, and the NHRA approved it.

The new bodies were dubbed “Camstang” bodies, a portmanteau of Camaro and Mustang for these bodies, while fans of opposing teams stated that they felt that John Force had gotten special treatment. However, everything Force did was within the letter of the rules, and approved by all involved. John Force and Robert Hight had two wins each, and Courtney Force had some success, but didn’t win an event in 2015. By 2016, the new Camaro bodies had debuted, and the old ones were kept as backups, and eventually turned into show cars. The Camstang will forever remain as one of the best mashups in recent auto racing, and I can hope that lessons learned will help prevent this error in judgment from happening again.

Some Thoughts On Anthem Protesting

By David G. Firestone

One of the big issues in American sports is the national anthem. Many NFL and NBA players have made the bold decision to not stand during the National Anthem because of the recent police-involved shootings of unarmed African-Americans. In the words one one player: “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder”

This issue seemed to be dying down in recent weeks, until The President made an inflammatory speech concerning the matter, which reignited the issue, and kicked the protests into high gear. This last week, so many players were protesting his remarks, that it has become a major news story. Since then, a number of NASCAR teams have stated that there is no tolerance for disrespecting the flag during the national anthem. I’ll get to that part in a little bit, but I need to discuss why a lot of people are upset about these protests.

There is a major disconnect between those who support the protests, and those who think the players are acting selfishly, or those who are offended by their actions. I’m going to state one of the more reasonable arguments against them. I’m doing this because I’m of the belief that you should learn the reasons why people who disagree with you believe what they believe. When you do that, you grow as a person, and you may learn something about yourself.

I’m not going to waste my time on white racists, since they don’t deserve my time. Instead, I’m going to focus on military members, veterans, and their families. I’ve always supported the troops. I have the utmost respect for those who have served in the Armed Forces. My grandfather was one of the men who stormed the beaches of Normandy during D-Day. I’ve also, like a lot of educated people, realized that you can support the troops themselves without always supporting what they are fighting for.

In the minds of a lot of active duty military members, veterans, and families of deceased military members, the players’ actions are not so much an attempt to make America better, but his actions are disrespecting a country that means more to them than anyone else. For those who served in Germany and Japan, for those who served in Vietnam, for those who served in Iraq, and Afghanistan, Their actions across as a slap in the face. For those who have lost friends, comrades, and family members, their action come across as selfish.

I can’t, in all sincerity, dismiss the opinions of someone who fought for our country. I can’t dismiss the opinions of a parent who has had to bury their child, a soldier who died fighting for a country that, flawed as it is, that solider believed in. I can’t dismiss the opinion of a solider who has lost friends and comrades in battle. To them, the players’ actions are opening up wounds, and bringing back pain.

Now I need to discuss why NASCAR teams are saying what they are about these protests. Like it or not, NASCAR’s fan base is overwhelmingly conservative. Not all fans are, but a lot of fans are. They are also highly patriotic. They are proud to be American, and they don’t care who knows it. As such, most of NASCAR’s fan base will overwhelmingly react negatively if there are anthem protests. Fans drive the sport in NASCAR, so this is not a minor issue. Above and beyond that, NASCAR is non union, so drivers and teams have little protection. If a driver or crew member were to protest, said driver or crew member could and would be fired on the spot. This has been used to keep drivers in line, and there is no doubt in my mind that this is used to prevent protests.

I’m not going to force my opinions on what the right answer is. I just wanted to give perspective to help people pop the bubbles of ignorance they live in, on one side or the other. These are real reasons, and things to think about.

The Driver Suit Blog-Introduction to Sports Memorabilia-2007 Swig Pit Crew Vest

Brunton Vineyards sponsored Joe Nemechek for three races in 2007, and a crew member wore this vest.

The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Grades-September 23, 2017

By David G. Firestone

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Univar Chevy SS-Same scheme as Dow, same A- grade.

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips Strong Against Cancer Chevy SS-It’s a great scheme, the crayon motif works, and the car has a great color scheme. Nothing bad here! A

Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Sweet Heat Toyota Camry-Purple can be a very iffy color, but this dark purple works very well, and the flame motif works well too! It’s a great look. A

Corey LaJoie #23 Jewel-Osco Toyota Camry-Too many different shades of red, too many cutting edge designs, and the less said about that…thing on the quarter panel, the better. F

Ryan Newman CAT D100 Chevy SS-The D100 motif actually works much better than the regular scheme. There is some room for improvement, but it’s a great look. I’ll give it a B+

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Incredible Bank/TMNT Ford Fusion-It’s an ugly, over designed mess that just looks awful! There is nothing good I can say about this! F

Jeffery Earnardt #33 HULU/TMNT Chevy SS-See above. F

Ray Black Jr. #51 Chevy SS-The water motif works very well, though it should be on both sides. It is a bold look, and it’s done well. A

Gray Gaulding #55 US First Responders Association Chevy SS-Using the Bodine throwback works well and the car has a nice look. It’s worth an A.

Timmy Hill #66 U.S. Chrome Chevy SS-Same scheme as Poker Palace, same D+ grade.

Michael McDowell #95 Devour Frozen Meals Chevy SS-Its a little overdone, and the green looks really out of place. It’s not bad, but not great. I’ll give it a C.

Michael McDowell #95 Procore Chevy SS-Black and orange is an under rated color scheme, and the hexagon motif works well. It’s a well-done scheme. A

The Driver Suit Blog-Beckman’s Back For 2017

By David G. Firestone

I had originally scheduled this article for after the Route 66 Nationals, but sometimes, real life gets in the way. Shortly before the Route 66 Nationals, Terry Chandler who had been funding the Funny Cars of Jack Beckman and Tommy Johnson Jr. passed away from cancer. I wasn’t sure what the best way to proceed was, and I decided to put it off until I had some information I didn’t have, and wasn’t available at the time. Since then, her husband revealed that both of their cars will be funded through 2020. I was glad that happened, and I’m happy her legacy will live on.

I’ve discussed Jack Beckman on The Driver Suit Blog many times. He is a great driver, he connects with the fans, and he was kind enough to grant me an interview last year. I’ve been into the Infinite Hero Challenge Coin program since the beginning, and love collecting them. Well, I’m back with another profile of the coins for 2017.

Launched in 2011, The Infinite Hero Foundation “…is to combat the most difficult front line issues – mental and physical – facing returning military heroes and their families.” Military personnel returning from overseas deployment face long term employment, mental and physical problems that the majority of Americans don’t understand. They work with other non-profit veterans groups and give out grants to help service men and women cope with these long term problems.

In April 2014, they started appearing on the side of Jack Beckman’s funny car. Terry Chandler, who also sponsors Tommy Johnson Jr.’s Make a Wish Foundation Funny Car, is the financial backer of the car. She pays for Infinite Hero to race on the sides of the car. This also began the NHRA coin program. When Jack Beckman gets into his funny car to race, he carries at least 5 Infinite Hero Challenge Coins in the pocket of his driver suit. Once the race is over, he will autograph them and sell them at the track and on eBay. They cost $100 with all proceeds going to the Infinite Hero Foundation.

The 2014 design is quite thick, and has a ridged edge. One side featured “Courage, Honor, Virtue, Heroism,” around a globe design with an Oakley logo. Oakley is a partner with the Infinite Hero Foundation. The other side features an Infinite Hero Foundation logo with purple enamel. The coin was placed in a round, flat plastic container, with black foam braces. The coin lacks the blue enamel that the coin that comes with the glasses coin, and future coins, and has a very plain look. I do like the plain look. Jack used was identical to the one sold in stores. Jack autographed the plastic case. In 2014, this 1/24 scale die cast was produced. It is a full replica of Beckman’s funny car. Valvoline was a primary sponsor, and this was the only season Infinite Hero and Valvoline were together on the car. It’s also the only time that Infinite Hero Challenge appeared on the older Dodge funny car body. In 2015, the current body was introduced, and Pennzoil replaced Valvoline. Jack has autographed the windshield. A redesigned coin of the same size was introduced for 2015. The Oakley logos are gone. One side features a design similar to the globe design, but the globe design has been replaced with an American Flag design. “Courage, Honor, Virtue, Heroism” has been replaced with “Duty, Honor, Innovation, Courage.” The new emblem on the reverse side has one of the across bands removed. The new packaging is an upgrade, with the circular plastic cylinder replaced with an attractive box. It comes with a card that Jack Beckman autographed, and on the reverse it has the Infinite Hero Foundation Pledge. The first one is from The CARQUEST Auto Parts NHRA Nationals at Phoenix on February 22, 2015, where Jack was eliminated in the first round. The second one is from the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio, where Beckman won the event, beating Courtney Force in the final round. Also in 2015, these hero cards were produced. Hero cards are given away at racing events and driver appearances. They have Jack’s picture, and information about the driver, team, and the Infinite Hero Challenge. For 2016, the coins got a major makeover. The Infinite Hero logo is now bigger. The words “Reimagine” and “Recovery” are stamped near the logo, and on the opposite side, a picture of Jack’s funny car replaces the flag motif. It should also be noted that the coin is slightly smaller, because it isn’t as tight in the coin case as the previous version. The Infinite Hero Pledge accompanies the coin. Also changed from 2016, Jack doesn’t sign the box and the pledge, he just signs the pledge. The 2017 Infinite Hero coin is slightly larger than the 2016 coin, and fits snugly in the box. The pledge piece remains unchanged. The coin itself has a plain pewter Infinite Hero Challenge logo on one side, and a blue enameled claw stripe design with a hex nut design on the border. Hero cards are given away at racing events and driver appearances. They have Jack’s picture, and information about the driver, team, and the Infinite Hero Challenge. For 2016-2017, a new card design was introduced. It has updated information, as well as the updated paint scheme introduced at the beginning of the season. Recently, I took a number of selfies with race car drivers, and made them into a book, and got them signed. This is me with Jack Beckman. Hector Arana signed the upper-left corner.

Jack Beckman is a great driver, who races for a great sponsor, and supports a great cause. He has been really amazing not just to me, not just to to The Driver Suit Blog, but to the NHRA and their fan base. I’m glad he’s going to be racing for The Infinite Hero Challenge until 2020. As long as he is selling them, I will continue buying the Infinite Hero Challenge Coins, and promoting them on The Driver Suit Blog.

Next Week, we will continue something I started in July…

The Driver Suit Blog-Throwback Thursday-Larry Dixon-1995

Larry Dixon won the 1995 US Nationals in his rookie, driving his Miller Genuine Draft dragster

Another good scheme that uses black and yellow. The yellow stripe across the side works well, and the white lettering on the sides and top looks really good too. It’s a shame that within a few years, Miller would focus more on the Miller Lite brand, and eschew the black and gold for blue and white. Still it’s a good solid A scheme.