A Champ Car Series Official’s helmet is our topic of debate this week
Category: auto racing
The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Grades-April 2, 2016
By David G. Firestone
Regan Smith #7 APC Chevy SS-It’s a good scheme with a smooth look, and a great color scheme. A+
Regan Smith #7 AIPAC Chevy SS-See above. A+
Chase Elliot #24 Sun Energy Chevy SS-Think they overdid this scheme just a bit? Wow! Like most J.J. Abrams films, it has too much flare. F
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Libman Chevy SS-I’ve said that Menard’s templates can be everything from great to awful depending on what color the hood sponsor has. In this case, the template looks good, because the green works very well. A+
Josh Wise #30 Toyota Camry-Not a bad look at all. A+
Brian Scott #44 Von’s Ford Fusion-Same scheme as Albertson’s, same A+ grade.
Brian Scott #44 Goody’s Ford Fusion-Get rid of the yellow scheme B+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Louisiana Hot Sauce Chevy SS-The shade of red really looks good, and the fame motif works well with a hot sauce brand. A+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Coffee Mate/Butterfinger Chevy SS-Same as Kroger, same A+ grade.
Cole Whitt #98 Rinnai Ford Fusion-It’s a good scheme with a smooth look, and a great color scheme. A+
The Driver Suit Blog-Race Rock…Not the Musical Kind
I’ve talked about the promotional advantages of driver suits and racing suits before. True, a racing sponsorship can pay a lot of dividends. According to this article from Fox, “A new study conducted jointly by the Los Angeles-based media agency Wasserman and Buffalo, New York-based Nervve showed that Denny Hamlin’s Daytona 500 victory was worth $1.9 million in earned media value for his primary sponsor, FedEx.”
But where racing suit design differs than regular work design is that the sponsor or team can design the suit in ways which most normal companies wouldn’t be able to. Denny Hamlin’s suit can be designed for maximum sponsor exposure. While Denny for some reason doesn’t wear TV logos on the sleeves, if any FedEx employee were asked to wear a uniform similar to Denny’s suit or the teams pit shirts, the company would be a laughing stock.
While racing suit design for promotional appeal is a new concept in marketing, mechanics in auto racing have been around since day one. Mechanics make the cars run, and keep them running. They have to work on cars and wear special clothes, as the fluids in the car can ruin most street clothes. This Race Rock Racing team suit is a perfect example of the fusion of both.
As much as I have searched, I haven’t been able to find any information on Race Rock as an auto racing team. However, they were apparently a racing team. This suit was a mechanics suit designed for them. The suit is made from Jupiter, Florida based RJ’s Racing Equipment. It feels like it’s a single layer of Nomex, but could also be polyester. It isn’t SFI certified.
The front has a CART patch and RACE ROCK RACING TEAM embroidered into the chest,a checkered flag stripe, and a yellow stripe across the chest with a PPG patch and a BILSTEN SHOCK ABSORBERS patch sewn into the yellow stripe.
The belt, and legs are unadorned.

The shoulders have yellow unadorned epaulets,
and short sleeves with MOPAR PERFORMANCE RACING TEAM and CHAMPION SPARK PLUG patches on the right sleeve, and VALVOLINE RACING and HOLLEY patches on the left sleeve.
The back of the suit has a giant RACE ROCK RACE TEAM logo embroidered into it. Other than that, there are no designs present at all.
While racing has been used as a promotional tools for decades, the innovation of the driver suit as a promotional tool is something that has taken the racing world by storm. Hell, you wouldn’t be reading this if you didn’t find racing suit design interesting, and I wouldn’t be writing it. Next week, we will look at the signature of an innovator who created a product known throughout the world, and revolutionized a whole industry.
The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Tracker-March 30, 2016
By David G. Firestone
CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #1
Jamie McMurray #1 Cessna/Beechcraft Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, blue top, reverse wave formation across sides, white bottom, with silver accents. B+
Jamie McMurray #1 Sherwin Williams Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, main design has been moved slightly to the rear. 150’th anniversary logo added to hood.B+
Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red and yellow front with a spike transition to rear. A+
Jamie McMurray #1 McDonalds/Cessna Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red and blue amalgamation of McDonald’s and Cessna. B-
Jamie McMurray #1 Credit One Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue, purple and white, with a series of designs across whole car. F
TEAM PENSKE #2
Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Lite Ford Fusion–Same basic scheme as 2015, but Miller has been removed from hood, similar 2014. 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–New sponsor for 2016, same as #22 Auto Trader. D-
Brad Keselowski #2 SKF Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, similar to 2015 scheme, but fits to Penske Template. A+
RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #3
Austin Dillon #3 Dow Chevy SS–Same basic scheme, but the hood logo is slightly larger. B+
Austin Dillon #3 Cheerios Chevy SS–No change. A+
Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Chevy SS–No change. A-
Austin Dillon #3 Dow Intellifresh Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2016, same as Dow Energy and Water. B-
Austin Dillon #3 AAA Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2016, similar to Robert Hight’s funny car, but with colors rearranged. D+
STEWART-HAAS RACING #4
Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2015, designed around a Busch throwback can. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Light Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2015, designed around a Busch Light can. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Jimmy John’s Chevy SS–No change. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Outback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, mountain design starts near brake duct, instead of at front of car. B+
Kevin Harvick #4 Ditech Chevy SS–No change. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Mobil 1 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, white background, with the Pegasus wing starting at the side of the front, extending to the door numbers. 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 2016, geometrical designs on side changed. C
Kasey Kahne #5 Panasonic Toughbook Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue fade to black, with a couple of wave stripes, and some fade designs on side. A+
Kasey Kahne #5 Quicken Loans Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red with hockey stick designs on sides, as well as geometrical designs on front and back. C+
ROUSH-FEWNAY RACING #16
Trevor Bayne #6 Advocare Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, white with blue line and checkered flag on bottom. A+
TOMMY BALDWIN RACING #7
Alex Bowman #7 Road Rippers Chevy SS-New scheme for 2015, shark motif on front, fades to fire motif and logo on back. F
Regan Smith #7 Golden Corral/Niko Toy State Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, amalgamation of Golden Corral and Niko Toy State. F
Regan Smith #7 Nikko Street Bratz Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue and white with a series of designs across sides. F
Regan Smith #7 Chevy SS-Black with white and blue numbers and stripe across bottom. A+
Regan Smith #7 APC Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, black with white and blue numbers and stripe across bottom, APC logo on hood. A+
Regan Smith #7 AIPAC Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, black with white and blue numbers and stripe across bottom, AIPAC logo on hood. A+
STEWART-HAAS RACING #10
Danica Patrick #10 Nature’s Bakery Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue with white lettering on sides, white and black stripe across hood and roof. A+
Danica Patrick #10 TaxAct Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, white front, red TaxAct X logo, gray back. A+
Danica Patrick #10 Nature’s Pride Pumpkin Spice Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, same basic scheme as Nature’s Pride, but with orange and red color scheme, and some slight redesigns on the side. A+
Danica Patrick #10 Mobil 1 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, Bass Pro Shops has left, so the Mobil 1 scheme features a white background, with the Pegasus wing starting at the side of the front, extending to the door numbers. A+
Danica Patrick #10 Aspen Dental Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, similar to Clint Bowyer’s template, but with a Post-It esque design. F
JOE GIBBS RACING #11
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Express Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Freight Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Ground Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Office Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 SportClips Toyota Camry–No Change. C-
GERMAIN RACING #13
Casey Mears #13 Geico Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, much more subdued version of the 2015 scheme. A+
Casey Mears #13 Geico Millitary Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, black with camo motif across car. F
STEWART-HAAS RACING #14
Tony Stewart #14 Mobil 1 Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, the Mobil 1 scheme features a white background, with the Pegasus wing starting at the side of the front, extending to the door numbers. A+
Tony Stewart #14 Code 3 Associates/Mobil 1 Chevy SS–Slight redesign, removal of Bass Pro Shops logo, cleaner rear end of the car. A+
Tony Stewart #14 Rush Truck Stops/Mobil 1 Chevy SS–Slight redesign, removal of Bass Pro Shops logo, cleaner rear end of the car. A+
Tony Stewart #14 Bass Pro Shops Chevy SS–No Change. C+
Brian Vickers #14 Janssen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, simple curve replaces the wave pattern from 2015. A+
HSCOTT MOTORSPORTS #15
Clint Bowyer #15 Five-Hour Energy Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, the front stripe has been moved up to the top of the side, and the roof matches with the design. A+
Clint Bowyer #15 Peak Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, Blue with white geometrical designs on side. A+
Clint Bowyer #15 Visine Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, same as 5-Hour Energy, but with black, white, and blue color scheme. B+
Clint Bowyer #15 Aaron’s Chevy SS–No Change. A+
ROUSH-FEWNAY RACING #16
Greg Bffle #16 Cheez-its Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2015, stripe has been extended down tot he bottom of the car, some slight rearangment of the crackers on the side of the car. A+
Greg Biffle #16 KFC Nashville Hot Ford Fusion–New sponsor for 2016, all red with fire designs on quarter panel, and KFC stripes on roof. A+
Greg Biffle #16 Kleen Performance Products Ford Fusion–No Change. B+
Greg Biffle #16 Roush Performance Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, black with red and white check pattern design on side. A+
ROUSH-FEWNAY RACING #17
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Ford Fusion–No Change. A
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, much simpler design, with red added on top. B+
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Sunny D Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, orange front, rainbow sunburst pattern across sides, blue hood, roof, and decklid. F
JOE GIBBS RACING #18
Kyle Busch #18 Interstate Batteries Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2015, stripes are wider, black stripe on bottom gone. F
Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, similar to 2014 scheme, but with vintage characters to celebrate M&M’s 75th anniversary. A+
Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Throwback Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2016, vintage look with vintage characters, yellow, with brown letters. A+
JOE GIBBS RACING #19
Carl Edwards #19 Stanley Toyota Camry–No Change. B+
Carl Edwards #19 Stanley Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, logos are bigger, outlines are bolder. A
Carl Edwards #19 Subway Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, green replaces black, box motif replaces stripe motif. B+
JOE GIBBS RACING #20
Matt Kenseth #20 Dollar General Toytota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, black stripe across bottom now gone. A+
Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt USA Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
WOOD BROTHERS RACING #21
Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft Ford Fusion–No Change. 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+
BK RACING #23
David Ragan #23 Dr. Pepper Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, white hood, different designs on sides. B+
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #24
Chase Elliott #24 NAPA Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2015, blue with white stripes across side which start at brake duct. A+
Chase Elliott #24 3M Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, black and white replaces silver, extra geometrical designs on sides. B+
Chase Elliott #24 Kelly Blue Book Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same basic color scheme but gold has been removed. Scheme has been redesigned into a more haphazardly designed stripe pattern. C+
Chase Elliot #24 Sun Energy Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, black background with solar flare inspired design fades to blue towards wheel well, and finishes with red gradient on back. F
BK RACING #26
Robert Richardson #26 Stalk It Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, black with large blue and white stripe across sides, and Stalk It logos on hood and sides. A+
RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #27
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Moen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, black front, extending into Menard’s template, yellow rear. B-
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Peak Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, redesigned to match Clint Bowyer’s Peak Chevy. A+
Paul Menard #27 Valvoline/Menard’s Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, follows new Menard’s template, white Valvoline front, yellow Menard’s rear. F
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Dutch Boy Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, Menard’s template, with peeling blue and white paint design. F
Paul Menard #27 Richmond/Menard’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same basic color scheme with new Menard’s template. A+
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/FVP Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, New Menard’s template with FVP colors. A+
THE MOTORSPORTS GROUP #30
Josh Wise #30 Toyota Camry-Plain white with blue, black, and white numbers. A+
Josh Wise #30 Toyota Camry-Plain black with blue, black, and white numbers. A+
RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #31
Ryan Newman #31 Cat Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2016, yellow stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly larger. A+
Ryan Newman #31 Granger Chevy SS–No change. B +
Ryan Newman #31 Wix Filters Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, one large multi-colored stripe replaces the multi-stripe on the sides, design extends to hood. F
GO FAS RACING #32
Jeffery Earnhardt #32 Can-Am/Kappa Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, black, green, and yellow, with a series of geometrical designs across whole car. F
Jeffery Earnhardt #32 Keen Parts/Corvette Parts Ford Fusion–New sponsor for 2016, black, white, and yellow, with a series of geometrical designs across whole car. F
Bobby Labonte #32 C&J Energy Services Ford Fusion–No Change. F
Joey Gase #32 JT Concrete Inc Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, white with blue and white lettering. A+
FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #34
Chris Buescher #34 Love’s Truck Stops Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, Front Row Template has been reversed, red replaces back as secondary color. A+
Chris Buescher #34 Dockside Logistics Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all white with Dockside Logistics logos on sides and hood. A+
Chris Buescher #34 CSX Play it Safe Ford Fusion–No Change. A+
FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #35
David Gilliland #35 Ford Fusion-White with black and red letters. A+
FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #38
Landon Cassill #38 Florida Lottery Ford Fusion–No Change. C+
Landon Cassill #38 FR8 Auctions Ford Fusion–No Change. A+
Landon Cassill #38 MDS Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all white with MDS logos on sides and hood. A+
Landon Cassill #38 Snap Fitnaess Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2015, all red with Snap Fitness logos on sides and hood. A+
HILLMAN RACING #40
Reed Sorenson #40 CRC Brakleen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, black replaces red as primary color. D-
STEWART-HAAS RACING #41
Kurt Busch #41 Monster Energy Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, black with yellow and white numbers and lettering. A+
Kurt Busch #41 Haas Automation Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red front, fades to black rear end. A+
Kurt Busch #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, red front, fades to black rear end. A+
Kurt Busch #41 Monster Energy/Haas Automation Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, same as Monster Energy, but with Haas on rear. A+
CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #42
Kyle Larson #42 Target Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, vertical fade from red to white replaces side fade from 2015. A+
RICHARD PETTY MOTORSPORTS #43
Aric Almirola #43 Smithfield Ford Fusion–Slight redesign for 2016, roof numbers turn from yellow to red. 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–New scheme for 2014, STP colors with stripes that correspond to the door logos. B-
RICHARD PETTY MOTORSPORTS #44
Brian Scott #44 Twisted Tea Ford Fusion–Aside from the number change, no significant changes for 2016. A
Brian Scott #44 Albertsons’s Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, all blue with white hood. A+
Brian Scott #44 Vonn’s Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, same as Albertson’s, but with Vonn’s on the hood.. A+
HSCOTT MOTORSPORTS #46
Michael Annett #46 Pilot/Flying J Chevy SS–No Change. A+
Michael Annett #46 Pilot/Flying J Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, all red with white front. A+
JTG DAUGHERTY RACING #47
AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Stoffer’s/Lean Cuisine Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same as Kroger/Scott, minus the stars. A+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Scott Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, same as Kroger/Scott, minus the stars. A+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Food For Less Chevy SS–No Change. A+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Louisiana Hot Sauce Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, dark red, with flames on sides. A+
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #48
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2016, stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly forward. C-
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Kobalt Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2016, stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly forward. C-
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Pro Services–Slight redesign for 2016, stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly forward. C-
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Superman Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, designed to look like Superman’s suit. A+
Jimmie Johnson Lowe’s Red Vest Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, Jimmie Johnson Foundation logo replaces the Lowe’s Template. D-
CIRCLE SPORT/LEAVINE FAMILY RACING #59
Michael McDowell #59 Thrivent Financial Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same as #95, with door numbers reversed. B+
FURNITURE ROW RACING #78
Marin Truex Jr. #78 Furniture Row Toyota Camry–Other than the switch from Chevy to Toyota, there are no major changes. A+
Martin Truex Jr. #78 Auto Owner’s Insurance Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, vertical fade from bottom to top, light blue fades up to dark blue. A+
Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, orange with trace amounts of black and camo. F
BK RACING #83
Michael Waltrip #83 Maxwell House Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
Matt DiBendetto #83 Sewanee University Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, blue with white and gold logos on quarter panels, gold stripe on bottom, blue designs on side. B+
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Cosmo Motors Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, all black with Cosmo Motors logos on sides and hood. A+
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Schluter Systems Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, cream top, with stripes, and a waffle design on the bottom. D-
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Cosmo Motors Toyota Camry–No Change. C-
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #88
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 TaxSlayer Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, red top and front, white bottom and back, gold designs separate the two. A+
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, reminiscent of old Mountain Dew/Amp Energy scheme. A+
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, red top, fade to yellow bottom, across whole car. A+
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide/Batman Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, designed to look like Batman’s armor. A+
BK RACING #93
Matt DiBenedetto #93 Dustless Blasting Toyota Camry–No Change. B–
CIRCLE SPORT/LEAVINE FAMILY RACING #95
Ty Dillon #95 Cheerios Chevy SS–New sponsor and manufacturer for 2016 for Leavine Family Racing, after having merged with Circle Sport, and aligned with RCR. Aside from the new number, and a larger Kroger’s logo, no change. A+
Michael McDowell #95 Thrivent Financial Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, looks similar in design to the 2014, with a black, red, and white color scheme. B+
Michael McDowell #95 K-Love Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, simpler template. A+
Michael McDowell #95 Monte Carlo Casino Chevy SS-New Scheme for 2016, same as WRL Contractors from 2014. A+
PREMIUM MOTORSPORTS #98
Cole Whitt #98 Premium Motorsports RTIC Coolers Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, black with RTIC Coolers logo on sides and hood. A+
Cole Whitt #98 Tweaker Energy Chevy SS–No Change. A+
Cole Whitt #98 Speed Stick Chevy SS–No Change. A+
Cole Whitt #98 Rinnai Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all black with Rinnai logos on sides and hood. A+
The Driver Suit Blog-My Thoughts on Easter, Stories, and Losing a Friend
By David G. Firestone
I’ve been thinking about a few things this week. Being Jewish on Easter is really, REALLY boring. There is nothing to do for the whole day. I decided to adjust a few of the display cases in The Hauler, while Spring Training Baseball played in the background. As I moved these objects, I began to think about the objects stories. I love learning the stories of the objects in my collection.
Every object we encounter has a story. I wonder about the whole story for every object. How did this object get to my collection? Who handled this object besides me? I love learning the backstory of the objects in my collection. The more I learn, the more interesting the item is. I find that learning the stories are fun.
Much less interesting is the fact that I had to cut someone out of my life this week. This wasn’t an easy thing to do, but it had to happen. I don’t talk about people behind their backs, and I don’t backstab people…unless I’m playing Spy in Team Fortress 2. If I have a problem, I let it simmer, and if I feel I need to confront someone, I do it to their face. It really bugs me when someone has a problem with me, but doesn’t have the backbone to call me out.
I found out that someone I know was going behind my back, bad mouthing me for no real reason. This individual could have confronted me face to face, but couldn’t. I’ve known this person for many years, and have never had a problem with him, but apparently, he felt the need to blast me over something I thought we had resolved. I want to tell the whole story, but I don’t want to identify him, so I’ll start from the beginning.
We had been discussing something that he took very seriously, and while we had differing opinions of some parts of the subject, it was a civil discussion. While we were in this discussion, I apparently said something that he really disagreed with, and was factually incorrect. He contacted me concerning this, and we discussed it, and I thought we had worked things out. He didn’t seem mad, and I thought we had worked this out.
Last week, I learned he had been badmouthing me and badmouthing The Driver Suit Blog concerning this debate. The things that were said cut really deep, and I was really hurt by what I heard. I really did like him, and I never meant to hurt his feelings. I try my best to work through this kind of thing, but a lot of the stuff he said was so hurtful, and so cheap, I couldn’t forgive him, and I doubt we will ever be in the same room ever again.
One thing I try not to do is carry a grudge. I don’t know how it took me so long to realize that carrying a grudge does no good for anyone. It doesn’t do me any good, and doesn’t do the person I’m mad at any good. You would be amazed how good it feels to drop the anger you carry around with. But the level of stuff he said about me, and the way he said it really gave me no choice.
If you have a problem with me, get in touch and we’ll talk. I’m honest to my faults, and if I hurt you, I didn’t really mean to. I just wish the above story didn’t have to happen.
The Driver Suit Blog-When is a Paint Scheme Not a Paint Scheme?
Although the commonly used term is “paint scheme,” paint rarely, if ever is used on the sides of cars. What is used is vinyl wrap. The schemes are printed on vinyl, and then applied to the car. This saves time, and weight. It also makes the complex schemes of today possible. Here is video of Kyle Busch’s 2013 M&M’s Toyota Camry having the wrap applied…
There are a number of places that will supply wraps, the biggest, and most well known is Pro Cal Professional Decals. Located in Concord, North Carolina, Pro Cal supplies vinyl wraps to many teams, including Roush Fewnay Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Chip Ganassi, Richard Petty Motorsports, Stewart-Haas Racing, Richard Childress Racing, Kalitta Motorsports, and KB Racing Technologies. Pro Cal also does commercial vehicle wraps and signage.
I was able to get my hands on one example of a vinyl wrap, this Chris Buescher side from the 2014 Buckle Up 200 Pres. by Click It or Ticket at Dover on Saturday, May 31, 2014. Buescher raced the #60 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Mustang to an 8th place finish. This is a spare vinyl side from the car he raced that day.
I’m not sure why this wasn’t used, I’m thinking that the black that has rubbed on the side was why Roush Fenway rejected it. The wrap itself is huge, over 10 feet long, and about 4 feet high. It has 3M adhesive on the back to attach it to the car. It has additional decals for the door numbers, posts, and front of the car.
There are also decals to add some of the stripes. It also comes with a squeegee made by Lidco Products, a Saint Paul, Minnesota based squeegee company.
While the majority of NASCAR uses vinyl decals, we still call them paint schemes. The term “vinyl scheme” doesn’t sound as good. No matter what technologies we use to design a car, we will call them a paint scheme.
Next week I’m going to examine an odd racing suit.
Throwback Thursday-Ken Schrader-1987
By David G. Firestone
Ken Schrader takes his 1987 Red Baron Ford Thunderbird out for a Sunday Drive.
Red, white, and black is a good color scheme. The door numbers would work much better rounded than square. The Red Baron logo curving over the wheel well looks really good. The white under the door numbers looks decent, though the black stripe behind the door number really isn’t needed. The white hood and roof look decent, but would look a lot better with the red, rather than the white.
The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Tracker-March 23, 2016
By David G. Firestone
CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #1
Jamie McMurray #1 Cessna/Beechcraft Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, blue top, reverse wave formation across sides, white bottom, with silver accents. B+
Jamie McMurray #1 Sherwin Williams Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, main design has been moved slightly to the rear. 150’th anniversary logo added to hood.B+
Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red and yellow front with a spike transition to rear. A+
Jamie McMurray #1 McDonalds/Cessna Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red and blue amalgamation of McDonald’s and Cessna. B-
Jamie McMurray #1 Credit One Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue, purple and white, with a series of designs across whole car. F
TEAM PENSKE #2
Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Lite Ford Fusion–Same basic scheme as 2015, but Miller has been removed from hood, similar 2014. 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–New sponsor for 2016, same as #22 Auto Trader. D-
Brad Keselowski #2 SKF Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, similar to 2015 scheme, but fits to Penske Template. A+
RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #3
Austin Dillon #3 Dow Chevy SS–Same basic scheme, but the hood logo is slightly larger. B+
Austin Dillon #3 Cheerios Chevy SS–No change. A+
Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Chevy SS–No change. A-
Austin Dillon #3 Dow Intellifresh Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2016, same as Dow Energy and Water. B-
Austin Dillon #3 AAA Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2016, similar to Robert Hight’s funny car, but with colors rearranged. D+
STEWART-HAAS RACING #4
Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2015, designed around a Busch throwback can. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Light Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2015, designed around a Busch Light can. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Jimmy John’s Chevy SS–No change. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Outback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, mountain design starts near brake duct, instead of at front of car. B+
Kevin Harvick #4 Ditech Chevy SS–No change. A+
Kevin Harvick #4 Mobil 1 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, white background, with the Pegasus wing starting at the side of the front, extending to the door numbers. 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 2016, geometrical designs on side changed. C
Kasey Kahne #5 Panasonic Toughbook Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue fade to black, with a couple of wave stripes, and some fade designs on side. A+
Kasey Kahne #5 Quicken Loans Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red with hockey stick designs on sides, as well as geometrical designs on front and back. C+
ROUSH-FEWNAY RACING #16
Trevor Bayne #6 Advocare Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, white with blue line and checkered flag on bottom. A+
TOMMY BALDWIN RACING #7
Alex Bowman #7 Road Rippers Chevy SS-New scheme for 2015, shark motif on front, fades to fire motif and logo on back. F
Regan Smith #7 Golden Corral/Niko Toy State Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, amalgamation of Golden Corral and Niko Toy State. F
Regan Smith #7 Nikko Street Bratz Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue and white with a series of designs across sides. F
Regan Smith #7 Chevy SS-Black with white and blue numbers and stripe across bottom. A+
Regan Smith #7 APC Chevy SS-Black with white and blue numbers and stripe across bottom, APC logo on hood. A+
STEWART-HAAS RACING #10
Danica Patrick #10 Nature’s Bakery Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, blue with white lettering on sides, white and black stripe across hood and roof. A+
Danica Patrick #10 TaxAct Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, white front, red TaxAct X logo, gray back. A+
Danica Patrick #10 Nature’s Pride Pumpkin Spice Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, same basic scheme as Nature’s Pride, but with orange and red color scheme, and some slight redesigns on the side. A+
Danica Patrick #10 Mobil 1 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, Bass Pro Shops has left, so the Mobil 1 scheme features a white background, with the Pegasus wing starting at the side of the front, extending to the door numbers. A+
Danica Patrick #10 Aspen Dental Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, similar to Clint Bowyer’s template, but with a Post-It esque design. F
JOE GIBBS RACING #11
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Express Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Freight Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Ground Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Office Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, hood logo moved slightly to the right, side stripes wider. A+
Denny Hamlin #11 SportClips Toyota Camry-No Change. C-
GERMAIN RACING #13
Casey Mears #13 Geico Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, much more subdued version of the 2015 scheme. A+
Casey Mears #13 Geico Millitary Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, black with camo motif across car. F
STEWART-HAAS RACING #14
Tony Stewart #14 Mobil 1 Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, the Mobil 1 scheme features a white background, with the Pegasus wing starting at the side of the front, extending to the door numbers. A+
Tony Stewart #14 Code 3 Associates/Mobil 1 Chevy SS–Slight redesign, removal of Bass Pro Shops logo, cleaner rear end of the car. A+
Tony Stewart #14 Rush Truck Stops/Mobil 1 Chevy SS–Slight redesign, removal of Bass Pro Shops logo, cleaner rear end of the car. A+
Tony Stewart #14 Bass Pro Shops Chevy SS–No Change. C+
Brian Vickers #14 Janssen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, simple curve replaces the wave pattern from 2015. A+
HSCOTT MOTORSPORTS #15
Clint Bowyer #15 Five-Hour Energy Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, the front stripe has been moved up to the top of the side, and the roof matches with the design. A+
Clint Bowyer #15 Peak Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, Blue with white geometrical designs on side. A+
Clint Bowyer #15 Visine Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, same as 5-Hour Energy, but with black, white, and blue color scheme. B+
Clint Bowyer #15 Aaron’s Chevy SS–No Change. A+
ROUSH-FEWNAY RACING #16
Greg Bffle #16 Cheez-its Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2015, stripe has been extended down tot he bottom of the car, some slight rearangment of the crackers on the side of the car. A+
Greg Biffle #16 KFC Nashville Hot Ford Fusion–New sponsor for 2016, all red with fire designs on quarter panel, and KFC stripes on roof. A+
Greg Biffle #16 Kleen Performance Products Ford Fusion–No Change. B+
Greg Biffle #16 Roush Performance Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, black with red and white check pattern design on side. A+
ROUSH-FEWNAY RACING #17
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Ford Fusion–No Change. A
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, much simpler design, with red added on top. B+
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Sunny D Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, orange front, rainbow sunburst pattern across sides, blue hood, roof, and decklid. F
JOE GIBBS RACING #18
Kyle Busch #18 Interstate Batteries Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2015, stripes are wider, black stripe on bottom gone. F
Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, similar to 2014 scheme, but with vintage characters to celebrate M&M’s 75th anniversary. A+
Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Throwback Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2016, vintage look with vintage characters, yellow, with brown letters. A+
JOE GIBBS RACING #19
Carl Edwards #19 Stanley Toyota Camry–No Change. B+
Carl Edwards #19 Stanley Toyota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, logos are bigger, outlines are bolder. A
Carl Edwards #19 Subway Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, green replaces black, box motif replaces stripe motif. B+
JOE GIBBS RACING #20
Matt Kenseth #20 Dollar General Toytota Camry–Slight redesign for 2016, black stripe across bottom now gone. A+
Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt USA Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
WOOD BROTHERS RACING #21
Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft Ford Fusion–No Change. 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+
BK RACING #23
David Ragan #23 Dr. Pepper Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, white hood, different designs on sides. B+
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #24
Chase Elliott #24 NAPA Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2015, blue with white stripes across side which start at brake duct. A+
Chase Elliott #24 3M Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, black and white replaces silver, extra geometrical designs on sides. B+
Chase Elliott #24 Kelly Blue Book Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same basic color scheme but gold has been removed. Scheme has been redesigned into a more haphazardly designed stripe pattern. C+
BK RACING #26
Robert Richardson #26 Stalk It Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, black with large blue and white stripe across sides, and Stalk It logos on hood and sides. A+
RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #27
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Moen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, black front, extending into Menard’s template, yellow rear. B-
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Peak Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, redesigned to match Clint Bowyer’s Peak Chevy. A+
Paul Menard #27 Valvoline/Menard’s Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, follows new Menard’s template, white Valvoline front, yellow Menard’s rear. F
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Dutch Boy Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, Menard’s template, with peeling blue and white paint design. F
Paul Menard #27 Richmond/Menard’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same basic color scheme with new Menard’s template. A+
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/FVP Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, New Menard’s template with FVP colors. A+
THE MOTORSPORTS GROUP #30
Josh Wise #30 Toyota Camry-Plain white with blue, black, and white numbers. A+
RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #31
Ryan Newman #31 Cat Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2016, yellow stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly larger. A+
Ryan Newman #31 Granger Chevy SS–No change. B +
Ryan Newman #31 Wix Filters Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, one large multi-colored stripe replaces the multi-stripe on the sides, design extends to hood. F
GO FAS RACING #32
Jeffery Earnhardt #32 Can-Am/Kappa Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, black, green, and yellow, with a series of geometrical designs across whole car. F
Jeffery Earnhardt #32 Keen Parts/Corvette Parts Ford Fusion–New sponsor for 2016, black, white, and yellow, with a series of geometrical designs across whole car. F
Bobby Labonte #32 C&J Energy Services Ford Fusion–No Change. F
Joey Gase #32 JT Concrete Inc Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, white with blue and white lettering. A+
FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #34
Chris Buescher #34 Love’s Truck Stops Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, Front Row Template has been reversed, red replaces back as secondary color. A+
Chris Buescher #34 Dockside Logistics Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all white with Dockside Logistics logos on sides and hood. A+
Chris Buescher #34 CSX Play it Safe Ford Fusion–No Change. A+
FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #35
David Gilliland #35 Ford Fusion-White with black and red letters. A+
FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #38
Landon Cassill #38 Florida Lottery Ford Fusion–No Change. C+
Landon Cassill #38 FR8 Auctions Ford Fusion–No Change. A+
Landon Cassill #38 MDS Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all white with MDS logos on sides and hood. A+
Landon Cassill #38 Snap Fitnaess Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2015, all red with Snap Fitness logos on sides and hood. A+
HILLMAN RACING #40
Reed Sorenson #40 CRC Brakleen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, black replaces red as primary color. D-
STEWART-HAAS RACING #41
Kurt Busch #41 Monster Energy Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, black with yellow and white numbers and lettering. A+
Kurt Busch #41 Haas Automation Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, red front, fades to black rear end. A+
Kurt Busch #41 Haas Automation/Monster Energy Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, red front, fades to black rear end. A+
Kurt Busch #41 Monster Energy/Haas Automation Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, same as Monster Energy, but with Haas on rear. A+
CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #42
Kyle Larson #42 Target Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, vertical fade from red to white replaces side fade from 2015. A+
RICHARD PETTY MOTORSPORTS #43
Aric Almirola #43 Smithfield Ford Fusion–Slight redesign for 2016, roof numbers turn from yellow to red. 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–New scheme for 2014, STP colors with stripes that correspond to the door logos. B-
RICHARD PETTY MOTORSPORTS #44
Brian Scott #44 Twisted Tea Ford Fusion–Aside from the number change, no significant changes for 2016. A
Brian Scott #44 Albertsons’s Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2016, all blue with white hood. A+
HSCOTT MOTORSPORTS #46
Michael Annett #46 Pilot/Flying J Chevy SS–No Change. A+
Michael Annett #46 Pilot/Flying J Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, all red with white front. A+
JTG DAUGHERTY RACING #47
AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Stoffer’s/Lean Cuisine Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same as Kroger/Scott, minus the stars. A+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Scott Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, same as Kroger/Scott, minus the stars. A+
AJ Allmendinger #47 Food For Less Chevy SS–No Change. A+
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #48
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2016, stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly forward. C-
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Kobalt Chevy SS–Slight redesign for 2016, stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly forward. C-
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Pro Services–Slight redesign for 2016, stripes are narrower, and hood logo is slightly forward. C-
Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Superman Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, designed to look like Superman’s suit. A+
Jimmie Johnson Lowe’s Red Vest Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, Jimmie Johnson Foundation logo replaces the Lowe’s Template. D-
CIRCLE SPORT/LEAVINE FAMILY RACING #59
Michael McDowell #59 Thrivent Financial Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, same as #95, with door numbers reversed. B+
FURNITURE ROW RACING #78
Marin Truex Jr. #78 Furniture Row Toyota Camry–Other than the switch from Chevy to Toyota, there are no major changes. A+
Martin Truex Jr. #78 Auto Owner’s Insurance Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, vertical fade from bottom to top, light blue fades up to dark blue. A+
Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, orange with trace amounts of black and camo. F
BK RACING #83
Michael Waltrip #83 Maxwell House Toyota Camry–No Change. A+
Matt DiBendetto #83 Sewanee University Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, blue with white and gold logos on quarter panels, gold stripe on bottom, blue designs on side. B+
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Cosmo Motors Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2016, all black with Cosmo Motors logos on sides and hood. A+
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Schluter Systems Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, cream top, with stripes, and a waffle design on the bottom. D-
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Cosmo Motors Toyota Camry–No Change. C-
HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #88
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 TaxSlayer Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, red top and front, white bottom and back, gold designs separate the two. A+
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Chevy SS–New scheme for 2015, reminiscent of old Mountain Dew/Amp Energy scheme. A+
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2016, red top, fade to yellow bottom, across whole car. A+
Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide/Batman Chevy SS-New scheme for 2016, designed to look like Batman’s armor. A+
BK RACING #93
Matt DiBenedetto #93 Dustless Blasting Toyota Camry–No Change. B–
CIRCLE SPORT/LEAVINE FAMILY RACING #95
Ty Dillon #95 Cheerios Chevy SS–New sponsor and manufacturer for 2016 for Leavine Family Racing, after having merged with Circle Sport, and aligned with RCR. Aside from the new number, and a larger Kroger’s logo, no change. A+
Michael McDowell #95 Thrivent Financial Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, looks similar in design to the 2014, with a black, red, and white color scheme. B+
Michael McDowell #95 K-Love Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, simpler template. A+
Michael McDowell #95 Monte Carlo Casino Chevy SS-New Scheme for 2016, same as WRL Contractors from 2014. A+
PREMIUM MOTORSPORTS #98
Cole Whitt #98 Premium Motorsports RTIC Coolers Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2016, black with RTIC Coolers logo on sides and hood. A+
Cole Whitt #98 Tweaker Energy Chevy SS–No Change. A+
Cole Whitt #98 Speed Stick Chevy SS–No Change. A+
Cole Whitt #98 Rinnai Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all black with Rinnai logos on sides and hood. A+
The Driver Suit Blog-Introduction to Sports Memorabilia-Shane Westerfield Driver Suit
A Shane Westerfield driver suit will be examined this week.
The Driver Suit Blog-Paint Scheme Grades-March 19, 2016
By David G. Firestone
Denny Hamlin #11 SportClips Toyota Camry–Same scheme as last year, same C- grade.
Brian Vickers #14 Janssen Chevy SS-I didn’t think this scheme could get any better…but it has! A+
Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/FVP Chevy SS-Another instance of the Menard’s template working very well with a color scheme. A+
Ryan Newman #31 Wix Filters Chevy SS–I didn’t think this scheme could get any worse…but it has! F
Joey Gase #32 JT Concrete Inc Ford Fusion-Great color scheme, and a great design scheme will always earn an A+.
Aric Almirola #43 STP Ford Fusion– A downgrade from last year’s great throwback scheme, the pointless door design becomes part of the paint scheme. I don’t think it looks great, but it isn’t awful. B-
AJ Allmendinger #47 Food For Less Chevy SS-Same scheme as last year,A+ same grade.
Matt DiBenedetto #83 Cosmo Motors Toyota Camry-Same scheme as last year, same C- grade.