Joel Kauffman had high hopes heading into the Lucas Oil 250 at Jennerstown Speedway in Pennsylvania on Saturday night. However, his engine had different ideas.

Kauffman and the #44 LA West team were plagued by engine problems all afternoon at the half-mile. They qualified 13th but fell out of the race just before the half-way point with engine problems and a broken rear sway bar.

“It was a difficult weekend,” said Kauffman. “We really struggled with the engine. I don't know. I think we may be making a change sometime soon. We can't go after this championship and have engine problems. We are going to look into it.

“On the positive side, the car was really handling well. Timmy (Kohuth, Joel's crew chief) and the guys got it set up just about perfect. I just wish we could have had full power and 250 laps to show our stuff.”
Kauffman will now be off until heading back to him homestate for a run at the high-banked half-mile Salem Speedway in Salem (IN).

“We are planning to test at Salem, but we just have to wait and see what happens with our engine program. I think we will be really good as Salem though.”

Kauffman and Team LA West Racing are competing for the Pro Cup Series championship in 2004. However, they are still looking for marketing partners to help them in their quest. For inquiries, call the team at 704-622-7065 and be sure to visit joelkauffman.com for more information.