2008/2009 SVTPA Rules


I. Preface

The Sanctioning Body rules are designed to provide for the orderly conduct of the motorsport of garden tractor pulling events and to reduce the risk of injury to both participants and spectators during such events. It is ultimately the obligation of each participant to ensure that his/her conduct and equipment comply with all applicable Sanctioning Body rules and regulations, as they may be amended from time to time. No express or implied warranty of safety shall result from the publication or compliance with these rules. They are intended as a guide for the conduct of the sport and are in no way a guarantee against injury or death to pullers, spectators, or others.

II. Sanctioning Body Membership

All pullers must be a member of both the Sanctioning Body and SVTPA. Sanctioning Body dues are $50 per driver and $50 per vehicle before February 15 ($75 per tractor/driver after February 15) SVTPA dues are $20 per driver and $20 per vehicle. ALL DUES MUST BE PAID BY FEBRUARY 15 OF EACH YEAR.

III. Insurance

The insurance coverage for those who hold a Sanctioning Body Competition License and the Sanctioning Body Officials License will be with a motor sports insurance services company.

IV. Points

  1. Points shall be awarded to any Sanctioning Body registered vehicle that has legally entered and passed vehicle inspection at that sanctioned event.
  2. Drivers that attend the drivers meeting will receive 2 points for each vehicle they drive. Roll call will be taken verbally at each drivers meeting.
  3. A vehicle may collect points in more than one division that it is legal to run in.
  4. If the end of season points race results in a tie, comparing the number of 1st place finishes during the season will break it. If a tie still exists, 2nd place finishes, 3rd place finishes, and etc… will be counted until the tie is broken.
  5. The Points Committee reserves the final authority to settle any questions or disputes regarding point awards.
  6. All published club pulls that the sled is at are points pulls unless specifically stated as abenefit or fun pull.
  7. SVTPA shall award points in the following manner:
PLACE POINTS
1 20
2 19
3 18
4 17
5 16
6 15
7 14
8 13
9 12
10 11
11 10
12 9
13 8
14 7
15 6
16-20 5

V. Decal and Patch Requirements

  1. A competitor wishing to accumulate points for an eligible vehicle must have decals prominently displayed in a highly visible area on each side of the vehicle.
  2. If the vehicle is of the type requiring the driver to wear a driving suit, a patch must be prominently displayed onthe upper sleeve of the driving suit.

VI. Eligibility

  1. Contest is open to 2 wheel drive, rear wheel drive, rubber-tired tractors. No recapped tires, no dual wheels, chains, studs, or paddle tires are permitted.
  2. Drivers under the age of 18 must have a parent/legal guardian signed consent form at each event. Minimum age is 6 for Stock classes, 12 for Stock Altered through Pro Eliminator Super Modified, 16 for Mini Rods.
  3. All vehicles are subject to safety and class rule checks.
  4. Any competitor refusing to have his/her vehicle inspected for eligibility shall not be allowed to enter and/or pull in the class or classes in question until legality is established.
  5. All drivers should be clean and neatly attired. Tractors should be clean and painted.
  6. At the discretion of the official, a driver who does not attend a driver meeting may be disallowed to compete during the accompanying session of pulling.
  7. No vehicle my exceed 6 feet in width, nor shall any portion extend more than 8 feet in front of center of the rear axle.
  8. Judgment calls by event officials are final and can not be appealed.
  9. Any tractor legal in any class will be legal to pull in any class higher on the performance scale.

VII. Classes

A. Stock Tractors

    1. Factory stock, commercially available, garden tractor with cast block engine. Engine, chassis, and sheet metal must be from a factory produced garden tractor orequivalent.
    2. No high performance alterations to engine or other parts of vehicle. Stock or “off the shelf”, unaltered, original replacement parts for camshaft, piston, valves, rod, carburetor, crankshaft, cylinder head, governor, ignition system, etc…
    3. Shall no exceed .030 overbore from manufacturer’s specification. Piston must be flush or below deck of block.
    4. RPMs are limited to a maximum of 4000.
    5. No port altering, grinding or polishing allowed.
    6. Engine and vehicle must maintain stock appearance and utilize stock sheet metal.
    7. Modifications to clutch, drive line and transaxle assembly are allowed to prevent breakage.
    8. Billet Steel or aluminum flywheel allowed. No welding or machining of cast flywheels.
    9. All factory shielding or equivalent must be in place.
    10. Chassis may be altered to accept non original engine. But must maintain original wheelbase.
    11. Pump gasoline or diesel only. No pressurized fuel tanks.
    12. 0-14 HP, maximum tire size 23x10.50x12, maximum weight of vehicle and driver 900 lbs.
    13. 0-18 HP, maximum tire size 23x10.50x12, maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1000 lbs. Single or twin cylinders allowed.
    14. 0-25 HP, maximum tire size 26x12x12, maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1050lbs. Single or twin cylinders allowed.
    15. 900 lb, 0-14 HP class will be split between ages 14 and under and adults. To be eligible for the 14 and under class, the driver must be 14 as of the first pull of the season.

B. Stock Altered Tractors

    1. Commercially available garden tractor with cast block engine. Engine block, chassis and sheet metal must be from factory produced garden tractor or equivalent.
    2. No welding or externally visible modifications to block or cylinder head.
    3. Maximum bore size: .040 over manufacturers standard specification.
    4. Stock crankshaft stroke must be maintained.
    5. No fabricated intake manifolds or carburetor stand offs allowed.
    6. Carburetor must be stock appearing for engine manufacturer. Maximum air restricting venturi diameter: 1.200inch. Throttle shaft activated butterfly in stock location must control air flow. No air may enter intake after 1.200 inch restriction.
    7. Maximum camshaft regrind specs: .324 inch at zero lash. 223 degree duration at.050. Maximum valve diameter: 1.380 inches.
    8. Stock appearing hood and grill required. May switch to another factory sheet metal orequivalent.
    9. Billet steel or aluminum flywheel required. No RPM limit.
    10. Maximum wheel base: 56 inches. Any garden tractor chassis having a stock wheelbase of 56 inches or longer must retain the stock wheel base.
    11. Chassis may be altered to accept non original engine, but must remain at stocklength.
    12. Pump gasoline only.
    13. 0-25 HP, maximum tire size 26x12x12, maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1100 lbs. Twin cylinders allowed.

C. Pro Stock Tractors

    1. Single cylinder, air-cooled, naturally aspirated four cycle, flat head, cast block engine.
    2. Sleeves and welding permitted.
    3. Jugs other than stock for that engine model not permitted.
    4. Crankshaft and camshaft must be in original position.
    5. Original measurement from center of crankshaft to top deck.
    6. Maximum total engine displacement 50.5 cubic inches.
    7. If Kohler engine, original carburetor must be used. If engine is non-Kohler, Kohler carburetor must be used. Air restricting venturi must be in stock position and may not be larger than 1.200 inches in diameter. Air controlled by butterfly, in stock position. No air may enter after 1.200 restriction. Choke may be removed. No slides. No injection.
    8. Auxiliary fuel pump permissible.
    9. Intake stand offs and velocity stacks allowed.
    10. All tractors must have a hood and grill (nose piece). Switching to another factory’s sheet metal is permissible.
    11. May run on pump gas or alcohol. No additives. No nitrous oxide. No pressurized fuel tanks.
    12. Maximum tire size 26x12x12. Maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1050 lbs.
D. Sportsman Super Modified Tractors

    1. Maximum engine displacement: 800 cc (48.8 cubic inches), with a maximum of four cylinders.
    2. Must be naturally aspirated, unless diesel. Diesel limited to two turbos.
    3. Gasoline, diesel or alcohol fuels only.
    4. Maximum tire size: 26x12x12. Maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1100 lbs.

E. Pro Sportsman Super Modified Tractors
    1. Maximum engine displacement 1500 cc (91.5 cubic inches), with a maximum of fourcylinders.
    2. Must be naturally aspirated unless diesel. Diesel is limited to two turbos.
    3. Gasoline, diesel or alcohol fuels only.
    4. Maximum tire size: 26x12x12. Maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1200 lbs.

F. Pro Eliminator Super Modified Tractors

    1. Maximum engine displacement 1800 cc (110 cubic inches). With a maximum of eight cylinders.
    2. Diesel limited to two turbos.
    3. Gasoline, diesel or alcohol fuels only.
    4. Maximum tire size: 31x15.50x15. Maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1400 lbs.
NOTE: All diesel powered tractors in the modified classes listed above have hood, grill (nosepiece), and fenders.Sheet metal must maintain compact or garden tractor appearance.

G. Pro Sportsman Mini Rod Tractors

    1. Aluminum or cast iron mass production OEM type automotive or marine engine.
    2. Maximum engine displacement 2800 cc (170.8 cubic inches).
    3. If burning pump gas or alcohol, supercharger or one turbocharger may be utilized.
    4. If diesel engine, maximum of two turbochargers, with two pressure stages and choiceof either water injection or intercooler.
    5. Gasoline, diesel or alcohol only. No pressurized fuel tanks.
    6. Maximum tire size: 31x15.50x15. Maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1600 lbs.

H. Eliminator Mini Rod Tractors

    1. Aluminum or cast iron automotive, marine, aviation or industrial engines. No diesel engines. No turbines.
    2. Maximum engine displacement 360 cubic inches.
    3. Engines must be naturally aspirated. No blowers.
    4. Gasoline or alcohol only. No pressurized fuel tanks.
    5. Maximum tire size: 31x15.50x15. Maximum weight of vehicle and driver 1850 lbs.

VIII. General Rules

NOTE: Mini Rods (including 4 cylinders) must also comply with additional or overriding rules in Mini Rod Vehicle sections.
    1. All vehicle must have a secure seat. Seat may not exceed behind rear tires. Seat must have a back, which stands a minimum of 3 inches above the top of the seat surface.
    2. All vehicles must have functional brakes and steering.
    3. All vehicles must have a fully charged, functional fire extinguisher with a gauge within easy reach of the driver (minimum of 1 ½ pounds. Dry chemical or equivalent).
    4. All vehicles must be equipped with a “dead man throttle” with the rear most position being idle.
    5. No portion of tractor may interfere with the hitch of the sled during the pull. Chain and kill switch cable must be easy to hook without interference.
    6. Engine may not be used as a primary support structure for the vehicle. Engine may not be used as part of frame.
    7. Front tires must track within the tread of the rear tires.
    8. Exhaust
      1. Must discharge vertically (+/- 10 degrees) upward and extend at least 12 inches from the exhaust port.
      2. Exceptions to this rule are the use of stock mufflers or rear engine tractors, which may discharge out the back.
    9. All vehicles must have sturdy safely secured fenders that will protect the driver from the tires.
    10. Stabilizer Bars
      1. Must be used by all vehicles except for stock classes with OEM hitch.
      2. The device must consist of two separate sections, each equipped with either skid plate or wheels.
      3. Skid plates are to be at least 3 square inches at the ground contact point.
      4. Wheels shall be at least 1 inch wide and 4 inches in diameter.
      5. Skid plates or wheels (center of wheels) are to be no less than 5 inches behind the rear of rear tires and bottom of wheel not more than 5 inches above the ground. One shall be on each side of tractor with the combination of the two strong enough to support the weight of the tractor when a jack is placed under them to raise the tractor. No spring loaded anti tip-over devices will be allowed.
    11. Bumper bars are required and must consist of a bar extending vertically 6 inches from the rear most tip of skid pads. The top of the vertical bar would be supported by a brace, which extends to the wheelie bar, chassis, etc… No portion of weights or tractor may extend beyond bumper bars.
    12. Draw Bars:
      1. All vehicles must have a draw bar that is stationary in all directions with hitching device not more than ¾ inch in thickness and must have a minimum 1 ½ inch diameter opening.
      2. Cross section thickness must be equivalent to ½ inch round stock.
      3. Pulling point may not be more than ¾ inch from the back edge of hitching device, parallel to and not more than 13 inches above the ground and within 2 inches of parallel.
      4. An area 5 inches wide and 12 inches high immediately above the draw bar must be free of all obstructions including weights and wheelie bars for ease of hooking and unhooking.
    13. Fuel
      1. All vehicles must have fuel lines that are either routed or suspended to keep them away from hot engine components, or be steel braided.
      2. All vehicles must have a manual shut off valve on low pressure side.
    14. Accepted Fuels
      1. Alcohol (Methanol)
        1. It is a liquid with a mild odor at ambient temperatures. It is sold in 2 US Federal Grades: A and AA. Each grade is acceptable for use in competition. Maximum specific gravity for competition: 0.7928.
      1. Gasoline
      2. Diesel Fuel
      3. Illegal Fuels: All forms of nitro methane (including nitrous oxide and propylene oxide) as a fuel are fuel additive for pulling. No pressurized fuels allowed.
    15. Kill Switch
      1. A kill switch must be incorporated into all competition vehicles, which is capable if immediately shutting down the engine as well as electric fuel pumps, in case of accidental separation from the sled during the course of competition.
      2. On diesel engines, the kill switch must activate the air shut off, no electrically operated air shut offs. Diesel system may use a spring loaded cap activated by a cable. Diesel shall be deemed acceptable if it at least prevents the building of boost.
      3. Kill switch shall be located at the rear of the vehicle in a position that will allow for easy attachment/detachment. The switch must be located 12 inches minimum above hook point and within 6 inches either side of center. Ring must be a minimum of 2 inches in diameter and strong enough to pull switch.
      4. All automatic transmissions must have a neutral safety switch.
    16. Flywheels and starter pulleys of any engine turning more than 4000 RPM must be of billet steel or aluminum.
      1. No welded fins, no stamped steel pulleys.
      2. All starter pulleys must have a retaining device to prevent pulley from coming off the crankshaft.
    17. It is recommended that any non-automotive engine vehicle competing at a weight greater than or equal to 1250 lbs. be equipped with a tow hitch, with a 2 ½ inch hole, onthe front (tow hitch will not be included in the measurement of the vehicle) Automotive engine vehicles are required to have the tow hitch.
    18. Any vehicle ignition system utilizing points must have a plastic or metal cover over the points to inhibit the chance of fire.
    19. Starter carts shall incorporate a cover over the battery terminals to prevent accidental arcing.
    20. Blow-by tubes must exit forward of the rear tires. Blow-by tubes must be vented below the head of the engine and extend down to the engine pan, except if routed in exhaust.
    21. Fuel tanks not to be mounted to engine and should be vented away from engine and exhaust, unless stock.
    22. Motorcycle type jackshafts must be enclosed with a minimum 1/8 inch steel or ¼ inchaluminum.
    23. Non Mini Rod tractors that utilize an automatic transmission must have a minimum 1/8inch steel or ¼ inch aluminum from the back of the block to the tailshaft housing,covering top and sides extending 2 inches below the lowest point of the transmission ORcovered with scatter blanket.
    24. Shielding
      1. All cast iron Kohler, Wisconsin, etc… type engines that have been modified for high performance are to have scatter shields opposite the camshaft side of the motor.
        1. It must be of minimum 1/16 inch steel or .090 inch aluminum.
        2. Minimum dimensions must be from the bottom of the engine to 4 ½ inches above the centerline of the crankshaft and must be at least 7 inches in width.
        3. Shield must be attached to the chassis/hood in a secure manner at both top and bottom.
        4. This rule shall not be in effect for the stock classes.
      2. All drive chains/belts must be shielded radially, top, front and rear with a minimum1/16 inch (.060) steel or .090 aluminum. Shield must be wider than chain/belt.
      3. Snowmobile type sheaves (both primary and secondary) must be shielded radially 360degrees with aminimum 1/16 inch (.060) steel. Shield must be wider than drive unit and be securely mounted. This shielding may be incorporated with the belt shielding.
      4. Motorcycle engines which utilize a DRY CLUTCH (i.e. Harley Davidson type) must be shielded top, side and rear with a minimum 1/8 inch (.125) steel or equivalent.
      5. Pro Stock and Modified vehicles must have the clutch assembly covered 360 degrees with a minimum 1/8 inch (.125) steel or equivalent.
      6. All exposed turbochargers or portions thereof, must be shrouded 360 degrees with a minimum of 1/16 inch(.060) steel except for inlet or exhaust.
      7. All turbocharged engines must have two 3/8 bolts, grade 5 or stronger in the vertical portion of exhaust pipe(s). Bolts must be installed 90 degrees to each other, within 1 inch of each other.
      8. All Super Modified and Open class vehicles must have round metal loops shielding driveshaft. Maximum of 1 foot between loops, minimum of 2 loops. The 360 degree loops must be a minimum of ¼ inch (.250)aluminum or 3/16 inch (.187) steel, ¾ inch wide and not more than 1 ½ inch from the shaft in any direction. Acceptable to use a solid tube (¼ inch aluminum or 3/16 inch steel) to meet above requirements.
      9. All U-joints must be shielded 360 degrees with ¼ inch (.250) aluminum or 3/16 inch(.187) steel. The minimum length shall not be less than ½ inch greater than the U- joint assembly.
      10. Pressurized intercoolers must be shrouded 360 degrees with a minimum 1/16 inch(.060) steel or equivalent aluminum, except for inlet and exhaust.

IX. Aviation, Industrial, Military/Commercial Marine Engines

  1. Tractor pulling application when gearbox is used between the engine crankshaft and the clutch:
    1. The gearbox output shaft must not exceed one an one-half (1.5:1) times the speed of the crankshaft.
    2. No torque converters behind the gearbox allowed.
    3. The shaft that accepts the flywheel must be made of solid billet steel and be 2 ¼inches minimum diameter, be heat treated 4140 steel and be 30 to 38 Rockwell.
    4. Clutch assemblies are limited to a maximum diameter of 11 inches.
    5. The bellhousing used in this application must be bolted to a ¼ inch or greater steelplate with a minimum of (12) 3/8 inch (grade 5) bolts evenly spaced around bellhousing. The plate must be securely fastened to the frame by (8) 3/8 inch (grade 5) bolts with 4 bolts on each side of the frame.
    6. The gearbox must be securely fastened to the frame by a 3/8 inch steel plate, or securely fastened to the rear of the engine.
    7. The gearbox must be mounted and secured to the tractor sub-frame so as to withstand lifting the entire tractor weighted for the lightest class it can enter.
    8. The minimum construction specifications for the gearbox are: 3/8 inch steel or ¾ inch aluminum.

NOTE: Tractors using the above type of arrangement (1 A-H) must provide officials withproof of gearbox speed. No alterations to the above specifications unless approved by the officials.

  1. Tractor pulling application with clutch mounted on the crankshaft or on a shaft connected to the crankshaft:
    1. The shaft or adapter that accepts the flywheel must be made of solid billet steel, be at least 2 ¼ inch in diameter, be heat treated 4140 steel and be 30 to 38 Rockwell.
    2. Clutch assemblies are limited to a maximum diameter of 11 inches.
    3. Bellhousings used in this application must be bolted to an engine plate with aminimum of (12) 3/8 inch (grade 5) bolts evenly spaced around the bellhousing. Engine plate must be a minimum of ¼ inch steel (3/8 inch aluminum). Plate must besecurely fastened to the engine or frame by at least (8) 3/8 inch (grade 5), 4 bolts on each side of the frame. If using a single rail design, the plate on the front of the bellhousing must be securely fastened to the frame by (8) 3/8 inch bolts (grade 5), 4bolts on each side of the frame.
NOTE: No alterations to the above specifications unless approved by officials.

  1. Tractor pulling application where clutch or torque converter is mounted on crankshaft:
    1. Clutch components shall be required to have all steel, aluminum or ductile iron components.
    2. Clutch assemblies used in this application are limited to a maximum of 14 inches diameter.
    3. No gray cast iron.
    4. Tractor must have entire clutch or torque converter area enclosed, front and rear,with 3/8 inch minimum thickness steel, ½ inch from rotating mass, with maximum centering on rotating mass. No gray cast iron.
    5. Shield to be surrounded with scatter blanket. Blanket to be a minimum of 12 inches wide so that it covers the clutch and all clutch components.

X. Automotive Clutches, Flywheels and Automatics

  1. The use of torque converters and automatic transmissions will be permitted.
  2. All torque converters and automatic transmissions must be covered with a scatter blankett hat extends from the rear of engine block to the front of the tailhousing. Blanket must be fastened forward securely with two straps on each side, one above crankshaft centerline and one below crankshaft centerline. Blanket should have 6 inches of overlap. Straps must not be less than 2 inches wide with not more than 1 inch spacing between each strap. For manual transmissions, the bellhousing must be a commercially available steel bellhousing or the bell housing must be covered with a scatter blanket or shielded180 degrees from the top. (Minimum ¼ inch steel)
  3. No gray cast metal allowed in any flywheel or clutch components. All vehicles using a clutch will be required to have steel billet or aluminum billet flywheel with the following mechanical properties: (A) tensile strength of 60,000 PSI (B) yield strength of 40,000 PSI.
    1. Lenco type transmissions (excluding reverser) must be covered with a scatter blanket as described in this section #2.
    2. All vehicles using an automatic transmission must be equipped with a positive reverse- gear lockout.
    3. Bellhousing liners are very highly recommended.
    4. Clutch can liner thickness to be 1/8 inch 4130 moly. Liner is secured to the can by drilling and tapping a single ¼ inch hole through the bottom of the clutch can. If the liner does not fit, the liner length can be cut off to fit the depth of the can, so that the liner begins directly behind the starting ring gear (if one is used). It must extend the full length of the can until the back of the clutch begins to taper. If starter ring gear isnot used, can liner must then extend from block saver plate rearward to where the can taper begins. Stand adjustment slot in liner should be cut directly under slot in can.
    5. No lightning holes allowed on the transmission face of the bell housing, one cooling hole allowed, maximum 1 inch in diameter on the face of the bellhousing. Bellhousing may not be welded or repaired in the explosion area of the bellhousing.
    6. No chemical milling allowed.
    7. The inspection/maintenance hole (i/m hole) in the bellhousing shall not extend farther forward at its top edge than flush with the cross-shaft hole nor farther downward as its top edge than to allow one ½ inch bolt diameter edge distance for the fastening holes in both the bell housing and the i/m hole cover. The length of the i/m hole shall be no more than 8 ½ inch and the ends of the hole shall be smoothly and fully radiused to produce an oval shape.
    8. There shall be (12) 5/16 inch, grade 5 or better cap screws securing the cover to the bellhousing. The cover must have a plate or fillet that fits flush inside of the housing. The cover and fillet must be steel. The fillet must be welded to the cover and all bolts must be flush to the inside.
    9. There must be five bolts used to secure the transmission to the bellhousing with a 3/8 inch minimum diameter.
    10. All bellhousings must be flush on the inside surface.
    11. All engines with a bell housing and clutch will run a full block plate, either a commercially available unit, or minimum 3/16 inch steel or minimum ¼ inch aluminum with five 3/8 inch grade 5 bolts evenly spaced on the bottom of the bellhousing.
    12. Titanium approved for the bellhousing.

XI. General Rules - Mini Rod

  1. Engine Shielding
    1. A deflection shield extending the complete length of the block casting is required on both sides of the engine. Shielding must be a minimum of .060 inch steel or equivalent strength aluminum, and be securely fastened.
    2. Piston-powered aircraft, industrial, or military/commercial type marine engines must have a minimum of .120 inch thick side shields. This may be in one or two layers.
    3. Shields must be solid - engine mounts, filters, steering rods, fuel injection pumps,etc…, may not be used as shielding. Shielding may cover or pass behind starter or fuel pump.
    4. Solid frame rails with no holes may serve as part of or all of shield, provided that it covers the required area of block casting.
    5. Shielding on all V or Y type engines (including marine and aircraft) must extend from base of head or the uppermost part of the piston and travel to 2 inches below bottom center of crankshaft throw, and be securely fastened.
    6. Shielding on inline engines shall extend from the bottom of head (top of block) to 2 inches below bottom center throw of crankshaft.
    7. Side shields must be mounted independently of the engine block. Engine mount,block saver plate and header mounting or chassis mounting is acceptable.
    8. Engine fans must be completely shrouded with a minimum 1/16 inch (.060) steel or equivalent. Electric fans shall be excluded from this rule.
    9. For Mini Rod engines, a bolt in the crankshaft is required to hold damper pulley.
    10. Mini Rod diesels must utilize injection pump intended for that engine. Modifications may be made to the internal workings of the pump.
  2. Engine Mount
Engine/transmission combinations must have 2 front engine mounts and 1 rear transmission mount

  1. Brakes
    1. All competing vehicles must be equipped with working rear wheel brakes.
    2. All drivelines must have 3/8 inch steel, 360 degrees around brake components, and both ends must be closed with 1/8 inch steel or greater.
  1. Driveline
Driveline must be enclosed in minimum 5/16 inch steel or 3/8 inch aluminum, round, inside diameter not to exceed 2 inches more than the outside diameter of the larges tuniversal joint, fastened every 6 inches or closer, with 3/8 inch or larger (grade 5 ) bolts,or butt and seam welded, and securely mounted to vehicle’s frame. Applies to all MiniRods with exposed drive shaft. No more than ¼ inch of end of driveshaft shall be visiblewith driveline shielding in place.

NOTE: If U-joints are used in any driveshaft application, the shielding must be 5/16 inch steel or 3/8 inch aluminum with 1/8 inch steel insert in aluminum. The insert must be a minimum of 6 inches wide.

  1. Tow Hitch
    1. All vehicles are required to have a tow hitch on the front of their vehicles.
    2. The hitch can extend no more than 6 inches beyond the foremost portion of the vehicle.
    3. The tow hitch will not be included when measuring the length of the vehicle.
    4. The hitch must have a 2 ½ inch hole, preferably positioned horizontally and strong enough to push or pull the vehicle at its heaviest weight.

XII. Event Procedures

  1. Entry
    1. Registration will close 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to event start time.
    2. Drivers meeting will be held at least 15 minutes prior to event start time.
    3. Scratching from a class previous to its start shall constitute a refund of entry fee.
    4. Scratching from a class after it has begun shall not constitute a refund.
    5. Pulling positions will be determined by a random drawing at the time of contest entry.
  2. Vehicle Operations
    1. All vehicles must be operated in a safe manner at all time. Vehicles with only one seat will have only one occupant. This is to include tow and maintenance vehicles. Whenever vehicle is under its own power but not hooked to sled, speed shall be comparable to being towed. Before any vehicle is started at any time, a capable person must occupy the seat.
    2. Driver will remain in seat for duration of pull attempt.
    3. During active competition, driver will have at least one hand on the steering wheel.
    4. Flagman has the responsibility to stop any pull attempt considered unsafe.
  3. Clothing
    1. Drivers of all vehicles must wear DOT approved or SNELL rated helmets with chinstraps fastened. Eye protection is recommended.
    2. Drivers of all vehicles except for Stock and Stock Altered must wear drivers suits zipped and/or closed to their fullest extent. The driver suit may be one piece jumpsuit or two-piece type, but must show patch proving a minimum SF1 rating of 3-2A/1 or proof of equal protection.
    3. Fire resistant underwear, head sock, and gloves are not required for any class, however, this sanctioning body does recommend them for use with any non-Stock competition vehicle.
    4. Fire resistant driver’s shoe required to be worn while competing on any vehicle, which has a driver protection cage. It is recommended that they be used with any non-stock competition vehicle.
    5. Drivers of Stock and Stock Altered vehicles must wear a minimum of long pants, shirt and shoes/boots.
    6. If a driver of a Stock or Stock Altered vehicle is wearing a jacket, it must be closed.
  4. Weights/Weigh-in
    1. All vehicles must have stationary weight brackets. No weight in either seat or hook point. All weights must be secured to vehicle. Weights are not to extend more than 5 inches beyond the rear of the rear tire, nor shall they be positioned more than 8 fee tin front of the center of the rear axle.
    2. Weigh-in will occur before the pull is attempted. Vehicle must have all safety equipment in place; have sufficient fuel, oil and water if applicable and driver in the seat. No adding of fuel or weights unless reweighing. Weights may, however, be relocated without repercussion. No vehicle exceeding class weight will be allowed past scales. At the discretion of track officials, an allowance may be given for an imperfect scale; however, there will be no leniency on the accepted weight.
    3. Neither weights not weight brackets are to be used as bumpers.
    4. No air is to be changed in front tires without re-weighing.

XIII. Contest Operations

  1. General Rules
    1. The track will be 200 feet in length.
    2. If there is no barrier, distance from track to crowd will be a minimum of 25 feet, which is to include a 10 feet “no man’s land”.
-----------------------------------------------------------
CROWD
____________________________________________
15 feet wide
____________________________________________
10 feet wide “no man’s land”
____________________________________________
TRACK
-----------------------------------------------------------

    1. If there is a barrier, distance from barrier to crowd will be a minimum of 10 feet,which may include the required 10 feet “no man’s land”

-----------------------------------------------------------
CROWD
____________________________________________
BARRIER__X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X_X
10 FEET “NO MAN’S LAND”
____________________________________________
TRACK
-----------------------------------------------------------

    1. During active competition, the only personnel inside of “no man’s land”, “hot pit” and staging area shall be track officials, active competitor, and sled operator. ONLY active competitor’s pit crew and other properly credentialed people are allowed between “no man’s land”, “hot pit” and staging are and crowd.
    2.  A weight transfer sled, which conforms, to the rules set forth by the Sanctioning Bodywill be utilized in competition.
    3. Anyone assigned to an operation position shall remain on that duty for the entire class(i.e. flagman, measuring crew, sled operator, scale operator, etc…)
  1. Contest Procedures
    1. Contestants must pull in the position drawn. In case of mechanical breakage, which has been confirmed by an official, contestant may drop to last position. If breakage is not evident, puller may drop 6 positions- this will constitute the puller’s first attempt to pull and therefore will only have one remaining attempt to compete. From the moment that both track and sled are prepared for competition, the puller has 3 minutes to hook and make his/her attempt to pull.
    2. Each driver has the right to have the sled spotted to a particular location on the starting line. The driver or assigned crewmember is responsible to clearly request the location before the sled is returned to the starting line. In the case of a second attempt, a second location may be requested. Entire sled must be within the chalk lines at the start of pull attempt. No official pull may be started beyond the starting line or in back of the starting line. All sleds must be started in gear and with front of sled even with the starting line.
    3. Each competitor will be allowed two attempts to make a measurement pull. An attempt is defined as moving the sled 1 inch or further. On first attempt, if the competitor lets off the throttle before reaching the false start line, the competitor will get a second attempt, even if he/she went beyond the false start line. If no attempt is made to back off the throttle, and competitor is flagged before reaching the restart line, no second attempt will be granted. Intent is not to slam on the brakes in order to stop before the false start line (or any time), but come to a smooth safe stop.
      1. False start line for all classes is 75 feet.
    4. On any re-pull caused by contest malfunction, the competitor may either re-hook immediately or drop 6 positions.
    5. Competitor will be able to drop to last if breakage occurs on his/her first attempt andhe/she has let off the throttle previous to crossing the false start line. Puller will be eligible for 1 more attempt.
    6. Only the test puller and only on his/her test pull, will the competitor have the option of dropping an out of bounds disqualification. All other disqualifications will apply. On all subsequent attempts the disqualification will apply to him/her. Should the class be restarted, the competitor disqualified (during the course of competition) will be allowed to re-pull in position drawn.
    7. If a class is restarted, all competitors having previously pulled will, in descending order, have the option to drop to last but not forfeit any pull attempts. In the case of a restart, it is the competitor’s responsibility to alert the track officials of his/her decision.
    8. If the last competitor in the class has difficulties, this puller will have 6 minutes to hook to the sled and make their first attempt to pull.
    9. If a vehicle is legal when hooked to a sled and breakage occurs while under the green flag due to unforeseen circumstances, the pull will be measured with the exception of previously losing equipment, ballast, or liquid, or going out of bounds on the same pull attempt.
    10. With only the exception of local rules requiring the engine be not running, all vehicles must be in neutral/park while being hitched and unhitched to/from sled. During this time, the puller will show hands in clear view as proof of safety to “hooker”.
    11. All pulls are to start with a tight chain.
  2. Test Puller
    1. The competitor pulling in first position of each class, as determined by draw at time of entry is considered the test puller.
    2. Provided that the weight transfer is deemed right, the test puller may ( A ) accept their distance or ( B ) refuse their distance and immediately hook again for another potential two attempts or ( C ) refuse their distance and pull again in the sixth position.
NOTE: Sixth position is defined as the position immediately following the next 5 competitors and their attempts.

    1. If the test puller has mechanical problems during his/her test pull, (before first official pull), the track official may grant the competitor the option of dropping to sixth position or to last position. This would mean that the test puller has dropped his/her test pull and will have a potential of 2 upcoming attempts.
    2. It is the test puller’s responsibility to inform the finish flagman as to his/her decision to take or drop the test pull. Leaving the track without informing the official(s) ofhis/her decision, forces the assumption that the teat puller wishes to drop six positions.
  1. Pull-Off
    1. A “floating finish line” MAY be used at the discretion of the head official and the sled operator in a pull-off situation ONLY. The added distance shall be 10% maximum. Extended boundaries must be clearly marked. Competitors must be informed of floating finish line prior to the pull-off. This is an option and NOT required at any event.
    2. Order of pull-off will be in the order, which the vehicles made full pulls (or tied distances). This may or may not be in the order of the original lineup.
    3. In pull-off situations, the competitor does not have the option of dropping  six positions, with the only exception being: if the pull-off is not run on the same track,or with the same sled, or on the same day, or contest malfunction. A rain delay will constitute a judgment call on the part of the track official, in regards to the degree in which the track has changed.
NOTE: Because of the inability to drop six positions, the last puller must make his/her pull attempt within three minutes of the time that the track is ready, as opposed to having six minutes during the initial competition.

    1. If a pull-off is not completed because of rain, curfew, etc…, purse moneys and pointsfor the places involved will be divided evenly among all those qualified for the pull-off.
    2. In the case of a second pull-off, if all competitors qualified wish not to hook again, the points and purse for the places involved will be divided evenly.
    3. If there is a paying audience, and pullers eligible for a pull-off (who have no substantial proof of being broken), do not make and honest attempt to pull, he/she shall receive the same points as the top vehicle that did not qualify for the pull-off.
  1. Inclement Weather
    1. A session of pulling will be called a completed show if ½ of the sanctioned classes have been run.
    2. Any class canceled after 2/3 of the scheduled entries have pulled shall be considered a completed class for establishing if ½ of the classes of a session or event have run.
    3. Purse money will be paid to those classes that are completed according to the results for those who have hooked. Those who did not hook in the class will share any remaining purse equally. Purse money for classes that do not compete will be divided equally at the time of cancellation.
    4. If less than ½ of the session has been completed and the promoter does not refund the gate admission or honor rain checks, the promoter shall pay purse to those entered in the cancelled classes on the same formula described in rule #3 above.
    5. If less than ½ of the session has been completed and the promoter does refund gate admission or honors rain checks, purse will be paid in completed classes only. In classes where 2/3 of those entered have pulled, the purse shall be paid only to those who have hooked according to results. Those who did not hook will receive a refund of entry fees. For classes not started or not 2/3 completed, competitors shall receive a refund of paid entry fees.
    6. In any class in which all entered competitors do not get an official chance to compete,all competitors in that class, with the competition vehicle on grounds and ready to compete, will receive only inclement weather points (5 points to replace hook points).
    7. The head official, promoter and event director shall be the only involved parties in determining if and when an event shall be stopped because of inclement weather or track conditions. If the promoter/event manager is not readily available at the time the decision must be made - during the running of the event, the head official has the right to stop the event.
    8. If a rained out class is rescheduled on a date other than the originally scheduled pull dates, points will be given out accordingly.
    9. If a session is cancelled, no points will be given for that session.
    10. If a session is canceled prior to the start time and the promoter retains no ticket revenue, competitors will receive a refund of paid entry fees, but no other financial compensation.
    11. Any class not completed for any reason will be treated as a rained out class.

XIV. Causes for Disqualification

  1. Decisions of the event officials are final. Arguing with event officials can/will result in event disqualification or suspension. Upon second occurrence, membership can be revoked for one year from date of second occurrence.
NOTE: Sanctioning Body office will review each of these cases and dependent upon severity, may hand out fines and/or suspensions.

  1. Any competitor or any member of his/her crew found to be under the influence of an intoxicating agent, drug, or having a measurable blood alcohol content during contest activities shall be barred from any further involvement or participation in the event and may face suspension, fines or termination of license.
  2. Any competitor or crew member found in the staging area, competition area, or run-off area who is in possession of any intoxicating agent will be barred from any further involvement or participation in the event and may face suspension, fines or termination of license.
  3. Delays of contest will result in disqualification.
  4. Unsportsmanlike conduct will result in disqualification.
  5. Using edge of fender as a grasp point to obtain “leaning leverage” will result in disqualification. Sturdy handles may be installed for this purpose.
  6. Excessive loss of liquid on to the track by a pulling vehicle, either while hooked to the sled at the starting line and not moving, or while in a forward motion, and not due to internal breakage, may result in disqualification. Excessive is defined as any steady or intermittent stream discharge onto the track, or a spot equivalent to more than 8 inches in diameter.
  7. Depositing of any equipment onto the track during the course of competition (mechanica lbreakage excluded) will result in disqualification.
  8. During the course of competition, vehicle may not touch boundary lines or disqualification will result. Sled may go out of bounds and not result in disqualification.
  9. Any contestant attempting to leave under the red flag will be disqualified.
  10. Any loss of ballast weight during the course of competition will result in disqualification.
  11. Failure to have all safety equipment in place (including driver suit, helmet, etc…) will result in disqualification.
  12. Deliberate attempt to cause slack in the chain while under the green flag is reason for disqualification.
  13. Any practice utilizing competition vehicle, tow vehicle, or other event related equipment, before, during, or after the event, at the event site, which a Sanctioning Body official considers both deliberate and unsafe.
  14. Warning will be given for any and/or all infractions of the current rulebook. If infarction is not corrected by the next attended event, tractor will not be allowed to participate atthat event.
XV. Penalties

  1. If deemed necessary, a puller and/or vehicle may be placed on temporary suspension.Possible causes include, but are not limited to: arguing with event officials, fighting,alcohol or drug abuse during an event, illegal vehicle advantages, unsportsmanlike conduct, unsafe behavior, etc…
  2. Suspension can range from 1 to 5 pulls within a 350 mile range of puller’s home address.
XVI. Protest Procedures/Fees/Appeals

  1. Verbal protest must be made within 5 minutes after the end of the class in question. This must be followed by the formally written protest, which must be delivered to the entry clerk within 30 minutes. Forms are to be made available by the promoter or Sanctioning Body official.
  2. The protest must specifically identify the nature of the violation.
  3. The protested tractor can be pulled in other classes at that event before submitting to be checked.
  4. Tear down is by owner or owner’s mechanic. At the request of the owner of the vehicle in question, this process may be completed with the only witness being the owner, owner’s mechanic and the Sanctioning Body official.
  5. If protested driver will not submit to inspection, he/she will be considered illegal. An illegal vehicle must be proven legal before being allowed to compete again.
  6. A tear down protest deposit consists of a deposit of $100 for the first item, $50 for each additional item in question. This deposit shall be made at the time of the protest. Protest may be made by anyone competing in the same class as the vehicle in question.
  7. For each protested item found to be legal, the protester shall forfeit the corresponding deposit. If said engine is illegal, the owner will forfeit all winnings and entry fees of the day for all classes that the vehicle would be in violation. The deposit for all items proven illegal will be returned to the protester.
  8. The Sanctioning Body official shall decide the protest as promptly as possible and shall inform the parties to the protest decision.
  9. If either of the parties do not accept the decision of the Sanctioning Body official, the protest may be appealed (within 10 days of the official’s decision) to the Sanctioning Body office for a final decision.
  10. The purse of the involved portion of the event will be escrowed until a final determination has been made or the time period for filing an appeal has expired.
  11. A second sustained protest against either owner of driver within a 3 year time can resultin up to a 1 year suspension from time of second protest plus a loss of accumulated points.
  12. Protests must be addressed at the event in question. Even if the situation cannot be resolved on the spot, all relevant data (including photos if applicable) must be collected prior to the vehicle (or sled, etc…) in question leaving the event site.

XVII. Voluntary Compliance

EACH PARTICIPANT EXPRESSLY AGREES THAT BY ENTERING A SANCTIONINGBODY EVENT:

  1. The participant agrees to be bound by all of the decisions, rules and regulations of the Sanctioning Body including all procedures provided for in this rulebook, and by decision rules and regulations which are applicable to a particular event.
  2. The participant agrees to be bound by and abide by the decisions of the event manager,his/her designee and Sanctioning Body officials.
  3. The participant, by entering an event sanctioned by the Sanctioning Body, also agrees that all decisions made during or incident to an event are final and may not be appealed or made the basis of litigation and agree to release and waive from liability and agrees not to bring any action against the event manager, his/her designees, the Sanctioning Body,the owners of the pulling track, event sponsors, or event officials for any loss, damage, or injury caused by decisions erroneous or otherwise, or decisions based on malfunctioning electronic or mechanical equipment, whether due to negligence or otherwise.
  4. The participant further agrees that any disputes concerning any event shall be resolved pursuant to the procedures provided for in this rulebook.
  5. The participant agrees to indemnify and to hold the Sanctioning Body harmless for any costs incurred by the Sanctioning Body as a result of the failure of the participant to comply with the procedures and postscriptions provided for herein.

XVIII. Sled Requirements

  1. The sled must be operated by a person who is in a permanently-mounted, secure seat. All controls must be within easy reach of operator.
  2. The sled must be fashioned with a snag resistant device which allows the operator to pull a competing vehicle’s kill switch (in the middle of a run) if need be.
  3. The sled must be equipped with properly functioning, adequate wheel brakes, able to stop the most powerful pulling vehicle that the sled may face without the assistance of the box moving forward.
  4. The sled must be equipped with a properly functioning weight box brake adequate for the maximum weight that will be put into that box.
  5. The sled must have a clutch or similar device, which will not allow the box to be moved forward beyond the stop point.
  6. The sled must be equipped with a windshield in front of the operator.
  7. The sled must have a single 3/8 inch (or greater) grade 7 (or greater), chain with a swivel on the hook end. Chainto be 36 inches (+ or - ½ inch) long, including hook.
  8. The sled must have steer chains from pan and buckboard to pull chain, 9 inches (+ or - ½ inch), on each side of pan draw bar. Steer chains to tie into main pull chain 13 ½ inches to 14 ½ inches ahead of first pivot point. These 5/16 inch, grade 7 (or greater) chains are to be securely clamped or bolted to main chain (do not weld together). Steer chains should pull taut when competition vehicle has veered approximately 30 degrees from “in-line” relation to the sled.
  9. The sled must have a green “GO” light easily visible to the track officials.
  10. The sled must have a red “STOP” light easily visible to the track officials.
  11. The sled must have a white or amber “BRAKES APPLIED” light easily visible to track officials.
  12. The sled must be equipped with a buckboard not less than 24 inches high.
  13. Must be equipped with 1 fire extinguisher on each side of the sled.
  14. All weights must be secured in the weight box.
  15. Box must be secured to both frame rails and have 2 sets of stops at top of frame rails.
  16. Skidpan may use friction bars on rear half of pan only.
  17. Sled must be capable of transferring 400%-500% of class weight.

XIX. Additional Rules

Host club/state may enforce specific rules which are more strict than those included in this rulebook. Those rules may center on: fuel limitations, helmet rating, additional fireprotective clothing, additional shielding, increased size of fire extinguisher or seat belts.

XX. Warranty Disclaimer

The rules promulgated in the current Rule Book are intended as guidelines for the sport of garden tractor pulling, and the rules relating to the safety of equipment is the responsibilityof each driver who participates in the sport of garden tractor pulling under these rules. No expressed or implied warranty of safety is intended nor may be inferred from publication of these rules, or the compliance therewith. Nothing herein should be construed as a guarantee against injury or death to participants, bystanders or spectators. Specifications and rules set forth in the 2008/2009 rule book are based upon the recommendations of competing members, crewmen, and other participants in the sport of garden tractor pulling.All participants in a Sanctioning Body (or member state association) sanctioned event must assume all liability for any damage or loss caused by or from their equipment or the  use there of..

The Sanctioning Body specifically states that it has not tested any equipment or use of equipment that it refers to in the current rule book and makes no warranties either specific or implied with regard to or any use thereof. The user must look to the manufacturer with regard to said warranties.