by Jeff Hammond

Updated: March 27, 2005, 4:59 PM EST

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Jeff Hammond: Dodge is concerned about it, and they've had some conversations with NASCAR. But Dodge designed the nose and presented it to NASCAR in a certain form. If NASCAR allows a change, the benefits of cooling the engine block can't also give teams another benefit with downforce or drag.

I think NASCAR will be a little reluctant to make any changes as long as Chargers run tape on the nose. If Dodge went to NASCAR and said, "Hey guys, we're overheating, and we need a little tweak", NASCAR might be more willing to make a change if there's no tape covering the opening. But more than likely, I think that NASCAR would say, "You should have thought about that ahead of time." As long as teams can open up that front end and add more air to the engine, it's going to be hard for NASCAR to give Dodge much leeway.

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FOX race analyst Jeff Hammond led Darrell Waltrip to two of DW's three Winston Cup championships as his crew chief. They also teamed to win the 1989 Daytona 500.

For autographed copies of Jeff Hammond's new book "Real Men Work in the Pits" plus magnets, hats and more, check out www.dwstore.com.

For photos and appearances, visit Jeff's web site www.jeffhammond.com.