Page 3 - Combined_143_OCR

H. P. Bruns - 3 - January 13, 1970

b. Communication System

The pit to driver radio system was installed in Bobby Allison’s
race car late Saturday prior to race day. The helmet, prepared for Glotzbach, was
used by Allison but was not comfortable. Allison used the radio during the race and
his pit crew chief Mario was able to keep Allison apprised of his status, etc., during
the race. Allison stated his reception was excellent and he had no problems hearing
Mario. Reception at the pit radio was not clear however, and Allison had to speak
slowly and clearly to be understood, Helmet fit was thought to be the major problem
since helmet mounted ballistic microphones must be in complete contact with wearer
and properly shielded from acoustic environment. Allison praised the radio benefits
and complained only about helmet fit and lack of time to practice with helmet and radio.

The system was installed in the Daytona test car for Riverside
and the same helmet used by Issac (whom it fit much better) and by Sam Posey. Issac
immediately saw benefits from the radio and wanted it in his car for the race. Mr.
Rathgeb decided however to put the radio in Dan Gurney’s car for the riverside race.
Gurney had stated a preference for it, therefore, a helmet was borrowed from Gurney
to begin modifications to accept the microphone and speakers. A Bell helmet repre­
sentative was contacted concerning eventual helmet shaping to accommodate electronics
safely. The Bell representative indicated a possible desire to work with Chrysler to
develop a marketable helmet radio combination for all types of racers.

III. Mobile Control Center

The Mobile Control Center was driven to College Station early race week
2 December, and provided shelter, office and work area for engineering and technicians
during pre-race activities.

The race (Texas 500) was scored and the only problem arose when one car
failed to complete his first lap and a lap was added manually which somewhat confused
the first computer printouts but did not affect car positions. This problem disappeared
when the car started running and the remainder of the race scoring ran smoothly. The
problem has since been corrected in the computer program and operation.

NASCAR and AM radio broadcasts were simultaneously recorded on the
Ampex tape recorder for permanent race records.

Following the race the Mobile Control Center was driven to California for
use during Riverside tests and for the 500 mile race in January.

The Center was parked at Keith Blacks between events.