Unleashing Performance & Power in Super Late Model Dirt Racing
Episode #554 of EPARTRADE’s Race Industry Now weekly webinar series brought dirt racing fans and industry insiders an exclusive look into the art and science of power in Super Late Model dirt racing. The session, titled “Unleashing Performance & Power in Super Late Model Dirt Racing,” featured Jay Dickens, Owner of Jay Dickens Racing Engines, and Rick Eckert, Owner/Driver of Rick Eckert Racing, with Joe Castello of WFO Radio serving as host.
From Passion to Performance: Jay Dickens’ Journey
Jay Dickens shared his path into engine building, beginning with motorcycles at a young age before graduating to cars and racing engines under the mentorship of Bobby Brown, a well-respected builder who worked with legends such as Davey Allison and Bobby Allison. Dickens highlighted how early exposure to the track and the right mentor shaped his career and fueled his passion.
Now based in Aberdeen, Mississippi, Dickens has spent over three decades building engines for championship-winning dirt late model teams. He stressed the importance of not just horsepower, but versatility—tuning engines to adapt as track conditions evolve throughout a race night. “You can use 500 cubic inches early in the night, but the trick is being versatile when the track slicks off,” Dickens explained.
The Racer’s Perspective: Rick Eckert
Hailing from York, Pennsylvania, veteran driver Rick Eckert recounted how his racing career was influenced by his father’s involvement in the sport. From humble beginnings in figure-eight cars to a long professional career with top teams, Eckert has now taken on the challenge of running his own team.
So far in 2024, Eckert has earned five feature wins, multiple podium finishes, and continues to battle head-to-head with national-level teams. He offered fans a detailed look at dirt late model racing specs: cars weigh around 2,350 pounds, run small-block V8 engines producing 800+ horsepower, and utilize unique four-link rear suspension systems that dramatically change chassis dynamics for traction.
Eckert praised Dickens’ engines for their durability and drivability, particularly in conditions that swing from tacky surfaces demanding maximum horsepower to slick tracks where throttle control is everything. “Jay always figures it out and gets me what I need,” said Eckert.
The Builder–Driver Relationship
A recurring theme of the webinar was the importance of trust and communication between driver and builder. Dickens noted that Eckert is among the best customers he’s ever worked with—meticulous in caring for his equipment and proactive in feedback. “When Rick’s engines come back for rebuilds, they look as good as when they left the shop,” Dickens said.
That synergy has translated into race wins and consistency, the ultimate test of performance in the ultra-competitive dirt late model world.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, Eckert continues to chase wins and regional success, while Dickens remains at the cutting edge of dirt late model engine technology. Together, they exemplify the powerful blend of engineering and driving talent that defines grassroots and professional dirt racing alike.
For more information, watch the full webinar here.
