Frequently Asked Questions

Q – Why a Ford Focus midget instead or a "normal" midget?
A – The Ford Focus midget series makes every attempt to be "cost controlled". Engines are sealed so that no internal work or costly performance enhancing parts can be added. Competitors are discouraged from using exotic materials and components such as titanium and carbon fiber..

Q – How much is an engine?
A – In the western United States the motors are purchased from Keith Iaia at SCREAM. The motor is $8995.00 and comes complete with the injection system, fuel pump, power steering drive and belts (no pump), engine plate, ignition system, starter clutch assembly, driveline yoke and stainless steel headers and muffler from Billy Boat.

Q – How reliable are the engines?
A – The typical Focus engine produces optimal performance at around 7200rpm. As long as proper fuel and temperature ranges are observed, most competitors are putting 50-60 races on the engine with excellent results. A low cost engine exchange program is utilized when the engine is ready for a rebuild.

Q – Is the car a "special" midget?
A – No. Most standard "combo cars" will work fine. Throughout the series there are also pavement specialty cars participating. The main consideration is that the car must be manufactured so that the center of the rear end is between 33" and 35" from the edge of the motor plate supplied by SCREAM.

Q – Where will the races take place?
A – The Utah Ford Focus Series will stage "exhibition" events at Rocky Mountain Raceways during the 2006 season. There is a possibility of 1-2 other events and some competitors may race at other events throughout the country. In 2007 we anticipate a full season of events at RMR along with 2-4 additional events at other area tracks on both dirt and pavement.

Q – Is a USAC license required?
A – To race in the Utah Ford Focus Series in 2006 a license is not required. A USAC license is required in other regions and will be required in Utah in 2007. The 2006 cost for a Driver/Owner is $325

Q – Where else are the Focus midgets raced?
A – In 2005 there were series in New England, Carolina, Midwest (Indiana), Oklahoma, Northwest, California (dirt) and California (pavement). For 2006 there have been 2 developmental series announced: Mid Atlantic (Pennsylvania) and Florida. Each of the development series is expected to become a full USAC Regional Series in 2007. The Focus series is the fastest growing open wheel series in North America.

Q – How expensive is a Focus midget?
A – New cars can be purchased from $20,000 to $45,000 based upon materials and options. Excellent quality used cars can be purchased for as little as $12,000 and entire operations (extra tires, wheels, gears, shocks, springs, torsion bars, etc) can be purchased for as little as $14,000.

Q – How much maintenance is required?
A – The Focus motor is a "sealed" motor, so the only maintenance is fluid changes, fuel system cleaning and routine checks of hoses and bolts on the engine. Normal race maintenance on the chassis and driveline is recommended.

Q – Is the Focus program associated with the SLVRA?
A – Yes. The Focus owners have chosen to form a relationship with USAC. USAC is the sanctioning organization for the SLVRA Young Automotive Sprint Car Series. Local USAC officials provide stewardship for the SLVRA and the Ford Focus Series. The two groups are closely aligned and will provide common officiating and support. Purses and awards for each division will be maintained separate. A member of the Focus owner/driver group will be chosen to represent the Focus group and be a voting member of the SLVRA Board of Directors under the guidance of USAC..

Q – Will all Focus races be associated with USAC?
A – While Focus owners are free to race with any organization or at any track, locally all races will be with USAC.

Q – What kind of purse is paid?
A – USAC has a minimum purse of $2880 based upon a 20 car count at all Focus races. This purse will be based upon both car count and the ability of the organizers to secure race and season series sponsorships.

Q – How many cars are currently in existence?
A – Nationally there are over 200 Ford Focus midget racing engines in the hands of owners. In the Utah area, as of July 1, 2006 there are 6 complete cars, 2 nearly completed cars and 3 other cars that are under construction or have deposits placed. We also expect some out of state competitors at times.

Q – Is there a tire rule?
A – Yes. A "spec" tire is used on the left and right rear for both pavement and dirt. The spec tires are available only to USAC Ford Focus series participants from a Hoosier Tire dealer. The spec tire is stamped with a special Focus plating for inspection. The right rear tire used to qualify must be used to the start the main event, or the car is forced to the rear of the field. Standard Hoosier 13" midget front tires are used. The suggested retail tire price is: $129 for front tires, $89 for left rear tires and $99 for right rear tires.