NASCAR is one of the most popular and thrilling motorsports in the world, attracting millions of fans and generating billions of dollars in revenue.
But behind every successful driver, there is a team of skilled and dedicated pit crew members who work tirelessly to ensure the car is in optimal condition and ready for any challenge on the track.
How much do these pit crew members make for their hard work and expertise?
In this article, we will explore the salaries, roles, and requirements of NASCAR pit crew members in 2021.
What are the roles of NASCAR pit crew members?
A NASCAR pit crew consists of up to eight members, each with a specific role and responsibility.
However, only five members are allowed over the wall during a pit stop, which usually lasts between 12 to 16 seconds.
The five over-the-wall positions are:
Jackman
The jackman is responsible for lifting the car with a 22-pound jack so that the tire changers can remove and replace the tires.
The jackman also helps the rear tire changer with the tire swap and lowers the car when the pit stop is complete.
Tire changer
There are two tire changers, one for the front tires and one for the rear tires.
They use air wrenches to remove and fasten the lug nuts on each tire.
Both also have to adjust the air pressure in the tires according to the driver’s preference and track conditions.
Tire carrier
The tire carrier carries the new tires from the pit wall to the tire changers and places them on the wheel studs. The tire carrier also assists the front tire changer with the tire swap and applies tape to the grill if needed.
Gasman
The car’s fuel tank was refilled using an 80-pound gas can that holds 18 gallons of fuel.
To accomplish this, the gasman aligned the gas can with the fuel filler valve and engaged the dry-break system.
In case no fuel was required, the gasman could help the rear tire changer.
Utility man
The utility man is an optional position that is only allowed over the wall during the second half of a race.
The utility man can perform various tasks such as handing water or tools to the driver, cleaning the windshield, pulling fenders, or adjusting wedge bolts.
In addition to these five positions, there are also three other members who stay behind the wall during a pit stop.
They are:
- Crew chief: The crew chief is the leader of the team who oversees all aspects of the car’s performance and strategy. The crew chief communicates with the driver and makes decisions on when to pit, how much fuel to add, what adjustments to make, and what tires to use.
- Spotter: The spotter is located high above the track and acts as the eyes and ears of the driver. The spotter warns the driver of any potential hazards, traffic, or debris on the track. The spotter also guides the driver into and out of the pit stall and helps with drafting and passing strategies.
- Engineer: The engineer is responsible for analyzing data and providing technical feedback to the crew chief and driver. The engineer monitors various aspects of the car’s performance such as speed, lap times, fuel mileage, aerodynamics, suspension, and engine.
How much do NASCAR pit crew members make?
The salaries of NASCAR pit crew members vary depending on their experience, skills, roles, and teams.
According to various sources, here are some average figures for different positions:
- Crew chief: $10,000 per race plus bonuses (up to $1 million per year)
- Jackman: $3,000 per race plus bonuses (up to $150,000 per year)
- Tire changer: $1,500 per race plus bonuses (up to $100,000 per year)
- Tire carrier: $1,500 per race plus bonuses (up to $100,000 per year)
- Gasman: $3,000 per race plus bonuses (up to $150,000 per year)
- Utility man: $500 per race plus bonuses (up to $30,000 per year)
- Spotter: $2,500 per race plus bonuses (up to $120,000 per year)
- Engineer: $5,000 per race plus bonuses (up to $250,000 per year)
These figures do not include other benefits such as:
- health insurance
- retirement plans
- travel expenses
- bonuses for winning races or championships.
Some teams may also offer incentives for performance or loyalty.
What are the requirements to become a NASCAR pit crew member?
To become a NASCAR pit crew member, you need to have a combination of mechanical skills, athletic ability, teamwork skills, and passion for racing.
You also need to be able to work under pressure, handle stress, and adapt to changing situations.
There are several ways to get into NASCAR as a pit crew member. Some common paths are:
- Enrolling in a specialized training program such as the NASCAR Technical Institute, the Pit Crew U, or the Performance Instruction and Training. These programs offer courses in automotive technology, pit stop techniques, physical fitness, and career development.
- Applying for the NASCAR Drive for Diversity Pit Crew Development Program, which is designed to recruit, train, and place women and people of color in NASCAR pit crews. The program offers scholarships, mentoring, and opportunities to work with professional teams.
- Working your way up from lower levels of racing such as local tracks, late models, or touring series. You can gain experience and exposure by volunteering or working for smaller teams and building your reputation and network.
- Having a background in other sports such as football, basketball, baseball, or wrestling. Many NASCAR pit crew members are former college or professional athletes who have the strength, speed, agility, and coordination required for the job.
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Conclusion
NASCAR pit crew members are essential for the success of any driver and team.
They perform complex and demanding tasks in a matter of seconds to keep the car running smoothly and competitively.
They also earn respectable salaries and enjoy the thrill of being part of one of the most popular and exciting sports in the world.
To become a NASCAR pit crew member, you need to have the right skills, training, experience, and passion for racing.
Table of Facts about How much do NASCAR pit crews make?
| Role | Salary Range | Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanic | $45,000 – $65,000. | N/A |
| Tire Changer/Carrier | $80,000 – $100,000. | $300 per win. |
| Jackman/Fuelman | $80,000 – $100,000. | $500 per win. |
| Spotter | $80,000 – $100,000. | $500 per win. |
| Utilityman | $80,000 – $100,000. | N/A |
| Crew Chief | $200,000 – $1,000,000. | Varies by team and performance. |
