Reutimann finishes 40th in Talladega after engine expires

David Reutimann and the No. 83 Burger King / Dr Pepper Toyota Camry team finished 40th at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway on Sunday afternoon.  With a fast racecar, Reutimann spent most of the afternoon competing inside the top 25; however, his engine expired on lap 119 after losing water pressure and overheating. 

 

With solid practice speeds, Reutimann was able to roll off 25th for the Camping World RV Sales 500 despite qualifying being rained out.  Immediately off the green flag, Reutimann began maneuvering around the racetrack to find the fastest line around the 2.66-mile oval.  With a car that was handling well, the No. 83 Burger King / Dr Pepper team continued normal service to their car with fuel and tires throughout the opening 100 laps.  Running in the 18th position on lap 110, Reutimann was patiently awaiting the right time to charge through the field when the water pressure fell in his Toyota Camry.  The loss of water quickly caused the motor to lose power, overheat and expire, bringing an early end to the race for Reutimann and his BK Racing team.  By the time the checkered flag waved, the No. 83 Burger King / Dr Pepper Toyota Camry was scored in the 40th position. 

 

“Today’s race was really disappointing for our No. 83 Burger King / Dr Pepper Toyota Camry team,” commented Reutimann.  “We had a great car and if we were able to race all the way to the finish line, I think we could’ve raced our way to a top-20 finish.  We aren’t entirely sure what caused the loss of water in the engine, so we will take the car back to the shop to investigate and diagnose the problem.  The great thing about my BK Racing team is that they never give up.  Even after days like today, they want to find out what went wrong so we’re sure it doesn’t happen again and that we continue to get better week after week.”

 

BK Racing PR