Month: August 2017

Throwback Thursday-Darrell Gwynn-1987

Darrell Gwynn’s 1987 disasterous attempt to recreate Swamp Rat 30

The Budweiser red looks good, I’m not a huge fan of the white front design they used here, but they fixed in by 1992. The old QUAKER STATE logo looks decent, but I hate the shade of green they used. It almost looks like the current shade of green, if it had faded in the sun. It’s really bland. I’ll give the paint scheme a B- The car design looks OK, but the covered wheels don’t look good, and the lack of mud flaps doesn’t help the streamlined look. It’s good the streamline concept died shortly thereafter.

My Thoughts on The Troy Coughlin Situation

By David G. Firestone

I’m going to be a little lazy this week. I normally would work on the Tracker and grades over the weekend, but this last weekend was a little bit different. On Saturday, I had a cookout to celebrate my 35th birthday. I had friends and family come over, and we had a great time. On Sunday, I went to the Armenian Festival in Downtown Evanston with a buddy who was visiting from California. Since I was so busy, I never got around, so the Tracker and grades will run next week.

I also wanted to discuss something that happened over the weekend. The NHRA Chevrolet Performance U.S. Nationals is taking place this weekend. After the event, the Countdown To The Championship starts, and the top 10 in points will get locked in. At the time of this writing, Troy Coughlin Jr. is 10th in points in Top Fuel. On Saturday, Troy left Kalitta Motorsports, “citing a desire to get more experience in the Top Alcohol Dragster ranks” according to the NHRA’s website.

The timing of this decision could not have been worse. Leaving the team when you are seated 10th in points before the cutoff is shocking. However, the team has signed Richie Crampton to replace Coughlin, so they have upgraded in that respect, and Shawn Langdon, another Kalitta Motorsports driver is 11th in points, so he will certainly make the Countdown. So the damage isn’t as bad as it could be.

I found it a little odd that Coughlin was signed from Pro Mod to Top Fuel. Coughlin’s a good driver, but he didn’t take to the class well at all. He was complaining about a lack of seat time during his early runs. He certainly wasn’t going to be a contender right out of the gate, which is something you want in a driver. He also wasn’t going to win Rookie of the Year, that is certainly going to Tanner Gray. This whole thing just wasn’t well thought out.

Why Coughlin didn’t race in Top Alcohol Dragster is odd, given that he could have run a few events just to get some seat time to learn how different a dragster is from a doorslammer. Why this didn’t happen is mystifying. There are a number of questions that don’t have answers. For now, I’m going to consider the Coughlin experiment a failure.

Paint Scheme Grades-August 26, 2017

By David G. Firestone.

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Outdoor Chevy SS-The slight changes did nothing to help the overall scheme. C

Trevor Bayne #6 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion-The stars have been removed, and the car has a cleaner look as a result. It’s a great improvement. A-

JJ Yeley #7 Zombie Auto Chevy SS-A great scheme, it has a smooth look, and a great color scheme, and that will always earn an A.

Danica Patrick #10 Ford Throwback Ford Fusion-In honor of Robert Yates being inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Danica is racing one of Ford’s best paint schemes of all time, and it should make a permanent return as a scheme. A

Denny Hamlin #11 Sport Clips Throwback Toyota Camry– Ray Hendrick had a great look, and this great scheme looks great, and I can’t give it less than an A.

Reed Sorenson #15 Low T Center Chevy SS-Sometimes changing the primary color can help a scheme, but here, it doesn’t help at all. It’s not a good change, and it’s not a good lock at all. F

Daniel Suarez #19 Irwin Tools/Lennox Toyota Camry-The fade looks good, and the color scheme works well too. It’s a great look, and great looks earn an A.

Kyle Larson #42 Huggies Chevy SS-Same scheme as last year, same D+ grade.

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Throwback Chevy SS-Basing a paint scheme on an old truck seems odd, but this scheme makes it work. The colors are great, and the design works well. I like this, and it earns an A.

BJ McLeod #51 Nex Transport/Spoonful Music Chevy SS-Nice look, and it has a great color scheme. A

Derrike Cope #55 La Colombe Draft Latte Chevy SS-Same scheme as last year, same A grade.

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops/Ducks Unlimited Toyota Camry-I didn’t think that the Truex Bass Pro Shops scheme could get any worse…and then I saw this scheme. While the orange is logical with a hunting shop, replacing it with a lime green to purple fade is horrific. I wish I could give this something worse than an F, but sadly, I can’t.

Corey LaJoie #83 HMS Motorsports Toyota Camry-If the curves were toned down a lot, it could work. More stripes don’t always mean a better look. There are too many stripes, and the car just looks over designed. It’s design for the sake of design, and it gets an F.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta/Ducks Unlimited Chevy SS-Camoflauge doesn’t work on the sides of race cars. The black and the design based on Front Row, which is already an iffy template do nothing to help this scheme. F

Michael McDowell #95 Race Wipes Chevy SS-If the blue was darker, only one shade was used, and the green was removed, it could be a better look. Still, it’s not bad, and I’ll give it a C-.

All Eyes on Flushing…and the US Open

By David G. Firestone

Going off topic again this week. I’m not the biggest fan of tennis. I don’t understand a lot of the rules, and I don’t understand the scoring system, even though I took a class on it in high school. That said, tennis has a huge fan base. Naturally, the tennis memorabilia market is ripe, but unlike most other sports, until recently, The ATP was slower to wake than most other leagues. Now that the ATP is embracing the memorabilia market, the match-used market has a lot to offer.

This weekend marks the start of the second oldest of the Grand Slam tournaments, the US Open dates back to 1881, at the Newport Casino, in Newport, Rhode Island. In 1915, it was moved to the West Side Tennis Club at Forest Hills, New York, where it was held until 1977, when the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center was opened in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park in Queens, New York City, where it is played to this day.

The tournament has had some legendary winners, including on the women’s side, Margaret Court, Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Serena Williams, and Venus Williams. On the men’s side, you have Richard Sears, Arthur Ashe, Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal,and Novak Djokovic. There have also been 19 players who went on to earn the Grand Slam. Tennis balls have been yellow since 1972, due to being more visible on television, than the previous white design. I have some Ace Authentic US Open match-used tennis balls.

These examples are from 2007, are in baseball cubes, and have Ace Authentic hologram stickers with 2007 US OPEN MATCH-USED BALL printed on the sticker. This example is from the 2008 US Open, and this one was used by Novak Djokovic. It has 2007 US OPEN MATCH-USED BALL NOVAK DJOKOVIC printed on the Ace Authentic sticker.Like many other sports, tennis uses a coin toss to determine who serves and who receives. From at least 2008 to 2013, the US Open used Highland Mint made flip coins. Like other flip coins, these were custom designed for the occasion. I have a couple of match-used coins from the 2013 Tournament.

The Men’s Doubles saw Leander Paes and Radek Štěpánek defeat Alexander Peya and Bruno Soares in the Finals. On the way to the finals, Alexander Peya and Bruno Soares defeated Ivan Dodig and Marcelo Melo at Louis Armstrong Stadium 7–5, 6–4 on September 5, 2013. This coin was used for the coin toss. This Highland Mint made coin was authenticated by MeiGray, which the US Open used from 2012 to 2015 for their memorabilia. It comes with a full Letter of Authenticity, and MeiGray hologram, in a MeiGray folder. The Women’s Doubles saw Andrea Hlaváčková and Lucie Hradecká defeat Ashleigh Barty and Casey Dellacqua on September 7 6–7(4–7), 6–1, 6–4 . To get there, Andrea Hlaváčková and Lucie Hradecká had to beat Sania Mirza and China Zheng Jie in the Women’s Doubles Semifinals on September 5 6–2, 6–2. The day before, Mirza and Zheng Jie defeated Hsieh Su-wei and China Peng Shuai 6–4, 7–6(7–5) in the Quarter Finals at Louis Armstrong Stadium. This Highland Mint Coin, #18 was used for the coin toss. This Highland Mint made coin was authenticated by MeiGray. It comes with a full Letter of Authenticity, and MeiGray hologram, in a MeiGray folder. The Highland Mint made US Open Coins for retail. These are numbered higher than match-used coins, and the Match-Used coins have .999 FINE SILVER stamped into the side, near the serial number, whereas the retail coins do not.For the next 14 days, the tennis world will be focused on New York City and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center will be its busiest as the best tennis players from around the world compete in one of the most respected tennis tournaments and try to win the U.S. National Championship trophy, one of the most coveted in tennis. Who the winners will be will be known on September 10.

Next week, I will discuss a pair of IndyCar boots.

Throwback Thursday-Gary Ormsby-1986

Gary Ormsby races his streamlined 1986 Castrol dragster

Castrol has a very good shade of green and a very good shade of red in their logo, and both are on display with this dragster. I like the idea of the green stripe up the side interrupted by a white background with CASTROL GTX in green and red letters. This would be the design that they used when they started sponsoring John Force. It’s an A scheme. I don’t like this version of a streamlined dragster. It looks forced, and it looks like there is no way enough air can get in the supercharger. The large wheels look clunky, and would create drag. It’s just not a good car, and I’m glad it bit the dust.

Paint Scheme Tracker-August 23, 2017

By David G. Firestone

CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #1

Jamie McMurray #1 GearWrench Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black, with yellow, and red stripes across bottom. A

Jamie McMurray #1 Cessna Chevy SS–No change. B+

Jamie McMurray #1 Cessna/McDonald’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, blue front, red rear, stripes between. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Chevy SS–No change. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Grand Mac Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black, with green front and cutting edge design. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s/Cessna Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Cessna/McDonald’s, but with colors reversed. A

Jamie McMurray #1 Credit One/Cessna Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as McDonald’s/Cessna but white replaces red. A

Jamie McMurray #1 Sherwin Williams/3M Pro Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Sherwin Williams but with diamond pattern on the rear. C-

Jamie McMurray #1 Bass Pro Shops/National Wild Turkey Federation Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, slight redesign, rounded camo has been replaced with orange stripes. F

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s $1 Any Size Soft Drink Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as McDonald’s, but with $1 Any Size Soft Drink on hood. A

Jamie McMurray #1 McDonald’s Signature Crafted Recipes Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as McDonald’s, but with Signature Crafted Recipes on hood. A

Jamie McMurray #1 General Hydroponics/Cessna Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Cessna, but with General Hydroponics on hood. B+

TEAM PENSKE #2

Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Lite Ford Fusion–No Change A

Brad Keselowski #2 Alliance Truck Parts Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Wurth Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Auto Trader Ford Fusion–No Change D-

Brad Keselowski #2 SKF Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Genuine Draft Ford Fusion–Throwback scheme that ran from 1990-1996. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Detroit Genuine Parts Ford Fusion–No change. C-

Brad Keselowski #2 Fitzgerald Glider Kits Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Yellowish-green with black Penske template. D

Brad Keselowski #2 Elite Support/Freightliner Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Penske template with silver front, blue rear. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Miller Lite Patriotic Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with American flag motif on middle of car. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Freightliner Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Penske template with silver front and blue rear. A

Brad Keselowski #2 Wurth Ford Fusion–No change. A

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #3

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, black front, with red designs near wheel well, white fade across quarter panels. A-

Austin Dillon #3 AAA Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but with a few minor stripe changes. D+

Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but many of the stripes have been removed. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/Quikrete Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Dow but with Quikrete on quarter panels. A-

Austin Dillon #3 Lucas Oil Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, similar to 2016 Dow, but with Lucas Oil on quarter panels, and the black stripe is curved. B+

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/World Water Day Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black front, water motif with a curve in front of the door number. D-

Austin Dillon #3 Okuma Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as AAA, but with a black, white, and blue color scheme. D+

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Energy and Water Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, black with curve motive, blue water motif inside curve. C

Austin Dillon #3 New Era Cap Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white hood and roof, large New Era Cap logos on sides. B+

Austin Dillon #3 Intellifresh Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Dow Energy and Water. C

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, American Flag and wood motif across whole car. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, silver with blue star motif across hood, stars and stripes patterns on sides. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/Kilz Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Dow but with Kilz on sides. A-

Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, faded glory American flag motif across whole car. A

Austin Dillon #3 American Ethanol Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Earnhardt’s Wranger scheme. A

Austin Dillon #3 Dow/Molykote Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same color scheme, wave design with gear motif. C

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Automotive Magma Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black and red carbon fiber motif. A

STEWART-HAAS RACING #4

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, all blue with more detail in the mountains. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Jimmy John’s Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Light Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as 2017 Busch, but with Busch Light on quarter panel. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Bucks Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, green cash motif, Busch logos on sides, Busch Bucks logo on hood. B+

Kevin Harvick #4 Mobil 1 Annual Protection Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as #41. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Mobil 1 Annual Protection, but red replaces gold. A

Kevin Harvick #4 Busch Outdoor Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, some slight changes to the can design. C

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #5

Kasey Kahne #5 Farmers Insurance Chevy SS–No Change. C+

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips Chevy SS–No Change. D+

Kasey Kahne #5 Liftmaster Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, silver, with black door, and red stripes. A

Kasey Kahne #5 UniFrst Chevy SS–No Change. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Drive To End Hunger Chevy SS–No change. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Mountain Dew Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with green and yellow jagged stripe on sides. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Liftmaster Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, white replaces silver. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on the first scheme Hendrick Motorsports raced in 1984. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Microsoft Windows Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, all blue with subtle designs on sides. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Great Clips/Shark Week Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, dark blue with teal shark outline on bottom and shark teeth on front. A

Kasey Kahne #5 Rated Red Road To Race Day Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black front and rear, with red center. A

ROUSH-FENWAY RACING #6

Trevor Bayne #6 Liberty National Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue with silver and white across sides, white roof. B-

Trevor Bayne #6 Performance Plus Motor Oil Ford Fusion–Except for the change from 16 to 6, no change. B-

Trevor Bayne #6 Advocare Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with multi-colored checkerboard pattern on bottom. A

Trevor Bayne #6 Roush Performance Ford Fusion–Aside from changing from 16 to 6, no change. A

Trevor Bayne #6 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, similar to 2016 #17, but with patriotic motif replacing old design. B+

Trevor Bayne #6 Roush Performance/Hines Park Ford Fusion-New scheme f0r 2017, same as Roush Performance, but with Hines Park on the hood. A

Trevor Bayne #6 Ford Eco-Boost Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as patriotic, but stars have been removed. A-

TOMMY BALDWIN RACING #7

Elliott Sadler #7 Golden Corral Chevy SS–No change. A

JJ Yeley #7 Accell Construction Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as previous, but red hood has been replaced by black hood. C

JJ Yeley #7 Accell Construction Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, American flag motif across whole car. A

JJ Yeley #7 Zombie Auto Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with yellow Zombie Auto logos on sides and hood. A

STEWART-HAAS RACING #10

Danica Patrick #10 Code 3 Associates Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white front, green stripe, and blue bottom. A

Danica Patrick #10 Aspen Dental Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, lighter blue, Post-It motif replaced by silver wing, and some minor color changes. F

Danica Patrick #10 TaxAct Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but side and front stripes are bigger. A

Danica Patrick #10 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as #41. A

Danica Patrick #10 Code 3 Associates Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue with white hood and roof, silver stripes between the two. A

Danica Patrick #10 Wonder Woman Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, red front, fades to white rear, Wonder Woman logos on sides and hood. A

Danica Patrick #10 Nature’s Bakery/Feeding American Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, orange replaces blue. A

Danica Patrick #10 Code 3 Associates/CSU One Cure Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Code 3 Associates, but with CSU and One Cure on the side. A

Danica Patrick #10 Colorado State University One Cure Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, green, gold, and white with paw motif. B+

Danica Patrick #10 Ford Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Jarrett’s 1999 Championship winning car. A

JOE GIBBS RACING #11

Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, lighter blue, with an orange paintbrush design on sides. B-

Denny Hamlin #11 SportClips Toyota Camry–Slight changes for 2017, door number colors reversed, stripe colors reversed as well. C-

Denny Hamlin #11 FedEx Cares Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, orange replaces silver, much more simple design. A

Denny Hamlin #11 Sport Clips Throwback Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, based on Ray Hendrick’s Modified scheme. A

GERMAIN RACING #13

Ty Dillon #13 Geico Chevy SS-No change. A

Ty Dillon #13 Twisted Tea Chevy SS–Aside from the new team, no change. A

Ty Dillon #13 Geico Military Chevy SS–No change. F

Ty Dillon #13 Geico Smokey Yunick Throwback Chevy SS–No change. A

STEWART-HAAS RACING #14

Clint Bowyer #14 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, white top, red and white stripe across side, blue bottom. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Haas Automotion Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, red top, black bottom, white stripes across sides. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Rush Truck Centers Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white hood, roof, and decklid, red, yellow, and black triangle sides.A

Clint Bowyer #14 Haas Demo Days Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Haas, but with Demo Days on hood. A

Clint Bowyer #14 HAAS CNC Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, colors reversed. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Cars 3 Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, same as #42. B+

Clint Bowyer #14 Nature’s Bakery/Feeding American Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #10. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Mobil 1/Rush Truck Stops Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Mobil 1,but with Rush Truck Stops on sides. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Carolina Dodge Dealers Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Mark Martin’s #1 Bill Davis Ford Thunderbird used from 1988 to 1991. A

Clint Bowyer #14 Five Star Urgent Care Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, red, white and blue stripe with wave form pattern on bottom red stripe. B

PREMIUM MOTORSPORTS #15

Michael Waltrip #15 Aaron’s Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, blue photo motif across car, white hood, yellow door numbers. D-

Reed Sorenson #15 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with white numbers. A

Reed Sorenson #15 The Maids Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, yellow with blue lettering and numbers. A

Reed Sorenson #15 VIP Racing Experience Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with white VIP Racing Experience logos on sides and hood. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Xchange of America Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with Xchange of America logos. A

Joey Gase #15 Sparks Energy Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with yellow paint splatter on sides. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Harrah’s Casino Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, silver has been removed, black with white numbers and logos. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Internetwork Engineering Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, all black with Internetwork Engineering logo on hood. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Low T Center Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #55. F

Ross Chastain #15 Protect Your Mellon Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red, with yellow and white stripe across sides. A

Reed Sorenson#15 Energex.com Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Energex.com logos on sides and hood. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Corrigan Oil Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white stripe across bottom, black with red and blue stripes across sides. A

Kevin O’Connell #15 SBC Construction /Apollo Opening Roofing System Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, American flag motif across whole car. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Loser’s Bar Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Loser’s Bar logo on sides and hood. A

Gray Gaulding #15 La Colombe Draft Latte Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red, white, and blue vertical stripes. A

BJ McLeod #15 American Campus Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017 black with white American Campus logos on sides and hood. A

Gary Klutt #15 Fusilo Construction/Color Compass Corporation Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue and white stripe across the side. A

Reed Sorenson #15 Low T Center Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, white replaces black. F

ROUSH-FENWAY RACING #17

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Sunny D Ford Fusion–No change. F

Rickey Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Commemorative Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but the colors have been reversed. A

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Ford Fusion–No change. A

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Ford EcoBoost Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, red top, blue and white striped side. D-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr.#17 Go Bowling Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, red, and black with bowling pin and lane motif on sides. B-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fifth-Third Bank Ford Fusion–No change. A

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fifth-Third Back Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, dark blue with yellow and light blue designs on side and hood. B-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 Fastenal Patriotic Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, design reversed, red removed. A-

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. #17 NESN Fuel Ford Fusion–Aside from the change from #16 to #17, no change. B-

JOE GIBBS RACING #18

Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Toyota Camry–Aside from moving the characters around, no major changes for 2017. A

Kyle Busch #18 Snickers Crispier Toyota Camry–No change. B-

Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Toyota Camry–No change. A

Kyle Busch #18 Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry–No change. F

Kyle Busch #18 Skittles Patriotic Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same as red Skittles, but with white stripes across bottom, and star motif on hood and roof. A

Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Caramel Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue with orange M&M’s on sides, and a multi colored design on hood. A

Kyle Busch #18 M&M’s Patriotic Toyota Camry–No change. A

Kyle Busch #18 Pedigree Toyota Camry–No change. A

Kyle Busch #18 Snickers Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, brown with red, white and blue stripes and designs on sides. B-

JOE GIBBS RACING #19

Daniel Suarez #19 Arris Toyota Camry–Same basic scheme as 2016, Aaris replaces Surfboard. A

Daniel Suarez #19 Stanley Toyota Camry–No change. B+

Daniel Suarez #19 Subway Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but white on sides has been removed. A-

Daniel Suarez #19 Arris Toyota Camry–Same basic scheme as last year, but gray replaces orange on quarter panel. A

Daniel Suarez #19 Irwin Tools/Lennox Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue front, fade to white, with red lettering on rear. A

JOE GIBBS RACING #20

Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt/Flexvolt Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, yellow, with black stripes up the sides and hood. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Interstate Batteries Toyota Camry–New sponsor for 2017, same as 2016 #18. F

Matt Kenseth #20 Tide Pods Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017 orange front with subtle designs, blue rear with subtle designs. F

Matt Kenseth #20 PEAK Antifreeze Toyota Camry–New sponsor for 2017, similar to 2016 #15, but spikes are more pronounced. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Blue Def Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as PEAK but with colors reversed. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Toyota Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with red, white, and silver cutting edge design. F

Matt Kenseth #20 Circle K Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, white top, orange stripe down center, red bottom. A

Matt Kenseth #20 DeWalt/Wounded Warrior Project Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as DeWalt, but with subtle camouflage effect on yellow. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Freightliner Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, all white with Freightliner logos. A

Matt Kenseth #20 Toyota Care Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, slightly toned down design, with white replacing black. D-

WOOD BROTHER RACING #21

Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Ryan Blaney #21 OmniCraft Auto Parts Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, orange replaces red. A-

Ryan Blaney #21 Quick Lane Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, blue and white numbers replace gold numbers, larger Quick Lane logo on sides. A

Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft/SKF Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Motorcraft but with SKF on sides. A

TEAM PENSKE #22

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Ford Fusion–No change D

Joey Logano #22 AAA Ford Fusion–No Change. D

Joey Logano #22 Auto Trader Ford Fusion–No Change. D-

Joey Logano #22 AAA of Southern California Ford Fusion–No Change. D

Joey Logano #22 Pennzoil Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, all yellow, with some lighter yellow geometrical designs across car. A

Joey Logano #22 Duralast Brakes Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, yellow front, modified Penske template, checkered black middle to rear. A

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, orange front, white rear, Penske Template. A

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Jimmy Vasser’s 2002 scheme. A

BK RACING #23

Joey Gase #23 Best Furnishing Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue with paintbrush style white and yellow designs across side. F

Joey Gase #23 Schluter Systems Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but stripes have been replaced by geometric designs D-

Joey Gase #23 Dr. Pepper Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but angled lines replace curved lines. B+

Gray Gaulding #23 SunFrog.com Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, green front, black and green middle to rear. C+

Gray Gaulding #23 Bubba Burger Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, digital camouflage with patriotic stripe across side. F

Gray Gaulding #23 Addiction Campuses Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue and white sunburst design which fades from light to dark. D+

Alon Day #23 Earthwater Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with bright green and blue designs on sides. D-

Corey LaJoie #23 Dr. Pepper Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, plain dark red with Dr. Pepper logos. A

Corey LaJoie #23 Lehigh Valley Phantoms Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Phantom logos and motif across car. A

Corey LaJoie #23 JAS Trucking Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, similar to #83 but all black has been removed. A

Corey LaJoie #23 Dr. Pepper Throwback Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, based on Davey Allison’s 1984 Pontiac Grand Prix. A

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #24

Chase Elliott #24 NAPA Auto Parts Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme as 2016, but with yellow accents across sides. A

Chase Elliott #24 Kelly Blue Book Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, design similar to #11 FedEx. A

Chase Elliott #24 Sun Energy Chevy SS–No Change. F

Chase Elliott #24 Hooters Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, white sides with orange stripes, orange roof. C-

Chase Elliott #24 Little Ceasers/Mountain Dew Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with orange trim and logos. A

Chase Elliot #24 Mountain Dew Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as #5 but black replaces white as the primary color. A

Chase Elliot #24 NAPA Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Bill Elliott’s 1976 #9 scheme. A

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #27

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Richmond Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, black front, yellow sides, black at bottom of wheel well. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Peak Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with Peak colors. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Valvoline Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with 2016 setup. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/FVP Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017 Menard’s template with FVP colors, black replaces silver. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Jack Links Beef Jerkey Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, Menard’s template with red front and quarter panel. B-

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Duracell Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with black and gold. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Dutch Boy Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template, with Dutch Boy blue, and the chipped motif has been removed. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Libman’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template, with Libman colors. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Rockstar Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with black Rockstar motif. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Knauf Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with Knauf blue on sides and hood. B-

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Tarkett Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, Menard’s template with Tarkett colors. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Moen Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with black and blue. A

Paul Menard #27 Menard’s/Sylvania Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, new Menard’s template with Sylvania colors. F

RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING #31

Ryan Newman #31 CAT Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with black cutting edge design on front, black stripe across hood and top of car. B-

Ryan Newman #31 Granger Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, red replaces green, black replaces white and red. A

Ryan Newman #31 Kalahari Resorts Chevy SS–No change. C-

Ryan Newman #31 Chevrolet Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white and gold stripes up the side. A

Ryan Newman #31 Okuma Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #3. D+

Ryan Newman #31 CAT/Granger Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with red, black, and yellow stripes across sides. A

Ryan Newman #31 Velveeta Shells and Cheese Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, yellow with shells and cheese motif across car. A

Ryan Newman #31 Chevy Accessories Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Chevy but with Chevy Accessories on sides and hood. A

Ryan Newman #31 Caterpillar Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale Earnhardt’s Wranger scheme. A

GO FAS RACING #32

Matt DiBenedetto #32 EJ Wade Foundation Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with blue ribbon design on sides. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Cosmo Motors Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme for 2017, but circle around door has been removed. B-

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Can Am/Kappa Ford Fusion–No change. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Keen Parts Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, white with black stripe and red roof and door numbers. A

Matt DiBenedetto #32 EJ Wade Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, white fade to black across whole car. A

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Incredible Bank Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, green top, orange and green checkered flag motif across sides. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Reddit Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white with orange and black cutting edge designs on side. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Anest Iwata Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, blue front, fade to white and red on sides. B

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Weir’s Motor Sales Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, black with green and yellow zigzag designs across the sides. F

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Dick Stevens Snacks Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white front and rear, green checkered patter in middle. C-

Matt DiBenedetto #32 Keen Parts Bobby Allison Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Bobby Allison’s famous #12 Miller High Life Buick. A

CIRCLE SPORT/TMG MOTORSPORTS #33

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Starter Chevy SS–Aside from the new team, no change. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Starter, but with no logos. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Superior Logistics Services Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter but with Superior Logistics Services logo on hood. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Nice Ride Apparel Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter but with Nice Ride Apparel logo on sides hood. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Detail 2U/K1 Speed Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter but with Detail 2U logo on hood and K1 logo on sides. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Towne Bank Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Starter, but with Towne Bank logos on sides and hood. A

Jeffery Earnhardt #33 Hulu Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, green top, white bottom, black on front. A

Boris Said #33 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Hulu, but without the logos. A

Boris Said #33 Genesee Light Beer Ford Fusion–No change. A

FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #34

Landon Cassill #34 Love’s Truck Stops Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 Starkey Hearing Foundation Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, Front Row template has been revamped, with blue and white color scheme. A

Landon Cassill #34 FR8 Auctions Ford Fusion–No change. D+

Landon Cassill #34 The Pete Store Ford Fusion–Aside from switching from #38, no change. A

Landon Cassill #34 CSX Play It Safe Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 Loves/Winstar Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Love’s, but with Winstar logo on hood. A

Landon Cassill #34 A&W Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 MDS/#checkitforandretti Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as 2016 MDS, but with #checkitforandretti on sides. A

Landon Cassill #34 CSX Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as CSX, but with red, white and blue. A

Landon Cassill #34 CSX Play It Safe Ford Fusion–No change. A

Landon Cassill #34 Love’s Truck Stops Support The Troops Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, black elements replace yellow elements. F

Landon Cassill #34 Jacob Companies Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, same as #38. C-

JTG DAUGHERTY RACING #37

Chris Buescher #37 Cottonelle Chevy SS-New team for 2017, white sides with blue roof and bottom. A

Chris Buescher #37 Kroger Checklist Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #47 Kroger. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Bush’s Baked Beans Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, aside from team change, no change. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Natural Light Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, light blue with white and dark blue patriotic designs. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Scott Products/Kingsford Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Cottonelle, but with silver numbers. A

Chris Buescher #37 Velveeta Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with red designs on sides. A

Chris Buescher #37 Kingsford Chevy SS–Aside from changing from #47 to #37, no change. A

Chris Buescher #37 Cars 3/Kleenex Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, based on Lightning McQueen’s design from Cars 3. C

Chris Buescher #37 Maxwell House Max Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white letters, and red design on side. A

Chris Buescher#37 Liberty Tax Service Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue and white with patriotic motif. B+

Chris Buescher #37 Coffee Mate Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, patriotic motif across whole car. A

Chris Buescher #37 Bryers Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with green stripe on bottom. A

Chris Buescher #37 Clorox Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger, but with Clorox on sides. A

Chris Buescher #37 Bush’s Grilling Beans Chevy SS–No change. A

FRONT ROW MOTORSPORTS #38

David Ragan #38 Camping World/Good Sam Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue front, yellow and red oval design on rear. B-

David Ragan #38 Jacob Companies Ford Fusion–New sponsor for 2017, blue with white and silver zig-zag design across car. C-

David Ragan #38 Juice Battery Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue, tan, black and red with a series of stripes across the whole side of the car. F

David Ragan #38 Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, white with gold numbers. A

David Ragan #38 Overton’s Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, blue with cloud motif across car. A

David Ragan #38 Dockside Logistics Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, same as 2015 #34 Dockside Logistics. A

David Ragan #38 Shriner’s Hospital Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, white with red and gray design on sides. A

David Ragan #38 Jacob Companies Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, red and black with Jacob companies logos on sides. F

David Ragan #38 Shriner’s Hospital Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, blue replaces white. A

STEWART-HAAS RACING #41

Kurt Busch #41 Monster Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Kurt Busch #41 Haas Ford Fusion–No Change. A

Kurt Busch #41 Mobil 1 Ford Fusion-New sponsor for 2017, same as #14, but with green replacing blue. A

Kurt Busch #41 Mobil 1 Annual Protection Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as other SHR Mobil 1 schemes, but with gold trim. A

Kurt Busch #41 Haas Demo Day/Monster Ford Fusion-New scheme for 2017, same as Haas/Monster, but with Haas Demo Days on sides. A

CHIP GANASSI RACING TEAM #42

Kyle Larson #42 Credit One Chevy SS–Aside from the new car number, no change. F

Kyle Larson #42 Target Chevy SS–No change. A

Kyle Larson #42 Coca Cola Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, red with frost motif. A

Kyle Larson #42 Target/Cars 3 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, Target front, Cars 3 motif across sides. B+

Kyle Larson #42 Credit One Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but with patriotic elements added. F

Kyle Larson #42 Energizer Chevy SS–No change. C-

Kyle Larson #42 Huggies Chevy SS-No change. D+

RICHARD PETTY MOTORSPORTS #43

Aric Almirola #43 Smithfield Ford Fusion–No Change. B+

Aric Almiroa #43 U.S. Air Force Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2016, same basic scheme, but with more lightning. A

Aric Almirola #43 STP Ford Fusion–No change. B-

Aric Almirola #43 Fresh From Florida Ford Fusion–No change. F

Aric Almorla #43 STP Throwback Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, based on Richard Petty’s 1984 Pontiac Grand Prix that he won his 200th race in. A

JTG DAUGHERTY RACING #47

AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Stouffers/Cheez It’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with blue diagonal stripes, and black and red curves across sides. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Ralph’s/Checklist/Oscar Meyer Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger but with Ralph’s logos. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Fry’s/Checklist/Velveta Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger but with Fry’s logos. B+

AJ Allmendnger #47 Dillon’s Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger, but with Dillon’s on hood. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Harris Teeter/Express Lane/Heinz Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same as Kroger, but green replaces blue. B+

AJ Allmendinger #47 Kroger/Bryers/Velveeta Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Terry Labonte’s Piedmont scheme. A

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #48

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, light blue with diagonal stripes and geometric patterns on side. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Kobalt Chevy SS–New scheme for 2016, dark blue with diagonal stripes and geometric patterns on side. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Hitachi Chevy-New scheme for 2017, same a Lowe’s, but with Hitachi on quarter panels. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowes/AO Smith Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Lowe’s, but with AO Smith on sides. F

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with a series of patriotic designs on sides and hood. A

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Jimmie Johnson Foundation Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, blue with black, yellow and blue stripes across bottom. A

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s Throwback Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, based on a 1986 Lowe’s truck. A

RICK WARE RACING #51

Timmy Hill #51 Spoonful Music Foundation Chevy SS-New team for 2017, white with racing stripe design on hood, plain white sides. A

Cody Ware #51 Spoonful Music Foundation Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #51 white, but black and colors reversed. A

Timmy Hill #51 Dashub Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with silver, white, and red cutting edge designs across signs. B-

Timmy Hill #51 Bubba Burger Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue, with red, silver, and white stripes on sides. A

Timmy Hill #51 Go Parts Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as black Spoonful, but with Go Parts logos on hood and quarter panels. A

Timmy Hill #51 Fenton Motors Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Bubba Burgers, but with Fenton Motors on sides and hood. A

Timmy Hill #51 SleepFresh Mattress Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with dark red and light blue stripe up the sides. A

Timmy Hill #51 Lilly Trucking Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with white and blue designs on side. B+

Timmy Hill #51 Charlie’s Soap Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with red and white letters, and Charlie’s Soap logos on sides and hood. A

Cody Ware #51 ECU Pirates Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with white and yellow stripes on sides. A

Cody Ware #51 Clemson Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, based on Clemson’s football helmet. A

Josh Bilicki #51 Marriott/Climate Fieldview Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with red and white cutting edge designs on sides. F

BJ MacLeod #51 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Clemson, but without logos. A

Josh Bilicki #51 Prevagen Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Prevagen logos on sides and hood. A

BJ McLeod #51 Corrigan Oil Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as #15. A

BJ McLeod #51 Nex Transport/Spoonful Music Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black, with red and white curve on sides. A

PREMIUM MOTORSPORTS #55

Derrike Cope #55 Wade Tractor/adrenalinpwr.com Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with Wade Tractor on hood, and adrenalinpwr.com logo on sides. A

Derrike Cope #55 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with white numbers. A

Derrike Cope #55 Low T Center Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with green and white polka dot motif near rear. F

Reed Sorenson #55 Xchange of America Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #15. A

Derrike Cope #55 Ckezepis Law Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Ckezepis Law logo on hood. A

Derrike Cope #55 Twin Peaks Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with Twin Peaks logos on sides and hood. A

Derrike Cope #55 Star Com Fiber Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with green polka dot motif on sides. B-

Tommy Regan #55 OscaroParts.com/Capri Tools Chevy SS-New sponsors for 2017, white with blue OscaroParts.com logo on hood, and Capri Tools on sides. A

Reed Sorenson #55 Royal Teak Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black replaces white. A

Gray Gaulding #55 Check It For Andretti Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black carbon fiber motif with Check It For Andretti logos on sides and hood. A

Derrike Cope #55 Mane N Tall/Straight Arrow Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Derrike’s 1995 Ford Thunderbird. A

Derrike Cope #55 La Colombe Draft Latte Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as #15. A

CARL LONG MOTORSPORTS #66

Carl Long #66 Poker Palace Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, green front, red, yellow and white rear. D-

Timmy Hill #66 Waltrip Brothers Charity Championship Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, same as Poker Palace, but with Waltrip Brothers Charity Championship logo on hood. D-

TRISTAR MOTORSPORTS #72

Cole Whitt #72 Florida Lottery Ford Fusion–New scheme for 2017, black sides, orange and blue hood to roof. D-

Cole Whitt #72 Rinnai Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with black and red Rinnai logos on sides and hood. B+

Cole Whitt #72 Standard Plumbing Supply Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with white and red letters and logos. B+

Cole Whitt #72 SoCal Chevy Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with white logos on sides and hood. B+

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with orange cutting edge designs on sides. F

Cole Whitt #72 RTIC Coolers Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, lighter blue and ice motif replaces darker blue, black carbon fiber hood. A

Cole Whitt #72 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, plain black with white and black numbers. A

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black with orange and white cutting edge designs on sides. C-

Cole Whitt #72 Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, plain black with white numbers. A

Cole Whitt #72 RTIC Coolers Patriotic Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same basic scheme, but with patriotic elements. A

Cole Whitt #72 Moen Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with blue design across sides. B

Cole Whitt #72 Unique Pretzel Company Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, blue with vertical fade to white, and white hood. A-

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, black with Bad Boy Mowers logos on sides and hood. A

BEARD RACING #75

Brendan Gaughan #75 Beard Oil Chevy SS-New team for 2017, all black with white logos and numbers. A

Brendan Gaughan #75 Beard Oil Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Beard Oil from Daytona, but with logos on sides. A

FURNITURE ROW RACING #77

Erik Jones #77 5-Hour Energy Toyota Camry–New team for 2017, red front, red and yellow lightning stripe across black sides, red rear. C-

Erik Jones #77 5-Hour Energy Extra Stength Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same as 2017 5-Hour Energy, but with Extra Strength on sides and hood. C-

Erik Jone #77 Sirius/XM Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue and silver designs across whole car. F

Erik Jones #77 Toyota Service Centers Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as 5-Hour Energy, but with Toyota Service Center logos. C-

Erik Jones #77 SportClips Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, slightly modified version of #11 from 2016. C-

Erik Jones #77 Gamestop Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue circle designs on hood and quarter panel. A

Erik Jones #77 Toyota Care Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, red, white, and black with a series of curved stripes on sides. F

Erik Jones #77 GameStop/Cars 3 Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, based on one of the cars from Cars 3. A

FURNITURE ROW RACING #78

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Furniture Row Toyota Camry–No change. A

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Auto Owner’s Insurance Toyota Camry–No change. A

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, red and black stripes with a camo stripe at the bottom. C-

Martin Truex Jr. #78 5-Hour Energy Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as #77. C-

Martin Truex Jr. #78 5-Hour Energy Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, fewer stripes, but same basic scheme. B+

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops/NRA Museum Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black with American Flag motif on sides and hood. A

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Wix Filters Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with green cutting edge designs on sides, and sublimated Wix Filter logos across whole car. F

Martin Truex Jr. #78 Bass Pro Shops/Ducks Unlimited Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, same as Bass Pro Shops, but light green fade to light purple replaces orange. F

BK RACING #83

Corey LaJoie #83 Dustless Blasting Toyota Camry–No change. B-

Corey LaJoie #83 JAS Trucking Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black with blue door numbers and white lettering and white stripes. D-

Corey LaJoie #83 BK Racing Graphics Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with red and silver stripes across sides. B-

Corey LaJoie #83 Bubba Burger Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017, black with flame motif. A

Corey LaJoie #83 RMC Events Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, blue with black and white designs on sides. B+

Corey LaJoie #83 EJ Wade Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, same color scheme, but cutting edges have been flattened. A

Corey LaJoie #83 Hope For Warriors Toyota Camry–New scheme for 2017 silver replaces red, much more streamlined design. C

Ryan Sieg #83 J&S Trucking Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, white has been removed entirely from design. A

Ryan Sieg #83 BK Racing Graphics Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black, with red, silver, and red cutting edge stripe across sides. B-

Stephen Light #83 Dustless Blasting Toyota Camry-New scheme for 2017, black replaces white. F

Brent Moffitt #83 Northwestern Technological Institute Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black with blue and white stripes. A

Corey LaJoie #83 HMS Motorsports Toyota Camry-New sponsor for 2017, black, with red, white, and blue curves from front to center. F

HENDRICK MOTORSPORTS #88

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, blue design similar to last year’s. with blue vertical stripes next to silver door numbers. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, yellow front, a series of red and yellow geometrical designs across sides, red rear. F

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Mountain Dew-S-A Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, light blue with white stripes, and dark red letters. C-

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Childrens Chevy SS–New sponsor for 2017, white with rainbow stripe, and multi-colored butterflies on sides and hood. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr.#88 Axalta/Maaco Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, same as Axalta but with Maaco logos on sides. F

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Patriotic Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, white with a more minimalist patriotic scheme. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Mountain Dew Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, metallic gold, with yellow, light green, and dark green cutting edge designs on sides. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Nationwide Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale’s #3 AC Delco scheme from the Xfinity Series. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Dale’s Budweiser scheme, his first paint scheme in the Cup Series in 1999. A

Dale Earnhardt Jr. #88 Axalta/Ducks Unlimited Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, black hood and top, Front Row template based design, camouflage on sides. F

LEAVINE FAMILY RACING #95

Michael McDowell #95 K-LOVE Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, same colors, but with stripes across front half of sides. A

Michael McDowell #95 WRL Contractors Chevy SS–No change. A

Michael McDowell #95 Leavine Family Surfboards Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, vintage “Woody” design. A

Michael McDowell #95 Winn Dixie Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, red with black and yellow stripe on sides. A

Michael McDowell #95 Tommy Williams Drywall Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, drywall motif with blue lettering on sides and hood. A

Michael McDowell #95 WRL Contractors Camouflage Chevy SS-New scheme for 2017, camouflage replaces white. F

Michael McDowell #95 WRL Contractors Alan Kulwicki Throwback Chevy SS–New scheme for 2017, based on Alan Kulwicki’s 1986 Quincy Steakhouse scheme. A

Michael McDowell #95 Race Wipes Chevy SS-New sponsors for 2017, blue front with green stripe, and darker blue bottom, green stripe down middle, white rear. C-

GAUNT BROS RACING #96

DJ Kennington #96 Lordco Toyota Camry-New team for 2017, blue front, black middle, white rear, curve stripes between the three. C-

DJ Kennington #96 Triad CNC Chevy SS-New sponsor for 2017, white with a series of triangle logos on sides. B+

Some Site Updates For 2018

By David G. Firestone

I was going to discuss some things for the website last week, but real life got in the way. I would normally not discuss something that heavy, but I was so disgusted with what I was seeing, that I had to say something. I try to keep things light, and I will try not to discuss anything that heavy on this site anymore.

With that out of the way, I will discuss some things with the site. I’ve been starting work on schedules for 2018, and I’ve made a few set in stone decisions for next year. The first thing I’ve decided is that the schedule will remain the same for 2018 as it is in 2017. I like the way the schedule works, and I see no reason to change at any time.

For Throwback Thursday, I’m going to focus on endurance racing, and I may or may not grade some of the Truck Series, but I haven’t made the final decision on that yet.

When it comes to the videos on Monday. I’m putting the finishing touches on Seasons 19 and 20 of Introduction to Sports Memorabilia. I’m done with season 19, and I will finish season 20 within the next few weeks.

Earlier this year, I announced that F1 Month will be replaced with Little Guy November. Little Guy November will feature uniform items used by drivers who aren’t in the big leagues. The point is that there are many race car drivers who don’t race professionally. I’ve since decided that 2018 will also have Little Guy November. I can also promise that real uniform aficionados will love the first two articles of 2017 Little Guy November.

Speaking of theme months, Wheel Reviews January will return in 2018. I have two books and two movies that I will be reviewing for January. This comes after I spend December with the Paint Schemies, and the Paint Scheme Leaderboard. I treat December as a kind of sabbatical, but instead of relaxing, I spend most of that time working on other aspects of the site. I can get a lot done in that time, and since I don’t have to do the tracker and grades every week, it helps me get work done.

I do also plan on going off topic, but I’m planning it out better than I did this year. I have some interesting topics planned.

I know I say this every year, but I do plan on bringing back Tailgating Time for 2018. While I have said this in the past, I do have a plan for 2018, but more on that later.

Other than that, there isn’t much to report right now. I’ll be back soon with more.

Paint Scheme Grades-August 19, 2017

By David G. Firestone.

Austin Dillon #3 Dow Automotive Magma Chevy SS-The look is good, it’s bold and subtle, and it earns an A.

Trevor Bayne #6 Roush Performance/Hines Park Ford Fusion-Same scheme as Roush Performance, Same A grade.

Danica Patrick #10 Colorado State University One Cure Chevy SS-Colorado State doesn’t have a good color scheme, but this scheme salvages it. I don’t like the paw motif though, so, all things considered, I’ll give it a B+.

Ryan Blaney #21 Motorcraft/SKF Ford Fusion-Same scheme as Motorcraft, Same A grade.

Joey Logano #22 Shell/Pennzoil Throwback Ford Fusion-While this scheme omits the red stripes, it’s still pretty faithful, and it’s a good look. A

Corey LaJoie #23 JAS Trucking Toyota Camry-The scheme looks just as good with black removed as it did with the white removed. A

Corey LaJoie #23 Dr. Pepper Throwback Toyota Camry-Another faithful throwback that looks really good. It’s solidly done, and it looks good. Side note, Miller throwbacks seem to be popular this year. A

Chris Buescher #37 Bush’s Grilling Beans Chevy SS-Same scheme as last year, Same A grade.

Jimmie Johnson #48 Lowe’s/Jimmie Johnson Foundation Chevy SS-It’s a better look for this year’s JJF car. The color scheme works, and the design is really good. I’ll give it the A it deserves.

BJ McLeod #51 Corrigan Oil Chevy SS-Same scheme as #15, Same A grade.

Derrike Cope #55 Mane N Tall/Straight Arrow Chevy SS-While not fully faithful to the original, it’s still a good look, with a nice fade. A

Cole Whitt #72 Bad Boy Mowers Chevy SS-A smooth simple look with a good color scheme will always earn an A.

Brent Moffitt #83 Northwestern Technological Institute Toyota Camry-A smooth simple look with a good color scheme will always earn an A.