Jonathon Payne Wins His Third Consecutive Lucas Oil Pro Pulling League Points Race
- Oct 3, 2011
As the season's end drew near, Payne and his crew focused on holding on to their lead in the points race. As far as they were concerned keeping his Major Payne Ford running strong and making the right gear choices were two essential ingredients of the recipe for success. Evidently, Jonathon and Team Major Payne were able to do just that throughout the remainder of the season, as the driver managed to earn six victories during the final eight pulls of 2011. Throughout the entire season, Jonathon Payne has gone toe to toe with his fellow competitors from the seat of a 2005 Ford extended cab Ranger. The 485 cubic inch engine nestled between the fender welds was fueled through a single four-barrel carburetor. Gripping the dirt were four 31-15.50-15 Dick Capex Pulling tires. Granted, all of Payne's fellow drivers sported impressive trucks, engines and tires as well. That said though, Payne's rig differed a great deal in one aspect in particular; he was one of few drivers manning a Ford. In fact, According to Jonathon, he was pretty well the only competitor in the Lucas Oil Pro Pulling league throughout Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee, pulling with a Ford while one other driver from Illinois who attended pulls on a consistent basis shared his make of pickup.
When asked why Chevy's seemed to be the most popular makes of trucks in the league, Payne said, "Parts, new and old, are more plentiful for Chevys and less expensive." Explaining why he chose to drive a ford, Payne continued, "My dad and grandpa always drove Fords. My first truck was a 1979, F250 four-by-four, with a 460, that I drove to school. I started driving them on the farm and cutting firewood, before I had my license." When asked what he considered as his strong point as a driver, Payne's answer was short and to the point, "Consistency." That said, although Jonathon's driving skills play a huge role in his success, he is quick to agree that his team is also of importance. Referring to his team, the driver said, "It's nice to have help, and someone that will give me an honest opinion." Jonathon Payne and Team Major Payne are obviously considered by their competitors as a force to be reckoned with, as they have walked away victorious too many times to be considered as anything less. That said, the team is acutely aware of exactly what it takes to win on a consistent basis and one can rest assured that proper maintenance is on the top of their list. "I use the K&N 6X14 high flow air filter on my pulling truck," explained Payne. "I use their oil filter and air intake system on my 2008 Ford F350 tow vehicle, and my 700 Yamaha Rhino. Having a great sponsor like K&N and using their products for the past twelve years means I don't have to worry about any air or oil filter related problems." Referring to his fans, the 2011 Lucas Oil Pro Pulling League champion continued, "Thanks for your support and encouragement. Even though my truck is loud, I can still here the crowd cheering at the end of the pull." As one might suspect, Jonathon Payne, and Team Major Payne are looking forward to the upcoming season. That said, if all goes as hoped for, Payne fans might see somewhat of a change, as the driver is currently on the hunt for a major sponsor to assist in a move up to the Modified Four-Wheel-Drive class. Find K&N products for your vehicle using the K&N application search then use the K&N dealer search to find a K&N dealer in your part of the world. |
