(April 6, 2026)- The recently expanded and restructured SEAL (Sealed Engine Alliance Leaders) Committee has announced a new, consistent sealing program for previously unsealed built, parts engines and the limited-builder sealed engines. The new program will bring these Super Late Model engines under the SEAL umbrella to ensure continuity and rules enforcement for both engine types.
Super Late Model engines have mainly fallen into two categories: (1) sealed super late model packages from a limited group of approved builders utilizing their own seals, and (2), unsealed “Parts Engines” that could be built by any builder.
The new Sealed Super Late Model engine guidelines will require both engine packages detailed above to be built by an APPROVED builder and SEALED using the SEAL mandated seals. The purpose of these changes is to provide a consistent and fair arena for ALL approved builders. Previously, only the approved builders were held to consistency standards and responsible for the products they built. Builders of the unsealed “Parts Engines” were not specifically held accountable for their actions, and with no repercussions, all racers did not receive the protection provided by approving and overseeing the actions of these builders.
All engine builders currently approved as a crate engine rebuilder are automatically approved as super late “Parts Engine” builders. Any engine builder currently building the “Parts Engine” package and not on the approved builders list, or any prospective new builder, may apply for approval. The SEAL committee will announce a deadline for the final requirement for engines to carry the new seals at a later date. Members are aware that it will take some time for most engines to get the new seals and want the racers and builders alike to have time to get those new seals installed. The goal was for teams over the next year, whether purchasing new engines or getting an existing engine freshened, to have the new seals installed at that time. The requirement date to have those seals installed is tentatively expected to be mid to late 2027.
Information on ordering seals or the application for new builders can be found at www.sealedengine.com.
Questions about this new program can be directed to SEAL Committee Administrator Nicholas Rogers at 850-418-0559.
About SEAL:
The SEAL Committee is comprised of leaders from the pavement late model racing industry that are committed to the fair and unbiased oversight and growth of the sport. More information about this group and its work can be found at www.sealedengine.com.
