Truex
Martin Truex Jr. (HHP/Chris Owens)

Truex Jr. Loses Tire Carrier, Jackman For Two Races

Martin Truex Jr. will be without two key components of his pit crew for the next two NASCAR Cup Series races. 

The driver of No. 19 saw his left-front wheel dislodge under caution during last week’s Pala Casino 400 at Auto Club (Calif.) Speedway. Due to it being loose past the pit exit, tire changer Danny Olszowy and jackman Kellen Mills will be suspended for the upcoming events at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Phoenix Raceway. 

Along with the suspensions, the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing team was held on pit road for two laps during the race. Truex would rebound to finish 11th, respectively. 

The loose wheel is a violation of Section 8.8.10.4.C in the NASCAR Rule Book, which addresses the loss or separation of an improperly installed wheel from the vehicle.