Join Dale Earnhardt Jr. on the Dale Jr. Download as he interviews legendary NASCAR crew chief Gary Nelson. Known for his innovative strategies and daring tactics, Nelson has worked with iconic drivers like Ricky Rudd, Bobby Allison, and Geoff Bodine. Gary delves into the world of NASCAR innovation, sharing stories about finding ways around NASCAR’s scales, aerodynamics advancements, and his cars that looked "too good" to inspectors. Nelson also recounts the early days of his career, discussing his relationship with Robert Gee, lessons learned from Darrell Waltrip, and his crucial role in Dale Earnhardt's first win at Bristol. Dale Jr. and Gary explore his give-and-take relationship with Bobby Allison and what it took for them to achieve success together. The conversation continues with Nelson’s time at Hendrick Motorsports, the creation of SABCO with Felix Sabates, and his transition to the NASCAR Winston Cup Director role. Gary reveals how Rick Hendrick's persuasive skills led him to join HMS, his experiences with Geoff Bodine in winning the Daytona 500, and behind-the-scenes stories that inspired "Days of Thunder." Gary shares pivotal moments, including a near-firing after a shouting match with Kyle Petty at Dover, and his mission to enhance NASCAR safety after witnessing tragic on-track crashes. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and stories from one of NASCAR's most influential figures. Don't miss this compelling conversation on the Dale Jr Download! Follow Dirty Mo Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DirtyMoMedia Twitter: https://twitter.com/DirtyMoMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirtymomedia TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dirtymomedia_ All About Dirty Mo Media: https://www.dirtymomedia.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background of Gary Nelson 06:55 - Innovative Techniques and Weight Manipulation in NASCAR 14:12 - Challenges and Excitement in the NASCAR Industry 21:52 - Stories and Anecdotes from the NASCAR World 46:34 - The Challenges of the 1980 Season and the Return in 1981 56:07 - The Importance of Aerodynamics in Racing 01:05:07 - The Struggles and Successes with Bobby Allison 01:14:45 - The Role of Crew Chiefs in Setting Up Race Cars 01:22:26 - Transition and Success with the R&D Car at Daytona 01:28:15 - Engineering and Setup: Tire Temperatures and Panhard Bar 01:46:16 - Feuds and Rivalries in NASCAR 01:58:23 - Commentating and Transition to Sabco Racing 02:04:29 - The Dominance of the #88 Car and the Advantage of Radio and Tire Development 02:14:38 - Transitioning to Working for NASCAR and the Focus on Safety Innovation 02:19:45 - The Importance of Holding the Driver Tightly in the Car and the Development of Safer Walls 02:26:06 - Pride in the Safety Advancements Made During Nelson's Time at NASCAR