It helps keep speeds down.
A pushrod engine can only turn so many RPMs before the engine isn't able to properly control the valve train. It's called "float." When the valves float, you lose power.
An overhead-cam engine directly controls the valves, so engines set up thusly can turn far faster than pushrod engines. And all else equal, the faster your engine turns, the faster your car goes.
Yes, NASCAR racing engines use antifreeze. There is no other way for them to keep the engine from overheating. NASCAR engines are similar to street engines but with more horsepower.
No, NASCAR engines are naturally aspirated and turbochargers are prohibited (not allowed).
No, they use V8 engines.
NASCAR uses stock engines, with many of the racers using the engines created by Roush-Fenway. These are four stroke engines that reach horsepower of over 800.
Yes
The compression ratio for NASCAR engines is limited to 12.0:1.
Pushrod engines have a chain. Overhead cam engines have a belt.
In team shops.
Nascar do allow the use of Cometic gaskets on the racing cars. The cometic gasket is produced with today's lightweight engines in mind and provides extra performance and power output
360 c.i. v8
No, NASCAR engines are cooled by water. Ethylene glycol cannot be used due to the fact that if there is a wreck, the track will remain slick in that area and a hazard. In addition, it would not be good for the environment.
NASCAR engines have been known to have 6 cylinders, but most prefer to run V8s.