David Reutimann - Texas Preview

Fan question of the week: Derek from Kutztown, PA asks, 'With Michael's final full season coming to an end and a new teammate coming on board next year, do you feel your role on the team is changing?'

"I think I may be viewed as the veteran on the squad and I believe a certain amount of leadership could come with that. Marcos has been an awesome teammate and I look forward to him being my teammate in 2010. I also think Martin (Truex Jr.) will bring over some great ideas for all our teams. Overall though, my duties will remain the same and that's to run as well as possible in the Aaron's Dream Machine."

You currently own the longest streak without a DNF in Sprint Cup racing. Can you describe why that's so important in maintaining a good points position?

"It's important because in this sport every point counts, so getting back out there can be the difference between a position in the points. Personally, I think finishing every race shows your teams ability to fight through a tough situation and we pride ourselves on that. We've had some tough races this year but the guys on the No. 00 Aaron's Dream Machine have never given up. I also think it's a testament to the work that's being done back in the shop."

What's the most vital component to having a good race car at Texas?

"Handling and speed. You have to be able to handle good in the corners, so you can carry maximum speed into the straightaways."

What do you like about racing at Texas?

"First of all, it's fast. But I think what makes it such a cool track is the fact that I can move around to find a line that works the best for my Aaron's Dream Machine. Having multiple grooves improves your ability to correct handling issues while driving and makes passing easier. I like the track and I feel confident in driving it. I’ve had some success there in Sprint Cup and Nationwide races – some top-tens and a couple of poles – so I expect us to perform well there."

What are your goals for this weekend at Texas?

"We had an awesome Aaron's Dream Machine there in the spring and I really thought we had a chance to win, so it was unfortunate that we had a problem in the pits. That Aaron's Dream Machine chassis has now been retired because we won the Coca-Cola 600 with it but, I'm confident that we'll have another good Aaron's Dream Machine this weekend."

Chassis info: Reutimann will run chassis #625 this week. This Aaron's Dream Machine has seen action in three races with a best finish of 4th at Las Vegas.

Race Information: This weekend the Sprint Cup Series heads to Texas Motor Speedway on Sunday for the Dickies 500 live on ABC. Race coverage begins at 2:30 p.m. ET on November 8.