[MikeMoller]

I agree with Mike Beard and Sam Capizzi . You can get started for a 'reasonable' amount. You can find a decent open trailer 1500-2000, and a tow car (I found a good Silverado cab and 1/2 for 4K with a tow package). Did some serious looking to find these, but they are out there -Craigslist.

Another 500 for equipment,good jack, stands, air pump, couple of tool boxes, spare parts, tie downs, and a couple of good storage containers for chemicals, spare parts, etc.

I bought a lower class stocker for 5K (fwd-don't recommend it) but it got me out and racing, pretty cheap to operate and runs the index.

The comments for what it costs to race -entry fees, gas to/from track, motels- are pretty accurate. Figure a divisional about 600, a National close to a 1100 depending on distance. Don't forget the NHRA and IHRA fees! If you bring your own PBJ to the track-go to the grocery on the way- and use a cooler, you'll save a bit. We eat a lot of ham sandwiches and chips.

Good luck.