Strengthening crew support for new driver Ricky Thornton Jr., Koehler Motorsports this morning announced the addition of crown jewel-winning racer Chris Madden of Gray Court, S.C., as crew chief for the Mount Airy, N.C.-based team in its pursuit of the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series championship.

Madden, who in June announced his plans to step away from full-time driving with his self-owned team, brings along his crew chief Ricky Arnold to join the Bobby and Jessica Koehler-owned operation while tire specialist D.J. Williams, a former crew member at Indiana-based SSI Motorsports with Thornton, also comes aboard.

“I’m looking forward to my new challenge as a crew chief,” the 49-year-old Madden said in a team release. “I’m also incredibly thankful to have more time to spend with my family. I may even run a race or two late in the year for Koehler Motorsports, but my primary focus now will be helping Ricky reach his goals.”

Madden, whose first race with Thornton is scheduled for Aug. 8-10’s Sunoco North-South 100 at Florence Speedway in Union, Ky., recently abandoned his pursuit of the World of Outlaws Case Late Model Series title after a bout with diverticulitis. The owner of nine regional Late Model titles over a 30-season career, including five with the Schaeffer's Southern Nationals, called joining Koehler Motorsports “a very exciting opportunity” as the winner of major events including the North-South 100, USA Nationals, Topless 100 shifts to new phase of his racing career.

“Things have been happening fast around the Koehler Motorsports camp the past few weeks, and now that we’ve had a chance to catch our breath, we’re able to take the next steps to provide Ricky with the tools he needs to go after the Lucas Oil title,” Bobby Koehler said. “Adding Chris as part of the family here at Koehler Motorsports is really cool. We’ll all benefit from his knowledge and experience, and he’s a very genuine soul.”

Thornton said he had "a ton of respect for Chris as a race car driver and the way he has led his personal race program for so many years. He brings an incredible amount of knowledge, perspective and strong relationships throughout the sport to the table. The opportunity to join forces under Bobby Koehler’s direction is a perfect scenario for our team and family.”

Kenny Payton, originally announced Thornton’s crew chief when the Lucas Oil Series points leader joined the team July 10, will continue as crew chief for team drivers Jordan Koehler, 22, and Evan Koehler, 16, while overseeing Koehler Motorsports operations.

Added Thornton: “I can’t wait to get to the shop with Chris, Ricky, and D.J. to get to work.”