Kenny Wallace replaced Kevin Harvick, who was parked by NASCAR for a deliberate collision against Coy Gibbs during the supporting Trucks race (Advance Auto Parts 250); Harvick had been in probation for an altercation against Greg Biffle at the Busch Series Bristol race weeks prior.

[4] Sterling Marlin of Chip Ganassi Racing would set the fastest time in the session, with a lap of 29.145 and an average speed of 168.723 miles per hour (271.533 km/h).

[6] The third and final practice session, sometimes referred to as Happy Hour, was held on Saturday, April 13, at 12:15 PM EST, and would last for 45 minutes.

[4] Tony Stewart of Joe Gibbs Racing would set the fastest time in the session, with a lap of 20.347 and an average speed of 93.060 miles per hour (149.766 km/h).

[8] Jeff Gordon of Hendrick Motorsports would win the pole, setting a time of 20.106 and an average speed of 94.181 miles per hour (151.570 km/h).