New Earnhardt merchandise already on sale

The Dale Earnhardt Jr. merchandise machine was cranked up as soon as Wednesday's announcement of new number and sponsors was made at the Dallas Convention Center.

Mark Dyer, president and CEO of Motorsports Authentics, was in Dallas when Earnhardt made it official. His new number will be 88 and Mountain Dew's Amp Energy drink and the National Guard will serve as primary sponsors in 2008 when he leaves Dale Earnhardt, Inc. for Hendrick Motorsports.

Even before Earnhardt unveiled the new paint schemes, merchandise was already on sale at various online stores. Dyer said he expected sales would be brisk