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28th July 2010
Points for Round 5 are now posted, Click Here, or the Points button on the left hand menu bar to view them.
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19th July 2010
Hi Guys. It's your Chairman here.
Sorry it's been so long before I replied and given you an update. I have been overwhelmed by everyone's good wishes, thoughts and phone calls. Saying thank you to you all just doesn't seem enough - but here goes....
I am now convalescing and have had time to read all the messages left for me over the internet. Reading all your get well wishes has helped me gain a speedy recovery. Thank you Guys.
On a real serious note - take it from me guys - don't ignore any signs that something is wrong no matter how small. Let a GP tell you it's indigestion! Don't self diagnose.
Fortunate for me my attack happened with first class Paramedics on hand. If it were not for them I may not be here guys...They were fantastic! Big thanks to them and again to you all in Street Eliminator.
Cheers Guys
See you all soon
Steve ‘Splinter’ Nash
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15th July 2010
After our successful destruction of transmission number 3 this year I decided that a full on aftermarket one was needed and after a few calls I was put into contact with Steve Kellet (thanks to John Sleath) who it just so happened had a JW all singing all dancing trannie with the right bell housing for sale, and at the right price.
While we were looking at the box on the bench we decided to double check on the diff, it looks like our prop-shaft problems at Easter had risen its ugly head again - the crush washer in the diff had been squashed a little more than it was designed for allowing the diff the opportunity to beat itself to death. As we didn't have too much to do and a long lay off I decided to do some upgrades to the nitrous as well.
A trial fit of the gearbox told us that we also needed a new flex-plate. With the new flex-plate fitted we realised that the converter would also need machining, to give us enough clearance for the end float. With the gearbox fitted (after about the 8th attempt) we were beginning to get very bored of fitting and re-fitting.
We also decided it was time to go for a crank trigger, again it wasn’t a straight forward fit (are they ever) so a good friend of mine took it to work and made it fit.
All done, all good and even with a couple of days to spare:-
Summer Nationals
Run 1 - We left the settings where they were and while it left OK the mid track power was a bit too aggressive on what was a very cold June day and the car drifted towards the wall forcing me to lift, it settled down and ran a 9.6 at 143mph.
Run 2 - The only change I made was to up the initial hit of the line from 20% to 25% and that gave us a 60ft of 1.54 and 1/4 mile time of 9.03 at 151. A NPB but still not that illusive 8
Run 3 - Again upped the launch to 30% off the line, this time a 60ft time of 1.46 and, wait for it, an 8.9 at 153mph. We had done it at last and new bests on the 60 ft, the 1/8 mile, and 1/4 mile.
Into Eliminations - We had Alex Mac, this is a man who’s very good on the tree and he had run faster than us with an 8.7. So we went up a size on the nitrous jets. Back down to a 20% hit on the line. I was a little eager a left a nice big RED on the tree, but I'd done it again we broke all our bests from the previous run ending with an ET of 8.88 and a speed of 154mph.
Back in the pits we found a damaged plug upon further investigation we found a damaged piston. We left with mixed moods, elated at our performance but anxious about the damage. Back at home and with the engine stripped our repair bill is not looking too good. We need the block bored 10 thou, 8 new pistons, a full bearing set, lifters, 2 valves, both heads need welding and possibly a cam
We found the damage to be a blocked fuel leg on the Wizard of NOS Spider system - steps have been taken to make sure it doesn't happen again and as a precaution all the pulsoids have been sent back to Trevor for service (and to make sure they are debris free) before going back on. We are now relying on our brothers across the pond for the parts and fingers crossed we will be back out again soon, looking to pick up on even better performances from the Insane team.
Ron, Insane Creations – and now in the eights.
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15th July, 2010
The FB Racing Street Eliminator ’34 Ford will be helping on display at the Badsey, Evesham Spar tomorrow to celebrate the stores post-refurbishment reopening. The Badsey Spar is one of a group of convenience stores owned by George Sangha who has recently joined the FB Racing roster of associate sponsors.
George was introduced to the world of Street Eliminator and FB Racing in particular by FB crew member Darren “Squeak” Herbert-White and was instantly taken by the performance achieved by the street-legal hot rod. George said “I decided to back Ian and the FB Racing team as I could see that they weren’t afraid of the odds. Despite being a relatively low-buck operation they have made some remarkable achievements over the years in a car that’s completely home-built. Even their superb performance this year (the team have won 3 of the 4 SE meetings in 2010) has been against the odds as their highest qualifying position so far has been 3rd. And many have seen the way Ian has had to fight the car down the strip at some meetings”.
“We are very pleased to have George on board for 2010 – despite having been unable to attend a meeting yet he follows the racing very closely and I know the Updates we produce help him feel part of the team. We’d like to say a big thank you to him and to all the sponsors who have stuck with us in these difficult times – you make such a difference to what we can achieve – thanks!”
The car will be on display tomorrow (16th July) from 11 am until 6 in the evening before being whisked back to Cheltenham where the team will continue to prep for round five of this year’s Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator championship at next week’s Bug Jam event.
Ian Hook
FB Racing
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6th July 2010
Round 4 Race Report now posted....Click here to view it.
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21st June 2010
Points after Round 4, the Summer Nats now posted. Click here to view.
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18th June 2010
2010 Topspeed Automotive SE show rumbles its way back into Northamptonshire and Santa Pod Raceway for round 4 of the 8 event series. With a solid field of 12 entries, a good track and even better weather this event the Summer Nationals, has long since been Santa Pod's best kept secret in the racing calendar.
FB Racing's Ian Hook maintains a slim lead over Steve Pat*man, and we have Jerry Charles (aka 50 cent) back with his nitrous assisted 706ci F*rd Capri - Jason Weir is also back with his much anticipated 2300 hp Pro Chargered Plymouth Suburban and we also have two newcomers, Alan Williamson, Chevy pick-up truck, and Stuart Williams with his rice burning Toyota Supra, these and all the usual suspects will be looking to repeat or maintain their past performances at round 3, so it's best of luck to Brian Payne and Richard Billings, both of who found form real quick, and for Davie Murdoch, please try to look after that new paint...
Seriously though, the very best of luck to everyone this weekend
Regards,
Ann-Marie & Splinter
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7th June 2010
Some of you may already be aware that Street Eliminator Chairman Steve Nash (Splinter) had been attending the Ford weekend at the Pod along with co-Wildcat Cougar owner Mick Franklin and one or two other SE competitors.
Unfortunately Steve was taken ill between rounds and such was his condition that he'll be resident of Bedford Hospital, and then Cambridge Hospital at least for the next several days.
Steve's as strong as an Rhino, with skin to match, and we wish him a speedy recovery.
If you want to send him a get well message, please send it to us here and we’ll post it -
‘Jo & I have sent a ‘get well’ text to Splinter, just in case he doesn't get it can you pass on our best wishes again.
Oh yes how was the Cougar running?
Jon Hollingworth’
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‘As you probably know we were there doing the passenger runs. I only spoke to him a hour before hand. Please send him and Elona all our best from me, Sandra and the lads that crew.
Ron Haslett’
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‘As soon as I heard the news from Big Tom who was at the Pod with Wilf Stacey I called Steve, who by now was resting in a Bedfordshire Hospital, Steve actually sounded fine, he was bored. I then phoned Mick who's warming to fitting a Chevy in place of the F*rd lump and I’m hoping that Mick will warm to nitrous too in place of those silly hairdryers, Steve won't recognise the old girl when he gets out.
Seriously Steve, get well and come out fighting, we'll be waiting...
Cj’
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‘All the best mate
Steve Pateman, Claudette, Snannon and Big Tom’
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‘Get well soon Splinter, all thinking of you, see you soon
From Siobhan xx’
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‘Get well soon mate, & take it easy
Wilf and Dianne Stacey’
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‘Best wishes for a speedy recovery
Mark Todd, Natalie, Nathan and Jacob’
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Ann-Marie and Bradley wish Steve a speedy recovery. (Come on Steve your not getting out of SE work that easy!)
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‘All the best to Splinter and Elona, get well soon geezer
Dave and Helen’ (Hardcore Street)
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‘Wishing you a speedy recovery
Richard and Claire x’ (Team 56)
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‘Get well soon Splinter, we need all the Fords we can get in Street Eliminator
Steve Kellett’
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‘Come on Splinter, Barry George it half spreading rumors that you'll do anything to get out of doing his garage!
No really get well soon matey.
Mickthefish’
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‘All the best Splinter
Martin Taylor’
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‘Come on Splinter get well soon. We are all thinking of you. Mind you, the way you were running about between teams at the Thunderball this year Jacquie was calling you Sprinter! Seriously look after yourself and lets race at the Euros? Love to Elona and Mick as well.
Brian & Jacquie Lazenby at Team 56’
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‘Team Topspeed’ hope that Splinter has a really speedy recovery, we look forward to seeing him at the track as soon as possible.
All the best,
Bill, Vinnie & Scott at Topspeed’
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‘Sorry to hear the news mate, Chin up and hope you have a speedy recovery. Looking forward to seeing the Cougar out again in SE.
Paul Houston’
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‘Hi Mate
You get yourself better real soon and don’t spend to much time taking it easy.
I will need all the advice you can give me when we eventually get the Vette back running.
Us old farts only have short memories and its been so long since we were last out it will be like starting all over again.
Best wishes and hope your back to good health very quick.
Ray & Bob Tucker
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‘Get well soon Mr Splinter....and haste ye back.
Gerry and Dina Treit
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‘Get well soon mate; in the meantime how about heads up wheelchair racing down the ward?
Regards
Ray & Denise Comer’
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24th May 2010
We (Topspeed) were invited by McLaren to put a few cars together for their first employee’s only car show on Saturday.
As I have got the engine out of my 69 Camaro at present I had to act quickly and get my thinking cap on.
So at about 8am on sat morning we had so much street legal horse power outside, I thought the shop windows were going to implode !
After tea and doughnuts we left the shop and cruised on up to McLarens in Woking where We were met at the gate by Clive the show organiser and led in by a black SLR, awesome! What a great show with a huge variety of cars and a look inside the McLaren show room.
We all had a great day and I would like to thank Clive McGibbon & Mike Jones for inviting us and also to Barry George, Marc Lamude, Mark Sheridan, Paul Carson and Splinter for bringing their cars.
Check out our Topspeed Facebook link for more pictures
Kind regards,
Bill Macdermid
Topspeed Automotive
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6th May 2010
Ron Haslett of the Insane Creations team’’s report of the Springspeed Nationals -
‘Firstly I'd like to welcome back to the team after a long stay of absence, Steve Kenny and his wife Emma, and also Jim.
After a really good showing from the new set up at The Big Bang I decided to turn up the nitrous and play with a few settings.
On a very tricky track we ran 9.7 seconds @ 151 mph off the trailer, but blew the tyres away. So I turned down the nitrous on the Max Extreme.
Softer launch and longer duration - 9.5 @ 151. Run 3 no nitrous off the line and a 3 second build time. 9.2 @ 151, I did notice that I was almost on the limiter when I crossed the line.
Sunday I decided to leave the delay off the line but bring the nitrous in faster. OOOPS as you can see from the pick that was not what we wanted.
I think that the damage was done at Easter. With the tyres breaking free I short shifted into second at the same time as the nitrous kicked in. As they say the rest is history. but I had my best ever reaction 0.009.
At the moment I'm looking at my options but I think that I'm looking at a bespoke Transmission such is the torque that were getting from the nitrous.
Ron’
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4th May 2010
Ian Hook of FB Racing’s report of Big Bang -
The Big Bang was another challenging but ultimately rewarding event for the FB Racing team. Suspension issues continue to plague us but at least the monster wheelie from the ’34 on Saturday provided some excitement (and this time I was on the correct two wheels for a drag car!).
But we saw our provisional pole reduced to second by Steve Pateman, then third after a superb 8.66 from rookie Brian Payne.
Most cars were performing to a similar level so there were to be no easy races. The first round of eliminations saw the ’34 frying the tyres and we were fortunate to get by Alex McIntosh when his Mustang went into spectacular wheelie overload, front end damage finally forcing him to back off. Happily we hear that the damage is minor and that Alex will be back out for round 3.
Despite having Ford and the colour black in common there cannot be two more different cars than our hot rod and the sleek Mustang of Brian Payne but they made a handsome pair as we squared up for the semi final. And again I thought we were going home as my initial holeshot disappeared in tyre smoke. But fortune smiled on us again as the Mustang then dished out the same treatment to Brian allowing me to pass him in the back half.
In the final I faced Steve Pateman. I first raced in Street Eliminator back in 1996 and, since then, I have never beaten Steve in eliminations. We both had problems – Steve was misfiring (a lot!) in the back half whilst I simply couldn’t find any grip away from the line. The race didn’t start well for us with Steve getting the drop on me by 2/100ths (how dare he!) and then start to pull away. The tyres found some grip and I was able to hang on to the tail of the Calibra. But then Steve’s misfire returned (just as the ‘34’s nitrous system hit max) and I passed him at about 900 feet to take the win with an 8.60 @ 169mph – our quickest and fastest pass of the day. As a well-known drag racing correspondent said to me “it might not have been pretty but a win’s a win”. And I couldn’t have been more pleased – beating Steve and equalling our most event wins in a season after just two meetings (yep, we’ve only ever won twice in SE in any single year).
However, myself and the FBs are aware that we still face an uphill task to get the ’34 performing again. With racers all around us stepping up their game we are desperate to find our seven second form again (if you’ve seen it anywhere please let us know!). Hopefully we will make progress at round 3 this coming weekend. Don’t miss it!’
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28th April 2010
Exciting news of another team soon to be joining the Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator -
‘Hi all, my name is Gerry Treit – most will know my face from hanging about the SE camps for the last few years asking all the awkward questions, gawping at the cars, and as if that wasn’t enough – following the various SE teams out across the pond to the last two World Series events.
Well anyway – my dream from becoming keen spectator to pedal thrasher is finally…..finally coming to fruition, albeit slow as you self builders out there will know. I do hope to be tearing down the strip at some point this year, just don’t ask me when, as my date projections are always wrong.
Tartan Dragin’ Racing is the team, and you can check out the up-dates on Facebook if you search on the name.
The car is a ‘40 Willys Coupe, and the motor a 605 Indy headed World (Mopar based) block on gas. Although the car is glass, it has an original Willys frame out of Doc Claydon’s famous car, though now with full CDS funny car cage added to it.
So, now just got wiring to complete, and a few other bits n pieces…….that word –‘just’, so easy said isn’t it!!
Coming to a race track near you – soon…..ish.’
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26th April 2010
Ron Haslett of the Insane Creations team’s reflections of their Big Bang weekend -
‘I decided to make the most of the track time we had at the big bang. We arrived at 3am Friday morning and got our heads down outside the main gates. (Which muppet left there alarm set for 6) We were in setup and ready to play by 11. We had the company of team member, good friend and neighbour Russ Walker running his VW scirroco in VW sportsman.
First pass a gentle 11.0 no gas but a complete gearbox.
Turned the gas on as this was a rwyb track I turned everything down but as the nitrous was coming up to full power (300 jets) we lost all power so I shut everything off and cruised back. Next run same again. But this time I watched the max and it was shutting the system down due to only getting 6 volts. (Safety feature)
Checked everything only found a loose batt term on the alternator.( fitted a new one)still the same.
So I bypassed the extreme and blew a fuse. Now we’re getting somewhere. fuse changed and a new relay fitted off we go. But after speaking to Trev we turned down to 80% It worked. Next step a full pass. 20% on the hit with 3.5 build time both wheels off the ground but as it came down it unloaded the rear wheels big tyre shake(3 chipped teeth)a couple of big peddles 9.7 @ 149 well happy. Backed up with 9.66 @ 146 now we have another problem how to stop the rear unloading. We'd now run out of time we drew Steve Pateman. When I got into stage a bit to deep and activated the trans break the car rocked and broke the beams. (ARSE) but still ran a 9.8 @ 146.
The car never missed a beat all weekend
I hope my passenger on the cruise Mark Skinner enjoyed himself, going by all the picks I think he did.
Now for you number crunchers out there.
Car weighs 3285lb
We ran 149 mph
We used 1020 bhp @ 963 lb TQ to do it
We crossed the line @ 5565 RPM
That’s a gain of 250bhp with 1 second delay and a build time of 3 seconds.
Pistons were travelling at 4173 feet/min’
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20th April 2010
Easter Thunderball 2010 Race Report -
Round one of the 2010 Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator championship saw a superb turnout of no less than 16 entries including 3 new cars and four new drivers braving the wind, rain and bitter cold that marked this year’s Thunderball.
Due to weather and on-track incidents qualifying was limited to three sessions. Top was multi-championship winning Steve Pateman on 7.97 followed by Jeff Meads with a close to PB, 8.33. Third was 2009 champion Colin Lazenby followed by Jon “Moose” Hollingworth and Ian Hook in fifth. Hook had been plagued with handling problems, the ’34 being up on two wheels more than once (the wrong two wheels). Unfortunately rookie Kaz Aston hadn’t been able to breach the 13.50 cut-off in her turbocharged F150 whilst fellow newbie Richard Billings, campaigning the newly-acquired ex-Jackson twin-turbo Vette, had tapped the wall in the final session and was also out (although he had qualified). Kaz is using her racing exploits to raise awareness of Multiple Sclerosis – take a look at her website www.kazaston.com
The cruise saw the elimination of the third newbie, Brian Payne. Payne’s 2000 Ford Mustang is a thing of beauty. Its twin-turbo small block Ford power coupled with light weight and very slippery aerodynamics promise great things to come but the heat generated on the road test led to a vapour lock sidelining this beautiful car for this round. There were no other cruise victims so 13 cars would battle it out in eliminations.
Monday morning’s first round saw Pateman, Meads and Lazenby on byes. The hot rods of Dave Murdoch and the remaining rookie, Andy Hadfield, provided a close race, the blown SBC in Hadfields Fad T producing a 9.04 winning time. It was Cortina vs Cortina as Jon Hollingworth (9.04) took out the freshly painted Ford of Ron Haslett who ran a trans-busting 11.09. Classic Chevy vs Ford action followed as Alex McIntosh (Mustang) produced a PB 8.83 to overcome the holeshot strapped on him by Ray Comer (Camaro). The battle of the Pontiacs was won by Paul Houston putting Mark Todd back on the trailer to Manchester. The final pair was Ian Hook and title-sponsor Topspeed Automotive proprietor Bill MacDermid, Hook taking the win with a very loose 8.54.
Round two provided a couple of upsets as both number 1 and 2 qualifiers were knocked out. Meads lazy .3 light allowed McIntosh to get a holeshot of his own and win with a 9.24 over Meads’ 9.16 – a very close race. Number one qualifier Pateman suffered a nitrous “burp” off the line putting Hadfield through to the semis at his first meeting! Lazenby and Hook progressed at the cost of Houston and Hollingworth respectively.
In the semis Hook faced Hadfield and both hot rods lit up the tyres on the start, Hook winning the pedal fest to progress to the final. McIntosh, who’d won the 2009 Finals, met reigning champ Lazenby. McIntosh’s Mustang had traction issues as it gripped and spun its way down the track alternately hiking the nose then spinning the tyres. Lazenby had got out first and took the win with an 8.65 (and 176 mph!) from the big Chevy.
It was 7:30 by the time Hook and Lazenby faced off for the final. With tyres warmed and nitrous purged the black Ford and two-tone Chevy pulled into stage. Lazenby was first to move but went too soon leaving a cherry on the tree whilst Hook pulled an .03 light then ran straight and true to record an 8.26, his quickest ET of the weekend, to take the win in style.
Video review of round 1 coming soon....
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12th April 2010
A familiar car and driver to many, but new to the ranks of the Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator is Andy Hadfield and his ever entertaining Twister. First outing with the class was at the hugely popular Easter Thunderball at Santa Pod Raceway. With the biggest field of cars in recent Street Eliminator memory, and banks packed with spectators, here’s how he got on....
‘Coming from plenty of RWYB experience still left me with some worries about the "Street Eliminator" series. Lots of people had told me how difficult it is to get past scrutineering and being cannon fodder in the first round is to be expected.
How wrong they were !! Having spent lots of time reading the rule books and chatting with other SE members, gaining lots of useful advice, I rolled "Twister" into the scrutineering bay at Santa Pod on the Friday morning for the Easter Thunderball. 5 minutes of a good look over by the scrutineer and we were ready to begin our observed runs !!
With grandstands full and the opposite bank awash with spectators, we did our burn out and 1/8th mile run, a fairly uneventful affair aside from making the Chief Starter jump out of the way with our traditional rolling sideways burnout.
The next run was a observed full run but counted as a qualifier so we couldn't daudle...result? A 9.6 @ 145. Not too bad for us with no nitrous.
With inclement weather followed by blasts of blue sky, we continued with qualifying and improved to a 9.2 ET pitching us in the middle of the 16 car field...exactly where we had hoped to be.
The cruise followed on the Sunday evening and the honour of being allowed to drive up the track to the cheers of spectators was incredible. A gentle trundle to the petrol station saw me try to fill the T up on diesel......muppet !! Back to the local Tesco car park and hot start the cars before a nice meander back to the pits for some well earned Beer and Barbeque.
Monday promised good conditions with the track being "gripped" at 7.00am. With plenty of action on the track from Top Fuellers, Funny Cars, Rocket Bikes and Jet Cars, track time was limited, as it had been all weekend but we still were able to get out for all our rounds without it getting too late.
First round for me against Davie Murdoch in his awesome Willys was no easy thing with Davie chasing all the way up the track following an unexpectedly good reaction time from me...more usual for me to be caught napping.
Second round and the prospect of racing the great Mr Pateman in his 5 times SE winning Calibra had more than butterflies in my stomach. A good launch and wheelie saw us powering up the track and I fully expected Steve to come walzing by at any moment but mechanical issues for Steve meant we were into the Semi Finals !!
Good fortune ended with a thorough pasting by Ian Hook in the beautiful black 34 although both of us had a bad launch, Ian romped home with more than 1 seconds advantage.
A truly eye opening experience and having such a great time and making new friends into the bargain means we shall be competing with SE at the Summer Nationals in June. I would be there for all the meetings but family holidays interrupt my new found addiction.
Thanks again to all the SE competitors for the very warm welcome and for anyone out there giving really competitive racing some thought ? Do it....you definitely won't regret it.
Andy’.
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10th April 2010
After an winter of work on the car, Ron Haslett had a ‘character building’ Easter Thunderball -
‘What a weekend for me and the other Insane boys. we started the weekend on a high with the reception the car got, soon to be overshadowed by the obvious damage that the gearbox had suffered.
After pulling the box from the car we found that the high gear clutch drum (second gear) was eating the pump. The prop was now too long. So a quick trip back to the workshop (over 300 mile round trip), and some 8 hours, the gear box was back in the car.
With no time to test we were out on another qualifier and ran a 10.8 second without nitrous and a very soft launch, And a complete gearbox. The cruise went without a hitch.
Eliminations. We were up against the Cortina of Moose. I put a bit more nitrous in the car than we had previously run and took a little more timing out which resulted in a cough on the line giving the win to Moose.
When I restarted the car, Ian on the start line said to go I got to about 60ft then activated the nitrous and ended with a speed of 148mph. But all was not good as something let go in the transmission and the motor lost fire so I coasted to stop by the fire marshal.
After checking it tonight we found the coil wire off and the oil cooler line broken where it bolts to the block. Thank god for that.
Ron.’
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10th April 2010
With some of the wildest launches we have ever seen from the ‘34, Ian Hook’s FB Racing Team certainly caught the attention of the huge Easter Thunderball crowd -
‘Our start to the 2010 Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator championship was a real challenge but ended on a super high for FB Racing.
After the usual thrash that I think many drag racers go through before the season starts, a last minute MoT and the loss of an alternator belt on our way to the track I thought we’d had our quota of drama for The Thunderball. But the ’34 had other plans!
Friday saw us pulling the Powerglide transmission so that we could cure an oil leak and fit our newly-arrived flexplate. Thanks are due to Andy Frost for his invaluable advice over the phone.
Our first pass was a relatively undramatic no-gas 8.98. Although this was off last year’s pace we were not overly concerned as the low temperature, damp air and lack of recent use meant that the track was challenging to say the least. The tyres could be heard squealing past the 1/8. We were pleased to be in provisional second place.
We put the gas on for quali 2 and the ‘34 was wheels up off the line but pulled to the right. As the front came down the car suddenly turned left. I managed to correct it and wrestle it down the track but not until I’d had it alternately on its two left wheels and then the two rights. Quite a wild ride!
Before session 3 we found what we thought was the problem and corrected it but on track the car behaved in much the same way. Back in the pit Jeff Meads told me the ’34 looked “scary”. If Jeff tells you your car is scary you know it’s REALLY scary!! We came up with a second theory as to the problem and the anti-roll bar we’d hooked up over the winter was removed. Unfortunately we had run out of qualifiers and our failure to improve on the 8.98 had now dropped us to fifth.
In round one of eliminations on Monday morning we faced Bill MacDermid, co-proprietor of class sponsors Topspeed Automotive, in the first round. The ’34 pulled to the right off the start line but at least went straight (well, more or less straight) after that. An 8.54, our best of the weekend, plus an .05 light saw us progress at Bill’s cost.
Round two wasn’t held until some five hours later. I’d staved the boredom off enough to clock another zero light but the ’34 still wasn’t handling well and I fought it to an 8.69 ET. Fortunately for us our opponent, Jon “Moose” Holingworth, had issues of his own in the twin-turbo Cortina and a second gear launch left him trailing with an off-pace 10.44.
It was after this pass that Jon Webster suggested there was something broken or loose on our car so back in the pit it went up in the air again and Martin took a long hard look at the back end. Initially he could find nothing amiss until he put his hand on the LH rear spring platform. Despite the fact that the lock ring appeared properly snugged up the platform could be turned by hand. It had obviously been de-adjusting itself since last week! Without time to properly re-baseline the settings we quickly put the spring height to where we thought it should be and made our way down for the semi-final where we would be up against rookie Andy Hadfield in his wild and wacky Fad T. After another .05 light there was at least some variety with the launch as I immediately lit up the rear tyres. Andy had done the same but I won the battle of the “pedals” and took the win 9.0 to 10.2. And a real bonus for us was that despite spinning the wheels the car had gone straight for the first time that weekend. Martin was confident that some minor tweaking would get the car back into the correct launch mode!
We were into the final and faced the huge power of 2009 SE Champion Colin Lazenby’s 800+ inch ’56 Ch*vy. We debated putting some of the power we’d taken out back in but by now it was 7:30 in the evening and track conditions were only getting worse. Martin made his suspension adjustments, we were called, then followed the big Ch*vy down to the start line. I pulled my best light of the day, an .03 and the ’34 launched hard AND in a straight line!
As I raced up the strip I kept looking over my right shoulder, expecting the’56 to overtake with its massive top end charge. But it didn’t happen and I crossed the line to take our first event win since 2006. We’d saved the best ‘til last with an 8.26 ET but what I hadn’t realised was that I’d won on the start as Colin had left early.
So we went home as very happy bunnies. Not only did we have the event win but we’d finished with a straight and fast pass that bodes well for the rest of the season. My crew did a fantastic job both before and during the event - I’d be nothing without them. A big thanks too for our sponsors – The FB Associates, Serck Services Motorsport, hotrodtees, RS Autos, Power Pour, Messier-Dowty, The Everest Balti Restaurant and A&E Fire Equipment. We will have news soon on another sponsor joining us for the rest of the 2010 season.
Additionally I have to mention the track crew who always give of their best. Last weekend must have been particularly tough dealing as they did with cold, wind, rain and plenty of incidents. The instant information supplied by Eurodragster was superb and a well done to all the other SE drivers who provided an impressive turn out with a record first meeting entry of 16 cars. Finally, a big thank you to Steve “Splinter” Nash who did a great job in organising the class (both trackside and on the cruise) and provided some excellent colour commentary. See you all at the Big Bang.
Ian.’
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19th March 2010
‘Big’ Ron Haslett had a dream end to 2009’s racing, he has been in touch with his plans for 2010.
‘Who says the winter is easy....?
After what has to be said one of my best ever weekends at the Euro Finals 2009.
Doing 8 passes and getting 8 PB’s. Ending with 9.08 seconds and 157 mph. We couldn’t have asked for more (well 3” shorter track maybe).
The problem that we did have was traction off the line and all the way down. This was due to the 4 link being incorrectly installed at the time of the car build. OOPS………….. It was picked up in 2006 When Andy Robinson did a baseline check for me.
After Taking advice from Andy and Mark Norton I embarked on the crazy idea of re-doing the 4 link and at the same time changing my chassis spec from 8.5 to 7.5. Whilst doing this minor task I also decided to change the colour after a bit of damage was done to the rear quarter. As the car has been completely stripped of every nut and bolt I took this opportunity to rewire the car.
I know this doesn’t sound like much but I’ve also been working 7 nights a week so it has meant that nearly all the work has had to be done by me as the lads that crew for me are working normal hours and getting on with their own projects.
It’s funny when you look back whilst having a hotrod moment (drinking tea and looking at the car in the sun). I was talking to Nick and Graham (crew) about the latest version of the estate and remembered that originally I only wanted to build the car to 10 second spec but decided to go for the 8.5 spec “JUST IN CASE.”
So here we are up to date
2010 and what does it mean for team Insane Creations
We are going to run the whole season and dare I say it. We are hoping to get into the 8’s and hopefully be competitive. We are also planning some upgrades throughout the season but I will bring you more on that as and if it happens.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank my sponsors and crew’.
Muscle Fury www.musclefury.com
Express Gearboxes www.expressgearbox.co.uk
Wizard Of Nos www.noswizard.com
Macmillan Cancer Support www.macmillan.org.uk
VRC www.vehiclerepaircentre.kneeslider.net
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8th February 2010
Ian Hook’s FB Racing Team are very pleased to have added Serck Services Motorsport to the companies and individuals supporting the teams seven-second street legal 1934 Ford in their 2010 Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator campaign.
Graham Smith, manager, had this to say “Serck Services Motorsport are delighted to announce that we will be sponsoring the Street Eliminator team of FB Racing! We will be backing the FB Racing 34 coupe during 2010, a car that already runs one of our fully custom-built aluminium lightweight radiators on both track and road. This car provides a tremendous test for our products and services as the Street Eliminator class maximises performance at every level with its continued development.
We have been providing equipment to the drag racing industry for over ten years and are looking forward to supporting Ian Hook and the team throughout 2010. Their 34 Ford Coupe has produced some astonishing quarter mile statistics down not to mention this is a fully street legal car. We wish Ian and his fantastic team every success for the season ahead”
Ian stated “I am really pleased that Serck Service Motorsport have given us their backing for 2010. Our Street Eliminator ’34 has relied on Serck products to cool both the engine and transmission for the past 8 years and they have never let us down. The radiator in particular is superb, it is very efficient meaning it can remain relatively small which both reduces weight and allows us to squeeze it into the narrow confines at the front of our engine bay. Furthermore the continuous development we do on the car has called for a few mods and redesigns over the years and the company have always been keen to help, providing an excellent after sales service.”
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Although most well know for their custom built radiators (available in both aluminium and brass) Serck Services Motorsport are custom fabricators who can supply intercoolers, oil coolers, fuel and header tanks as well as all the hardware and plumbing needed for installation for both cars motorcycles. They also supply a range of electric fans, air tools, braided brake hosing and much, much more. Check out their website for full details.
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31st January 2010
** NEW TITLE SPONSOR ANNOUNCED FOR 2010 **
Topspeed Automotive Ltd are delighted to be main sponsors of the 2010 Street Eliminator Series.
Trading for over 40 years, and managed by an experienced team of professionals, TOPSPEED is Surrey's premier retailer of Motoring Accessories and Performance Parts. As well as parts and accessories for the traditional family saloon, we specialise in performance parts and accessories for American V8 and Classic machines in our 1200sq ft retail outlet.
We are just minutes from the M25, so if you prefer to do you purchasing in person, please call in and discuss your needs with one of the team... there's usually a pot of coffee on the go !
We are agents for and deal with companies such as Wynns, Millers Oils, K&N, Kenlowe, NGK Plugs, Silicone Hoses, Draper, TCI, Felpro, Aeromotive, Taylors, Autoglym, Smart Wax, Meguiars, Mr Gasket, Power Pour, Fram Filters, Holley pumps, some MSD, Autometer, dress up kits, line-locks, trans coolers, Lucas Oils and unbeatable Yuasa car batteries to name but a few of our 200 plus suppliers we deal with. We also have a large stock of Jada muscle and VW car models and service parts for your everyday car.
The latest CTEK Smart Battery Chargers are now in stock at great prices. These are the only chargers which will fully charge Optima Batteries, and were actually designed for that task! With Pit and Paddock equipment and weekend racing consumables in stock, we're well placed to provide a complete service for race teams in the coming seasons, even bringing pre-orders to the track.
We are main agents for Valvoline Oil and to celebrate the launch of our new web site at www.topspeedparts.co.uk we can offer any drag racer fantastic deals on Valvoline Racing VR 1 20/50, from one litre of oil up to a 205-litre drum and we can deliver the drums carriage-free anywhere in mainland UK. Please call the shop on 01932 341700 / 344453 or visit us at 17-19 The Broadway, New Haw, Surrey. KT15 3EU
Bill, Scott and crew chief Vinnie are really excited about the 2010 season, good luck to all racers and see you all at the track.
Regards,
Bill
Topspeed Automotive
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15th January 2010
Dear 2009 Member
This is the first class news item of 2010 and more of a general, polite, reminder.
Your MSA licence renewal IS now due however and you might as well get onto this as soon as you can. MSA membership runs Jan 1st through December 31st in any case, so it serves no real purpose putting this off for much longer and then panicking about it much nearer the time. The address is www.msauk.org
Better also check your renewal dates for membership to APIRA www.shakespearecountyraceway.com or SPRC, www.eurodragster.com that’s either or, not both...
And finally while the current issue of Retro Cars Magazine (out today) features the Team ‘56’ 210 Sedan, this is a 9 page feature with ample references to the SE class and great quality images of all the other SE cars, courtesy of new best friend Mat Woods, and it’s well worth a read (on these long dark nights). Retro Car Magazine should be available at branches of Martin (formally RS) McColl’s, WH Smith and all well stock petrol stations. The link is www.retrocarsmag.com
Racers needing tech information, SFI dating or tech inspections will need to speak with MSA scrutineers, Geoff Martin or Glenn Stockton.
Oh, and the Easter Thunderball www.santapod.co.uk/e_easter.php takes place on the 2nd to 5th of April – that’s right, exactly 11 weeks tomorrow. Terrifying isn’t it?!
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15th December 2009
Hardcore Street 2009 trailer added....Click here to watch it.
Available from www.quartermilehigh.com
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12th December 2009
A huge thanks to all the Street Eliminator sponsors for 2009 -
To our joint title sponsors Trevor and John at B&H Automotive
To Lee Child at LA Racing Parts
To all at Quartermilehigh/Zeon TV
To all the staff at Eurodragster.com
To Chris &Trish Biro and all the staff at RPM magazine
To Mathew Wright at Wright Guards Security
To Lisa and Paddy at the new Embroidery Solutions -
Without you all the class would definitely have had less of a profile in 2009 -
Heres to a successful 2010.
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12th December 2009
Videos page updated....Click here!
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4th December 2009
More photos of the 2009 Awards Evening available here....
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4th December 2009
The B&H/LA Racing SE Awards party was a resounding success with almost 100 racers, members, crew and families in attendance.
Madcap Paul Venners, and glamorous guest, played host for the evening and following a sumptuous 3 course meal the presentations themselves began. First up was the Mark O’Hanlon ‘spirit of the SE award, this is a members only vote and votes are adjudicated by MSA tech inspector Mark Norton. Jeff Meads was the very deserving recipient – well done Jeff.
This year’s ‘hardest launching award went to Ian ‘fatty’ Hook with his FB Racing ‘34’ F*rd having found very quick form with his new all aluminium 598ci motor recording a staggering 1.24 60 ft. A themed ‘Christmas tree’ staging light trophy (sponsored by the SE) will take up pride of place in his trophy cabinet.
For the top 5 Championship finishers, number 5, and taking a share in the B&H/LA Racing prize money was Scotland’s Davie Murdoch, Davie also won the most improved award having run through the season with continuing NPB’s, culminating with an astounding 8.89. Davie also won himself the most improved award, an SE sponsored staging light trophy and 4 embroidered crew shirts, courtesy of Embroidery Solutions, many thanks to Lisa and Paddy for all their hard work...
In 4th place was Alex McIntosh, Alex finally returned to his previous 8 second form late on in the year with his always beautifully turned out Pro-Chargered Mustang. He too took a share in the B&H/LA Racing funds.
In 3rd place was Mats Andersson with his pretty little Opal GT, Mats took home a Wright Guard Security Trophy (courtesy of Mathew Wright) and a share of the B&H Automotive/LA Racing cash. Mats also took home a framed picture courtesy of Eurodragster.com
Runner up was Jeff Meads, a very worthy opponent to this year’s champion. Jeff ran a NPB of 8.25 with his wheelstanding F*rd Pop and for his 2nd place position he took home a trophy, courtesy of Wright Guard Security, the spirit of award and his return (following big valve train damage at the Euro Finals) took tremendous dedication to come back from and this what makes for worthy, future champions. He also took home a great framed picture from Eurodragster, and a share in the B&H Automotive/LA Racing prize fund – well done to Jeff Meads and team.
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And the winner in the B&H Automotive/LA Racing Championship was Colin ‘Cj’ Lazenby. The team had had their troubles, missing out on at least two cruises but obviously not enough trouble to deter them from their focussed efforts on this year’s Championship. He’s now a 3 time SE champion and he parks his big ‘56’ having secured a long time coming NPB of 7.708. He won himself a fantastic trophy courtesy of Wright Guard Security, Colin tells us this WILL take pride of place in his by now cluttered trophy cabinet. Colin also won himself the perfect light award, sponsored by the SE for his average 0.042 lights, a picture courtesy of part time Eurodragster staff member ‘Ed’ and, a share in the B&H Automotive/LA Racing prize fund.
All SE members took home copies of the ‘Hardcore Street’ DVD, produced by www.quartermilehigh.com. Ann-Marie Lazenby has asked that we personally thank both them for all their support and for hard work throughout the season.
The SE would like to thank all sponsors for this year, what they provide in support (and prizes) is part of what makes the SE class so great. For the racers, and their supporters in the stands, and with another load of new cars for 2010 already rumoured, roll on SE 2010.
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19th October 2009
Race Report, Round 8 - The National Finals. Click Here.
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15th October 2009
Supporters of B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator will know that 2009 Champion Colin Lazenby's first ever seven-second pass came at the sixth round at Shakespeare County Raceway’s Open Sport Nationals. Colin has been in touch with a report on his season since then:
At the Open Sport Nationals the team was greeted with almost perfect conditions for us to chip away at the tunes, and we got there largely the result of Crew Chief Garry Coull’s ability to make the tiniest of changes deliver us some outstanding performances working with the ignition retards, and a certain amount of restraint over the nitrous controllers. A combination of the two netted us our first ever seven, a 7.95.
At the FIA European Finals, we missed the first three qualifying sessions when upon changing the intake springs on Wednesday we came across a broken retainer lock/keeper. We thought we had spares and we did, but not the ten degree beadlock design which are used only with titanium valves. In fact the only guy at the track who seemed to have the same keepers was Pro Mod's Roger Johansson and he was in a pretty laid-back set-up mode because the Pros weren’t racing until the Friday, though by now of course it was Thursday lunchtime and we were rapidly running out of time. In the end we warmed up our Sonny’s behemoth semi-hemi with the broken keeper with a view to fitting the new keepers when Roger came over, which he did at around one o'clock. This allowed us to make the fourth qualifying session by the skin of our teeth. We ran with exactly the same tune as we did at Shakespeare County so on our first qualifying run we carded a new Personal Best 7.855.
For session five we stepped it up. Garry didn’t specifically tell me what he’d changed, and I didn’t ask, but he did ask me to short shift - I did, though it felt a bit flat in the middle and it went an unsurprising 7.908. We stepped up again for session six, don’t forget here that we had already stepped up from the 7.85 but ultimately it had gone slower because of the short shift and the lower revs. Session six therefore delivered us another PB of our 7.708. In the only session we ran on Friday we went 7.834, in the dusk and with the dew point well and truly in, but with pretty much the same tune with which we ran the 7.70. In these conditions, we turned the tyres with each gear change but the old girl still went as straight as an arrow. Given the cold conditions I believe this run was actually more astounding than the 7.70: the track temp was sixty degrees give or take. By now the Sportsman Pros were beginning to wear. Still legal, but worn nonetheless. We discussed at what point we would undertake our tactical tyre change in full recognition that changing to new tyres on race day could have been catastrophic to us going rounds. Lee Child of LA Racing Parts had kindly organised delivery of replacement tyres both for us and for Davie Murdoch, and they turned up when Lee said they would. We had two more qualifying sessions on the Saturday during which we went 7.814 and 7.832. The 7.83 run was against John Sleath’s 7.87 and this race goes down in the SE history books as the quickest and fastest ever side by side run in the class.
We changed the tyres immediately after the Cruise with a view to bedding them in on our bye run the next morning. The rest really is immaterial. In the first round of eliminations a nipped wire on the trans brake feed meant that once I was fully staged and went on the chip the motor died on me. The earthing effect had killed a feeding the ignition switch, which in turned killed the MSD. Luckily I had fully staged under power and I took the win light. R2 was against Alex McIntosh and aside from one previous burnout we were essentially on new tyres. I ended up having to drive for a change, pedalling the car at least three times before I could get it to hook. In the semi-final against Fatty I had an absolutely fantastic 0.023 light for a 0.400 Tree, the problem is that we run a 0.500 tree and red light effectively put a halt to progressing any further.
Congratulations are in order here to John Sleath with his twin T*rbo Audi for his European Finals event win, and his astounding 7.68 timing ticket, set on the popular Drag Radials. I have been in contact with Mickey Thompson USA to lay claim on the quickest and fastest run in the world on the full block tread Sportsman Pro after my own 7.708/189.63 at the race. I don't anticipate recognition from any other quarter.
Onto round eight, the UK National Finals. Self and our Bri set up camp - well I was quite butch, our Bri was camp - then changed the exhaust springs on the Friday, and on Saturday morning we damaged a lifter wheel during the warm-up which also bruised a cam lobe. We replaced the lifter and limped to a 9.1 during session two, which pretty much placed us in the middle of the field. We kept a close eye on the damaged lobe and the new lifter wheel just in case we incurred greater irreparable damage. The Cruise came and went without drama, but when we checked the lash upon our return we found another damaged lifter. We changed this for our last remaining spare just so that we could meet Alex McIntosh for the first round of eliminations. We treated the new lifter wheels to a liberal soaking of Torco MPZ Engine Assembly lube, courtesy of Steve Clark at Nimbus Motorsport. The team debated up hill and down dale whether or not we should race Alex, but ultimately the choice was mine. I did my normal short burn-out (yeah right - Ed) albeit at slightly lower revs. I then pre-staged, purged the nitrous and went into full stage. On the green I left, then backed off just prior to the sixty foot clocks. For us our weekend was over and besides I owed Alex big time for helping us out with heat shrink at the previous event and I wasn’t about to wreck our Sonny’s *** ci bullet.
Team ‘56’ will live to race another day.
Thanks also to Super Modified racer Tim Mugridge for the loan of his nitrous jets: come and get 'em any time Tim, it’s M1, M6, M74 pretty much all the way up through Scotland. If you get to Iceland (not the frozen food shop) you’ve gone too far. Congratulations to SE Championship runner-up Jeff Meads and also to third place finisher Mats Andersson. It’s been a hard slog for all SE competitors this year but especially for you guys who have been able to commit to attending all the SE rounds in 2009. To all other SE competitors, we all appreciate your support of the hardest core of street-legal doorslammer cars in Europe. We’ll see you guys at the SE Dinner Dance on 28th November.
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18th September 2009
Race Report, Round 7 - The FIA Euro Finals. Click Here.
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18th September 2009
Race Report from Team Willys, The FIA Euro Finals.
Just wanted to drop a few lines to say how chuffed we are at running our first 8 sec pass without gas last weekend at FIA Euro Finals which, in all honesty wasn't expected. I always said I wanted to run a 9 second car and when we got down to the 9's at the Summer Nationals we couldn't believe it so you can imagine how we felt last weekend.
I would just like to thank all my crew that were out with us for the event and for all the hard work they put in when we ran into problems on Friday when we found the distributor gear had failed (thanks to well timed (get it) advice from big Ron Haslett - cheers big man. Then we found that the oil pump drive shaft was also knackered (thanks to Jason Weir for the offer of his dizzy). It was a mad race for myself and Keith Hunt to get to Real Steel first thing on Saturday morning to pick up the parts we needed and get back to the track in time (which I have to say wasn’t easy with the crowds that fell upon Santa Pod last weekend).
But we made it and I have to say it was well worth it. With a new MSD ignition tune courtesy of Garry Coull, when we next went out we ran an astounding 8.91, and then topped that with the 8.89 in the first eliminations on Sunday. Unfortunately we suffered a major oil leak and just weren't willing to take the risk. Along with the fact that our parachute had decided to part company with the car. Sad because we think we could've gave John Sleath a run for his money - NOT.
Anyway, again, a big thanks to all for a successful weekend. See you all at the National Finals.
David Murdoch
Team Willys
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18th September 2009
Race Report from FB Racing, The FIA Euro Finals.
Last weekend was one of the most enjoyable ever for B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator UK team FB Racing.
(Click for bigger picture)
With only 2 full no-gas passes (and no dyno time) on the new 598 we used the first three qualifiers to extract a little all-motor performance from the ’34 and improved from our round 6 best of 8.95 to a NPB 8.66. Then it was time to open the bottle and on our third gas run with the new engine gave us an overall NPB of 8.16. What’s more my .0000 reaction time was also a PB and won me the Eurodragster.com/Speedflow Perfect Light award (thanks guys, the £100 will pay for the National Finals gas!!). We couldn’t get any more out of the car through the rest of qualifying but were happy to be consistently running low eights. The cruise was very enjoyable and I must say a big thanks to the crowd for the fantastic send off they gave the SE racers as we made our way up the strip and out of the track and also for the welcome we had on our safe return.
Due to some on-track delays it was well into the afternoon of Sunday before we had our first round race against our fellow Cheltenham-based racer Mats Andersson. After a hard burnout the car launched really well but at about mid track started to pull to the right and wasn’t keen to straighten up – so much so that I almost came off it. At about 1,000 feet the car sorted itself out and felt great across the line. Driving back to our pit I hoped but didn’t dare believe. As I got out of the car two of my crew were there and just hearing the magic word “seven” was enough for me to start celebrating. 7.97 @ 173 mph. NPBs both and the first European street rod to run the quarter in under eight seconds! Anything after that was a bonus. And what a bonus it was! We made it right through to the final where John Sleath (always a pleasure to race with) used his awesome Audi to take the win.
(Click for bigger picture)
Whilst I hate to come over all Hollywood I’d really like to pass on some thanks. Firstly my crew, especially Brain, Brief and Nubi who spent many evenings in my garage fabricating parts and nailing together our awesome 598 Ford and not forgetting of course Spud, Wires, Kitchen Matt, Squeak and new-boy Dave. A big thank you to my sponsors, the FB Associates, A&E Fire Equipment, RS Autos, hotrodtees.co.uk, Power Pour (it works just fine Jon), The Everest Balti Restaurant and Messier-Dowty. Thanks to Clive Bond for his help, support & patience and to Trev Langfield for his support and the supply not only of our superb WoN nitrous system and controller but also of a lot of advice.
I must also express my thanks to Santa Pod Raceway both for the hard working crew and for inviting the B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator class to take part in the European Finals event and to the Eurodragster crew for providing such excellent coverage. Appreciation too is deserved of Colin & Ann-Marie Lazenby who both work tirelessly in support of our class and a big “well done” to all the SE racers who put on such a fantastic show last weekend.
To finish, having received many congratulations ourselves, I’d like to pass on our own to John Sleath for having produced the quickest and fastest runs ever seen in Street Eliminator and to Jon Webster for his victory in Top Fuel. Well done both.
We’re looking forward to seeing everyone at the National Finals.
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18th September 2009
Race Report from Insane Racing’s Ron Haslett, The FIA Euro Finals
Firstly I'd like to start with last weekend and my test session at VW Action.
We arrived about 4pm to find that the power parade was on in Wellingbough. Having never done this before we were amazed at the turn out and how well the cars were receive.
On Saturday, my first and only run saw a 12.4 ET on 5 cylinders; we picked up 2 broken rocker studs and a broken plug. My neighbour who came with me for the first time the drove back to Portsmouth to get a new set.
On Sunday, run 1, we ran a new personal best (NPB) without the gas, a 10.1. On run 2 we broke another rocker stud and ran a 10.3 on gas, 7 cylinders and another broken stud!
On run 3 we had massive wheel spin and the car was trying its best to kiss the barrier – oh, and another broken stud....
Euro finals:-
After talking to Dave Powell and Pete Knight I changed the studs again. I moved the stud girdle and rechecked the geometry, everything looking good. We missed the first 3 sessions but when we did get out we made a mild check-out pass. No broken studs this time. Thanks to Pete for bringing me a new set of rocker nuts to the track on the Friday.
The gas was now turned on and we were rewarded with a 9.5 @147mph - another NPB.
I'm not going to list every run we did but we did 8 runs over the weekend and managed 8 NPBs in either ET’s or MPH. Our best run was saved until last, a 9.0 @ 153 mph. And hey, we even managed to get the front wheels off the ground for the first time.
I can't thank enough all the people that have helped me over this year as although we haven't raced that much, but we haven't been idle either.
So it’s thanks to the lads that helped me in the workshop and at the track, that’s Graham, Russ, Andy, Nick, Mark and Darren.
Thanks also to Colin Lazenby’s crew chief Garry Coull for the timing advice – much appreciated.
Big Ron Haslett.
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7th September 2009
Video summary, Round 6 - The Open Sport Nationals, now available. Click Here.
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31st August 2009
Race Report, Round 6 - The Open Sport Nationals. Click Here.
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25th August 2009
B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator racer Colin Lazenby would like to thank pretty much everyone for his own milestone achievement at this weekend’s event at Shakespeare County Raceway.
‘Self, our kid and Clive Bond had arranged to meet as the gates opened 11:00 hrs on Thursday, we had stuff to do - I put the rockers back on and Clive had the transmission cooler to finish, so that just left the re-mounting, plumbing and wiring all to do, so not much. Oh, don’t forget to throw in one rather frustrating journey to home and back before we were done. Late on Thursday we warmed it, primed and fired it and with all OK Clive joined us for a spot of well earned dinner and a very small beer really officer before leaving for FRANCE.
Garry joined us bright and early Friday morning, having left somewhere around the south lakes at 04:00 hrs the same morning.
With the oil warmed and primed we fired it up when we were called and though we never discussed the first of the weekend’s tunes we’d gone to the line with a lazy ‘soft’ starting point and we rewarded ourselves with a not to be sniffed at 8.60 @ 177.4 mph.
Onto the second session, and having had chance to digest the good and bad points of the previous run we made our changes but created a marginal ‘rattling’ of the tyres (for the first time in 15 runs) which caught me by surprise but nonetheless found an improving 8.47 @ 178.1 mph.
Run 3 on the Friday we made the tiniest of changes to step up to our best run of the day to an 8.20 and 181.4 – man those 180 mph + runs feel good.
Saturday brought about many challenges for the Shakespeare track crew, hey John Cross, thanks buddy, but they stuck with it and in our only session of the day we went quicker still with an 8.12 @ 184.3 mph.
The cruise was hot, no, I mean really hot, and aside from the odd mishap it proved to be uneventful for us. Clive’s new trans cooler installation had knocked 35 degrees off the transmission temp so the URC upgrade was hugely successful. I gave a ride to ace photographer Matthew Woods on the last leg of the cruise and I publicly apologise for scaring the living daylights out of him – at least he didn’t scream (he said).
Sunday we were all greeted by glorious sunshine, we had an earned bye and we used it to our advantage by tuning for something special, we found it too with a beautiful arrow straight 8.09 @ 185.4 mph, incidentally our best ever speed was 185.6 mph. And we realised that we were oh so close to that sweet spot.
We had new boy Paul Houston with his Sleath Race cars twin turbo big block in the semi’s, Garry was happy to step up the tune but knew he had to stay well away from an aborted run, he provided me with an 8.03 and 186.3 mph (NPB) dam those pesky turbo motor’s...
And onto the Finals, Jeff and us again. Now Jeff likes to race, hell, we love to race. Garry and I debated the tune beforehand, Garry got his way and I accepted defeat, at least in the debate. Onto the race itself, no messing about, pre-stage and stage, Jeff gave us a sporting head start and we were off onto another arrow straight run, I knew it was fast, and quick just before I exited the car I received a text off Tog that simply said congrats. I packed the chute and headed back. On the return road Ann-Marie flagged me down (I thought I was in trouble) she lent through the car and whispered those sweet numbers 7.95 and 187 mph.
For us, the team, crew chief Garry Coull, our Bri my rock, Ann-Marie & Jacquie and for this weekend Richard/Claire, and Leo many thanks.
For the words of congratulatory support from every corner of drag racing I have to say we've been pretty overwhelmed. From Andy/Kate and of course Luke of ARRC my chassis builder and some, many thanks.
For Steve Clark at Nimbus Motorsports, again a big thank-you. TORCO octane booster testing is now complete Steve...
To Marge and Carl Rossler, for providing me with the best transmission in the world, I thank-you.
And for Sonny’s and Clive Bond, for giving us a motor that’s capable of delivering any tunes we care to throw at it, I thank-you.
And finally for the guys and gals of the B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator you’re all completely insane, I love you, weeps uncontrollably....’
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25th August 2009
The FBs are pleased as punch with our first full weekend competing in the B&H Automtotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator series with the new motor in the '34.
‘We ran our first ever all motor 9 and then proceeded to run an eight without gas as well! We went on to an 8.52 on only our third ever full pass on the 598 before being knocked out by Jeff Meads an absolute thriller of a semi final when the lead changed an incredible four times (almost like something from the movies!). But best of all was that both engine & car have come home in one piece!
We'd like to pass on our congratulations to Colin and the rest of Team '56 on winning the event and breaking into the sevens - it must have seemed an awfully long time after getting so close with the 8.01! Thanks also to Colin and Anne-Marie for the organising the barby and to Mick "the Fish" for his hard work feeding us all on Saturday night. A great time was had by all.
We are really looking forward to the Euro Finals and will be trying very hard to better our overall PB of 8.17. And after that?? Who knows!
Updated points tables will be posted before the end of the week.’
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27th July 2009
Shakespeare County’s Open Sport Nationals takes place August 21st/22nd/23rd (Fri/Sat/Sun). As does the annual SE BBQ – more on that in a minute....
The closing date for entry to this event is theoretically a week tomorrow – Friday, July 31st. On saying that Julie is usually very understanding of the racers plight. If you are unsure about your ability to attend you need to call her, she’ll be happy to reserve your entry subject to final confirmation and I say that given the recent attrition that some motors have suffered.
Julie can be contacted on 07792919508, or e-mail julesw@tesco.net
Or you can find your car entry forms yourselves at http://www.shakespearecountyraceway.com
The 4th SE BBQ, is likely to be Saturday evening (after the early cruise).
Now, you guys know this is one annual event not to be missed even if you’re unable to race. We normally ask who would like to contribute, and with what and this year is no different. It’s a foregone conclusion that Splinter will be providing the made by his fair hands ‘coleslaw’... and anything from bags of kettle chips (at least the flavours I like) along with cheesecakes, buns (rolls for the southerners) etc, etc.
I am sure a Lazenby chilli will be there also. The class will fund the main items of meats and we live in hope that ‘Mick the Fish’ will once again take up the role of honorary cook, failing which it’ll be big Ron Haslett – but I have to say I think the last time Ron handled the cooking he actually ate more than he cooked. Now this year we have a theme, we’re celebrating Mexican night, anything from Mexican moustaches right through to sombreros and the blanket style ponchos, cowboy boots will do too – Garry wears these anyway should anyone struggle to come up with the correct attire. Now this is no more that a bit of fun and hey, if we can’t laugh at each other we can always take the mick out of Pat*man. We expect everyone to put on a show, the dafter, the better. Please enter into the spirit of the event.
Oh, and who hasn’t done a piece for Eurodragster yet?
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27th July 2009
Ian Hook’s reflections on his debut event of 2009....
‘Having dried off after last weekend's Bug Jam deluge I felt I had to put pen to paper (or rather fingers (just the two!) to keyboard) to pass on a few thanks. Whilst I'd rather be writing to tell everyone how successful our first foray with the new engine was (it wasn't!), I have to say that we wouldn't have been there at all were it not for some superhuman efforts from the FBs. I must single out Martin "Brain" Kerr for his extraordinary efforts in getting the new motor built, wired, plumbed and installed within a very short space of time. And for those not aware, this task included a lot of fabrication as we are running with an electric water pump and a dry sump system for the first time - it took a lot of clever work to get the various lines, tanks and hoses into the narrow confines of the '34s engine bay. Another to be 'mentioned in despatches' is new team member Matt Long. Matt had the misfortune to do some work on my extension at home and before he knew what was what found himself spending hours of his free time helping me with work on the FB bus. Although not 100% completed it was definitely useable and a lot better than the previous incarnation. A big thank you also goes out to Lee Sharples who did an awful lot of wiring and lighting work for us and to Clive Bond for dealing with some of the worst trans-Atlantic customer service ever seen and sourcing our parts against all odds!
And what happened? Well, we took the '34 to the track without even having the chance to fire the new 598. Unfortunately when we filled it with water it proceeded to fill up the cylinders and sump as well! The cure was to completely strip the top end and sump. dry everything out and then silicone all the waterways before putting it all back together. All this was achieved with a 2" deep river flowing through our pit most of the day - Martin now has webbed feet. By the time it was back together and we'd sorted an ignition issue the required temperature cycle meant that we weren't able to run on Saturday. Although we got close to getting out on Sunday (that Pod crew just don't know how to give up!) all we could manage was to load the engine against the converter.
At least we got car (and coach!) home in one piece and we're all looking forward to Shakey on August 21st-23rd. And not just for SE Barbecue IV either!’
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21st July 2009
Visitors to last weekend's rain sodden Bug Jam thought that they had strayed onto the set of Eastenders when they saw these two characters.
Gossip that the Mitchell brothers had given up their bad ways and had forsaken the Queen Vic to take up residence in the Fueler's Bar were proved to be untrue when it was revealed that the supposed dastardly duo were in fact none other than B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator drivers Jeff Meads and Colin Lazenby. Although it has been rumoured that both racers are happy to do stunt double work to help the team budgets!
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17th July 2009
Joanne Hollingworth of the Sport newspaper, and wife of Street Eliminator racer Jon ‘Moose’ Hollingworth e-mailed us to say that the Sport Babes will be at the USC at Santa Pod at the start of August, www.ultimatestreetcar.co.uk
The Sport will be offering a £5.00 money off voucher for the event.
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7th July 2009
B & H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator UK 2009 Round 4 race report
June 13th-14th Santa Pod Raceway
The Summer Nationals at Santa Pod Raceway, Northamptonshire played host for Round 4 of this year’s B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator UK Championship. Round 3 was finalised with Lazenby taking the win over meads and leapfrogging the Pop driver into first place in the championship but by the closest of margins 2110 to 2100 points!
The meeting saw the return of Alex McIntosh in his blown Stang and Davie Murdoch in the gorgeous ’33 Willys. Joining them were Lazenby, Meads, Andersson and Todd. Qualifying was topped (again) by Lazenby in the ’56 but he relinquished that position to Meads when the Chevy’s engine destroyed a lifter forcing Team ’56 to retire before the cruise.
Race day saw a huge upset in the first round when a lazy light and a wheelie from Meads allowed Andersson to prevail in a thrilling race. With the RT factored in the Swedes 9.88 and Meads 8.95 (and, yes, those numbers are the right way round!) translated into less than 3/100ths (or 7.1 inches) between the two cars at the stripe. Andersson was joined in the semi finals by McIntosh and Murdoch. Murdoch progressed with his second bye of the day (thanks to the absence of Lazenby) whilst McIntosh saw red and lost out to Andersson missing out on his 9.49 to 9.53 advantage.
Andersson was in his second final of the year and with a bit more of a chance of victory (last time he faced Frost!). But Murdoch (making up the first ever SE UK final with no English presence!) was determined to make him work for it and despite the Swede’s third holeshot of the day pushed him all the way. Despite losing out the Scot was well pleased as he ran his first 9 in the ’33 in this, his first SEUK final.
Andersson now tops the B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts championship table, the third racer to hold that position this season. But with just a few hundred points separating the top three it’s still anyone’s title. Bug Jam at Santa Pod in a week’s time may see another change in leadership as the event hosts round 5 of this year’s 8-round series.
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2nd July 2009
B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator competitor Colin Lazenby has been in touch to provide us with an update following his early exit from the Summer Nats.
‘At some point during the 3rd qualifying pass on the Saturday the engine tone in our 811-932 ci Sonny’s billet motor noticeably changed. We were up against Jeff Meads at the time, effectively running what would have been our finals from the previous event. I have to tell you that the thought of ‘coming off it’ against Jeff never entered my head – besides, give him an inch and he’ll take a mile... In the race itself we ran a slowing 8.53 to Jeff’s improving 8.83 (times courtesy of Andy Mars).
Back in the pits we began the ritual of setting the lash, clearly all was not well with #5 exhaust and with less than an hour before the cruise we pretty much knew we were never going to make it, certainly not without risking greater damage. By the time the other SE competitors were leaving for the cruise the intake was already off, and having borrowed a couple of specialist tools from Tim Mugeridge (surely he’s realised by now) and Graham Ellis’s crew we managed to pull out the main body of the damaged lifter. By now of course Clive Bond was an hour and a half later than he’d planned to get away and having committed to being elsewhere by this point I am grateful for his ever watchful eye and the fact he stayed. At this point we wrapped up for evening, partook in our planned BBQ, and, one or two beers.
Tomorrow was always going to be a tough day.
On the Sunday I was up and about by 06:45 hrs and our Bri and Garry weren’t far behind. The plan was to get packed up and away by 09:30, we pulled out of the Pod at 09.25 (dammit).
Now I must apologise here to the lady in the gas station that our kid fell out with, something to do with access to the pumps? Anyhow lady, if your reading this on Eurodragster, or the SE site our Brian is very sorry in the way he spoke to you and I for one do not condone his disgraceful language, or indeed his un-gentlemanly conduct... I do hope you weren’t too traumatised by the abuse you received. I suspect our Brian (just like Ronnie Biggs) remains unrepentant on the matter. Anyhow, we’d planned to get to Clive’s by 12:00 and we were there pretty much bang on schedule having already agreed with Clive that we would deliver the motor to his ample shop even though he couldn’t join us (do try to keep up) given his previous commitment.
We rolled the ‘56’ off into Clive’s shop, popped it up onto the Pro-jacks where me and our kid pulled out the motor, cleaning everything up as we dismantled - Clive’s place is as clean as a hospital operating theatre (without the added risk of picking up an infection). The girls put on a spot of lunch and then sunbathed – what? They did...
The image shows the old girl, once again without a motor between the rails, and once it was placed safely onto an old engine stand (we found lying around) we simply tidied up and left. But not before raping and pillaging Clive’s snap on tool stash – when on earth will he learn?
Clive’s since inspected the motor and predictably when the lifter bearing failed, the axle collapsed and the offending item continued to bash the corresponding lobe on the cam until that too was trashed – let’s just say it could have been worse - much worse. And yes of course we’ll check the other lifters. Sonny Leonard is now not talking to me.
The cam and lifters are now ordered and we’ll just have to see how we get on. Don’t write us off just yet, you ought to know by now that here at team ‘56’ don’t give up that easily...’
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1st July 2009
Just like Ian Hook and the FB Racing team, Jason Weir and the Pro-Suburban team have entered the Bug Jam, their first race meeting of 2009.
‘Over the last year we have had timing and ignition issues with the old engine, due to some inadequate engine work and being fairly inpatient people we just couldn’t go on like this so the decision was taken to source a new motor.
After a few options were explored, we knew we wanted to continue with ProCharger as our power adder but as always we were looking for more horsepower even though the Dollar exchange rate was far from being in our favour we chose a complete engine package from Steve Morris of NewEra Racecraft in Michigan www.neweraracecraft.com/about.html
The all ally motor is a 540ci BBC with a new gear driven F3R Procharger, this thing will produce over 60% more horsepower than the old motor did and the modifications needed to accept the new motor are being carried out by Webster Race Engineering just prior to the Bug Jam.
Big thanks to Steve Morris (New era Racecraft), Webster Race Engineering, Paul Dickens and Clive Bond of Ultimate Race Cars for all his help and advice.
See you at the Bug Jam
Jason.’
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26th June 2009
Round 4 Race Video now uploaded. Click here to watch it!
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25th June 2009
Ian Hook and the Cheltenham Fat Boys have entered their first event of the year – the Bug Jam although Ian himself says that there is no more than a fifty-fifty chance of the team actually getting to the event.
Problems with the build of the teams new all-ali 598 cubic inch big block continue to plague the FBs efforts to get back on the track, the latest being a crank that refused to balance. The offending article had to be returned to Cheltenham (thanks are due to Clive Bond for the running around) to check for clearance in the block before undergoing welding work to facilitate adding the required weight. Of course there’s still a lot of other work to do and with just a bare block still sat Ian’s caution can be understood.
‘The Bug Jam may be a bit more than even we can achieve although if we think there’s any chance that the car will run we will be there as insurance, MoT test and tax are all in place ensuring the car’s legality to run. Even if we don’t make round five I am supremely confident that we will at least make the final three SE events of the year and probably a couple of others if possible.
We’d also like to add the congratulations from all the FBs to Matts Anderson for his first win in SE and for flying the flag for Cheltenham (oh, and Sweden too I guess....).’
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20th June 2009
Dear All,
As previously posted on Eurodragster, this Friday provides Street Eliminator competitors with the last opportunity to enter Bug Jam 23 – with late entries (if accepted at all) will come at a premium price at double the normal entry fee.
Now for those who have attended previous Jug Jams they are indeed a most unusual but exciting event. For the spectators it’s almost none stop partying and you can never tell when visitors call by your pit space whether they are still up from the night before or just early morning risers – most must surely suffer from self imposed sleep deprivation over the whole 3 day affair.
If you are intending to enter, speak to Paula Marshal now – at least drop her an e-mail at or call her direct on 01933 313625
For details of all the goings on planned for this year’s event visit the event organiser’s site at www.bugjam.co.uk
For the Santa Pod link to the event it’s www.santapod.co.uk/e_bugjam.php
For the downloadable entry forms (downloadable is a word) it’s www.eurodragster.com/sprc/forms.htm just scroll down the page to the Bug Jam and click on Sportsman Car Classes Entry Form.
While we understand that racers wanting to ‘test’ they are free to do so IF they bring with them their regular DVLA licences. The racing permit kick’s in at 14.00hrs on the Saturday & again at 09.00hrs on the Sunday track conditions permitting. For everyone who’s hell bent on attending the Bug Jam I’m sure you’ll enjoy the party.
Standard entry is £145, which includes electricity.
Rgds, Cj & AM Lazenby
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16th June 2009
Street Eliminator back at the FIA European Finals....
‘The B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts Street Eliminator are very pleased to announce that they will be racing at the upcoming FIA European Finals in September. This will be a full points round in the championship, and is something the class have been lobbying for for many years. Earlier this year there were plans to run at the FIA rounds as a demo class, but to be included in full is great for the class, teams, sponsors and fans alike.
You will often see a number of SE cars competing in either Pro ET, Super Pro ET or Comp Eliminator at the FIA rounds just so that they can add valuable seat time or try out their killer tunes on what are regarded as the best two tracks of the racing calendar. To come out together as a class and put on the sort of show we know we can is a great opportunity.
Street Eliminator looks forward to supporting the FIA European Finals and you can be rest assured that we will put on a show worthy of our inclusion at this high profile event. We also know that we'll find ourselves in some of the best company that Europe has to offer amongst a full complement of FIA classes. So, to all race fans intending to come along to the European Finals please come over and introduce yourselves to some the Street Eliminator teams’.
Santa Pod Raceway’s spokesman said "Santa Pod Raceway is pleased to invite back Street Eliminator as an added bonus to the FIA European Finals. Street Eliminator is a street-legal class, which all drag racing fans can relate to. See them reach high sevens to low nines on the track and then take to the road for their all-important street cruise."
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29th May 2009
Press Release from Street Eliminator racer Wilf Stacey -
‘Just a quick note to anyone who may be attending the Classic Ford Show this Sunday at Santa Pod. We have been asked to run at the event as a demo car with our ‘Street Eliminator’ Gone Krazy Ford Zephyr during this rather excellent event. Although unable to compete in the Street Eliminator Series due to our imminent relocation, we are delighted to have been asked to attend this event and we wanted to represent the class in this way.
I have also been asked to display my almost concours Anglia van as a static only display on the classic stand for the Ford Anglia 50th anniversary - oh how I wish we had a stacker trailer.
If you are intending to go to this event please come over to the race car demo pit area and say hi
Regards
Wilf Stacey’
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29th May 2009
Co-title Sponsor LA Racing Parts have been in touch with the prices for Mickey Thompson tyres for Street Eliminator racers. Click Here to download the price list.
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28th May 2009
The Street Eliminator UK welcomes on board our new trophy sponsor, Matthew Wright of Wright Guards Security.
Take a look at the range of security services available through Wright Guard by contacting Matt at www.wrightguardssecurity.co.uk/contactus.html
Matt is a long time supporter of the Street Eliminator and hopes to be out in his newly acquired and seriously upgraded ‘74’ Chevy C10 pick-up truck from the Summer Nations onwards.
A previous Eurodragster interview with Matt, and his truck, can be viewed at www.eurodragster.com/news/features/matthew_wright_pickup/default.asp
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22nd May 2009
Guys, I can’t tell you how excited I am about my phone call with Matthew Wright last Wednesday. Some of you may already know that Matt’s ‘74’ Chevy C10 pick-up truck was sold some time ago and he’s only just recently managed to buy it back (or take it back). By now of course the old motor’s long since gone and it’s now sporting a big inch, Pro-Chargered and fuel injected monster and Matt is understandably itching to get back out - he’s also looking forward to drawing his first blood, more on this point shortly.
What I wasn’t expecting to take place during our conversation was how we seemed to stray towards sponsor interest in the class. We somehow got around to talking about trophies and somehow got around to talking about the quality of our previous trophies (from WRE). The long and short it is that Matt, via his newly formed security firm ‘Wright Guards Security’ www.wrightguardssecurity.co.uk has offered to cover the cost of our 1st, 2nd & 3rd place trophies for 2009. And I am more than satisfied that we’ll be able to provide AT LEAST a similar quality to last year’s trophies and there’s every chance they’ll be even better. A big thanks to Matt for his generosity and a worthy note to any of you guys who run your own businesses – let’s see if Matt’s gesture encourages anyone other owner/managers into doing a similar thing?
Some of you might remember Matt’s truck, and his Eurodragster interview back in January 2006 www.eurodragster.com/news/features/matthew_wright_pickup/default.asp hopefully we’ll see Matt and the truck out at the Summer Nationals. You won’t be able to miss his truck – it’s the big one. Even so, Matt looks like he’s holding on to a shirt button for a steering wheel when he’s in there driving it.
And if anyone could do with any form of ‘security’ and by ‘security’ I mean anything between a full range of proper security services right through to leg breaking then maybe you should get in touch with Matt to explore the services available. You can get in touch with him via his web site... No really, you better get in touch with him soon...
Bagsie we have use of his services first – he can ‘look after’ all our gear at the Bug Jam.
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18th May 2009
After his early exit from the Springspeed Nationals at Shakespeare County Raceway, Mark Todd has been in touch with what happened, and what he found out....
‘Engine damage - or lack of it....Well the good news is there's none, but we have found and rectified a problem.
Having struggled with interference problems at rounds 1 and 2, I was really looking forward to this meet. I had re-mounted and fully re-wired the boost controller so was fairly confident that the problem was solved.
Arriving early Friday we fully checked the car resetting all valve lash, new fluids, etc.
Saturday morning was an early start as street eliminator was 1st out. I was up against an ever improving Mats Andersson.
As soon as I let go of the transbrake I knew the car didn't feel quite right but temps and pressures were good so I kept my foot down. It pulled a relatively sluggish 1.7 60ft but seemed to hold boost for the entire length of the track which was a massive relief. At the back of my mind I knew that it hadn't pulled as hard as it had done at previous meets before the controller had failed.
On the return road I realised there was a problem as tick over was down by 200rpm the ecu was struggling to maintain idle.
I was surprised by a 9.26 second time slip however the slip showed poor top end gain.
Plugs were pulled and it was immediately apparent that a problem had occurred as drivers bank front 2 cylinders. The cylinders contained antifreeze and electrodes were green and melted.
The run had been fully data logged so all eyes switched to the log. This is when the problem became more of a mystery as the data log showed a very safe 10.5 af ratio throughout the run.
The decision was made to regrettably withdraw from the round.
We decided to stay Saturday night which was a great decision as a good time was had by all. (Street eliminator drag racing on the dodgems)
Sunday Paul Houston who had driven all the way from Bathgate Scotland to help crew offered to hitch up the car and drop it at John Sleaths on his way home "Big Thanks".
This week the engine was pulled and the heads removed. At first the mystery continued as there was NO apparent engine damage however further investigation revealed the problem. combustion marks on the head gasket told the story. under boost the heads had lifted very slightly between cylinders This is a common phenomena and had occurred in previous years without a problem, the difference this year was the heads.
The new heads have water jackets very close to the between cylinder region. As soon as the head lifted in-stead of harmless combustion gasses passing between cylinders, not so harmless coolant filled the cylinders taking out the spark plugs.
All in all a great result as
a) It was not a tune issue.
b) No major parts need replacing.
c) A definitive cause was determined.
b) The solution is simple: the problem water ways stop at the head gasket anyway so weld them up and quick skim.
Looking forward to round 4.
Please say a massive thanks to Jonny 'two tins' Sleath for support on the day and the quick repair, Paul Houston and Mike Lacey for a great crewing job sorry it was cut so short.
Mark Todd’
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18th May 2009
Click here for the Round 2 Race Report....
Click here for the Round 3 Race Report....
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18th May 2009
Long time Street Eliminator racer Ian ’Fatty’ Hook’s 7th Annual Curry Night report....
‘Hot Stuff in Cheltenham
Although he’s still waiting for parts for FB Racings new big block Ford, driver Ian Hook has kept himself busy recently by organising the annual Rodders ‘n’ Racers Curry Night which was held on Tuesday night in Cheltenham. The Everest Balti Restaurant played host to the event now in its seventh year and staff were kept busy feeding and watering over 70 hungry hot rodders, drag racers and various other petrol heads.
The free raffle featured over £600-worth of goodies and Ian is grateful to The Everest, quartermilehigh.com Widdows Motors, Halfords, A&E Fire Equipment, American Car World, Santa Pod, Shakespeare County, Cheltenham Motor Club, hotrodtees.co.uk as well as fellow team members and friends for the generous donation of a multitude of prizes. He would also like to sincerely thank all those who attended on the evening as they are what make the work required more than worthwhile. “I hope to see you all again next year”.
Unfortunately the pistons needed to continue the build of the 8-second street legal ’34 Ford’s new engine continue to be elusive (I reckon they’re made of ‘unobtanium’ – Ian Hook) and attendance at this year’s Summer Nats is now highly unlikely. However the team do promise to be out this year (hopefully for the party that is Bug Jam) and to continue to provide high speed entertainment Street Eliminator style.
For Ian and the rest of the FBs the return to the track just can’t come soon enough!’
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22nd April 2009
Danny Cockerill's been around for some time, his Ford Pop was built way back in 1992 by JMW, this was when they were effectively next door to ICE Automotive in Southend. I remember the feature in the magazine (sad, I know). The Pop first ran in Super Gas, then in the Bob Nixon founded Outlaw Anglia class (unless I’m mistaken) where he won the Championship in 2003, that was way before the calling of Pro Mod where ultimately it went 7.68 @ 180 mph. This insane ride could often be seen carrying the front left wheel up to at least the eighth and usually way beyond....I remember asking Dan about selling it, he vowed he would have to sell the car and the engine seperately recognising that he'd evolved with the car and anyone else who tried to tame it may well find themselves wrong way up. The Pop was eventually sold on in 1998.
The Rover 200 was out the year after. This car was upgraded by ARRC to the current chassis spec's at the time. It was painted in a similar colour scheme to the Pop and with this car he won the SUMO Championship in 2003. Ultimately he went 7.26 @ 191 mph with this car but for Dan this still wasn't quick enough and Pro Mod was once again calling.
Following discussions with Andy Robinson the idea for a McAmis bodied 57 was formed and once the body arrived it was first modified before the the work in earest could commence. The 57 was to be a complete ‘turn-key’ car. And when it did come out in 2005, with the paint almost still wet, I recall it immediately went on to winning best engineered car, competitors choice and runner-up to the best of show at Terry Gibb’s (God bless him) Extreme Wheels show at Alexander Palace. Running in Pro Mod the same year it went as quick as 6.17 @ 230mph.
An astounding acomplishment to both the builder and the driver. Dan also took this ride to the British Pro Mod championship of the same year. Yes, 2005 truly was an astounding year for such a new car. But the story didn't end there.
Fast forward to Danny's present ride - Andy Kirks old championship winning SUMO Camaro.
This car was also originally built by Jon Webster though by now he was working at Hauser Race Cars All the current upgrades to the Camaro have again been handled by Jon at WRE. The chassis has since been fully upgraded (and powder coated) to SFI spec 25.2. All the tin work has been re-anodised and even though I’m not being told as such, there'll be lots of other WRE trickery in there too - Dan's a guy who doesn’t undertake any tasks by half...and this evidenced with every inch of the newly formed Camaro. Now's there's just as much money changing hands on Dan's eventual choice of tyre as there is on Colin Lazenby's engine size. Will he go for the M/T Sportsman Pro or the M/T DR. I say keep everyone guessing... just for the hell of it.
Jeff Taylor Performance Engines built the Pro-Charger motor and this motor was last run in Bo Butners Comp Eliminator car in the NHRA where it ran mid 7's. It's since been modified to run on the class fuel choice Shell ‘V’ Power’.
Expect to see this team competing at the very top end of the B&H Automotive/LA Racing Parts SE class from around the Summer Nat’s onwards. And with Dan’s driving ability one’s got to wonder what he’ll be able to achieve with this combination – though f'sure he’ll be looking to run mid to low 8’s and who knows we might even see other Pro Mod drivers fancying their chances with some of the SE former hero’s with the likes of Pat*man/Splinter/Frost & of course the FB's. Guys, are you listening to this...?
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22nd April 2009
Click here for the Round 1 Race Report....
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9th April 2009
Prompted into action following on from Davie Murdoch’s short story, SE Press Officer Ian (fatty) Hook has managed to drag himself away from an over sized plate of Chicken Vindaloo to provide us with an FB Racing update -
‘Fatty and the boys are ‘gutted’ (apologies boys) for missing out on the opportunity to attend the first SE event for a long, long time – Actually I can’t remember when they’ve EVER missed an event (nor can I, Ed). And had it not been for Tim Jackson’s support over the past season and a half they’d have missed out on a load more.
NB - Click the pictures for a bigger version.
One thing’s for sure, the SE pits at next week’s Easter Thunderball will have an almost eerie atmosphere to it without the presence of the FBs – and I mean all of em.
The FBs cite their biggest problem with major engine components ‘missing in action’, more the result of mismanagement by overseas whorehousing (again my apologies) warehousing, rather than anything else. And if it wasn’t at first the block, it was the pistons - man those boys have more of a run of bad luck that the devil himself old 666 Colin Lazenby.
 
Still, with a full complement of parts to hand and a great deal of hard work by many, they will, eventually, get there - and when they do, look out, their new motor is a killer.
I think the FBs were initially worried that Davie Murdoch’s pretty little ‘33’ will claim the title of Europe’s quickest Hot Rod and the FBs are looking to thwart Davie’s plans with their own mad cap motor. The spec? Try an all aluminium tall deck, 600 cube, dry sump’d block with at least one stage of N20... One stage? The writer breaks into fits of giggles... That ought to do the trick thinks fatty.
Beware though they’ll have to face similar challenges to Murdoch’s ‘33, especially with the FB motor being taller (and wider) than Davie’s 540 piece, that coupled with the 34’s puny engine bay that was originally designed to take a 4 cylinder flat head or side valve motor or similar and not at 10 ltrs either... 10 ltrs? The writer starts giggling again.
Anyhow, for the FB Racing Team, KOE champions 2005, SE champions 2006, AND, their rightful claim to Europe’s quickest Hot Rod with an 8.17 ET and 171 mph. One wonders if this will end in tears, either for the fat boys if Davie Murdoch can take the title for himself, or for Davie if he can’t – this is gonna be the WWF smack down with more sincerity and we Scots do like giving the English a spanking....’
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6th April 2009
****PRESS RELEASE****
Europe’s hard core Race Series for street legal cars, the Street Eliminator UK, are delighted to announce their class Sponsors for 2009.
The class welcomes back B&H Automotive www.bh-automotive.co.uk for their second year, and for this year we see B&H back as ‘joint’ title sponsors with LA Racing Parts – many thanks to Trevor & John at B&H for their continued interest in the class and also to Lee Child of LA Racing www.laracingparts.com. Lee was last involved in the class some years ago and given the general economic climate it’s great to have LA Racing back on board.
RPM magazine, available direct on subscription www.rpm-mag.com/subscribe.html or through Graham Rennie at American Auto Mags www.americanautomags.com
Producers of the Street Eliminator’s very own DVD Hardcore Street www.quartermilehigh.com
All the staff at www.eurodragster.com THE BEST source of drag racing news IN THE WORLD, not to be taken for granted.
And a big thanks to Martin at Embroidery Solutions, back for their third year stint with the class with embroidered crew shirts.
And let’s not forget that there’s one remaining 7 second gold ring up for the taking, for any driver who can run (and back up) a 7 second pass, courtesy of Jon Webster at WRE www.webster-race-engineering.co.uk one wonders who will put their claim on this much sought after prize in 2009. Previous winners are Steve ‘splinter’ Nash, Andy Frost & Steve Pat*man.
Race dates for the 7 round Street Eliminator series are:-
April 10th -13th (Fri-Mon) ‘Easter Thunderball’ SPR
April 24th - 26th (Fri-Sun) ‘Big Bang’ SPR – Fri is set up day.
May 2nd - 4th (Sat-Mon) ‘Springspeed Nationals’ SCR
June 13th/14th (Sat/Sun) ‘Summer Nationals’ SPR
July 17th - 19th (Fri-Sun) ‘BUG JAM’ SPR
August 21st - 23rd (Fri-Sun) Open Sport Nationals SCR
Sept 26th/27th (Sat/Sun) ‘National Finals’ SPR
SPR = Santa Pod Raceway, SCR = Shakespeare County Raceway
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5th April 2009
With so many new Street Eliminator cars due to debut at the Easter Thunderball, Class Chairman Colin Lazenby has been in touch with his take on Dave Murdoch’s long awaited ‘33 Coupe....
‘Davie Murdoch’s pretty little ‘33’ Willy’s Coupe, started, more years ago than he’d care to remember, at Reality Hot Rods, up here in Edinburgh. I’d seen it in there some years ago when Ian Jackson and I called in to see Trevor unannounced. I recall we came away with free T shirts too.
The next time I saw the ‘33’, it was sat on the ARRC chassis jig. We were down there with the ‘56’ and once it was in there it was pretty much taken apart and started all over again along with the instruction for a full tube chassis, drivers safety hoop, the works. The bulk of the work was carried out during this first visit, though the car’s been in and out a couple of times since for the various upgrades, with each taking the car closer and closer to completion.
Davie’s first choice of engine was something not dissimilar to what I once had in a model airplane, it was certainly smaller than the one in Wilf Stacey’s tot rod – you know the one, the one that Bradley piloted at Shakey last year. Thankfully this initial logic was scrapped and Davie started looking for something much more serious, he always fancied forced induction (with nitrous) which left him searching for a suitable blower motor. He found one too via Jeff Bull Racing Engines, a 540 ci piece. Originally built by Jim Oddy and topped off, rather handsomely, with a BDS supercharger – it almost wouldn’t fit between the frame rails too, it really was bigger than intended, but what the hell, ARRC got out the shoehorn and the motor was teased into place. It’s in there now and it ain’t coming out for a while.
Now this puppy makes about the same horsepower, without juice, as the Tucker boys new ‘breathed on’ motor – learnt nothing there? Good.
The motor is backed up by a race spec’d 2 speed glide (not enough gears for my liking) and a huge fueller style rear wing designed by Don Garlits and ably fabricated by ARRC, my guess is Mike – Hi Mike !!
The Willy’s is now taxed, tested and almost ready for its first run down the hallowed black top. Davie will be sensible I’m sure, he’ll be surrounded by lots of good people, overseen by Robinson Race Cars, and former Super Gas hero Luke Ramage. He’ll also have access to pretty much any other SE competitor who happens to be at the track at the time.
Hold on to the seat of your pants big man, it’s almost time...’
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2nd April 2009
****PRESS RELEASE****
This coming Easter weekend sees the return to Santa Pod Raceway of Europe’s quickest and fastest road legal cars with round 1 of the Street Eliminator UK championship hosted by the Autotrader Motorsport Extravaganza Thunderball event.
Street Eliminator is a drag racing class for road legal cars only. Vehicles competing must do so in full road trim with silencers, treaded tyres, tax, MOT and insurance and must use regular pump petrol. Furthermore to prove their road-going credentials all competing vehicles are required to complete a 20-30 mile cruise after the on-track qualifying in order to retain race eligibility.
Two machines of note this year are the 1972 Vauxhall Victor of Andy Frost and the 1956 Chevrolet of Colin Lazenby. Frosts Victor is powered by a 9.3 litre Chevrolet V8 boosted by two turbochargers, pumps out over 2,000 hp and is claimed to be the world’s quickest and fastest pump gas car.
Lazenby’s ‘56 uses nitrous oxide injection to augment the power levels of his huge Sonny Leonard V8 (the displacement of which is a closely guarded team secret). 2009 will be his first full season with this engine which the two-time champion claims to be the most powerful ever seen in a European road legal car.
Both racers will be looking to run mile times below eight seconds and reach terminal speeds of 190mph+. The big challenge facing all SE competitors is to put the huge power available down through the compulsory treaded tyres.
Its a tricky balancing act says former champion Ian Hook, whose 9-litre 1934 Ford is the quickest street rod in Europe. Imagine trying to accelerate flat-out in a Bugatti Veyron fitted with cross plies and you’ll get the idea!
If you’d like to see these road-going monsters in the flesh then Santa Pod on April 10th-13th is the place to be. Tickets are available at www.santapod.com
Ian Hook
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26th March 2009
Dear SE enthusiast,
With the entry list for the Easter Thunderball effectively closed (late entries now would mean double the entry fee), it’s great to see that we’re at 12 cars with a last minute entry by Lenny Henry’s stunt double Jerry Charles, who’s just managed to sneak in under the cover of darkness on Friday. Notable absences thus far are Hook, Nash, Haslett, Stacey, Weir and Pat*man – all of whom appear to be suffering with one last minute problem or another.
It’s fair to say as far as the Easter Thunderball is concerned these guys will be missed, both by fellow racers and spectators alike.
For the new boys, staunch supporters of the SE can now look forward to finally witnessing shakedown runs by Davie Murdoch in his ‘lighter than a rizzler paper’ supercharged ‘33’ Willy’s, and, Mark Todd - Mark is running a John Sleath Race Cars twin turbo thingamajig in his ‘69’ Firebird. Both cars are more than capable of running 9’s and both will undoubtedly be looking to run 8’s before the season’s over.
Returning former heroes are Jon ‘Moose’ Hollingworth – Moose also runs a John Sleath inspired twin turbo motor, having switched from pro-charger power last year. Moose found, or tuned, for some great performances with each subsequent run bringing him a NPB at the season close in 2008.
Also returning is Alex McIntosh, Alex was likewise out ‘testing’ his new pro-charger motor at the National Finals having surprised himself by getting his car ready earlier than anticipated (that’s a first for most racers). And what about the ‘Tucker boys, they’re back in 2009 with lots more power, I’ve seen the figures from the early dyno pulls and I just guessed the rest, anyhow, watch out for this team as the boys attempt to rotate the earth on their early shakedown runs.
Welcome back too to Bill MacDermid – Bill was the first ever 8 second runner in the old SE ‘Pro’ class 10 years ago with his 8.99 and he’ll be looking forward to relive his 8 second performance with his now pro-chargered ride, best of luck for this year Bill. And what about lovable (soon to be a dad) Martin & Julie Taylor with their insanely overpowered single turbo ‘52’ Beetle. Take a look at this thing in the pits, the quality of engineering around the whole car is truly outstanding and he’s just moved up to an even BIGGER turbo for 2009. He’s nuts, but you’ve just got to love him for it. I do envy Julie – I wish I was having Martin’s baby.
Takes deep breath....we’re also about to see the return of the self professed world’s fastest street car driver Andy Frost, Andy having taken a sabbatical year out racing in ‘other classes’ and once he was out in the wilderness it must have seemed like rather a lonely place (when comparing it to the class camaraderie of the SE). I for one look forward to kicking his ass at the very first opportunity I get – I’m only kidding... What? I am kidding, no, really I am.
We’ve yet to see the WRE prepped (ex Rat Fink) Camaro now in the hands of the very capable Danny Cockerill – as I understand it from Danny, Pro Mod just lost its fun factor, that coupled with a great deal of bad luck over the last couple of years whereas in the SE he hopes to find more of a challenge, and to put a little fun back into the sport. With Danny’s new ‘built to the hilt’ pro-charger motor he’ll be looking to bag himself a couple of trophies and ruffle a few feathers - one thing’s for sure Danny can certainly drive a race car.
I myself am looking forward to seeing Paul Houston’s ‘67’ Firebird, here lies another John Sleath inspired Race Car. Paul’s twin turbo upgrade was work in progress (WIP) when I called in to John’s shop a few weeks ago, it’s already run 9.1s and it’s oh so close to being finished - maybe we’ll see Paul out at event number 2 the ‘Big Bang’, fingers crossed eh Paul? Ditto Alan Simms, Alan Curtis too with his pretty little F*rd Squire.
That’s it for now guys, come over and say hi when you get a minute at the Easter Thunderball.
Rgds, Cj.
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20th March 2009
Returning to the Street Eliminator fold for the 2009 season is Bill MacDermid of ‘Billy The Kid Racing’
‘We were back to S/E in 2007 after a 10 year lay off from the class, but with only managing to compete in 3 rounds, all of which were hit by rain, and having a persistent misfire, I decided to pull the ‘69 apart for a winter rebuild. As in most cases the winter rebuild carried through the Summer and back into Winter 08.
In that time though I have had the engine, gearbox and convertor freshened, I returned the Supercharger back to Pro-charger for a total rebuild and some new modifications. I had a gear change and new bearings done, and as I write, the ‘69 is at WRE having the distributor & amp rear end updated. I have also had the car totally re-wired with new MSD digital and every thing connected to the electrical side replaced. If I get a misfire now then its time to go train spotting !!
I have also sent the fuel pump back to Magna Fuel to be rebuilt and have put a complete new fuel system on the car. Have also spent a small fortune on returning the interior back to standard with stock dash, door panels, center console, dome light, cigarette lighter etc, to try and complement the stock looking exterior.
I’ve had the ‘69 for 4 years now and have only had it at the track 4 times and haven’t made a full pass, so I really want to get some decent numbers on the boards this season. So really the ‘69 should be a completely different beast when we get back to the track. I am not going to predict any times as this always comes back to bite you, but if we can get an all steel, 3500 lbs plus street legal door slammer on treads anywhere in the high 8s then I know we will be making some power!
Regards, Bill’
www.billythekidracing.co.uk
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9th March 2009
Dear Members,
Both myself and fellow Scot Gerry Treit have just had our headers treated with Camcoat’s Cermakrome (aluminiumised) finish and rather splendid they look out too. This is the very same product that is used around Europe for anything between Pro Mod headers right through to headers for show winning Hot Rods.
If you would care to navigate your way through their web site you can find out for yourselves what other services Camcoat can offer.
Old site/new site, so either www.camcoat.com or http://www.camcoat.u-net.com
For exhaust coatings only go straight to -
www.camcoat.com/1.Thermal%20Barriers/cermakrome.html or www.camcoat.u-net.com/Exhausts.htm
The Cermakrome finish is rated at a maximum temp of 760 degrees but we record in excess of a 1000 degrees on a full nitrous pass - without any signs of premature failure.
Service turnaround is, give or take two weeks, and depending on the bore size and the finish required a set of headers for a V8 will cost somewhere between £250 and £275 + VAT. Headers for Martin Taylors Beetle would be around half that price, though I personally wouldn’t get out of bed for anything less than 6 (large) cylinders... In short Camcoat can offer you a great service for a fair price.
Proprietor Peter Carter can be contacted on e-mail. sales@camcoat.com or phone should you prefer is 01925-445003.
If you do get in touch with Peter then please quote the ‘Street Eliminator’ and see what deal Peter is prepared to offer.
Rgds, Cj.
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9th March 2009
It’s been a busy off season for the Tucker boys, getting their beautiful Corvette back to race condition. Here’s an update from Ray Tucker.
‘Just a few words about what we have been getting up to.
As most people might know we suffered some Engine damage at the Big Bang on the 26th April, nothing as spectacular as Colin’s effort but still a pain in the arse for us.
On getting the car home we took stock of the damage. I contacted Scott Duggan at PAR. www.parraceengines.com/index.html. He is the guy who put the original engine together and had proved to be a great help to us during the previous two seasons whenever we needed parts or advice.
Because of all his help previously we decided that when we had the funds we would send the Engine back to him as he promised that he would give us a great deal.
I contacted Malcolm Francis at www.airsealogistics.com and he arranged for the Packing and Shipping.
When the Engine arrived at PAR, Scott called me and various options were discussed, the only criteria I had was for more power.
Because I had missed the majority of the season I thought it could work in the team’s favour to have a bit of R & R and then see the the engine dynoed.
So 4 of us made the trip to Florida to enjoy the Street Nationals at Orlando.
We arrived on the Thursday just in time to make it to Hooters for the pre race party get together.
It was terrific to see everybody involved, including the Police who just seemed to want everybody to have a good time
We even got into the photo shoots
www.raceworksgallery.com/2008/orlando/wsn/hooters/rwk_9634.htm
www.raceworksgallery.com/2008/orlando/wsn/hooters/rwk_9643.htm
And we all enjoyed the scenery.
www.raceworksgallery.com/2008/orlando/wsn/hooters/rwk_9654.htm
The next 3 days were spent watching some great racing and for anyone who has not been, it is a must see event. They even arranged for some rain to make us feel at home!
www.raceworksgallery.com/2008/orlando/wsn/c1/
On the Monday we drove up to Spartanburg, a journey of over 500 miles before meeting up with Scott and all his guys at the shop.
On the Tuesday, Darryl hooked up the engine on the Dyno and straight off from the first hit we were all amazed at the increase in power and torque right across the rev range.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELLsEe_krSQ
We returned to Orlando on Tuesday night. and spent the next couple of days relaxing and also enjoyed an Air boat trip on Lake Tohopekaliga. Before getting our flight back to the UK on the Thursday.
Two weeks later the Engine arrived back in the UK.
I could not have done any of this without the help of Scott Duggan at PAR and Malcolm Francis at Air Sea Logistics.
With very special thanks to my brother, Bob, and my son Lee.
Speak soon
Ray’
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29th January 2009
Two of the new cars to look out for In Street Eliminator in 2009 -
Paul Houston’s beautiful 1967 Firebird....
In Paul’s own words, ‘Here's a little info on car,
Drag raced a lot between 1997 and 2002 running best of 10.1.
In 2002 car was crashed and lay up in garage till winter 2006.
Winter 2006/2007 Complete overhaul in garage including new Chris Alston front end, full new wiring harness all from the States and an upgrade to 555 big block Chevy and twin dominators from ICE Automotive. The car also went on a diet to loose some weight.
2007 only saw 2 meets in the car.
Winter 2007 saw the car back halved down at John Sleaths with new Ford 9'' back end and 4 link set up.
2008 Compteted in the NSCC and had a good year, car running 9.1 at 155mph.
Now the car is back at John Sleath Race Cars for complete engine overhaul, twin turbo's and an upgrade to fuel injection.
Paul’
Also joining the ranks of Street Eliminator in 2009 is Mark Todd and his stunning 1969 Firebird
‘I have owned the 1969 firebird for 5 years. When i first got the car it was running a 355 ci SBC with nitrous leaf springs, slapper bars etc.. In my 1st year I ran the car, as bought, in the Street Racer series. The car ran a 11.54 seconds @ 120mph and I was hooked.
When watching a program called the 0-60 challenge it mentioned John Sleath, wanting to go quicker, so I contacted John and in 2005 the car was stripped and rebuilt with a ford 9" and all new twin turbo small block.
In 2007 the car posted a best of 9.5 @ 140mph. Over the winter 2007 the car was again at Johns for further upgrades including a Chris Alston front clip. In 2008 I ran a best of 9.15@ 152mph also winning the 2008 Street Racer championship.
During this period I have closely followed Street Eliminator with an aim to run in the series. It is only now that I feel I have the car and the experience to enter. This winter I have manufactured new 321 stainless headers to suit larger turbo's. The engine is currently at Johns for upgrades and dyno session.
My aim is to keep progressing with the car year on year. This car is different to most as it retains its full interior including back seats. For me this just adds to the challenge of making the car go fast (and I can take the kids for a ride.).
For 2009 I hope to be a consistent competitor with some close racing in the lower end of the table
I look forward to meeting everybody. Mark’.
Please Note - More information and pictures will be available soon on these cars, as well as other new cars for 2009 in a soon to be added section on the Website. Check back soon!
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29th January 2009
With the 2009 season fast approaching, Ron Haslett got in touch with a quick update....
‘Hello all
Just a quick up date to let you all know that were still here, alive and kicking.
I've had confirmation from MacMillan that the last of the 4 collection pots we managed to fill in 2008 had £145 in. That with other monies raised this year from shows and all our other donations takes the total collected to just under £1000 the year. I'd personally like to say a big thank you to everyone who made donations for what is a very worthy cause.
On the racing front things are looking good for further improvements in both times and speeds having changed the gearbox setup at the midway point in 2008. We were generally delighted with the results (even without a matched converter) and the new transmission took all the extra power we chucked at it and we still moved forward. Having now sorted the convertor I would expect we can put the box back in the car and leave it there for the whole 2009 season.
With not much more to do with the car this year (other than wash it, Ed) we can now spend some time on improving the conditions in the motor home. For all those that have had the pleasure of even a short stay, I'm sorry. And I promise it will be so much better in 2009 – hell we might even run the vac over the pieces of roll end carpet remnants...
That’s all for now, best wishes (big) Ron Haslett.’
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