Folks Of Interest Legendary Dale Armstrong R.I.P., storied driver, builder, innovator and tuner 1941-November 28, 2014

We lost a great man and pal, legendary driver, engine man and crew chief, Dale Armstrong today. Dale was a close friend. I was honored that he would tinker with my hot rods. He went through the mechanicals on the Cobbs Roadster a few years back. Awestruck, he never tired of studying and talking about Tom Cobbs' many innovations. Dale was an engine guy's engine guy, having virtually single-handedly pushed AA Fuel engines from 1,500 to over an unimaginable 7,000 horse power. He crew-chiefed Kenny Bernstein's all time first 300+ MPH 1/4 mile run.

His last project was building an exotic blown flathead Merc for my latest three-window car. About 10 days ago Don the Snake and I were with Dale in his home shop to hear him start the rowdy flaty. He cracked a giant smile at the first rumble. Don and I were both at his side with his remarkable wife, Susie, on Wednesday. He's finally resting!

There is a super piece with some wonderful pictures from Dale's career at NHRA.com

Here's some shots from the start-up.

 

He was the best!

 

God's Speed.

 

RIP AA/Dale

 

R.I.P. Dale. I saw Dale finish in the winner's circle more times than not at every track in southern california during his exploits in AA/A. His incredible engineering and tuning abilities catapulted him to the top of the mountain in AA/FC and T/F racing. "He will be missed" barely scratches the surface.

 

I will miss him a lot, especially his comments

 

As a driver, Dale was certainly impressive to watch. I don't think anyone could back-up faster, after a burnout than him. Dick Crawford at Donovan Engineering told me, that on Monday mornings after a race, Dale would be waiting at the door to improve on his latest innovations. He was a special breed, RIP Dale.

 

From my garage wall

 

Wow, sorry to hear that. Thanks for all of the innovation Dale.

 

Always tough to learn when a fantastic racer and great all-around guy has passed on too early. RIP, Dale. Gary

 

I talked with him at Maple Grove in '84 or '85 at the SS/DI meet. He was the crew chief on the Kenny Bernstein ''Batmobile'' Buick funny car. He seemed that even if there were fires and explosions going off around him, he'd just tend to his business and work things out. May you rest in peace Dale my condolences go out to your family.

 

Rest in peace Dale...
You will be missed...

 

I read an interview with him on another forum.
Dale was an innovative guy, who certainty changed the course of drag racing more than once.
Although I never knew him, I offer my condolences to those who did.
Rest In Peace, AA/Dale.

 

Very sad news. RIP!

 

Spoke to several people yesterday about Dale, a couple who just went to Dales to get a small piece of steel I needed, are really feeling low, on a bummer

 

Dale's wifes "Celebration of Life" was great. For a great guy