I have read some threads that I have found on this, but just seem to not be able to get the right info with the search function. I want to build a 1958-60 era rail. I would like to retain a LOT of the original flair, but would like to be able to make passes at regular events in the above 10 second classes. Has anyone been able to get a modified K88, TE-440, etc (that still looks pretty vintage) passed a tech inspection at a sanctioned track?
you can but those early chassis end up looking like a jungle gym with a legal cage. A little bit later 3 point style car is a bit easier on the eyes with legal updates.
1958 TE-440 Chassis Research Dragster "Antique Doll" is the ex Scrima-Adams-Smith dragster. Seems like it fits the bill, and is currently runnng various events in So Cal. Belongs to HAMB member D-Lazaris, http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/members/d_lazaris.111550/
I never really understood some of NHRA rules. A production car slower than 10 seconds needs minimal safety equipment. An alerted or dragster needs a bunch of stuff even going less that 10 seconds. A guy on a bike can run as fast as he wants with just a leather suit, I know he needs a license for his speed. I also agree NHRA is probably much smarter about safety than most people.
Marshall, has a nice design for a T.E. 440, that will pass tech and looks the part. I can't find the link, you could send him a PM.
Caution on the Chassis Research Dragster design. As I recall, Marshall originally got approval, but when it went to the NHRA division office, they said NO WAY and rescinded the tag. NHRA will not certify the Chassis Research Dragster design. However, if you don't plan on running 9.99 or quicker, your local track tech officials may OK it. If you're not going for a chassis certification, the local guys can be more lenient. Here's one of our local cars that has a Chassis Research flavor & hasn't had any problems running at our NW tracks.
Almost forgot - if you do want to build a Chassis Research type dragster, I think Marshall has some spare tubes already bent up that he would part with.
The reasoning is that NHRA does not want to have to interpet 100's of designs as to wether they are designed and built properly. because when shit gets real and people get hurt they blame NHRA for letting them run it.
Still working on the website, but you can learn more about our Vintage Dragster Group here: http://www.nwvintagedragster.com/
You can run 9.99 with the car we designed , nhra gave me a 6.50 tag than they pulled it . I think they will give it a tag just not an 6.50 one , I got tired fucking with them and haven't got back to see what they will give me . We designed a very safe and inexpensive car that anyone can build and nhra does not get that. We were going to try to start a class like Walts
I've had alot of people ask for the side rails ,I do have a couple of sets here but I have never figured out what to charge for them .
I built this chassis a few years ago. Style wise it's sorta like a Dragmaster but built to NHRA specs per the SFI specs 2.6A for front engine dragster 7.5 and slower at the time. Sold it as a rolling chassis, new owner doesn't want to race it (well, not real racing anyway) so he never had it teched but I assumed it would pass.
Here is a better pic to show just the chassis. At this point it still needed some bars in the floor area, was waiting to fit motor/trans before they got put in.
The Jalopy Journal
