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Social => Your Builds / Photo Gallery => Topic started by: Finnish Fireball on May 28, 2019, 06:58:34 AM

Title: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on May 28, 2019, 06:58:34 AM
Hi folks, greetings from Finland

I just finished my slingshot and thought to share it with other FED maniacs. I built it with Super Comp in mind
so theres nothing that fancy technically, just basic proven good stuff. Pump gas 461cid topped with PromaXX
alu heads, 950cfm QF, Comp 306s flat tappet cam. PG with transbrake and 4000 stall converter. Rear is 9" that
I stuffed with Strange Pro alu pumpkin, 4.29:1 gear. 35 splines pro shafts, spool and pro brakes.

Now that it is finished I'd like to add blower, alky injection and...and...and you know how this disease is a never
ending story. But this season I'll ride it like that for couple weekends just to have fun. No goals, no pressure.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00816/14704337.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/Mfrj2W)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00386/14704336.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/ob36eK)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00126/14662147.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/XS6Ku6)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00471/14673792.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/d2KWuP)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: dreracecar on May 28, 2019, 08:14:07 AM
Very nice

  However, the only issue I have based on the SFI spec here in the States is that the rear end uprite and the mount that is welded to it must go the full length of the uprite and also welded to the upper and lower framerails. A short tab mount like what is shown will not pass chassis cert over here by the rules
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on May 28, 2019, 08:57:30 AM
You are absolutely correct with that, for 7.50 sec SFI it needs to be four bolts and like you describe. However, this chassis
has current and valid UK sticker for 8.50 like it is. So going faster means modifying that rear end. I might change it anyhow
before sticker expires. Thanks for pointing that out.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: denverflatheader on May 29, 2019, 07:16:59 AM
Finnish Fireball – welcome, catchy paint scheme, would be well received here in America.  I’m guessing your parachute has a big Blue Cross : )  Alan
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on May 29, 2019, 07:51:31 AM
Thanks Alan, pretty neat idea for the chute hmmmmm.... time to go shopping  ;D
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: janjon on June 11, 2019, 05:13:17 AM
Very nice car; I presume there's a similar tab with another two bolts hiding behind the caliper???
Interesting shifter mounting, as well. The shifter in my car is center mounted with the base offset a bit to the right of the steering shaft, and slightly inclined to the right such that the knob is about in line with the right grip. Do you have any other pictures of your shifter mounting?
Seeing your setup has me thinking of doing something similar. Might get a bit more kneeroom in what is a very tight cockpit. I gather you haven't run the car yet, are you gonna let us know how it goes?
John, Houston TX
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on June 13, 2019, 04:17:20 AM
Yes John there's another tab hiding there. I have couple passes in a no prep T&T event on an airfield, there was no traction (1.5 sec 60ft) and no safety crew so I could not go flat out for the full length, still managed 9.100 with only 136 mph lifting early. I assume I'll catch the Super Comp 8.900 index at normal track conditions. I'm currently visiting US for four weeks and my next race is 4th to 7th of July when I get back home. I'll let you know how it goes. Thank you for your interest.

Here's a better pic of my shifter setup, works fine for me
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00688/14712300.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/W49yKl)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 08, 2019, 02:05:18 AM
Update as promised

Car performed well, goes under 8.900 index easily. Best 60ft was 1.20, worst was 1.26. Not bad at my hp level. Fastest ET 8.84 / 144 mph leaving at 3700 rpm on trans brake (converter is 4000 rpm),
shift at 6600 rpm and against 6800 rpm limit at the trap. 8 psi in rear tires. Ten passes within a tenth or so. Track was not optimal every day, I got only one perfectly straight run. All others the car made sudden move left or right somewhere between 200-300ft out, twice reguiring lifting the loud pedal the rest I just drove through. I don't know what else it could be than traction that far out. It does not loose traction when wheelie ends.
I will experiment to raise wheelie bars next time out and get the front rise higher, just for fun because wheelies are nice. I just dont know how much change is too much, now it lifts the front some 10" up.

What a blast it was to be behind the wheel after a long pause. Slingshots simply ROCK!

I also weighted it, total is 1753 lbs me included, 405 lbs at front 1348 rear.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on July 08, 2019, 03:45:57 AM
NICE
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on November 08, 2019, 02:40:28 AM
Update from the season finals. I tried couple changes as stated in the previous post. Raising the wheelie bars
resulted obviously higher and longer wheelies (read more fun) but did not cure the darting. Then I changed tyres
side to side and that helped a lot getting the car leaving the line in straight motion. Third experimental was harder
burnout and that did the final trick. Now it shoots outta hole like it should, not towards wall or tree. Weather was fast.
I lowered shift rpm down to 6400, high end down to 6600 and still went under my 8.76 index. Looks like it has low 8 sec
potential flat out in good weather. Snow and below zero temps are here so I have plenty of time to modify the rear axle
uprights and install a delay box.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00415/14742213.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/YK4Fkp)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00278/14742214.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/6zbgDD)

Video of some passes can be seen on the following link, where the clock in the middle of the screen
shows 10:29 and a wilder drifting version at 14:51
https://livestream.com/fhra/events/8800768/videos/195712601
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on November 08, 2019, 06:44:09 AM
lookin' good
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on November 26, 2019, 08:28:16 AM
https://youtu.be/zWjl2ghlPCQ
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on December 21, 2019, 09:58:13 PM
Ok guys it was discussed earlier that the rear end brackets need modifying to meet current spec.
I have now added fourth bolt, uprights are welded to upper rail too and housing side is well over
that required 180 degree weld so mission accomplished.

Merry Christmas everyone and safe passes for 2020

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00849/14777490.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/SL1BEe)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00664/14777489.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/CzW768)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: denverflatheader on December 24, 2019, 08:41:27 AM
Finnish Fireball - enjoyed seeing your video and very good you’ve found solutions to the launch and darting issue.  It’s a hold your breath moment for the spectators, plus for you the driver when you launch and head for the wall or centerline; not the kind of excitement we want to happen all the time : )

Merry Christmas and Holiday wishes to all.  Alan
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on December 28, 2019, 10:51:30 AM
Thanks Alan, wishing you all the best for 2020 too!
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on March 09, 2020, 10:59:39 PM
Installed an delay box to help me on full tree events

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00931/14807433.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/YKfmuq)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on March 12, 2020, 10:32:53 AM
I have also started collecting shiny bits and pieces...

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00753/14808441.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/aLKHuF)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00663/14808443.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/z6GGtu)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00284/14803324.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/NfaNTs)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: denverflatheader on March 14, 2020, 09:17:02 AM
Finnish Fireball - pretty nice, I’m guessing it’s the 8-71 Hampton, one of those zero maintenance/no striping required units.  Alan
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on April 04, 2020, 03:02:51 AM
Finnish Fireball - pretty nice, I’m guessing it’s the 8-71 Hampton, one of those zero maintenance/no striping required units.  Alan

Yes sir you are spot on with that quess. Here's and quick update pics of the finished rear end brackets, and I also fabricated grips
to my butterfly just to make it a bit thicker for better feel.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00259/14817696.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/OVobkm)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00132/14817697.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/SQ02d1)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00199/14817690.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/iaGnQX)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00101/14817691.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/l3oCMZ)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00254/14817692.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/sHpCqe)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00920/14817694.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/nJRwYK)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00910/14817695.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/Y2svmT)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: dreracecar on April 04, 2020, 09:35:14 AM
Problem with plastic grips is that they melt in a fire
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on April 05, 2020, 02:40:24 AM
That is true. I made them out of the very same polycarbonate race car windows are made of. Helmet visor, windbreaker, knobs... all will melt but not burn with flame.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: buickfed on April 06, 2020, 08:58:41 AM
used to play the plastic stuff at the aircraft factory.
if you want color the pieces, get some rit color dye they use on clothes.
mix it up, heat it up and let the parts soak in it until the darkness you want.
'plexiglass' is soft and will color quick.
'lexan' is hard and takes a while for the color to set in.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: dreracecar on April 06, 2020, 05:43:03 PM
One has to be able to see out of the helmet visor so its a price that has to be paid,  and years back they ruled out plastic windscreens and required metal. Some racers resorted to covering the plastic with alu foil to pass tech.  Times have changed and we are back to lexan screens
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: sknopp on April 07, 2020, 09:17:32 AM
Hey Bruce, what's your opinion on wood grips on a steering wheel and brake handle?  I've had some claim they insulate better than bare metal in a fire.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: dreracecar on April 07, 2020, 02:24:47 PM
Years ago in OHIO for the reunion top fuel Brendan Murry had a huge fireball in the lights, said that the wood grips helped as things got instantly hot.  Again many many years ago when I was OFF ROAD racing a car caught fire and the rubber melted off the steering wheel onto the drivers lap and hands, granted in those days we were wearing single layer suits and gloves, but the driver did get some nasty burns. Chances of fire in these cars we run are so very rare these days, Top fuel is different altogether.  Most if not all of the high dollar door cars these days run a leather wrap steering wheel and not the $25 chrome and foam wheel'

   For tradition sake, I prefer wood grips
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: sknopp on April 16, 2020, 09:31:57 AM
Brendan also told me he was glad he was wearing his open face helmet with glass goggles as a full face helmet would have melted the Lexan.  That was the biggest F.E.D. fireball I've ever seen.  I believe the cam drive in the Chevy failed. 

I have noticed that some of the pro drivers appear to be wearing some form of woven thin glove (assume Nomex) under their A-20 glover.  Anyone know what they are and where to get them?
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: dreracecar on April 16, 2020, 01:18:48 PM
even tho Brendan credits the mask and goggles, the issue was that neither the mask and/or goggles had/has  a SFI cert on them. and the goggles have a glass lense that can shatter with shards of glass in your eyes
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: rooman on April 17, 2020, 04:10:40 AM
Brendan also told me he was glad he was wearing his open face helmet with glass goggles as a full face helmet would have melted the Lexan.  That was the biggest F.E.D. fireball I've ever seen.  I believe the cam drive in the Chevy failed. 

I have noticed that some of the pro drivers appear to be wearing some form of woven thin glove (assume Nomex) under their A-20 glover.  Anyone know what they are and where to get them?

Steve,
        I wore kevlar gloves under the -20 stuff. Easy to find and generally under $10 pair

Roo
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 29, 2020, 03:31:01 AM
Last weekend was the first race here in 2020 due to the virus. My slicks are done, I finally took a look on the stamp and they were molded 2007,
nothing lasts long enuf nowadays. So I had a bit of problems hooking. Car slams the bars very hard with transbrake and then unloads and spins with weak tyres.
When I lowered the Tbrake rpm down to 3000 that led to bad shakes. Footbraking I was able to make normal 8.74 sec 147 mph pass. 60 ft varied
between typical 1.23 to 1.78 and anything between, no consistency whatsoever. Great for bracket racing. It's time for new slicks and more ballast to the nose,
there's 20lbs now but I will add another 20 lbs, hoping to slow the raise. Could also try lowering the wheelie bars but last season that did only harm the launch.
We tried different pressures too but nothing helps these slicks anymore, thats quite obvious. As a topping on the cake I was out first round with -.006 red light.

I tried how it feels to drive on one wheel only but to my surprise the ET was not faster like that.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00713/14866491.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/a2xNPo)

Still had plenty of fun and ten passes down the track shook off the dust. I got my new SFI 7.50 sticker too which is nice. There's no slicks
available in our country at the moment so I will use some tire softener I ordered from UK, and purchase new slicks over the winter. Shipping
takes time in an container, and air freight cost is as much as the tyres so thats not really an option either.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00398/14866579.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/sx0bxI)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00859/14866490.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/LaYdsk)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Paul New on July 29, 2020, 07:26:44 AM
I do not know all the details to your car but at one time I ended up with 120lbs of weight my engine is out 42” I run around 70 now. 

My car weighs 1800 with me in it and full of fuel front end weight ranges between 390 and 430lbs
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 29, 2020, 10:57:50 AM
I do not know all the details to your car but at one time I ended up with 120lbs of weight my engine is out 42” I run around 70 now. 

My car weighs 1800 with me in it and full of fuel front end weight ranges between 390 and 430lbs

Hey Paul, my wheelbase is 150", engine is out 58" (from front motorplate to center of rear) total weight is 1753 lbs me included, 405 lbs at front 1348 rear.
Thats with the 20 lbs nose ballast, and now I will double that and see if it's enough.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00159/14866480.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/MlNbwc)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on July 29, 2020, 05:55:05 PM
Just for grins, could you borrow a pair of smaller tires and try them?
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 29, 2020, 09:54:38 PM
Just for grins, could you borrow a pair of smaller tires and try them?

I wish but it's highly unlikely. I see what you mean and agree, that might help. Another one is looser converter, this one is maybe too tight w. 4000 stall.
It will be interesting to see what the additional torque next season does for that stall. But, for the purpose of this car and my goals, the amount of races I get
per year, it is what it is and I'm fine with that less than optimal at this point. Money money... I have to take baby steps towards consistency and have fun on the way.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Paul New on July 31, 2020, 12:00:54 PM
I would add 80lbs to start if it was me
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on August 25, 2020, 03:32:58 AM
20 lbs more nose ballast did the trick, no more crazy launches but nice wheelies are still present as I want it to be. I got it dialed in pretty consistent.
Set my index to 8.740 and went 8.750, 8.748, 8.743, 8.76 and  all were 148 mph. Then the next day after couple hours rain it slipped to 8.81
Not bad with rotten tires. This time I ruined my race with -.007 redlight...

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00403/14876528.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/Mni9N2)

My season is over and I can start writing the letter to Santa for needed blower parts and new slicks. I will switch from current 32x14.5x15  to 33x12x15
in aim to reduce the final gear ratio some. Hoosier has that size and it should fit perfect on my rims. Less width is good too in my book.
The editor of the leading local car magazine did a photoshoot at the track , he wants to cover my ride in his print.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on January 09, 2021, 09:04:14 AM
Finally the long wait is over, it took three months for my new 540 cid Merlin IV arrive from Ohio to Finland.
Nothing spectacular or all out latest fancy dandy, but a stout pump gas piece under my 8-71.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00040/14927973.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/fb9Qwt)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00510/14927971.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/p81oyg)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00406/14927972.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/XcruWg)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00583/14927974.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/9ePgWW)

World Merlin IV 9.8" deck block 4.500" bore
Ohio Crank 4340 forged crank 4.25" stroke, double keyway snout upgrade for blower use
Ohio Crank Extreme Duty I-beam rods 6.385" long w. ARP2000 bolts, upgrade from H-beam
JE forged blower pistons -20cc dish. 8.4:1 CR zero deck
Total Seal file fit rings
Internal balance
Comp Cams solid roller blower cam Duration 300/308 deg advertised,  at 050" Lift: 255 int./262 exh, lift int .652"/ex .652" lobe sep. 114
Morel solid roller lifters .300" longer
Scorpion Race Series alu roller rocker arms 1.7:1 ratio 7/16" stud mount w. polylocks
Roller timing set + thrust washer + chrome cover
Brodix Dragon Slayer DS365 heads. 2.35" intake 1.88" exhaust. Solid roller springs 255 lbs seat / 610 lbs open max lift .700" 1.950" installed height
ARP head studs, Fel Pro MLS gaskets
Canton 7qt Drag Race oil pan, HV pump
ATI double keyway SFI balancer
OC SFI flexplate
Weiand polished blower intake w. pop-off
Hampton polished 8-71 blower
QF 850 cfm double pumper blower carbs x2
MSD pro billet small base distributor
Aeromotive A2000 fuel pump
Mallory billet regulator
MSD 8.5mm plug wires
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: denverflatheader on January 10, 2021, 12:04:09 PM
Finnish Fireball - money well spent.  I like that Merlin block design, with thicker cylinder walls and thicker deck.  Adds much stability over the stock Chevy.  The Total Seal rings also excellent choice.  Alan
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on January 15, 2021, 12:16:21 PM
a little mock up to see how everything sits between the rails

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00018/14929318.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/Sm6ouU)

I might need to install periscope to see anything behind that package
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on January 26, 2021, 10:03:22 PM
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00233/14933717.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/xjZyyr)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: denverflatheader on January 29, 2021, 04:53:01 PM
Finnish Fireball - made a magazine cover, congratulations.  I’d say that’s pretty rare occurrence for us here to see our dragster on a cover.  I see the word “dragster” with other words, what does it say?  Alan

p.s.  back around 1983, there was a picture of me driving my C2 vette in a City’s magazine news article.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on January 31, 2021, 06:26:04 AM
Alan it says "Front engine dragster takes us to roots of Drag Racing". It is a nice coverage, five pages total and great pics.
At least to my eye but I might be biased.  :P

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00880/14933718.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/qplOCX)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00328/14933720.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/AJefyn)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: wideopen231 on January 31, 2021, 01:41:24 PM
It is cool when your hotrod make it into magazine.
When we came out with Starr Rider we had 4 or 5 page spread in Super Stock.

So how many copies did you buy? I cleaned out to magazine stands when our car was in it. Actually found a copy for sale on ebay a month ago.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: denverflatheader on February 01, 2021, 05:28:33 PM
“Roots of Drag Racing” how appropriate; your pictures look like they were taken on an “airport runway.”  In the beginning, I think early 1950s, they first had drag racing at Santa Ana Airport in Orange County CA.  Now it’s renamed John Wayne Airport.  We use to fly into John Wayne Airport yearly, I would tell my wife and anyone sitting next to me, this is where drag racing started : )
   
We have a small airport (really an airfield) near the town Julesberg, located in northeast corner of Colorado.  It was also the site of early drag racing starting by the Platte Valley Customs car club in 1956.  An interesting fun fact is the Julesberg airfield drag strip back then was a NHRA sanctioned track.  Today they still close the airfield on some weekends and do drag racing meets.  They do a Hot Rod Revival drag race typically in August, just like the good old days.  Here’s a picture (I believe from Hot Rod Magazine Oct 1959) racing at Julesberg.
 
More info, I actually know both guys racing in the Oct. 1959 Julesberg photo, Butch Salter and Darrell Wark.  Butch from the Denver area and Darrell from Goodland Kansas.  The last time Darrell raced with our racing club was maybe 1998(?)  Butch still involved in land speed racing, I think going 200+ at the Front Range Airport One Mile race on Labor Day weekend 2015, plus a long time ago Butch had a mid 60s Jr. Fuel dragster that now another friend of mine (J. Marlett) owns and has converted it to Ford V8 flathead powered with glide. 

Butch told me his antique dragster in the Julesberg picture is long gone, but he still had the 4-banger engine sitting under his bench.  My other picture “talk about roots of drag racing” is an early dragster that I bought 23 years ago and has just been hanging around.  It’s a complete roller, vw torsion front, homemade straight tube axle with ford spindles, and narrowed banjo rear with the Chassis Research aluminum hubs with shortened banjo splined axles, and aluminum body panels.  For the period (late 1950s) it is well built.  The original owner/builder lived one block west of JCRS Shopping Center in Denver, and he had a Ford V8 flathead in it with 3-spd only using 2nd & 3rd.  And no doubt raced at Julesberg and a few other drag strips in the area waaaay back then.  Alan
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on March 10, 2021, 09:21:56 AM
I put up a little video that wraps together the new engine build.

https://youtu.be/_845VQP2cnI (https://youtu.be/_845VQP2cnI)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on April 02, 2021, 03:59:05 AM
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00069/14954719.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/xRMcan)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00793/14954718.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/uy02Md)

A little sunbathing never hurts. First startup ok.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on April 22, 2021, 07:42:35 PM
It's alive

https://youtu.be/t6Gf-E7nHUQ (https://youtu.be/t6Gf-E7nHUQ)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on June 16, 2021, 06:18:08 AM
Aaaaaaaand action

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00890/14982447.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/t5PsnS)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00012/14982461.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/U9nUab)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00168/14982448.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/gNRPjX)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00283/14982449.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/nhoIZi)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on June 16, 2021, 07:27:09 PM
My converter was slipping and stall speed was sky high. I was on limiter most of the pass. Sent it out for tightening.
Calculators show over 20% slip even against the limiter so hoping to see improved ET's with new one. Shift light stayed
lit after gear change so we are not yet there with speed.

https://youtu.be/8_6sYy9C2_0 (https://youtu.be/8_6sYy9C2_0)

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00245/14982798.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/0qVXIq)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00854/14982797.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/GgNHX6)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Paul New on June 17, 2021, 12:26:51 PM
More power will do that!  Can’t wait to hear how it works next time out
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 24, 2021, 08:20:23 PM
Went to an old airfield nearby to test the new converter. Yeee-haaww it works. Finally my tires spin and smoke!

https://youtu.be/LNRJcBSckjU (https://youtu.be/LNRJcBSckjU)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on July 26, 2021, 06:57:26 AM
nice!
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on August 22, 2021, 12:13:08 AM
Finally got couple passes on a good track. New personal best is 5.06 / 137 mph  8), 1.16 60ft footbraking so the converter played an role here.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Dunc the Funk on August 26, 2021, 11:32:34 AM
Nice one! Well done.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on August 27, 2021, 02:09:35 AM
Thnx Dunc, step by step I'm getting in there. One more chance for this season and then our season is over. Well Sept 10-11 our weather will be snow, water or sun or all of that within 24 hrs... Hit or miss
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on September 22, 2021, 01:56:28 AM
Rain ruined the finals for us. Long off season ahead and not that much tinkering to do. I will switch over to e85, change to bigger carbs and install new hoses just in case.
That allows me to safely raise the boost a little, helping in that 4 sec ET hunt. It was close but no cigar  8)

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00305/15005148.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/6zMWFY)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00683/15005149.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/GcYzrB)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: etbandung on September 27, 2021, 02:13:10 AM
Rain ruined the finals for us. Long off season ahead and not that much tinkering to do. I will switch over to e85, change to bigger carbs and install new hoses just in case.
That allows me to safely raise the boost a little, helping in that 4 sec ET hunt. It was close but no cigar  8)

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00305/15005148.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/6zMWFY)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00683/15005149.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/GcYzrB)

thats lit ! you still got the skills pops 8)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on September 27, 2021, 07:00:41 AM
Stay after it Fireball. You'll get there. The fun is in the chase.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on January 29, 2022, 02:54:53 AM
I ordered new custom made e85 carbs last september. This hobby teaches patience, they arrived yesterday. Always start every easy direct bolt on swap with flycutter, grinder and possibly a big hammer. They never fit. I'm also using different scoop this season. I made new fuel lines too as a safety caution, I was not sure if the old hose was suitable for e85.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00059/15029553.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/mArCGJ)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00512/15029552.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/FhKR4y)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00716/15029554.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/buENJ4)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00213/15029555.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/IkvRjO)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00458/15029558.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/wN0MTu)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00990/15029557.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/UMH2Jp)

Small development on other parts too. Made new breather tank, and added volume to coolant expansion. Let the summer come.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00844/15029567.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/VIUdWi)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00678/15029569.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/nTJsKF)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00449/15029572.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/qWvAZD)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00645/15029574.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/wcB65u)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on April 06, 2022, 11:57:46 PM
Not too much to do, just waiting for the summer but as it's still snowing theres plenty of time for polishing.

Before
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00612/15046985.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/oNpyED)

After
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00950/15046984.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/UZPR38)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on May 08, 2022, 10:06:23 PM
Got it running with new carbs and e85

https://youtube.com/shorts/TfJq4SK7bX0?feature=share (https://youtube.com/shorts/TfJq4SK7bX0?feature=share)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on May 30, 2022, 11:28:27 PM
(https://miksu.1g.fi/kuvat/Drag%20Racing/FHRA%20Street%20mayhem%20-%20SM1%20%2029.5.2022/IMG_2787.jpg?img=img4k)

First race was lots of rain but we managed to run best out of three match race. I won 3-0 this time but that was nothing spectacular, I had to pedal multiple times each run as my ride wanted to kiss the walls so badly. Best thing was I got the new carbs tuned and engine workin good on e85. For the next race I will build more front weight ballast to calm down the wheelies and overhaul the fuel pressure regulator. Not too bad, I didn't break anything.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on May 31, 2022, 07:52:40 PM
Your car looks good.
Congratulations
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on May 31, 2022, 11:07:54 PM
Your car looks good.
Congratulations

THNX! Appreciate your kind words sir
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on June 07, 2022, 09:47:42 PM
As my ride still hits the bars too violent I dig on to my scrap metal pile and made 20lbs more front end ballast weights.
Hope it helps. Total must be around 50 lbs now.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00280/15063289.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/dLZtI7)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00704/15063290.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/1Hfoyx)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00156/15063291.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/CNnNzi)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 01, 2022, 03:08:01 AM
Awesome feeling! New PB
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00768/15069073.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/us86QB)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on July 03, 2022, 05:59:43 PM
nice run FinnishFireball.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 03, 2022, 11:11:16 PM
Thank you sir, I got the car working flawless and won the race with constant 4.7's

(https://img.aijaa.com/t/00235/15069864.t.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/XW9Fxk)
(https://img.aijaa.com/t/00441/15069865.t.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/D7cdOO)

Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 04, 2022, 11:06:43 PM
https://youtu.be/R5C6YmMH2KQ
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on July 05, 2022, 08:05:23 PM
Congratulations.

P.S. Now you can upgrade your avatar specs form a 5.0 best e.t. to a 4.7 best.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 06, 2022, 09:51:57 AM
Thanks for the reminder!
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on September 19, 2022, 07:55:15 PM
The last two passes my mph was down a little. Figured it is time to drop the PG out and check band and frictions for wear. These jewels were found in the pan and passages, also the outshaft splines and coupler got the beating when it tried to lock up. Those are the remainings of rear support plate needle bearing.

The reason it failed is simple. The guy who built this mixed wrong bearing and coupler, they have different ID/OD's. I will go bushed mode next it's safer than failing needle bearings, and won't show in ET. My son is in school for being a machinist so it will be a good practise for him to make some dragster parts.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00009/15089764.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/lwAfHI)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00008/15089763.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/gMZPfD)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00257/15089762.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/I1QaiO)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on November 07, 2022, 10:35:41 PM
Got the trans back together. Other maintenance items for the winter are new fuel pump and safety harness is out of date again.
I bought Aeromotive A2000, that's the same piece I have in there now so it'll be an easy swap. Current one is old and kinda noisy already.
There's no rebuild kit for it so I decided to get a new unit before it fails on me on track. Found new belts from G-Force. I wanted
pull-up lap belts this time and there seemed to be lack of them on the market.

(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00480/15101858.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/z15WDH)
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00883/15101860.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/smOaD1)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 17, 2023, 10:54:59 PM
Haven't been updating since it seems this forum died after painful struggle? Anyhow my season has been great. Two national races, one win one runner-up. Qual #1 on both. Last weekend ran dead on 4.700 on a 4.700 index. New PB writes 4.69 / 147 mph. Car hooks constant 1.08 60 ft's footbraking which helps printing tickets. Here's a video of that perfect pass.

https://www.youtube.com/live/ktxE4-oaCZY?feature=share&t=12971


(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00575/15167622.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/jwCkf3)
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on July 19, 2023, 03:02:11 PM
Congratulatuions. Your car is not only beautiful but performs very well. Speaking of great passes, last Sunday I had a .004 light and ran 5.716 on my 5.71 dial in. AND LOST! to a .001 and a 4.600 on his 4.60 dial in. My year long slump continues.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: lake_harley on July 19, 2023, 05:13:52 PM
That's about 2 perfect runs together if there ever was one! Even being able to hit it that close isn't what I'd call a slump.

Lynn
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on July 19, 2023, 09:17:58 PM
Daymmm Flyer talk about tough competition!!! And thanks for the kind words.
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: Finnish Fireball on August 02, 2023, 10:43:08 PM
(https://img.aijaa.com/m/00364/15171550.jpg) (https://aijaa.com/aE969y)

I think photographer Pasi Haila nailed it with this shot. Just loving it!
Title: Re: Overseas new members ride
Post by: THE FRENCHTOWN FLYER on August 04, 2023, 07:09:21 AM
Daymmm Flyer talk about tough competition!!! And thanks for the kind words.
And so it continues.Last Sunday it was a .006 dead-on losing to a .003 dead-on by .005. WTF