Take a look at the data on...
Take a look at the data on the left. Unfortunately, a problem brought a premature end to this run, but based on the e.t. at that point (8.840) and the fact that the 'Stang coasted through the finish line at 10.53/130, we're confident our backup ride was headed toward a lower 9-second time than our previous best, with speed in the mid-140-mph zone.
We made it to The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Thursday, one day before qualifying for SCSN V began. After spending the day registering to run in the Ford Racing Performance Parts Mustang Maddness class, getting our 'Stang tech'd, setting up the pit area, and mounting new slicks on the T-top coupe's Weld Alumastar rear wheels, we were confident the race weekend would be successful. As the saying goes, "So much for the best-laid plans."
During the first round of qualifying on Friday, a freak engine mishap put an end to our hopes of reaching the winner's circle at SCSN V. However, there are highlights to the ill-fated pass. It was the first time we used the transbrake in the coupe's Performance Automatic Super Comp AODE transmission, and it performed flawlessly, launching the 3,500-pound Mustang like a bullet from a gun. Also important, the timeslip data indicates an improvement on our previous best e.t. and mph had the car made it through the quarter-mile under full power.
Mickey Thompson Tires' support...
Mickey Thompson Tires' support rig was on hand and busy throughout the weekend at SCSN V. We set up the coupe with a fresh pair of 28x10.5-inch ET Drag slicks, which proved to be a great move (1.427 60-foot). We're often asked how we fit true 10.5s inside the stock rear wheelwells of our Fox-body with a 15x10-inch wheel. The process requires a 6.5-inch backspace for the wheels and extensive rolling and beating of the wheelwell on both sides.
Damaged? Maybe. Defeated?...
Damaged? Maybe. Defeated? No way! Our T-top coupe sat on jackstands for the majority of the race weekend. We didn't get into disassembling the engine at the track. However, based on the piston speckle that's evident on this spark plug (No. 7 cylinder), a rebuild is in the offing. We'll probably go bigger when we get around to assembling a new bullet.