CLASS RACER FORUM - View Single Post - Ladder Bar Car: Trans Brake or Foot Brake?

Bill Rolik · 12-11-2008, 07:22 PM

Tom,

Thanks again for the reply.

AFCO at one time was strictly oval track-oriented, but I understand that their drag products are excellent as well. Also, I have known Sonny Stancil for many years, and he has always spoken highly of the Santhuff pieces. When I bought the Shadow GT car from Sonny, it had Koni's in the rear. And later, when he repurchased it from me (before it went to Ken Etter, who owns it now), Santhuff got the call again. At the appropriate time, I will investigate their offerings for a stock-bodied non-GT/non-strut car such as the Cuda.

Also, I used 12.2 X 31.25 "straight" and "W" tires on my Duster, which was equally as good with weight distribution, but weighed about 60 pounds less. I am sure the Cuda would do nicely with either one. The 5.86 gear (Dana) would remain initially. I see no scenario where the car would need a 14 X 32 tire. I have no history with radials, so that thought can be entertained at another time.

And yes, the initial approach would be to have properly matched shocks, retain the ladder bar, add wheelie bars, and for familiarity and simplicity, stay with the foot brake. Structurally, this is an outstanding car. But other peripherals, such as fuel system including cell, electrical upgrades, weather station, air shifter, aluminum radiator, current-technology cylinder heads/valve gear etc. would be needed. It does have Lamb front discs with drums in the rear. The short block that was in the car when last run would probably be tough to significantly improve on. A second option would be to go with a low compression 340 for GT/JA. Cosmetically, it is currently all White, with some color options being considered.

Sorry for being a bit long-winded, and thanks again for your help!

Bill Rolik

12-11-2008, 07:22 PM	#8
Bill Rolik Member Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Hasbrouck Heights, NJ Posts: 122 Likes: 1 Liked 47 Times in 9 Posts	Re: Ladder Bar Car: Trans Brake or Foot Brake? Tom, Thanks again for the reply. AFCO at one time was strictly oval track-oriented, but I understand that their drag products are excellent as well. Also, I have known Sonny Stancil for many years, and he has always spoken highly of the Santhuff pieces. When I bought the Shadow GT car from Sonny, it had Koni's in the rear. And later, when he repurchased it from me (before it went to Ken Etter, who owns it now), Santhuff got the call again. At the appropriate time, I will investigate their offerings for a stock-bodied non-GT/non-strut car such as the Cuda. Also, I used 12.2 X 31.25 "straight" and "W" tires on my Duster, which was equally as good with weight distribution, but weighed about 60 pounds less. I am sure the Cuda would do nicely with either one. The 5.86 gear (Dana) would remain initially. I see no scenario where the car would need a 14 X 32 tire. I have no history with radials, so that thought can be entertained at another time. And yes, the initial approach would be to have properly matched shocks, retain the ladder bar, add wheelie bars, and for familiarity and simplicity, stay with the foot brake. Structurally, this is an outstanding car. But other peripherals, such as fuel system including cell, electrical upgrades, weather station, air shifter, aluminum radiator, current-technology cylinder heads/valve gear etc. would be needed. It does have Lamb front discs with drums in the rear. The short block that was in the car when last run would probably be tough to significantly improve on. A second option would be to go with a low compression 340 for GT/JA. Cosmetically, it is currently all White, with some color options being considered. Sorry for being a bit long-winded, and thanks again for your help! Bill Rolik