'62 dragster ... does this need wheelie bars?

[Foxer]

This is a build of a 1962 era dragster I started for the Lions Drag Strip build long ago. It's still only needs some fuel plumbing but I got to wondering about the balance of it. The body is from a '32 Vicky and is set back pretty far making me wonder what would happen when it's lit off. The driver is right at the 62 number and the top of the frame behind the driver seat can just be seen in the photo.

My question is, would this have wheelie bars due to the balance and would they even be proper in a 1962 dragster? Example photos would be very welcome.

Edited May 26, 2011 by Foxer

[roadhawg]

I'm no expert, but I don't think wheelie bars started showing up till the late 60's. Watch someone prove me wrong!

[High octane]

Back in '62 or even the mid-60's that car would not have had a wheelie bar.

[6bblbird]

I'm no expert, but I don't think wheelie bars started showing up till the late 60's. Watch someone prove me wrong!

No, you are absolutely correct. Wheelie bars were not really in use until the late sixties when the rear tires got real good. I have, however seen sixties dragsters with a "wheelie wheel" mounted below the push bar. These cars looked awesome when they would go in to a sky high wheelie while smoking the rear tires at the same time!

WF

P.S. your comp coupe looks terrific!

[Foxer]

Thanks for the timely replys. I had thought what you all are saying was the way it was, but I just didn't know for sure.

Now I'm happy I don't have to come up with one!