Reference photos needed!

[Harry P.]

I have this idea to build a version of the Big T as a low budget, "built in the backyard" type early rail...maybe something circa 1960 or so. I plan to extend the wheelbase, maybe move the bodyshell back, add a roll cage, central drivers seat, etc. What I'm after is a bare-bones, unsponsored car...something that literally would have been built by a guy and his buddies in their garage for as little cash as possible, and raced on the weekends. A car somewhat like the original "Mooneyes" dragster, but on a much cheaper and much more amateur level.

So far all I've managed to find online are a couple of fuzzy photos of a car similar to what I envision. If anyone out there knows what I'm talking about, or has a good reference source, a site where I can get photos, or any other help, I'd really appreciate being pointed in the right direction. Thanks!

[Harry P.]

Thanks, Mark! I'll check that out. I appreciate the help!

[Steve D.]

A friend recomended this book to me a couple of years ago , and I've used it as inspiration for at least a dozen models . I bought two used copies online at borders and have since given one away . I guard this copy here with my life ...... Really , if you like drag racing and hot rodding , in pictures , from the beginning , this book is a must have !

" DRY LAKES AND DRAG STRIPS "

" the american hot rod "

Written by Dean Batchelor

Pub / Motorbooks Classics

I would imagine this book is still available online for short money .

take care and see you around the clubhouse ,

Steve D.

[flatheadgary]

hi harry. if i read this right, you might be interested in don garlits first dragster. it was kind of a long wheelbase t thingie with a flathead in it. i believe it was on model "a" rails too. the frame was black and the body? was yellow. if i find a pict i'll post it. also the old #25 chrisman dragster was something like what your describing but not a t body. more like a dry lakes modified. i don't remember seeing any model of what your going to build. this frame might be something you could use.put a t body only on it and it would look cool.

the bottom pict is kind of what i think you mean except for the two engines.

i don't think this is what you are talking about.

[Harry P.]

Thanks for all your input, guys!

I'm checking into the various sources to see what I'll find. You guys have definitely given me some good suggestions.

BTW, here's a picture (a very bad picture) of what I'm talking about...something pretty much along these lines. Definitely a "home-made" car, from the early days of drag racing.

[41CHEVY]

I have this idea to build a version of the Big T as a low budget, "built in the backyard" type early rail...maybe something circa 1960 or so. I plan to extend the wheelbase, maybe move the bodyshell back, add a roll cage, central drivers seat, etc. What I'm after is a bare-bones, unsponsored car...something that literally would have been built by a guy and his buddies in their garage for as little cash as possible, and raced on the weekends. A car somewhat like the original "Mooneyes" dragster, but on a much cheaper and much more amateur level.

So far all I've managed to find online are a couple of fuzzy photos of a car similar to what I envision. If anyone out there knows what I'm talking about, or has a good reference source, a site where I can get photos, or any other help, I'd really appreciate being pointed in the right direction. Thanks

heres pics Paul

[Harry P.]

Thanks for all your help, guys...you're making this project a lot easier!

Steve, I bought the book you recommended today. Got a used one (says it's "like new") on amazon for $8! I should be getting it in a few days.

Meanwhile I'll be scoping out Hobby Lobby's website for that 40% off coupon they put up every so often...then it's time to snag another Big T and get to work! And the best part is...I don't have to worry about a perfect paint job!!!

[DaveInTheHat]

Harrry.

Randy has some good pictures here. Plus some great builds in his other albums.

http://public.fotki.com/Fastplasticbldr/1_..._drag_and_show/

[Harry P.]

Great photos...thanks!