Hi, all............Corene and I have been to GoodGuys cars shows for the last two weekends and are having a fabulous time. It was great to be at Columbus, and meeting all the great Y-Block guys and gals topped the list.
After the Y-Block Shootout we attended the Norwalk, OH and Rhinebeck, NY GoodGuys events. There were a good number of Y-Blocks represented in 54-64 Ford pickups, sedans, and a wagon or two. They were great and frankly, the Y-Blocks from Columbus would have held their own; but, when you see a $50-100k roadster and peek to see what's for power, your eyes just fly open when you see a finely detailed Y-Block. I am not saying they overpowered the car shows, but there were just enough to start the general public thinking Y-Not.
I also have to tell you the 57 Ford pickup was a real crowd pleaser. I was sooo self-conscious when I had to drive in to find a spot (three times a weekend). I felt like every eye (and ear) was on me. It was great to get the thumbs-up from so many other car owners. During the shows I stood by the truck and answered so many questions about land speed and Y-Blocks that I convinced myself that I know what I am talking about. From time to time when some experienced Y-Blockers showed interest, I fired it up. It would draw a crowd, and they just couldn't believe a Y-Block could sound like that and from only 258 cu. in. The topper was when Street Rodder Magazine came by and spent lots of time shooting the truck. They said they took pictures of it at Bonneville in August; so, hopefully, it will show up in the magazine. Together with the Discovery Channel interview, we feel really blessed.
Maxton is just two weeks away and I think about it constantly. This will be the biggest test, as the track is shorter and the record is faster. Shorter track.....need lower final drive ratio (small diameter tires).....faster record.....need higher ratio (larger tire diameter).....I've got it -- more horsepower!!!. Sounds silly, I know, because it is hard to come up with horsepower on the road. I have something I am going to try and I will share it if it works. If it doesn't work, I'll say it was Corene's idea.
We will keep in touch.......................
Charlie Burns Laton, Ca (South of Fresno)
BurnsRacing981@gmail.com