Back in 2012, I had to hang up the keys to the SVX race car. This was for reasons two fold.... My girlfriend at the time was dealing with some serious medical conditions, and there was signs that I busted a piston ring at the track due to a loss seen on time slips, low compression in the cylinder, and blue smoke while making passes. I hoped it was just a short while and with every year I had expectations to get the car out and do what was necessary to return to the track. Year after year passed and it just sat, money was tight, I worked two jobs, had no time, and even struggled to do necessary work on this server.
Almost 8 years passed and I once again have hopes to return to racing in 2020. The motor needs to be changed/fixed, and it would be a great benefit if the engine could push the car to where I could choose to be in the quicker side of "Sportsman" class for my rookie return year, and still choose to be in the slower side of "Pro" if I am lucky enough to find that I still have the gift, and the car is still up to the task.
That being said, I pulled the RV out of the way, cleared away the weeds and debris, and connected the jumper cables with every expectation I would have to tow it out. NOPE... in less than 4 seconds on the starter and with a cloud of blue smoke, it started right up. OMG! Now the HLAs (hydrualic lash adjusters) were none too happy and their noise was evident of the abuse of sitting time. I couldn't run the motor long as it was stored without coolant. Cant run antifreeze in race car on NHRA track, so when parked, the water was drained. It drove right out of its hibernation den and up on the trailer without issue, almost eager for a return to racing.
I would love to do a high (higher) compression build with either high quality E85 fuel or C10 as a backup. That being said, I might start a sponsor's page again as custom pistons, cams, intake work, paint, tires, engine re-seal kit and such are not going to be cheap. Those whom have been around here for a while are quite informed on my NHRA track records
So, that being said, I would like to see if I can restore her to her former track champion winners circle glory. It was nice to see her up on the trailer again almost as if ready for a morning trek out to the safety inspections. Here is the sad look she has at the moment. (keen eyes will also note at the back of the garage there are rows of race trophies the car earned over the years along with its former street-legal US Army Veteran 92 SVX plate). Hope this was not too boring...
-Chris
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