Won't hook, same old questions...?

[buwagon78]

Please be kind...I'm old.

My old wagon won't hook as it is. I know what some of the problems are and have changed parts to remedy (I think). After reading lots of the posts I believe that my car will do better next time out but am looking for anyone that may have advice for a combination such as mine. The car wasn't built to be a full time drag car, but I've "drank the koolaid".

I run a big RPM 377, heavy flywheeled, 4 speed car with 2X4 tunnel ram, 411 gears. Adjustable uppers on the rear set at 3degrees down. All of my buddies tell me to change cams and go with an auto transmission, but I really like the stick (I drive the car a little on the street). Originally the suspension was all stock and since the power window for the engine is 45-5500 rpm it's just blowing the tires off. 255/15 drag radials may be the problem also (getting close to the wear bars). I've went to adjustible shocks on all 4 corners... 50/50 rear and 90/10 settings on the front. Moroso springs all around and sits alot lower now.

I have a 2 step and tried leaving at lower rpms but it just falls on it's face then revs up and the tires go away again.

I'll get some video this week end with the suspension changes (if the weather holds out). Just trying to get some insight before spending another $400 on some slicks.

Thanks as always for any help. Rob

 

[bracketchev1221]

I'm going to be honest, I think it's the tires. A radial will never take the hit of a stick. You need a bias ply wrinkle wall to absorb it.

 

[buwagon78]

Yep, I think some "real slicks" are in my future. Any suggestions there? Just follow the factories recommendations for compound for my application? Goodyears seem to be a good value through summit. The radials were cheap but not for my set up I think.

BTW, nice lookig family and love the old chevelle wagon picture. Thanks, Rob

 

[455_82malibu]

Hoosier QTP DOt slicks, I have a small 8" wide on mine and it wont spin at the track...also....I added the lower control arm lift brackets....they work awsome, you can feel the rear plant and the the car raises....

 

[bracketchev1221]

Thanks for the compliments, the wagon was my dad's car. He ran that in the early 80's with a 427 and a 4speed. It went 11.32 at 119, but was hard on parts. I would talk to whatever company you decide on. They may tell you a stiff sidewall will help with the stick, and the weight of the car. Just decide what size you can fit, 9X28, 29 etc. I'm not sure about Malibu wagons, but put the biggest tire you can fit on it. Even 10-10.5 if you can.

 

[BillySS]

I ran the 255/60 and now 275/60 Drad radial. The problem is wheel speed with the 255/60. It's only 26" tall as compared to 28" for the 275/60. your 4:11 gear is more like a 4:56 with the short tire. I switched to the 275/60 for the same reason. I also have upper adjustable control arms set to 3* preload.

 

[464elcamino]

I run the 275/60 mickey DR and love em.

 

[buwagon78]

Test and tune on saturday and I learned much more about the old wagon. I know that without pictures I'm just rambling but everybody was busy and couldn't get anyone to take the shots (although I got pics of their cars, but WTHey).

The old wagon left really hard...so hard that I had the 2step set at 4200 and nearly killed the motor. I could feel the rear mash the tires to the ground and up went the front. Loosening up the front end with adjustable shocks and adding air bags to the rear really changed how it hooked. It's funny how the small things can make such a difference.

On my second pass I changed the pill to 4800 (the largest one I had in the range) and it still layed down a little bit but ran a 7.88 (1/8 mile)with the clutch "going away" in 3rd gear.

At least now I have something to do this winter. I guess with a clutch upgrade, I need to look into a taller gear and make a decision about which way to go with this car. Although I've enjoyed the cruises this past year, it hasn't equaled the fun at the strip.