Mark Wilcox and the entire race team out of Wilcox Garage in Maple Valley, WA are working on turning a fantasy into reality. They’ve come together to field a 1963 Ford Fairlane to break the 209.236 mph record for a D class Classic Blown Gas Coupe (D/CBGC) set in 1980.
The team concept runs throughout the entire operation. The car itself was built by team member Chris Huffman of Enumclaw, WA for a record attempt with a different engine. Problems with his powerplant led Chris to join his Ford rolling stock to Mark Wilcox’s 1000hp ProCharged 294ci small block Chevy engine from his record chasing roadster that developed handling issues.
Racing parts transplants continued with the addition of a Smith Racecraft front suspension courtesy of crew member Eric “Wild Man” Petersen from his 1969 Firebird that met its demise at the Street Car Super Nationals last fall.
An M22 four-speed trans along with a Winters HD Quick-change rear round out the running gear. Assembly and maintenance are handled by crew members Billy “Goat” Knannlein and Tyler Tripp. Special recognition also goes out to Dennis Kerslake and Steve Morris for their large contributions to the success of the team.
The car is compliant with all structural safety requirements set forth by the Southern California Timing Association (S.C.T.A.). It is also completely outfitted with all of the appropriate safety equipment necessary to keep Mark safe when piloting this racing vehicle in excess of the 220 mph target speed that the team expects to achieve with this configuration. Mark’s top end racing experience began in 2007 and has made numerous passes over 200 mph.
The Wilcox Garage Team has its sights set on Bonneville in August 2012 and they might even bring a second engine to go after more than one record. After learning how this team brought their strengths together after experiencing their individual setbacks, I like their chances for success!