Drag Racing Discussions > Front Engine Dragsters
Potential FED Build
lake_harley:
I've done some searches for FED plans/blueprints and have found S&W, Mark Williams, and Neil&Parks. I also saw plans on Facebook and I believe e-bay but I'm apprehensive if they are properly designed to certify under SFI 2.6.
All of the plans are based on ~200" wheelbase which is a lot longer than I want. I've talked with someone at Mark Williams and S&W to pose the question about shortening the wheelbase. Both agreed that the plans can indeed be modified as I have in mind but it would stiffen the chassis (as I expected) but didn't see that as a problem for my intended purpose.
S&W plans consist of multiple sheets and it sounds like they go into more construction detail than the Mark Williams plans so I went ahead and ordered the S&W plans.
I'm really getting stoked about this project and hope the new year brings buyers for the project cars I have for sale so I can get started building!
Lynn
lake_harley:
I received the S&W FED plans today. I am really pleased with the detail that the drawings cover! There are 4 or 5 24" X 34" sheets that cover overall layout with multiple views, as well as cross-sectional views at various "stations" on the chassis. In addition to the large sheets the plans included a material list and additional 8 1/2" X 11" sheets that detail key tubing sections which indicate lengths between bends and bend angles for tubes such as the shoulder hoop, lower rear tube, etc..
Studying the plans will keep me entertained and occupied for some time. I find that studying the plans for something like this (I built an airplane from plans) helps me to get a good mental picture of how things will go together and that eventually makes building easier.
Lynn
lake_harley:
A question has been running through my mind for a few days now, since I've been considering engine placement. I'm still open to either a 9" ford or 8 3/4" Mopar rearend and wondered if there's any significant difference in the pinion length between the two? Specifically, I'm wondering the difference in distance from the axle centerline to the forward end of the pinion for the two rearend designs. I'd like to keep everything as "close coupled" as possible and even an inch or two difference might sway my choice. I have a 9" here to measure but does anyone have a 8 3/4 Mopar to measure axle centerline to front of pinion threads distance?
Thanks, in advance.
Lynn
wideopen231:
IMO setting motor way back is wrong approach if that what you are looking at with above statement. My observation has been that doing so just results in adding bunch of weight to front end later to make car drive able. May be worng its just waht I have seen on few others.
lake_harley:
Thanks for the post. With a long-shaft Powerglide I have and would plan to run, a 9" Ford would put the back of the engine about 39" to 40" forward of the axle centerline. I will add that I'm only expecting 275-300 HP with a mild 350 or 327 carbureted SBC (I already have both running, complete engines). Would you consider the 39-40" too close? I'll also mention that my desire is a pretty short (125-140" wheelbase) car that would be reminiscent of lower class & HP dragsters of the late 60's and early 70's. Trying to relive my youth, I guess.
Lynn
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