PROJECT PAGE

As anyone who follows motorsports knows, a race car is never truly “finished.” There are always new projects, performance goals, and incremental improvements on the horizon. Our car is no different. We’re continually planning multi-season upgrades to make it faster, more reliable, and more competitive.

Below is our current project roadmap for the coming years. These are upgrades we fully intend to complete as part of our long-term program, but support—whether through parts or funding—helps us reach each milestone sooner and execute each build at a higher level. Any partnership is greatly appreciated, but never expected.

ENGINE PROJECTS

2026 Season — Performance Efficiency Upgrades

  • Planned replacement of the carburetor and cylinder heads to improve consistency, tuning range, and overall power delivery.

2027 Season — Full Engine Program Overhaul

  • Long-term plan to upgrade or fully replace the engine for improved performance, durability, and season-long reliability.

TRANSMISSION PROJECTS

Current Setup:

  • Stock 1985 AOD with custom-fabricated mounts—reliable but not a long-term competitive solution.

2026–2027 Roadmap:

  • Evaluating options between a refreshed performance AOD or a return to a C4 for lighter weight and efficiency.

  • The current unit is functional, so this is not a priority for 2026 unless a complete transmission partnership becomes available. Otherwise, this upgrade is planned for the 2027 season.

SUSPENSION PROJECTS

2026 Season — Rear Suspension Refresh

  • Replacement of rear leaf springs and bushings.

  • Exploring a move to a mono-leaf setup for better traction and reduced weight.

2027 Season — Chassis & Traction Improvements

  • Potential addition of CalTrac bars.

  • Long-term vision includes replacing the stock front suspension and shock towers with a Mustang II–style front end for improved geometry, adjustability, and engine bay space.

BODY & EXTERIOR PROJECTS

The car has worn its current look for over 30 years, and that history is part of its identity. We are weighing two directions:

  • Preserving the iconic patina, or

  • Refreshing the exterior with light rust repair, minor dent removal, and fresh paint.

Because appearance does not impact performance, this remains a low-priority, future-phase project dedicated to honoring the car’s heritage.

INTERIOR PROJECTS

The interior is almost entirely original—true 1969 components from front to back. While we value the vintage charm, it’s due for a functional refresh.

2026 Goals

  • Recover or replace the front seats.

  • Install new carpeting.

Performance remains the priority, so interior upgrades will progress as time and budget allow.

TIRES & TRACTION PROJECTS

Rear Tire Program

We are currently running Mickey Thompson ET Streets, which have performed extremely well. As we look at the next few seasons, we are open to testing or transitioning to a new brand as part of our ongoing traction and consistency improvements.

Tires are one of the most critical consumables in our program, and partnerships in this area directly support on-track performance and safety.

SUPPORT VEHICLE & TRAILER PROJECTS

Our support vehicles are a critical part of keeping the race program moving. Like the car, they have their own long-term upgrade plan focused on improving efficiency, reliability, and comfort during travel.

MOTORHOME PROJECTS

Energy & Climate Control Upgrades

  • Replace rooftop A/C units with 12V systems capable of running off solar power.

  • Install a modern solar array and updated charge controller system to support off-grid operation.

Towing & Travel/ Safety Improvements

Upgrade suspension for improved towing stability

  • Install an inflatable RV skirt for all-weather insulation

  • Add RV SnapPads or similar leveling solutions

  • Replace aging tires (tread is solid, but they are dated 2014 and showing weather checking)

RACE TRAILER PROJECTS

The trailer is relatively new and needs little modification, but we have a few forward-looking goals:

  • Install a solar system capable of supporting tools, lighting, and small A/C loads.

  • Add a 12V rooftop A/C and heat unit to allow full climate control during staging and prep work.

These upgrades will support better working conditions and more reliable power during long weekends at the track.