From Budget Builds to Big Dreams: Inside the World of Drag-and-Drive Enthusiasts - Episode 79 Recap
In this episode of the Drag Drive Repeat Show, we dive deep into the personal journey of a dedicated drag-and-drive enthusiast. From humble beginnings to overcoming significant challenges on the track, this episode highlights the passion, perseverance, and community that define the drag and drive experience. Below, we summarize the key moments, important figures, and the engaging stories that make this episode a must-watch.
The Maliboom: A Journey from Junkyard Dog to Drag-and-Drive Icon
The story of the Maliboom is a quintessential example of how a humble, budget build can evolve into something much more—a symbol of perseverance and the DIY spirit that defines the drag-and-drive community. The Maliboom, a 1970s Chevrolet Malibu, earned its nickname from the host’s young son, who couldn’t quite pronounce “Malibu” and instead called it the “Maliboom.” This endearing mistake stuck, and the name became synonymous with the car’s growing legend.
The Origin of the Maliboom
Purchased on a Budget: The Maliboom began as a family car that was supposed to be sold, but it stuck around "like a junkyard dog." The car was initially a simple project, something to tinker with in the garage.
DIY All the Way: Everything done to the Maliboom was a first for the host. He had never LS-swapped a vehicle before, never dealt with fuel injection, and had to learn each step of the way. The car was transformed from a stock Malibu into a drag-and-drive contender, thanks to countless hours of trial and error.
Budget Build: The LS swap, which would typically cost thousands, was completed for an incredibly low budget. The 4.8L engine used for the swap was bought for just $60. The entire swap was done using parts the host either already had or sourced inexpensively, demonstrating that you don’t need a big budget to get started in the world of drag racing.
Key Moments in the Maliboom’s Evolution
Zip Tie Drags Debut: The Maliboom’s first real test came at the Zip Tie Drags, an event put on by David Freiburger and the Hot Rod team. The car, with its newly swapped LS engine, performed surprisingly well, considering the limited budget and DIY approach.
Numbers and Figures:
The LS engine made 280 horsepower at the wheels on a dyno—impressive for a junkyard motor assembled on a shoestring budget.
Cam Swap Disaster: One of the most memorable moments in the Maliboom’s journey was a botched cam swap. The host, who was still learning the ropes of engine modifications, made several mistakes during the installation. Despite the errors, the car ran, further proving the resilience of these engines and the “slap it together and see what happens” mentality that many in the community share.
First Major Event in 2019: By 2019, the Maliboom had come a long way, but it was still a budget build. The host decided to push the car and himself by entering a larger drag-and-drive event. Despite numerous challenges, including mechanical issues and the emotional strain of losing a close friend, the Maliboom completed the event.
Personal Milestone: This event was particularly significant as it was a tribute to a friend who had passed away in a car accident. The host’s determination to keep a promise to his friend was a driving force behind his participation.
The Maliboom’s Place in the Community
Inspiration for Others: The story of the Maliboom has resonated with many in the drag-and-drive community. It’s a reminder that you don’t need the best parts or the biggest budget to participate in these events. What matters most is the willingness to learn, the passion for the sport, and the resilience to keep going even when things don’t go as planned.
The Importance of Family: The Maliboom isn’t just a car; it’s a family project. The host’s young son played a role in naming the car, and his wife has been incredibly supportive throughout the journey. After a significant crash during an event, instead of urging her husband to quit, she insisted on being part of future events, emphasizing the strong family ties that often accompany these builds.
The Maliboom’s Legacy
A Symbol of the DIY Spirit: The Maliboom has become more than just a car; it’s a symbol of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn. It embodies the core values of the drag-and-drive community and continues to inspire others to take on projects that might seem daunting at first.
Driven Racing Oil: The Performance Engine Oil That Can Do It All!
ERIC:
Driven Racing Oil, particularly the GP-1 formula, is celebrated as the ultimate oil for any race or performance application. This versatile engine oil is not only favored by drag racers but also by those in off-road, circle track, and top fuel drag boat racing. Here’s why GP-1 is a top choice among winning racers:
Surface Cling & High Zinc Formulation: GP-1's unique surface cling properties and high zinc content provide superior wear protection, particularly for flat tappet camshafts. This is crucial in preventing excessive wear in high-stress racing environments.
Compatible with Various Engines: Whether you're working with a classic hot rod or a cutting-edge race machine, GP-1 is engineered to meet the demands of a wide range of engines.
Protection Against Cylinder Washout: A significant advantage of GP-1 is its ability to address cylinder washout issues, especially in engines running on methanol/ethanol fuels, which can be particularly harsh on components.
Crafted from Bradford, PA Base Oil: The oil is crafted from the legendary Bradford, PA base oil, known for its high quality, and is enhanced with state-of-the-art additive packages, making it a top choice for those who demand the best in protection and performance.
The Circuit 2025 Presented by Summit Racing: Expanded to 200 Cars
MIKE:
Excitement is building for The Circuit 2025, now presented by Summit Racing, with plans to increase participation to 200 cars. Here’s what participants need to know about the registration process:
Returning Racers Discount: Returning racers and their 2024 co-pilots who want to race again can benefit from discounted, early entry registration of $250. This opens on October 31 at 8 AM Eastern and will be available for 24 hours.
Special Registration for 2024 Non-Participants: Racers who registered for 2024 but didn’t make it can take advantage of early registration on November 1 from 8 AM to 2 PM, with an entry fee of $300.
Early Listers Registration: For those on the early listers, registration will be open from November 1 at 2 PM until November 2 at 10 AM Eastern, also at $300.
Public Entry: Finally, the public entry opens on November 2 at 10 AM, with an entry fee of $300.
New Class Addition:
Tailgate by Revved Up Lazer Works: A new class has been introduced, known as "Tailgate." This class will feature a Top 4 Shootout on Sunday, with the top 4 determined by the 4 pass average from Friday and Saturday. Thanks to Travis for making this exciting addition possible!
Big Sky Race Week 2025: Expanding to 200 Cars
ERIC:
Big Sky Race Week is set to return in 2025, with plans to increase the number of participants to 200 cars. This expansion is part of an ongoing effort to grow the event and attract more racers from across the country.
WAF Racing: Engineering Creativity in the Hot Rodding World
MIKE:
WAF Racing is a unique collective of engineers, racers, and hot rod enthusiasts dedicated to pushing the boundaries of automotive creativity. Here’s what makes WAF Racing stand out:
Custom Parts and Tools: WAF Racing is known for creating custom parts, tools, and electrical gadgets tailored to the needs of hot rodders and racers. Whether it’s classic cars or modern machines, their innovative solutions are designed to enhance performance and reliability.
Eclectic Projects: With a passion for both cars and bikes, WAF Racing’s team is always working on something new and exciting. From custom builds to unique racing gadgets, you never know what they might come up with next.
Online Presence: Check out WAF Racing at waf-racing.com and follow them on social media to stay updated on their latest projects and innovations.
October Cruise and Lose: A One-Day Adventure
ERIC:
The October Cruise and Lose event is designed as a one-day drag-and-drive experience that combines racing with an adventurous road trip. Here’s a breakdown of what participants can expect:
Format: The day is laid out to maximize both the driving and racing experiences. Participants start with a cruise that covers a significant distance, followed by a series of racing sessions where they compete in various classes.
Classes: Multiple classes are available to cater to different types of cars and drivers, ensuring that everyone has a chance to compete and enjoy the event.
Drive Distance: The drive distance is designed to be challenging but manageable, offering participants a scenic route with several cool sites and route stops along the way. This not only adds to the adventure but also gives drivers a chance to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Zach Slevin's Remarkable 4.965-Second Run
Zach Slevin recently achieved an impressive 4.965-second run, a feat that caught the attention of many in the racing community. Here’s how he did it:
Precision Tuning: Zach attributed his success to meticulous tuning and preparation. Every aspect of the car was fine-tuned to ensure maximum performance, from the engine setup to the suspension and tires.
Focus on Traction: Achieving a sub-5-second run requires exceptional traction. Zach and his team worked extensively on the car’s suspension setup, tire choice, and track conditions to ensure that the power was effectively transferred to the ground.
Consistency: One of the keys to Zach’s success was consistency. By focusing on delivering consistent runs and making small, incremental improvements, he was able to dial in the car and achieve the 4.965-second milestone.
This comprehensive approach to tuning, traction, and consistency is what ultimately allowed Zach to break into the sub-5-second range, solidifying his reputation as a top competitor in the racing world.
Dane Thompson - State of Drag and Drive
Who You Are and Why You Do What You Do
Dane Thompson is a prominent figure in the drag-and-drive community, known for his passion for cars, especially those that require a hands-on, DIY approach. He’s a self-taught mechanic who learned the ropes by working on his own vehicles, starting with his iconic Maliboom—a car that has become a symbol of perseverance and ingenuity in the drag-and-drive world.
Background: Dane began his journey into the automotive world with a strong interest in cars, particularly those that could be built on a budget. His early experiences involved swapping engines and working on DIY projects, which eventually led him to the drag-and-drive scene.
Motivation: For Dane, the appeal of drag-and-drive events lies in the challenge of building a car that can both race and endure long drives. It’s not just about speed; it’s about reliability, creativity, and the ability to overcome obstacles—whether on the track or on the road.
What Got You Into Cars?
Dane’s love for cars began at a young age, influenced by the need for transportation and the desire to have a vehicle that was both functional and fast. Growing up in an environment where everything was miles away, he quickly realized the importance of having a car that could get him places, but his passion truly ignited when he discovered drag racing.
First Car: His first major project was the Maliboom, a car he acquired when his son was just a toddler. This car, which was named by his son who couldn’t pronounce “Malibu,” became a lifelong project and eventually a well-known vehicle in the drag-and-drive community.
First Event: Dane’s first foray into drag-and-drive was at the Zip Tie Drags, where he budget-swapped his car for a fraction of what most would expect, highlighting his ability to achieve big results with minimal resources.
PowerPak Pistons - Mahle in His RV
One of the key components in Dane’s builds, particularly in his RV, is the use of Mahle PowerPak Pistons. These pistons are well-regarded in the racing community for their durability and performance, especially under the extreme conditions faced in drag-and-drive events.
Mahle’s Contribution: Mahle has been a supporter of Dane’s projects, recognizing his dedication and skill. The PowerPak Pistons used in his RV are a testament to the trust and quality that Mahle represents in the racing world.
Performance Benefits: These pistons are known for their superior strength and ability to withstand high-stress environments, making them ideal for both drag racing and the long drives involved in drag-and-drive events.
Percentage of Cars in Drag-and-Drive Events
During the livestream, Dane discussed the diversity of cars in drag-and-drive events, emphasizing that while the fast cars often get the spotlight, they represent only a small percentage of the overall participants.
Estimate: Dane estimated that about 30% of the cars in these events are capable of running sub-10-second times, leaving the majority of participants in the 10-second and slower categories.
Diverse Participation: This diversity is what makes drag-and-drive events unique, as they cater to a wide range of enthusiasts, from those with high-powered machines to those running more modest setups.
Do It Yourself - Something Small: Drive Day Cruise
Dane highlighted the importance of DIY culture within the drag-and-drive community, particularly for newcomers who might be intimidated by the scope of these events. He suggested starting small, perhaps with a “Drive Day Cruise,” to get a feel for the demands of a drag-and-drive event.
Drive Day Cruise Concept: This would involve a day where participants drive their cars on a pre-planned route, experiencing the road aspect of a drag-and-drive event without the pressure of racing.
Building Confidence: Such an event would help participants build confidence in their vehicles and themselves, providing a low-risk introduction to the drag-and-drive lifestyle.
What Do You Think Would Help Grow the Sport?
The discussion around growing the sport of drag-and-drive brought up several key points from community members, each addressing different aspects that could be improved.
Adam Dorey: Emphasized the need for more tracks to connect unused areas of the country. He pointed out that while the sport is thriving, it can get repetitive using the same tracks, especially when trying to accommodate 6-second cars.
John Gillman: Suggested that more focus should be placed on the racers’ experience between tracks, not just while they are at the tracks. He also mentioned the need for better class separation and more engagement from event organizers on social media.
Cody Wallace: Mentioned the difficulty in registering for these events, as they sell out quickly, and not everyone can take a week off work for road week.
Shawn Allsup: Proposed that Jr. Street should be a class at all drag-and-drive events, highlighting the importance of engaging the younger generation as they are the future of the sport.
Feeder Event
A feeder event was discussed as a potential way to introduce new participants to drag-and-drive without the full commitment of a national event. This could serve as a stepping stone for those interested in the sport but hesitant to dive in headfirst.
Concept: Smaller, regional events that feed into larger national ones, offering winners or top performers a guaranteed spot in bigger events.
Benefits: This approach would help build skills and confidence among participants, making them more prepared and invested when they move on to larger events.
Specialty Products and Car Shows
The idea of integrating specialty products and car shows into drag-and-drive events was discussed as a way to enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators alike.
Product Demos: Featuring companies that specialize in racing parts, tools, and other automotive products could add value to the event, giving participants a chance to see and purchase the latest innovations.
Car Shows: Incorporating a car show element would allow participants to showcase their vehicles beyond the track, fostering a deeper sense of community and engagement.
Event Coverage: Paying for Coverage
The question of whether participants would be willing to pay for enhanced event coverage was raised, particularly in relation to the success of paid coverage for Sick events.
Feasibility: There’s a potential market for paid coverage, but it would need to offer significant value to justify the cost. The discussion included whether the added expense would be worth the hassle for organizers and participants.
Content Creation: An idea was floated about smaller YouTubers joining forces to hire an editor, pooling resources to create higher-quality content that could be distributed across multiple channels.
Gas Station Snacks
A lighter topic during the discussion was about the go-to gas station snacks for drag-and-drive events. Here’s what the participants had to say:
Dane: His cooler is stocked with Topo Chico, beef jerky, and sunflower seeds—a combo that keeps him energized and focused during long drives.
Mike: Prefers beef jerky, honey-roasted cashews or peanuts, and a Gatorade to stay hydrated and fueled.
Eric: Energy drinks and snacks to keep the momentum going.
Stolen Cars at Drag-and-Drive Events
The issue of car theft at drag-and-drive events was a serious concern discussed during the livestream. Participants shared various strategies to deter thieves and protect their vehicles.
Visual Deterrents: Suggestions included using car covers, removing a wheel, or chaining the wheels together to make the car less accessible.
Security Measures: Sam Tucker recommended pulling the fuel pump relay and starter relay when staying at a motel, making it more difficult for thieves to start the car.
Host Hotels: Many agreed that staying at the host hotel, where there’s a larger community presence and often added security, is a good way to reduce the risk of theft.
Final Thoughts
Episode 79 of the Drag Drive Repeat Show provided an insightful exploration into the current state and future of the drag-and-drive community. Through engaging discussions, the episode highlighted the importance of perseverance, community, and innovation within the sport. Dane Thompson's journey with the Maliboom stood out as a testament to the DIY spirit that fuels many in the community, reminding listeners that success isn't just about speed but about resilience and passion. The episode also delved into practical advice and new ideas for growing the sport, emphasizing the need for more regional events, better class structures, and collaborative efforts to enhance event coverage and participant experience.
The show further underscored the value of camaraderie, with participants sharing everything from security tips to favorite gas station snacks, illustrating the unique culture that defines drag-and-drive events. The sense of community, coupled with innovative ideas like Drive Day Cruises and the inclusion of Jr. Street classes, points towards an exciting and inclusive future for the sport. Overall, Episode 79 captured the essence of what makes drag-and-drive special—a blend of personal stories, practical advice, and a shared love for the road.
This is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and community that make the drag-and-drive culture so unique. Whether it’s building a car from scratch, overcoming a crash, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts, the journey is as rewarding as the destination. As the sport continues to grow, these stories and experiences will inspire a new generation of drag-and-drive fans to take the plunge.
