Strangers Turn Co-Pilots: Drag Drive Repeat Show EP 88 Recap
Strangers Turn Co-Pilots: Drag Drive Repeat Show EP 88 Recap
Presented by Summit Racing
Welcome to Episode 88 of the Drag Drive Repeat Show, where the roar of engines and the bonds of friendship take center stage. This episode, aptly titled "Strangers to Co-Pilots," brought together some of the most innovative minds and thrilling stories from the drag-and-drive community. From groundbreaking engineering feats to heartwarming tales of camaraderie, this episode was nothing short of exhilarating.
Episode Highlights
A Game-Changing Build: Jay Blanchard and John Mayor
Broadcasting live from the Jay Wire Solutions facility, Jay Blanchard and John Mayor showcased a cutting-edge build featuring a twin supercharged engine with twin blowoff valves and a wastegate on the cold side. This innovative setup drew gasps and questions from fans worldwide.
Key Takeaways from Jay and John’s Segment:
Twin Supercharged Setup:
Utilized twin 84mm Torque Storm superchargers.
Controlled boost with a TurboSmart CO2-controlled wastegate, ensuring precise regulation and avoiding throttle blade damage.
Designed for up to 1,500 horsepower, with potential for more.
Engineering Firsts:
The innovative cold-side wastegate setup enhances reliability by offering a fine-tuned, linear boost control.
Integrates advanced cooling solutions, including a 32-inch radiator and PWM-modulated Silverado fans, ensuring performance in extreme conditions.
Goals for the Build:
Targeting a consistent 8.50-second average across drag-and-drive events.
From Strangers to Co-Pilots: Josh Rich and Mike Smith
The episode’s heartwarming tale featured Josh Rich and Mike Smith, who met as strangers through a Facebook post and ended up sharing an unforgettable journey during the Sick 66 Drag and Drive event.
Key Highlights from Their Adventure:
Josh’s Truck:
A 2006 Colorado, equipped with a 408ci LS engine and a 85mm turbo, making over 1,100 horsepower.
Fully backhalved with 10 Soldier 4-link suspension but retaining stock struts in the front.
Ran a 5.20-second eighth-mile and a mid-8-second quarter-mile, winning Rowdy Radial Class at Race Week 2.0.
The Journey:
Covered 1,200+ miles across the week, encountering everything from brutal potholes to late-night wrenching sessions.
A dramatic 13-minute trailer hitch repair using a stranger’s muffler shop in rural Oklahoma.
Quickest Chevrolet Classification winners for Sick 66.
The Bond:
Despite never meeting before the event, the duo fell into an easy rhythm, tackling fuel swaps, tire changes, and even minor repairs with seamless teamwork.
Their camaraderie epitomized the spirit of drag-and-drive: “It’s about more than racing—it’s about the community.”
By the Numbers: 2024 Drag and Drive Growth
Host Mike Narx and co-host Eric White shared exciting stats reflecting the community's explosive growth:
2,700+ racers competed in 2024, up from 2,300 in 2023.
Over 97 tracks visited this year, with 150+ racers completing three or more events.
10 six-second cars recorded quarter-mile averages, a massive leap from just 7 in 2023.
PRI 2024 Drag & Drive Awards presented by Summit Racing
The team teased the highly anticipated Drag & Drive Awards presented by Summit Racing, happening at PRI 2024. Fans were urged to nominate contenders for the Toughest Roadside Repair Award, celebrating resilience and ingenuity.
Summit Racing: Supporting the Need for Speed
Summit Racing, the ultimate automotive partner, once again proved its commitment to the drag-and-drive community:
Offers 1,500+ brands with fast shipping and unparalleled customer service.
Make sure to check out the Summit Racing app for easy access to the parts you need.
Looking Ahead
Upcoming Events:
Road Trip Drag Challenge (Australia): November 15–17, 2024.
Texas Cruise and Chill: December 12–14, 2024.
2025 Preview:
Sick Week: January 27–February 1, 2025.
Cackalacky Run: March 24–29, 2025.
Don’t miss the full replay of Episode 88 on YouTube, and be sure to follow Drag Drive Repeat for updates on future events, exciting builds, and unforgettable stories from the track!
