C2 Slick size

[William V.]

I'm looking to have some drag strip fun with my 64 and would like to know the size of a slick that will not rub and still give me good traction. I'll be running a stock 365 with 4:11 rear and a wide ratio(m20).

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Don H.]

Re: C2 Slick size

I have done a fair amount of drag racing over the years but not any with slicks in over 30. My best guess would be that a good biting compound slick that is the same size as your present tires would give very adequate traction for your car. You might check the rules at the strip where you will run (before investing the money) as they might have tire restrictions on street cars. Don H.

[William C.]

Re: C2 Slick size

M&H tire had a selection of "DOT" street legal slicks last time I got serious. I forget what size I used, but they had a good selection.

[James W.]

Re: C2 Slick size

Bill,

Summit Racing sells M&H Racemaster slicks size 26.00 x 6.00 - 15 for $144.95 each. They are 26.00 inches tall, 6.00 inch tread width and have a 8.5 inch section width. This is probably the smallest slick type tire you will be able to install on a 6 inch rim, clear the rear fender and not rub on the outside of the frame. Their catalog is at www.summitracing.com.

Another alternitave would be a pair of BF Goodrich 235/60-15 drag radials. They are 26.1 inches tall, have an 8 inch tread width and a 9.5 inch section width. The section width may be the show stopper regarding how they fit inside the fenders. These would be a good choice for both street and strip. I've used these tires on my Buick Grand National and they work well on dry pavement but I don't recommend them in the rain based on their 5/32 of an inch tread depth. They will last on average about 5,000 to 7,000 miles. You can but these cheaper through the Tirerack than Summit Racing.

Hope this helps!

Regards,

James West
Omaha, NE.

[William V.]

Re: C2 Slick size

James

thanks for the information.

I am going to check with the track rule book before I purchase any slicks.

[James W.]

Re: C2 Slick size

Bill,

I think if it is an NHRA sactioned track and you run slicks, the car will have to be equipped with a drive shaft safety loop, battery hold down, radiator overflow can, etc. It all depends on how strict the technical inspector is. I don't have a current NHRA rule book, but that is some of the equipment that they mandate. Depending on how quick the car is, if you run quicker ET's than 14.00 senconds, you will be required to wear a helmet with a SNELL 90 or above rated helmet. I'm not sure on the currently required rating, since I do not have a current rule book.

Regards,

James West

[Clare Carpenter]

Re: C2 Slick size

Ideally you'll want some tire spin for a good launch and also to prevent bogging down after hook up. Tire spin will also help to prevent driveline damage from TOO MUCH traction. That's why there are the extra safety requirements for cars running slicks. The last thing you want to have happen is to drop a driveshaft or break an axle u-joint, not to mention catastrophic tranny failure. You should be able to find a decent street-strip compound without having to go too large. Remember to pick a tire size that is close to your original diameter to keep the rear end ratio in balance. Have fun!