 Here's proof that Brad Anderson knows his way around a Max Wedge motor, too. In the early 1990s, then-owner C.K. Spurlock commissioned "Bad Brad" to duplicate Jim Nelson's original, 480-cubic- inch combination with as many period pieces as could be located, whatever the cost (which turned out to be $20,000-plus, more than a decade ago). It has yet to be fired, pending final wiring and plumbing. Legendary-fabricator J. Ed Horton formed the headers, heat shields and fuel lines, among other things. Current-owner Spittle describes the long-running, three-owner restoration as being "97- percent complete." (Photo courtesy Frank Spittle) |
The balance of that debt has since been repaid, according to Spittle, who likewise spared no expense continuing what two previous owners started. As you can see for yourselves, the transformation from a worn-out bracket car to a brand-new 1964 Dodge Charger has been remarkable, and nearly complete. All that’s keeping the car from moving under its own power for the first time in 30-plus years is a handful of missing parts, the most-obvious being a “ring-slot” parachute; a tonneau cover for the back seat; and a pair of ribbed-sidewall, 9.20-15 M&H Racemasters.
Spittle assures us that this pioneer Funny Car will, indeed, be seen and heard again — just as often as a track or show promoter is willing to cough up a modest appearance fee. Ironically, this 43-year fan of the Dodge Chargers never got to watch one of the team cars perform in the Sixties. Now 62, he’s anxious to share this piece of living history with the world. In the February edition of Mopar Max, we’ll be hearing from Frank, in his own words. Tune back in next month for the fifth, final installment of this exclusive series.
Ever seen a VIN plate and a rear-view mirror on a Funny Car? This pioneer weighed nearly 3400 pounds, sans driver, thanks to all of the original equipment that NHRA insisted remain (as explained by Dragmaster's Jim Nelson in Part One, Oct. 2006 MM). The entire body is original, except for a replacement aluminum front end. The roll bar is the same one that Dragmaster bolted in, rechromed. (Photo courtesy Frank Spittle)
