[DeTomaso] IR-EFI PROGRESS REPORT - HOUSTON WE HAVE LIFT OFF !!!!

[Mad Dog Antenucci]

Dave-All,
   
  Here's the IR-EFI progress report but first off Happy St. Paddy's Day to all. . .Sorry for the late heads up. I started a new job today and was buried in w-o-rrrrrrrrrrrr-k to pay for the Pantera habit. ;-]>
   
  Yesterday, was a long day but a big thanks to Mike Trusty and Dick Drenske's efforts we got er' done! Mike and Dick were the prime time players, brain surgeons and master wrenches.  They got the new engine and IR-EFI mapped, started and allowed me to drive the Pantera for a couple 20 minute test runs.  The overhauled 381ci Cleveland stroker feels solid and strong. We (meaning them!) worked late on final adjustments...we will pull the plugs next Saturday to inspect and Dick will make final tweeks to elctromotive computer so I can get back on the road soon as Larry Stock gives me a heads up on decklid. ;-0>
   
  Mike Trusty's EFI system is just beautiful. I watched him do his what appears to be voo-doo magic mapping the computer and debugging, syncing the 8 throttle bodies and setting the initial tune on the engine. Larry Kelsey took some photos which I will post to AJ to add to the TPR web site in next couple days.
   
  Watching Mike Trusty and Dick Drenske work together to get the pantera on the road was a beautiful thing. As some of you know this IR-EFI thing has been the  fantasy dream since the first time I think I saw the system on a Pantera +/- '92 in Vegas at the Fun Rally. yea, it was an expensive fantasy but one well worth waiting for.  
   
  Dick Drenske replaced every water, fuel and oil line and fitting and when we fired the engine we didn't have a drop of oil or fuel or water on the floor!!!   Dick had pressure tested all the new lines and fittings before he installed them and he also R&R'd the engine, made all the EFI plumbing and wiring mods and put up with my barking at him on a daily basis until he was done during the last few months.
   
  Mike Trusty flew all the way from Arkansas, arrived late Saturday night, worked all day sunday and never once complained.  .  .okay he did complain one time about the water and diet coke message I sent to the List but not to him!....just kidding Mike!  You are DA MAN! 
   
  I also want to thank my other buds for their support. Most specifically Russ Fulps for the engine overhaul and support. John "JB" Bentley, Erik "one-shot-one-ill" Belter, Ken "Marine" Green and Big Bob Benson who ALL donated parts and support through this process during the last 5 months. Thanks Bro's...
   
  Also a big thanks to Kelly Cofield who  busted his butt out in the flatlands to machine the billet air filters and get them, the hardware and the filters delivered to us on time this last week with little notice.
   
  Larry 'the Falcon' Kelsey also showed up Sunday AM to hold my hand and keep duct tape over my mouth, keep me out of Dick and Mike's way all day long while they worked their butts off, so thank you again Larry for being my best homo homey.  Even Scott offered to come by to poke me with a stick but I gave him the wrong address...sorry Scotty...I couldn't handle the having to entertain one more person!  ;-]> 
   
  I know I have forgot someone on the team as there have always been many of you on and off the List who have supported my ORR efforts with advise and encouragement during this long winter project....it could not of been a better today so thanks again to everyone.
   
  Mad Dawg Antenucci, Team Pantera Racing - Gruppo rompiculi Corsa
  "If it was easy you'd do it." 
  

Scott Couchman <scottcouchman at yahoo.com> wrote:
  Today is Mad Dawg's day to start his EFI engine......no news yet....??????


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Mad Dawg Antenucci 
Team Pantera Racing 
  The 1st & still the only vintage race team in open road racing 
www.teampanteraracing.com