[DeTomaso] Gr4 Pantera at Le Mans video / aerodynamics at high speed

[dan at excaliburre.com]

Regarding the aerodynamics at high speed, when Cook Sr. built “The Beast” in
’71 he used rubber thongs on the vented fiberglass front deck lid, which
allows it to float at high speed.

On the rear deck lid he installed a huge stainless steel wing, like
something off a B-52.

The wind didn’t appear to help enough.

On one infamous Silver State Challenge the rear of “The Beast” was lifting
above 170 mph.

About ½ way through my run “The Beast” stabilized and started holding the
road again.

After arriving at the finish line someone asked me what happened to my rear
deck lid (now fiberglass and without the B-52 wing) and I realized it was
gone.

I’m guessing it flew off at the same time the car stabilized.

 

Dan

 

 

Dan Courtney

La Jolla, CA

(858) 337-7019 cell

Dan at excaliburre.com

 

-------------- next part --------------
   Regarding the aerodynamics at high speed, when Cook Sr. built "The
   Beast" in '71 he used rubber thongs on the vented fiberglass front deck
   lid, which allows it to float at high speed.

   On the rear deck lid he installed a huge stainless steel wing, like
   something off a B-52.

   The wind didn't appear to help enough.

   On one infamous Silver State Challenge the rear of "The Beast" was
   lifting above 170 mph.

   About 1/2 way through my run "The Beast" stabilized and started holding
   the road again.

   After arriving at the finish line someone asked me what happened to my
   rear deck lid (now fiberglass and without the B-52 wing) and I realized
   it was gone.

   I'm guessing it flew off at the same time the car stabilized.


   Dan



   Dan Courtney

   La Jolla, CA

   (858) 337-7019 cell

   Dan at excaliburre.com