( June 18, 2011 )

Was a disappointing finish last fall losing the motor and dragging Slomega home (BIG THANKS AGAIN to Justin Dorosh for hauling the heap home). Over the winter, the powertrain was pulled and rebuilt. I went back to my friend Dan Klim, because he has always been there to help me out with my Nova and is a proven Engine Builder in my opinion. Had Dan put the motor back together, also making some changes to the build. Dropped the powertrain back into the Omega by late-May and took some time driving her around to break things in, before going out to the Strip to lay a beating on 'er.

We arrive early at the track, pick a spot and unpack/unload the chase vehicle. Dad jumps and gets the rear tires changed over to the BFG Drag Radials.

I take a moment to fill out the 'Tech' card for the car, go through the inside of the car to make sure everythings in order.

Off to 'Tech' for inspection ... Before heading to the track, dad gives the underside a quick look, as I check out things under the hood making sure everything is tight. Let's see what this rebuilt bad-boy is gonna run !! We're hoping for high-13s.

Getting ready to make my first pass, with the 'Dan Klim' built 355. My best last season, just before the motor failed was 14.0096 - will I hit 13s this season ??

Dad standing around the staging lanes, enjoying a beverage and watching the cars.

Getting ready to make another pass and here comes my uncle with his camera to get some launch pictures.

The car launches nicely and takes off. After the race, I make my way back to the pits to share my results with my Dad.

After a quick chit-chat, and a look under the hood to make sure everything is still good ... it's back to the staging lane!

The Omega smashes into the 13s with a 13.74 pass !! A time that was very close to my 73 Nova, which best ET was 13.65 @ 100.xx mph. Not good ... can't have my beater Omega end up faster then my Nova :)

After making a few passes, it's time to hand the keys over to the old man to see what he can run with this new setup.

Pass after pass, the Omega is running strong high-13s. As I've been doing for most of the day, after a few passes, I can't help but to peek under the hood to make sure everything is good. Dads still behind the wheel and reliving his youth, remembering racing his 70 Nova SS at Bison. I am content watching the old man having a good time !!

The Omega is running AMAZING!!. Take a bit of a break to let the car cool down, make sure bolts are tight and why not check the timing :)

We ran into a little problem, later in the afternoon. The alternator belt flipped between runs. The belt suffered some minor markings and a small gash. Our problem here, I can't find our spare belt. So we decide to wrap up the day and end home ... while I can still drive the car :)

Today, was a good day! Thanks to Justin Dorosh, and Dan Klim for ALL their help with the rebuild .... I can't wait for the next outing.

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