Projects The Buntline Special A/Modified Roadster Build

Okay.
This is probably going to be the longest running build thread on the H.A.M.B. for 2 reasons

1. I'm only 15 and I'm working on a 15 year old's budget.
2. I still need a first car.

The Buntline Special ran A/Modified Roadster in 1959 and 1960. The car was run by Dudley Proctor. It had a 1956 Chrysler 331 hemi with a front mounted Potvin blower and 6 Stromberg 48 carbs. It set the A/MR speed record at the 1959 NHRA Nationals at 139.98 MPH. In 1959 it had a steel body, then in 1960 they put a glass body on it. I will be recreating the 1960 car because there are still parts left over from the car.

I got my first part the other day. I got a frame for the car from Chassisresearchkid. This car will be very cool when its done, but its going to be a very long time. Below is an article from Hot Rod Magazine of the 1959 car. Matt

 

Cool! Keep us updated....

 

Can't wait to help out. Maybe there is hope for our hobby in the future.

 

Matt, I have two pictures of the Buntline special drag boat, PM me if you are interested.

 

I figured I would update the build thread. I got some more parts. I now have a front axle, batwings, gauge, and spindles! Chassisresearchkid is going to help me start on my front axle (slotting it). I can't wait to start! Here is a picture of the 1960 car from Hot Rod magazine. Matt

 

This warms my heart! Great job, please keep updating as you go along!

 

All good things take time, look forward to progress reports.

 

Here is a pictures of the Batwings.

 

Here are some pictures of the Spindles.

 

Sweet! Keep us updated! I know what it's like being on a tight budget.

 

Awesome project! I look forward to following along. Doesn't matter if it takes two years or ten. Good things come to those who wait.

 

I remember that car and always loved it. In 1960 I was 15. Now 51 years later I still have a 15 year olds budget! But I'm heading for Bonneville again. Good luck with the build and keep us posted. Remember you can only bolt on one part at a time so you only need one part at any given moment.

 

Its great to see one so young building something! Keep us posted.

David

 

subscribed

 

Well I got two new parts. I got a Steering arm hoop and I bought a oil presssure gauge at Bowling Green.

 

Bitchin'....... I remember the car, I'll be following your build.
(don't take too long though, I'm old.)

 

I also just found out the car was on the cover of the 2004 Hot Rod Reunion program. It is the same picture that was on the cover of Hot Rod Magazine in 1961 but it is much bigger and better quality.

 

Matt,
I have a steel fab shop in Howell.
PM me if I can help.
Bruce

 

Cool!
BTW: I love your Air Cannon

 

I just relized I didn't post any pictures.


Here is the 2004 Hot Rod Reunion program. It is the same picture that was on the cover of Hot Rod Magazine!
The picture was taken at the 1960 NHRA Nationals at Detroit. Dudley
was runner up in A/MR.



Here is my steering arm hoop

 

Dudley Proctor's cars were always impeccable.......Mike

 

I figured I would add this in.

Before Dudley Proctor's Buntline Special their was another Buntline Special. It was a 1933 3 window Ford Coupe. The Buntline Coupe was driven by Fred Burnham and Harvey Swift. When Fred and Harvey sold the coupe the engine went into Dudleys Buntline Special! (this was in 1959, Dudley drove the roadster in 1959 and 1960 and then sold it) Dudley already had a A/MR but it had a different set up in it. When he got the engine from the coupe he put it in his A/MR.


Matt

 

I hope you go to PCEP canton high has a great shop for you to work in
not to mention a brand new spray booth

 

Yep, I go to PCEP! They have a great Autoshop! There is always something for me to do and I learn alot.

 

Matt, do you have a connection to this car?

 

Yes I do! Dudley Proctor was my dads neighbor when my dad was little. My Dad remembers the car and had me look it up and when I saw it in the pictures I thought it was awesome.

 

i must have missed that you are only 15 when i subscribed to the post. Matt i think you are doing a great job with this recreation and i think its awesome that your parents are not only supportive but your dad has the connection to the car. we need more folks in this hobby like you and your folks who keep it a family affair

 

I hate to be a poo, but that steering arm won't fit (and isn't needed) on that spindle. Those '32-'34 spindles have a smaller hole and closer together than the later ones where the hoop bolts up.

Rather ambitious project for a 15 year old, and I hope you have fun with it. Good luck!

 

When you get it done the two of us can give the Canton PD some hell. They already love me.

 

I got my axle back from Chassicresearchkid's last week. I am going to start sanding it smooth and then eventually start slotting it!