Pat Dakin Heats Up the '74 Summernationals

By Peter Kumble

Pat Dakin hurts one at Englishtown in 1974. Photo by Peter Kumble

Here's a nice shot of Pat Dakin in G. L. Rupp's car losing a motor during Saturday afternoon qualifying at the 1974 Summernationals. This car was perhaps one of the nicest looking dragsters of its day. Simple but effective graphics. Also, note those enclosed front wheel tubs. Although a neat idea while stationary, they were rudders at speed. If you had to correct and turn the wheel, they would fight you big time, ultimately sending you further out of shape. [Note: The wheel pants having a rudder effect is generally accepted, but many notable top fuel drivers dispute this. bp]

Kodachrome 64 transparency film.

Peter Kumble, ASLA
Vice President

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