SPAL, in conjunction with HyperMax Engineering, will attempt to set a new land speed record to claim the title of World’s Fastest Diesel Pickup Truck during the Bonneville Salt Flats 2006 World Finals, October 11-14.
SPAL’s "Rocket Ranger" will try to exceed 213.583 miles-per-hour, a record previously recorded by Gale Banks Engineering’s Cummins-equipped project Sidewinder Dodge Dakota in 2002. The class "C/Diesel Truck" record is recognized by the Southern California Timing Association/Bonneville Nationals Inc. (SCTA/BNI).
Designed and built by SPAL, the "Rocket Ranger," a 2001 extended cab Ford Ranger, features a Ford Powerstroke 6.0-litre diesel engine equipped with a custom-fit HyperMax intercooled twin turbocharger, dual SPAL 12" high-performance cooling fans and a ZF 6-speed transmission.
"While SPAL is best known for cooling fans and centrifugal blowers, we are also heavily involved in the motorsports arena, using it as a proving ground for our performance products," said Bob Folkestad, director of electronics and innovations, SPAL. "We came up with the idea of the ‘Rocket Ranger’ as a way to have fun and promote our company at the same time."
The "Rocket Ranger" set its first land speed record in 2001 at the SCTA/BNI World Finals with a Roush-built NASCAR Nextel Cup engine enlarged to 371 cubic inches. It reached 205.208 miles-per-hour — a record that still stands — to shatter the existing "Modified Mid/Mini Pickup" class mark by almost 25 miles-per-hour and become a proud member of Bonneville’s 200 mile-per-hour club.
In 2003, SPAL’s "Rocket Ranger" returned to Bonneville to mark the first time a Powerstroke diesel engine was used for a land speed record attempt. The truck reached a respectable 222 miles-per-hour, but was unable to complete a back up run due to an electrical issue caused by an intercooler explosion on a previous run. "This year we have more power, more preparation and a better engine from HyperMax Engineering," said Folkestad.
"This is a clean, slick, powerful truck, and it’s going to rewrite the record book come August!" said Max Lagod, "Rocket Ranger" driver and HyperMax engine builder.
SPAL is a leading manufacturer of ISO 9001-certified (and soon to be TS16949-certified) OEM and aftermarket automotive products, including electric cooling fans, centrifugal blowers, power window kits, power door lock kits, security systems, shaved door kits and keyless entry systems. Also available from SPAL are linear actuators.
Continuous research and development efforts have earned SPAL an excellent reputation for high-quality products and state-of-the-art engineering and manufacturing processes. Upon request, SPAL can custom design many of its products to meet specific customer requirements.
SPAL USA is located at 1731 SE Oralabor Rd., Ankeny, IA 50021. Contact SPAL USA at (800) 345-0327, fax (800) 654-7725 or visit online at www.spalusa.com.