Today in motorycle history, November 16, 1941

 

 

 

 

  Equipped with his new "Slingshot" manifold Vic Edelbrock and his '32 Ford  set a new record in the flying quarter-mile. 

  In 1938 Vic Edelbrock designed a new intake manifold for his first project car, a 1932 Ford Roadster.  With a "need for speed" and disgusted with the hp output of the roadster's flathead engine, Edelbrock designed his own, nicknamed The Slingshot.  The new manifold allowed two Stromberg 97 carburetors to be used, eliminating a bottleneck that limited horsepower for the engine.  The manifold was tested at the Rosamond dry lakes (occupied today by Edwards Air Force Base), which was a testing ground for various California car clubs and racing associations.  After stripping off the fenders and hubcaps he drove the car in 7.41 seconds at a speed of 121.45 mph, achieving a national speed record in the flying quarter mile.  Originally, he had no intention of producing any additional manifolds, but the overwhelming response following his phenomenal speed in a 1932 Ford prompted Edelbrock to make more.  This was the first product he sold commercially and marked the beginning of the company as it is known today. 

 

  In 1995 Edelbrock acquired Qwiksilver II and began producing carburetors for Harley-Davidson.  The Edelbrock/Qwicksilver II was tested mainly on an FXR and from everyone I have spoken with it's a great performing carb.  A strong throttle return spring seemed to be the only complaint.