scary moment for us

[whistlin six]

We had a massive explosion this weekend at the US nationals with our funny car. A valve train failure caused an intake valve to hang open and blew the body clean off the car.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjTbeC-x0X4

Time stood still and tears rolled down my face as I watched this happen from the starting line, not knowing if he was ok.

I've seen the car explode many times before and that's bad enough, but to lose the downforce at 270mph is a whole other deal. I'm thankful my friend made it out ok, and will never forget the fear I felt until I knew he was safe.

Someone was looking out for him this weekend...

[y2kws6]

That was unreal. Glad he is ok.

Dan

[86GUTLASS]

Wow Mike,glad he is ok:stare

[Exitspeed]

You were right...it blew it clean off!

Thank god he was OK.

[Feature Pony]

Thank god he was ok. Did you see Force and Tony Pedummy almost get it on?

[Z28Envy]

I was watching that. Didn't know that was the team you were on. Glad he is ok!

[juicedimpss]

damn,that was crazy

[TransAm12sec]

I was going to go to that Monday, but the chance of rain was 50-60.

[flyin_blue_egg]

glad your friend is ok...but i must say that looked awesome. I can't even imagine what that had to sound/feel like inside that car

[TraceDaddy]

Damn!

[whistlin six]

Thanks everyone...
It's going to cost a pile of money to get back to where we need to be, but as long as everyone is ok that's all that matters.
Here are some pics of the bottom end engine damage, one of the wrist pins turned into a projectile and put a clean hole right through the block along with a few rod windows.

[pOrk]

WOW, I've seen it happen plenty of times and I still think its amazing that guys walk away from accidents like that. I bet his ears are still ringing.

[u_say_go]

poor Bode! Thank GOD he's ok, and was able to walk away from that. I hope he/you guys are able to get the car back together and get back to doing what you all love.
Sorry you had such a shitty weekend Mike.
Jason

[Irish]

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