There is confusion in the English press about the JCB Dieselmax speed
record attempt and as the stories are based on quotes attributed to those
involved rather than just any data on their website (www.jcbdieselmax.com),
it is not easy to follow what records they will be attempting with Andy
Green at the wheel.
The first story has spoken of using a push truck to 50 mph, which would
negate an FIA International attempt but be allowed at an SCTA/BNI event.
Then Andy has spoken of getting into the 200 club and the 300 chapter with
a wheeldriven car - which would mean achieving a SCTA/BNI record - the
Syder Thermoking 236 mph plus change is their class target. Then the story
is that they want to beat the 'world' record and the speed quoted is the
FIA fastest speed for a diesel car of 235 mph plus change - so an FIA two
way one hour bid is needed for that. Then further stories speak of an
attempt on Bonneville in August - is that Speedweek (where two way is not
normally on the programme or is it to be further private time, after the
SCTA/BNI event? The latest story says that the team will need 20 to 30
runs to get up to 300 mph record pace. Could that many runs be done during
speed week?
[Of course August may have to stretch to the World Finals in October when
SCTA/BNI would it seems accommodate FIA representation and two way
International runs].
By the way, as Andy is the 'manager' of RAF Wittering it would appear that
before getting the car to the States he will make some practice runs on his
'own' runway - which is about 9200 feet in length.
Whatever eventually comes clear in the next few months, the fastest diesel
speeds achieved in the USA by Carl Heap will come under threat but of
course as Andy is at the wheel of a streamliner so he would not break that
record - just exceed the speed achieved.
Malcolm Pittwood, Derby, England
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