Buick M-1

Marty, High Power equipment package also included 10:1 compression ratio. Part numbers are in the Master Chassis Parts manual, section 0.629. Josh

Hey all, I just picked up a disassembled 1956 322. The pistons, which are reusable have what seems to be a pretty scary dome. I can't figure out what they are. I suspect they may be High-power pistons (see "Export" thread under Performance/Modified). Casting identification on pin boss is BUICK 1346425. Can't find any reference in my Master Chassis book (1960) under 0.629. It may be necessary to consult an old aftermarket interchange, or an appropriate Hollander's. Any help is appreciated Thanks, Josh

Thanks, NTX. NASCAR teams essentially blueprinted the engines, and incorporated petitioned modifications. In M-1's case, that meant use of the thinner Dynaflow headgaskets and DF camshaft in front of the conventional transmission. They also honed the cylinders a few thou, polished the bearings, matched gaskets, and otherwise loosened up the engine. Red Vogt also shortened the pushrods, which makes a lot of sense in concert with the thinner headgasket, but that's what they ultimately found to disqualify the car for. Read the whole story at www.FireballRobertsM1.com. Chassis-wise, NASCAR mandated a frame-mounted steel rollbar or cage, and I'm trying to find out if they allowed bigger brakes and hubs. Were 50/70 brakes and hubs larger? Would they bolt to a 60 Century? I'd like to know the answer to that. Marty, I'd like to acquire those rocker arms if you think they are correct. If I can find the cam specs, I'll have a stock one reground. Cup-type lifters ... ? What else fits? Also, does anyone have the definitive conversion to an hydraulic clutch actuation set up? Keep an eye out on www.FireballRobertsM1.com, here and on the Yahoo Nailhead group page for progress on M-1. Josh

For what it's worth, the High Power equipment package was not legal for NASCAR competition in 1955, and probably not for other years, since it was a dealer-installed option. USAC was more liberal, and so it may have been legal in their sanction. I'd br happy to write an article on High power equipment for the Bugle as a part of my M-1 escapade. I'd happily do it withcurrent head-to-head dyno info -- if someone can help me find the parts to build up an engine. BTW, M-1 April Bugle cover) is getting a HD three-speed and 1955 NASCAR-spec 322 for a run on Daytona Beach in July. Will also take the opportunity to test the OE Rochester carb against a Fish M-1 unit. Would love to hear from the Florida chapters on this. Josh

Thanks folks, for your interest in the article on M-1's coming-to-be. Right now, she is on display at the new Living Legends of Auto Racing museum in Daytona Beach. I urge anyone who's in the area to visit the museum. It's a gas! I'm (slowly) working on fitting a rebuilt 322 and HD 3-speed trans from another Century. Once that's don, I intend to test the Fish Carb "Zip plus Mileage" claim by doing a back-to-back comparison with a Fish carb vs. the standard 4-bbl. I bought a new-in-the-box Fish model M-1 carburetor for the purpose. I think this would also make a great article. The script "Fireball: Race to Live" is starting to gain interest due to a trip I recently made to LA and also word of mouth. What I really want is to start generating buzz among today's NASCAR fans. I'm grateful for interest from BCA members. If someone happens to be a film producer, or wants to help realize a dramatic film with a potential 75 million viewer market (and the sounds of open-pipe Nailheads and Hemis going at it along the Daytona surf), get in touch! I'll load the complete script on www.FireballRobertsM1.com sometime this week for anyone who wants to read it. Thanks, Josh

We had a great week in Daytona! M-1 was the star of the Living Legends show and parade, and was widely spotted around town, always asked to park out front. Watch the Bugle in upcoming months, and possible Speedchannel piece. Here are a few pictures. Don't forget to check out the whole story of theis star-crossed Buick stocker at www.FireballRobertsM1.com. Josh Davidson

Thanks, Brian. M-1 and I are off to Daytona for the events. Hope to see lots of BCA folks there. For info about the Feb. 15 beach parade, go to: www.livinglegendsofautoracing.com. To learn about M-1 and NASCAR's most notorious moment, go to www.FireballRoberts.com. Thanks, Josh web page Fireball Roberts M-1

It's all coming back ... NASCAR's biggest crime ever was committed against Buick M-1 in '55. Read all about it at www.FireballRobertsM1.com All facts are accurate, along with some... of Auto Racing beach parade. Hope to see lots of Buick guys there!

Hey all, I'm bringing a replica of Fireball Roberts/Fish Carburetor #M-1 1955 Buick Century to Daytona Beach for the Living Legends of Auto Racing's February 15, 2005 Beach Parade. M-1 was notorious for having beaten the Kiekhaefer Chrysler 300s in the first race of the 1955 NASCAR season, and then being disqualified for political reasons. Please visit my website www.FireballRobertsM1.com Hope to see you in Daytona!! Fireball Roberts M-1