Tim McClure’s EH Special might appear as a serene Sunday cruiser at first glance, but beneath its unassuming exterior lies a beastly 600rwhp turbo LS engine that can unleash tire-shredding power at a moment’s notice. Hailing from Western Australia, Tim brought his meticulously crafted machine to compete in his inaugural Drag Challenge.
Having cherished the EH for two decades, Tim recounted its evolution through various powertrains before settling on the current LS setup. From the initial 186 engine to a short-lived turbocharged 202, and later a 400ci small-block that clocked impressive times at the strip, the EH has seen its share of transformations.
The decision to switch to an LS platform emerged during a planned cam upgrade, which eventually escalated into a full turbo conversion. Despite the challenges of fitting the turbo LS into the EH’s engine bay, Tim persevered, modifying components to accommodate the potent powerplant.
Opting to retain the stock rotating assembly for budgetary reasons, Tim augmented the LS engine with a BTR Stage Two Turbo cam kit and a Pulsar S480 turbocharger running at moderate boost levels. Managed by a Holley Terminator X system, the setup delivered robust performance without delving into higher octane fuels.
Participating in Drag Challenge 2023 marked a significant milestone for Tim, who relished the opportunity to put his EH through its paces alongside fellow enthusiasts. Throughout the event, the EH performed admirably, showcasing its capabilities with consistent runs and a notable personal best on the final day.
Despite the EH’s impressive performance, Tim acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in enhancing launches and addressing shifting issues encountered during the competition. Reflecting on the experience, he expressed a keen interest in future Drag Challenge events, emphasizing the camaraderie and thrill of the week-long competition.
With a 10.33@136mph run underscoring the EH’s potential for even faster times with optimized launches, Tim contemplated the prospect of pushing the boundaries further with potential modifications. However, he remained cautious about the safety implications of entering the nines without additional safety upgrades.
Tim’s dedication to his EH Special extended beyond the mechanical realm, as he acknowledged the support and expertise of individuals and businesses that contributed to the project’s success. From engine tuning to chassis modifications, a network of collaborators played a vital role in realizing Tim’s vision.
Looking ahead, Tim’s journey with his turbo LS-powered EH Special continues, fueled by a passion for street machines and a desire to further refine his creation. As Drag Challenge remains a beacon for automotive enthusiasts, Tim’s story epitomizes the spirit of grassroots motorsport and the pursuit of automotive excellence.