From 150 mph Crash to Dream Rebuild, Doug Cook’s Twin Turbo LT Nova Readies For a Return
A drag-and-drive enthusiast to the core, Doug Cook has wheeled his stock-suspension 1972 Chevrolet Nova thousands of miles across multiple states during several events, and it deserves a place on the short list of ultimate Nova street cars.
Following a round of upgrades at Free Form Motorsports, Doug Cook’s 1972 Chevrolet Nova awaits the next step.
At Rocky Mountain Race Week 2020, Cook stood atop the Outlaw Street class with a 7.85 average. One year later, the well-known Nova suffered a crash that would cut his chance at a repeat victory short.
Doug Cook’s 1972 Chevrolet Nova after crashing into a barrier wall at Rocky Mountain Race Week 2021.
Fast forward fifteen months, and Cook can see the finish line again, as he recently received his Nova back from a round of upgrades at Free Form Motorsports shop.
“The accident was actually a good thing,” said Doug. “It allowed me to take the car to the next level.”
The existing roll cage was cut out, and Free Form crafted a brand-new cage that will certify to NHRA’s 25.2 standards, allowing quarter-mile elapsed times down to six-seconds. They also made changes to the firewall and transmission tunnel for additional clearance, welded in new floor pans, and added dual Stroud parachutes and a carbon fiber wing from Tin Soldier Racecars.
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The leaf springs are still in place, but the Nova received some new carbon fiber tubs and trunk floor to accommodate a larger 315 radial or a 29-inch x 10.5 inch wide slick.
“Some tracks don’t prep as well,” said Doug. “These changes not only give us some weight savings, but also some more options on tire selection, and a fighting chance at winning.”
Although his previous LT-based engine “never let us down” including surviving 45 pounds of boost, Doug will debut a new combination from Pete Harrell at Harrell Engine and Dyno. Based on a sixth-generation LT platform, Doug will employ his first solid roller camshaft in a LT engine, and a pair of 79-millimeter turbochargers from Garrett will provide forced atmosphere. The combination will be backed by a Turbo 400 transmission, and controlled by a Haltech Nexus.
“Our goal before the accident was to break into the six-second range,” said Doug. “I still have that goal.”
The crew at Motion Raceworks will assist Doug where needed, and noted wiring expert Brad Nagel will over that task in the Nova.
“My goal is to not have it just ‘done’ for Sick Week. I want it to be tested and ready for competition.”
The first of several videos on the Nova’s rebuild process is below:
- Written by Derek Putnam. Photos courtesy of Mike Pryka