This Turbocharged Chevy Truck Will Make Its Drag-and-Drive Debut on Death Week
Brandon Murphy grew up at the race track, and those experiences had a big impact on his continued interest in racing, as well as his introduction to a drag-and-drive event. “My cousin had cars and I have always enjoyed drag racing,” said Brandon. “But I never had my own vehicle to compete with. So, this will be a new side of it for me.”
This 1986 Chevrolet ¾-ton 4 x 4 truck, nicknamed Alice, was given to Brandon seven years ago, and he’s been getting it ready for its debut drag-and-drive event, Death Week, in less than a month. “I’m looking forward to the experience at Death Week,” said Brandon. “I’ve wanted to do Sick Week for so long. And being able to experience the drag-and-drive atmosphere is something I’m very excited about.”
Don’t miss the ultimate drag-and-drive: Death Week, October 20-29 2023!
Event information and entry forms can be FOUND HERE!
To give the truck a little more pep, Brandon selected an iron 6.0-liter LS-based build, with forged pistons and upgraded connecting rods over stock in the short block. A pair of LS3 cylinder heads top off the block, and a Borg S488 turbocharger provides the extra atmosphere.
A 4L80E transmission that Brandon built himself connects to the truck’s stock NP208 transfer case, and 4-link rear suspension on Afco BGX double-adjustable shocks balance the power and hook.
With around 1100 horsepower on tap, Brandon also stepped up the safety of the truck with a full roll cage. And without even one drag-and-drive event under his belt, Brandon is already looking to up the power level. “I’m looking to switch to methanol and twin 72-millimeter turbochargers here shortly,” he said. “This is a fresh build, so I’m actually not sure what class it’s going to fit in yet.
The drag-and-drive idea is most appealing to me, because it takes planning on the build. It’s not an all-out race vehicle. It’s got to be able to drive and drive reliably, which is hard to do after that 1000 horsepower mark. Things just wear out faster. It’s like the ultimate test of man and machine.”
Written by Derek Putnam. Photos courtesy of Brandon Murphy.
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