The 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster represents a radical departure from the utility-focused roots of the early Bronco series. Purported to be built from a pre-production prototype, this machine was transformed into a specialized sand-shredding weapon. Off-road pioneer Charlie Erickson and legendary builder Bill Stroppe collaborated on its creation in the mid-sixties. Known early on as Eric’s Racer, it eventually dominated the Sand Modified E class. This vehicle is not just a truck but a documented piece of Southern California racing culture.
Lightweight Construction and Frame Modifications
Weight is the enemy of any sand racer, and this 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster proves it. Builders achieved massive reduction by cutting 250 holes into the frame. They replaced the steel front clip with fiberglass components to further shed pounds. Inside, a single fiberglass bucket seat replaces the factory bench to save space and mass. Even the front brake assemblies were removed entirely because stopping power mattered less than pure momentum. These extreme measures allowed the truck to skim across Pismo Beach dunes with ease.
Custom Drivetrain and Sand Setup
The mechanical layout of this 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster is highly unconventional. Engineers removed the stock transfer case in favor of a custom chain-driven unit. Power reaches the sand through Ford limited-slip differentials located at both the front and rear. Traction Masters bars help keep the rear end planted during violent hill climb launches. Hand-grooved Goodyear Blue Streak tires are mounted to massive 15-inch wide chrome wheels. This specialized wheel and tire package provides the flotation required for soft, deep sand environments.
Racing History and Provenance
This 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster earned its reputation through years of West Coast competition. It claimed first place in both hill climbs and drag races at the 1968 Pismo Beach meet. Following Erickson’s tenure, LeRoy Page purchased and raced the Bronco for several more successful years. The vehicle remained garaged from the mid-seventies until a comprehensive restoration began in 2011. Most of the original race parts used in the sixties remain on the vehicle today. This continuity makes it a highly significant find for off-road historians.
Technical Interior and Control Systems
Operating the 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster requires a focused set of driver controls. A Hurst floor shift conversion replaces the standard column shifter for more precise gear selection. The cockpit also features a Hurst line lock to assist with staging during drag races. A small 7-gallon aluminum Moon tank replaces the large factory fuel reservoir to keep weight centered. Heavy-duty Gabriel shock absorbers manage the impacts of high-speed dune jumping. It is a raw environment built for the heat of professional competition.
Supercharged Engine Specs and Performance
The heart of the 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster is a Paxton supercharged 170 CI inline-six. This blueprinted engine features TRW forged pistons and extensive head work for maximum airflow. A fabricated intake manifold supports dual Stromberg two-barrel carburetors for high-volume fueling. The build utilizes Flathead Ford V-8 exhaust valves to handle the increased heat and pressure. Chrome-plated Belanger headers provide a clear path for exhaust gases to exit. A high-duration Moon cam ensures this engine produces its peak power exactly where sand racers need it most.
Summary of the Stroppe Legend
The 1966 Ford Bronco Custom Sand Dragster stands as a testament to the ingenuity of early off-road pioneers. Its combination of supercharged power and obsessive weight savings made it a dominant force on the dunes. The connection to names like Bill Stroppe and Charlie Erickson adds immense value for the serious collector. After a decades-long hibernation, this fully restored racer is ready to return to the spotlight. It remains an authentic, one-of-one representative of the golden age of sand drag racing.
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Source: mecum.com
