4. Drake, Midget Racer, KnuckleHead Engine, 1939

Model: Drake Midget Racer
Registration number: Unregistered
Status: --
Mileage: --
Engine: Harley-Davidson Knucklehead 1458cc, 4-stroke water-cooled
Engine number: --
Frame Number: --
Model year: 1939
Country of origin: USA

History:
After the stock market crash in 1929 in the United States, there was a need for cheaper racing cars and therefore midget racing was started. One of the manufacturers was Dale Drake, who in 1937 started manufacturing his cars equipped with 1458cc Knucklehead engines.
Drake's cars were about 10% lighter than the otherwise most dominant cars that had Offenhauser in-line fours, which had its advantages on short circuits. The chassis has a frame with a rigid front axle from Ford and hydraulic drum brakes. The engine is water-cooled and has dry sump lubrication, magnetic ignition and dual racing carburetors. The body is built in aluminum and fiberglass.

This particular Drake has been imported to Sweden by Lill-Anders Westenius from Ohio USA. The car was built by Leo DeTonni in the late 30s. It was driven by Norm Rapp in 1950 who was a big name in midget racing. He began his career as a mechanic in Larry Cristensen's Drake Team in San Francisco. Norm then drove the car 3 days a week on warm-up laps and tests. After running about 20 training races, Norm participated in a real competition. Steve Hazelton did an interview 2012 on YouTube with Norm Rapp about his racing career.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_M-V_zm35o

Condition:
This Drake is in a wonderfully patinated racing condition and adorns its place in a mancave. It was last tested in 2016.