Wheelies - Hypothetical Combo

71GSSDemon said
So, a discussion (winter bench racing about making the cars quicker) with friends came to the topic of a street strip car capable of a wheelie. We would like to do some track time soon. Yes, each set up is different, but what does it take? Also, I know with SS springs, the idea is lift in the rear vs squat so there is some fighting that too. More gear? More HP/TQ?

We can use my car as an example as an "average" car:

1971 Dodge Demon - all steel except hood, full stock interior
440 9:1 compression
ported iron heads
hyd flat tappet LSA 107° installed at 102° .518" lift duration 229/242 @50.
Weiand tunnel ram with Holley 660s
MSD Pro Billet ready to run distributor
2" headers, automatic RMVB
Current converter is incorrect 2500 - needs to be 4000-4200 tight (in my belief - also I would be willing to add a trans brake if needed) - next on my list
3.91 SG with 29.5x12.5 Hoosier Quick Time Pro
Super Stock springs (my case 002 spring on both sides).

*** PLEASE NO "6000 CONVERTERS, 6:17 GEARS, 4SPD CONVERSIONS, LIGHTEN THE CAR 1000LBS, 500HP NITROUS, TURBO, ETC. THIS IS FOR THE SAKE OF A CONVERSATION PLEASE"

I'll point out that quickness of the car has little to do with it's ability to wheelie. We have a fellow at our track that pulls a two foot wheelie every launch in his mostly stock pontiac GTO and only runs in the high 12s. Whereas I can only get about 3 inches of air in my mid 9 sec Duster with a 1.3 sec 60 foot time.

I've only been able to hit a big wheelie twice with perfect traction and I'll say it is scary to have the track disappear under the hood like that. Driving blind with a big wheelie takes more courage that I have and I'm happy my car does not wheelie. (but they do look really cool to watch!)

Nevertheless to address your question I'd suggest two batteries in the very back of the trunk, the biggest and softest and fresh bias ply slicks you can fit on the car at 8 PSI, and a transbrake as a good place to start. Then set the front suspension as many other posters have already suggested. That should do the trick in most any combination.