VIDEO: Engines running hot at demolition derby
FROM sitting in a paddock for ten years to smashing it up at the Maclean Show’s demolition derby, the Thirsty Merc has been given a new life.
Central & North Burnett
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FROM sitting in a paddock for ten years to smashing it up at the Maclean Show's demolition derby, the Thirsty Merc has been given a new life.
Last night's smash up was the first demolition derby for Chambers Construction mechanic John Dwyer, who said he it was exciting to be given the chance to take part in the action.
"I don't know how I got the job, but I was pretty keen to get out there and go hard," he said.
Mr Dwyer said it was a dream for Chambers Construction owner Steve Chambers to get a car into the demolition derby.
"Steve has been unreal, he has wanted to get a car in ever since the derby started but nobody has ever really had a crack, so he decided that this year was the year we were going to have a crack," Mr Dwyer said.
Mr Dwyer it was an effort to get the car running again, but it was worth it to take part in the action.
"We had some problems getting it running with the electrical computer system, it didn't really like getting messed around with," he said.
"We were working pretty hard before the show to get the car going, so it was great to get it up and running and ready for the derby."
Chambers Construction mechanic Peter Huckstepp said in order to get the Thirsty Merc ready for the derby, they had to remove all glass and plastic from the car, install mesh and bars over the drivers side window and windscreen and remove the original petrol tank for a five litre can.
"We also put on some stack exhausts which are pretty cool," he said.
"It's all a big learning curve for us, but it's been heaps of fun.
"We didn't really expect much, just wanted to get in there and have a go."
Mr Huckstepp said the Chambers Construction crew already have next year's car lined up, and hopes to learn from the more experienced demolition derby crews on what makes a winning car.
Mr Dwyer said there was a lot of support for the car from the crowd, including a few who don't usually make it to the Maclean Show.
Originally published as VIDEO: Engines running hot at demolition derby
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