Yuasa Batteries back dragster restoration project

The Allard Chrysler Action Group (ACAG) has announced that Yuasa Battery Sales (UK) Limited has joined the list of companies backing the restoration of Europe’s first dragster, Sydney Allard’s 1961 Allard Chrysler that is owned by the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. Yuasa is well known for its support of motor sport and is a global supplier of original equipment and aftermarket batteries.

A Yuasa YBX 5334 battery is fitted to the mobile starter trolley that is used to start the engine on methanol before switching to the on-board nitro methane fuel system. The unit is of a higher rating that the two in series fitted during 2012 and 2013 and has been recommended to turn the engine faster and so improve the engine oil pressure on the initial starter motor test. At 95 Ah nominal capacity and 830A cold crank it certainly did the trick during the dragster’s first test start of the year at the end of March; it should also get more starts per charge.

Andrew Taylor, Managing Director of Yuasa Battery Sales (UK) Limited said, “The Yuasa range of batteries means that we can supply units for a range of applications. This particular project does not present any really difficult challenges but it is unique and it is a privilege to be involved in the restoration of such a historic vehicle. I look forward to meeting the restoration team and seeing the dragster during the year”.

Chairman of the Allard Chrysler Action Group (ACAG) responsible for restoring the car is Brian Taylor. He said, “It is great to have a company like Yuasa involved with Europe’s first dragster this way. Product support has been a vital part of achieving our objectives. Restoring the dragster without it would have been impossible. And not only do we get excellent product but we also have access to the Yuasa Technical Team. I am confident we can now produce the starting power required”.