Some comments from some Chrysler engineers on this from a year ago:
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OK, I started as a young engineer with Chrysler in June, 1969. This program was active at that time and I recall seeing one of the engines in a car (which I understood was the only engine to ever be installed in a vehicle). My recollection is the motor was destined to replace the B/RB wedge and Street Hemi and was to be built as a 400 CI and a 444 CI. Some of you may know more but my understanding was that the design was fairly similar to a big block Chevy "rat motor". The growing gov't, emissions, etc. pressures against "big motors" caused the project to be cancelled. Again, not sure but I heard very few prototypes were ever built. I copied this to several others who may know more. I also recall one or two MOPAR mag. articles on this thing in recent years.
Tom
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Tom;
Last time I saw the ball stud hemi was at Chrysler Carlisle a couple years back. John Wehrly, Tom Coddington , Al Adam and others were there as "expert witnesses". I recall they had the story pretty well figured out. Hopefully one of them will respond and refresh all of our memories?
Gordon
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I stumbled across this you tube video on the Ball Stud. Might add a little bit to the history.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHMewqwr0iM Tom T
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Dave, Tom
I think Tom’s memory is pretty accurate and I remember about the same story. I remember that Roger Ortega was one of the engineers on the program, but I haven’t seen Roger for years.
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Hi all,
This note confirms that the "Ball Stud Hemi" discussion is "ON" for next Wednesday, 1/29, 5:00 PM but the venue has changed to Eastside Mario's which has a separate room available (reserved by Burke Brown in his name). It will be far more conducive to all hearing the history on this program as well as catching up with many of our friends. Eastside Mario's is located immediately north of M-59 on the east side of Crooks Rd. (2273 Crooks Rd., Rochester Hills). Make it if you can. RSVP not required as there will be plenty of room. Others can be invited as well.
Per Burke, Roger Orteca has offered to
show up and give us history on the "infamous" Ball Stud Hemi. What a great excuse to get together, see each other, and take in some great MOPAR engine (motor) history!
Regards to all,
Tom
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And, I couldn't make it because I was out of town! And I'm the one that started it all on this subject! Here was the results:
Hi Eric,
Just wanted to report that the get together Wednesday night at Eastside Mario's was a success. Frankly, relatively little was exchanged re. the "ball stud Hemi" program but it was more of a great gathering of about 15 people to share memories and lies.....about whatever....LOL.
