Check this, Can Justin Swanstrom Complete his New Setup and Fire It Up?
With the 2026 racing season fast approaching, the pressure inside the shop is reaching critical levels. In the latest behind-the-scenes update, the team takes fans deep into an intense multi-day thrash to complete a brand-new setup, fire the car for the first time, and prepare an entire fleet for championship contention. From cutting-edge boost technology to last-minute mechanical hurdles, this build is a true test of experience, endurance, and execution.
Six Cars, Two People, and One Tight Deadline
The reality hits hard early on: six active race cars, five of them needing major work, and only two people in the shop. Content has taken a back seat as the focus shifts entirely to getting cars race-ready. With the 2026 schedule finalized and already being sent to sponsors, there is no room for delay. Multiple championships are on the line, including Extreme 275, Pro275, and IHRA Pro Mod campaigns.
Swanfest, Championships, and High Stakes Racing
A major focus is Swanfest at Rockingham Dragway, scheduled for April 30 through May 2. The event will feature Extreme 275, Pro275, Little Gangsters, LDR, grudge racing, and more. One of the most exciting incentives is for the Little Gangsters class: finalists automatically earn an invite to the prestigious King of the South race. With serious prize money and championship implications, the stakes could not be higher.
The Hearts Charger Setup: A New Direction in Boost
At the heart of this build is the installation of a Hearts Charger, a major departure from previous ProCharger and screw-blower combinations. The goal is ambitious: run the same internal engine components while pushing comparable, or greater, boost levels. The team believes boost is boost, and this setup may be one of the first real-world tests of a 49-Newton combination with a Hearts Charger.
The installation involves custom plumbing, quick-connect lines, a gear drive, and a billet accessory drive. Unlike older ProCharger systems that required oil to be added every pass, the Hearts Charger feeds directly from engine oil, requiring a custom oil return bung welded into the pan. This change simplifies maintenance but adds complexity to the initial setup.
Survivor, Big Draco, and Converter Changes
While the new setup progresses, attention also turns to Survivor. A lock-up converter proved too aggressive, pulling excessive RPM on shifts. The solution is a non-lockup converter, paired with a new rear gear after signs of tooth chipping were discovered. The gear is sent out for inspection to determine whether the failure was setup-related or simply wear.
Big Draco also receives updates, including a converter swap and rear gear service, ensuring it is ready for IHRA Pro Mod competition.
Prenup Returns for the 2026 Season
One of the biggest announcements is the return of Prenup. The car is being rebuilt with a long-term plan in mind, as Tyler Bailey is set to drive it in 2026. Initially, the car will be slowed down to allow safe seat time and gradual progression. The strategy includes running the car at different overdrive levels to directly compare performance data across platforms and refine the Pro275 program.
Long Nights, Small Mistakes, and Big Progress
The team works late into the night—often until 1:00 a.m. or later—plumbing the entire car in-house. New brakes, carbon-fiber wheelie bars, fuel system components, and electronics are installed. When the engine finally fires, it sounds strong, idling cleanly at higher RPM. However, celebration is short-lived as an oil leak from the front seal forces the charger and gear drive back off the motor.
Rather than panic, the team documents the issue, marks components carefully, and prepares to reinstall everything correctly. A cam sync wiring oversight is also identified and fixed, allowing the engine to start and idle properly.
Ready for Testing and the Road Ahead
Despite setbacks, the progress is undeniable. The car runs, the systems function as intended, and the team gains valuable knowledge about the new setup. With final torque checks, cold weather delays, and minor adjustments remaining, testing is just around the corner.
The shop expansion is beginning, the race calendar is locked in, and the cars are nearly ready. Now comes the hardest part: executing on the track.
Final Thoughts
This build is a perfect example of what it takes to compete at the highest levels of drag racing. Long hours, constant problem-solving, and the willingness to push into uncharted territory define this journey. As the 2026 season begins, one thing is clear: the groundwork has been laid, and the team is all-in on chasing championships.
