Making the Crop Duster Car Slower and Quieter: A Transformation Story

In this episode from the MotorTrend Channel, the intrepid team takes on the challenge of taming the wild beast that is the crop duster car. With a mission to make it slower and quieter, they embark on a quest to fix the dreaded hood gap, a flaw that has plagued this magnificent machine. Armed with determination, they set out to rectify this issue once and for all.

But let's not forget the rich history of this car, my friends. Rescued from the depths of Steve's farm, this 1970 Plymouth Duster with its 71 Parts has undergone a remarkable transformation. From being buried in weeds and dolage, it has risen like a phoenix from the ashes. A 440 engine was initially installed, propelling it to low 12-second runs on the drag strip. But the team didn't stop there. They went on to build a 383 low deck big block Chrysler, stroking it out to a monstrous 440 cubic inches. This beast churned out a staggering 576 horsepower on the dyno, and with the help of some nitrous, it clocked an impressive 10.34 seconds at 129 miles per hour.

Now, my dear petrolheads, the focus shifts from the race track to the open road. The team decides to replace the carburetor with a more suitable one for everyday driving. They opt for a vintage gold-colored 750 CFM double pumper from the HP line, which not only offers better calibration but also adds a touch of retro charm to the crop duster. However, they encounter a hiccup with the fuel line, as the newer carburetors have a different thread size. But fear not, for they adapt and overcome, swapping their stealth black fuel line for a classic red and blue one.

With the new carburetor in place, they also decide to keep the nitrous system intact, albeit with a lower shot, to ensure the car remains street legal. And so, with spark plugs changed and oil refreshed, the moment of truth arrives. They fire up the engine, and the car roars to life, albeit with a more refined growl. It's quieter, yes, but still retains that unmistakable essence of power and performance.

As they hit the road, the team marvels at the car's newfound drivability. The highway gears, once considered a hindrance, now allow for smooth cruising. However, they do notice the need for a torque converter adjustment, as high gears tend to amplify any looseness. But overall, the crop duster proves its mettle, delivering exhilarating acceleration and a sensory experience that leaves the team in awe.

In this captivating episode, the MotorTrend Channel team showcases their expertise in transforming a drag strip monster into a street-ready beast. With their unwavering determination and meticulous attention to detail, they have successfully tamed the crop duster, making it slower, quieter, and a joy to drive on the open road.

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Viewer Reactions for Making the 1970 Plymouth Crop Duster a Street Machine! | Roadkill Garage

Full episodes of the crop duster requested
Appreciation for the direction of the duster build
Suggestion to use a rubber bumper on the cowl to fix the hood gap
Comment on the engine sound
Mention of rust and gas as best friends
Desire for MTOD shows in the UK
Comment on the car's sound
Description of a personal Barracuda build
Request for the hood gap to be fixed
Comment on the car not being clapped out
Compliment to the team
Suggestion to use heat to fix the fiberglass hood
Request for an 8 track installation
Desire for a drag race between the crop duster, crusher impala, and the muscle truck
Appreciation for the video
Creative suggestion for a new name for the car
Positive feedback with a thumbs up emoji
Suggestion for a motorhome build
Critique of carburetor handling
Comment on the "do or doodoo" quote
Observation about the bangshift cougar's new hood
Question about changing the bowl color
Personal story about a previous Duster
Comment on the favorite car