1966 Dodge D/Dart ~ 'Mystery, Myth and Misconception'

It is not commonly known that Garlits didn’t build this Dart, rather it was initially constructed by Dick Brantsner in Michigan and campaigned (with early Little Red Wagon shoe Jay Howell at the wheel) as the Dart Charger. Garlits did build a mid-engine Hemi Dart around the same time but it was destroyed on its maiden run at the strip – before a very disappointed audience consisting of Chrysler Corp. marketing executives. How and why Garlits adopted Branstner’s creation is not known. The Polka Dart graphics (seen above minus lettering) was applied during Garlits’ early ownership but were quickly replaced by Garlits’ trademark gloss black. Another Garlits modification was replacing the push button 727 Torqueflite used by Branstner / Howell with a clutch-operated Schiefer in-out gearbox, for a 150 pound weight savings.

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