Name/Title
HydroplaneEntry/Object ID
2006.012Description
1956 Lauterbach-built 7 Litre hydroplane "Chrysler Queen". Powered with a 700 hp 8-cylinder Chevrolet 427.
From Quest for Speed panel:
It's difficult to say whether Chrysler Queen or her owner and driver George H. "Buddy" Byers Jr. are more famous--certainly as a team they're known far and wide in the powerboat racing world. Chrysler Queen was built by the renowned hydroplane builder Henry Lauterbach. Beginning work in 1947 in his own shop, and later with his son Larry, Lauterbach Custom Boats has built more than 200 fast and beautiful racing hydros.
"The Queen," as she is affectionately known, is powered by a supercharged 392 cubic inch Chrysler hemi V-8 which delivers more than 900 horsepower. With a dry weight of only 2080 lbs for the boat and engine, this makes for a potent package. The boat's speed and Buddy's driving abilities are reflected in her record: they have been National Champion in 1956, 1957, 1959, 1960, 1961 and 1962; World Champion in 1958; World 7-Liter Record Holder with a speed of 168.2 mph and World Record Holder for the 6 and 9 hour endurance runs.
Buddy has a distinguished record of service to the sport he loves, and is a member of the APBA Honor Squadron and the 150 mph Club, a co-founder of the APBA Historical Society, and a Life Member of the APBA. He also served as Unlimited Hydroplane Commissioner for ten years. He credits much of his and Chrysler Queen's racing success to Crew Chief Bob Cunningham and Mechanic Ray Canter.Collection
BoatsAcquisition
Accession
2006.012Source or Donor
George W. Byers Jr.Acquisition Method
GiftMade/Created
Manufacturer
Lauterbach, HenryDate made
1956Notes
Propulsion: Inboard, gasoline
Engine: Chevrolet 427
Cylinders: 8
HP: 900Dimensions
Width
5-1/2 ftLength
20-1/2 ftLocation
Building
*William J. Morgan Building
