Chris Bywater's 700hp HT Premier: A High-Octane Journey
A young man's dream ride takes center stage.
This story, originally published in September 2022, introduces us to Chris Bywater, a 25-year-old auto electrician with a passion for powerful cars. The year 2012 marked significant milestones for Chris: he became a father, bought his first home with a spacious six-car garage, and embarked on a journey to build a formidable street machine.
Chris's automotive journey began with an LH Torana, a beast in its own right with a nitrous-fed 383ci small-block. But he had his sights set on something even more extraordinary for his next project, the HT Premier.
And here's where it gets intriguing: Chris stripped the Prem down to its bare bones and enlisted the expertise of Craig Brewer, a renowned name in the Pro Street scene. Craig's reputation precedes him, thanks to his seven-second Pro Street HR van, Frogstomp.
The transformation began with a complete rear-end overhaul, including a tubbed and four-linked setup and a shortened nine-inch differential. A six-point roll cage added safety and rigidity, while a rack and pinion steering upgrade enhanced handling. But the real masterpiece was yet to come.
The body, already in excellent condition, underwent a meticulous makeover. Chris's brother, Adam, a master of his craft, was tasked with smoothing and straightening the bodywork and engine bay. The result? A stunning Mercury Silver exterior and an engine bay so pristine it deserves to be on display. But wait, there's more to this story...
Chris sourced the heart of his machine, a 468ci Chev big-block engine, from none other than Craig Brewer himself. This powerhouse, once the driving force behind Frogstomp's low eight-second passes, promised to deliver mind-bending performance. And Chris was determined to have it ready for Summernats 24.
In a race against time, Chris and his mates worked tirelessly to bring the HT to life. Sleep deprivation and financial strain were small prices to pay for the ultimate reward. And just before the deadline, Chris couldn't resist taking it for a spin, resulting in a thrilling power skid and a valuable lesson about windshields.
The final touches, including a custom-fitted billet steering wheel, were completed just in time for Summernats. The car's debut at the event was a triumph, attracting attention and winning trophies in the Tuff Street category, including an Engineering Excellence award. But the real joy came from the Supercruise, where Chris and six friends enjoyed the ride of a lifetime.
The celebration continued back in Melbourne, where Chris and his crew hit the town, burning through $600 worth of fuel and a set of rear tires in one epic night. But the story doesn't end there...
The following year, at the Ultimate Burnout Challenge, the HT showcased its might, shredding rear tires to the delight of the crowd. However, disaster struck as the car suffered a severe oil surge, leading to a catastrophic engine failure. But this setback only fueled Chris's determination.
With his new home established, Chris is now plotting his comeback. He's tight-lipped about the details, but promises a more powerful, louder, and faster machine. Will 2013 be the year Chris Bywater and his HT Premier make an even bigger splash? Only time will tell.
Controversy Alert: Some might argue that Chris's pursuit of extreme horsepower is reckless. Is there a line between passion and danger that enthusiasts should be mindful of? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
