McCann Chassis

D Sports Racer

The ME-4B:
Building a new old car

In early 2002, John found his original McCann ME-4 DSR for sale. Unfortunately, the negotiations to buy it back were unsuccessfully. So, John decided to build ME-4B S/N 002 from his original plans. John says, "Technically it was started and never finished in 1975... so I can vintage race with VARA."

August 2006

John again displayed his car, further along in its construction, at a local car show.

John received a First in Class award.

John McCann
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August 2005

John displayed his car, while under construction, at a local car show.

May 9, 2005

John reports, "I am almost ready to put it on the ground and install the Ocelot/ Suzuki motor Bob Orso ran in the '89? runnoffs."

July 7, 2004

"My ME-4B is coming along.  The tub is 98% and the inboard brakes are mounted.  I am about to weld up the uprights and fab the suspension arms for the Aurora bearings.  Ordering a set of Panasport wheels with the "vintage" looking 'Mini-Lite' hubs will be [available] this fall.  I will probably not make it to the track (VARA) until the 2007 season, after testing and running a few Solos on the fall of 2006 - anyway it will be a blast to road race in my 70th year (2007)", John.

October 8, 2002

"I am making progress on my Vintage DSR. The aluminum tub sub frames are welded up and I am well into the monocoque tub - probably about 25% done. I bought a large lot of Suzuki GT-750/ TR-750/ Ocelot engines and spares from Bob Orso (love those big 40mm Lectrons)! At work (lunch time) I am converting my 1975 drawings to CAD (Solid Edge) which catches misfit problems before I make the parts. It will be a couple of years, but the journey is half the fun.", John.

Rear subframe assembly

John tries out the new
center section, 2002

August 14, 2002

"I am welding up the sub frames, and will soon start the monocoque tub. I will use the more reliable stock size 738CC Suzuki (850ccc Ocelot were not very reliable), brought up to TR-750 GP specs at about 105-110 HP - enough for a 65 year old.
 :) ", John.

Early 2002

John'ss first step was to update the drawings by entering them into a modern CAD program. As things were appropriately modeled, he began building the sister car.

Front inboard brakes

Rear suspension