FYI: Jay Leno’s classic Chrysler Turbine Car undergoes a rare engine rebuild thanks to a dedicated team.
The Tale of Chrysler’s Turbine Experiment
In the far-reaching ambitions of the 1960s, Chrysler revolutionized automotive innovation by crafting cars outfitted with turbine engines—borrowing concepts from aircraft technology. Fast forward to today, and the challenge resurfaces: where does one go to rebuild such unique machinery? Naturally, the answer takes us back to the original masterminds.
Jay Leno’s Turbine Journey
Iconic car enthusiast Jay Leno encountered this exact predicament with his very own Chrysler Turbine Car, a prized possession routinely driven until its engine faltered. Leno entrusted the restoration efforts to Williams International, located in Michigan. It’s the very company founded by Sam Williams, one of the original engineers behind the turbine engines. This extraordinary project was spearheaded by Greg Williams, Sam’s son, who now leads the company as an embodiment of his father’s legacy.
A Visionary Experiment
The development of the Chrysler Turbine Car originated as an ambitious project that spanned research and marketing. By the early 60s, after years of experimenting with prototypes since the 1950s, Chrysler released 50 vehicles (as well as five pre-production models) for customers to test drive and provide feedback. This innovative initiative showcased Chrysler’s desire to push automotive boundaries.
A Unique Place in Automotive History
Unlike others in the post-war era, Chrysler was the sole manufacturer that offered turbine-powered vehicles to everyday drivers. While Ford experimented with a turbine-powered Thunderbird and ventured into turbine race cars, Chrysler differentiated itself by creating a user-friendly, street-ready automobile.
Advantages and Challenges of Turbine Power
The testing phase spotlighted significant advantages. The turbines were recognized for their smooth operation and versatility to run on fuels beyond traditional gasoline. However, as Leno’s experience highlighted, maintaining these engines presented challenges. Despite having fewer moving parts than conventional piston engines, the Chrysler turbines ran at a staggering 60,000 rpm, necessitating precise engineering with specific metals designed to endure extreme heat and rotational pressures. These requirements inflated production costs and played a role in terminating potential mass production, paired with considerations around fuel economy and emissions.
Rebuilding a Classic
Although Williams International continues to produce small turbine engines today and contributed to early hybrid vehicle advancements like the GM EV1, reviving the Chrysler turbine engine was no small feat. The absence of replacement parts and original schematics necessitated a quasi-restoration from scratch, employing modern techniques such as 3D printing to achieve results.
Fortunately, this remarkable turbine car, under Leno’s meticulous care, continues to be celebrated and preserved in its newfound, well-maintained environment.
Conclusion
Jay Leno’s Chrysler Turbine Car’s renaissance story is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of automotive pioneers. It demonstrates that the collaboration of visionaries can breathe life into historic gems and showcases the enduring allure of engineering marvels from the past.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
