fuel, Zeggert turned to lowering the compression ratio to avoid engine damage. He discovered that the cylinder heads from the 351 Windsor small- block offered more volume in the combustion chambers, especially after polishing and CCing the chambers and installing stainless 1.9-inch intake and 1.6-inch exhaust valves. With compression decreased from approximately 10.3:1 to 9.25:1, the engine was able to produce dyno readings of 491 HP at 6,000 RPM with a B&M Super Street camshaft and racing hydraulic lifters, and all with no trace of detonation. Zeggert‘s dedication to preserving the GT350’s originality is evidenced by the care he took in retaining and cataloging its original componentry. The matching-numbers 289 CI HiPo small-block V-8, T-10 4-speed manual transmission, driveshaft and 9-inch 3.89:1 differential with Detroit Locker are all original factory components, while the clutch was replaced with a Centerforce dual-disc unit in 2010. The car also retains the original Holley 750 CFM 4-barrel carburetor, intake manifold, starter, ignition coil, alternator and voltage regulator. The original cylinder heads, Tri-Y exhaust headers and radiator shroud are included in the trunk along with the original Goodyear Blue Dot spare tire. In 2021, the original radiator was recored while retaining the original cap and “3/1966” date code, the original water pump was rebuilt, and the fuel pump was overhauled by Carter. The chassis is likewise original, including the Kelsey-Hayes front disc brakes, Ford Galaxie rear drum brakes and all chassis bushings. The windshield wiper motor and reservoir, seats and carpeting, all glass, interior and exterior lighting, radio and all instruments—including the Paxton vacuum pressure and fuel pressure gauges installed with the supercharger—are all original to this remarkable Shelby. An expansive file of documentation accompanies this car, starting with the original Reynolds Motors sales invoice and receipt for payment of $4,264 after discount of $621. Copies of those are part of a display storyboard that also shows a spec sheet listing all the modifications made by Shelby American (along with costs) to complete the car, as well as a copy of the Pre-Delivery Service Sheet and a July 1966 Car Life Magazine article detailing the conception, specifications, production and road performance of the Paxton-supercharged Shelby GT350. Dynamometer test sheets detail the setup developed for the engine and the resulting performance, which Zeggert described himself in a note that says, in part, “(the tuning) results in a nasty idle at 1,000 RPM, with the Flowmasters and side exhaust providing the touch that all hot rodders enjoy. It has good manners with easy starting … with just a quick stab of the throttle it fires immediately.” A shining jewel guaranteed to capture the hearts and imaginations of Shelby enthusiasts and those of every other stripe, GT350 No. 6S2045 is—in addition to being a uniquely important part of Shelby history and a prize-winning show piece—a solid and reliable performer with outstanding ride characteristics that have made it a pleasure to own and enjoy, qualities that will endure years into the future in the care of the dedicated new owner who is fortunate enough, and determined enough, to become lucky No. 2.
