Ep 12. Rubber Duck Ultimate Drag Test

In this episode of Roadkill season 10, titled "Rubber Duck Ultimate Drag Test," automotive hosts David Freiburger and Mike Finnegan are up for a challenge as they take two highly modified cars to an exclusive Northern California drag strip. The first vehicle is a 1970 Ford F-100, also known as the "Rubber Duck," which has been retrofitted with a Duramax diesel engine and upgraded drivetrain. The second car is a 2006 Dodge Charger SRT-8, also boasting an improved drivetrain and a nitrous injection system.

The episode begins with the pair discussing the Rubber Duck's problematic engine. While the exterior of the vehicle boasts a nostalgic and clean look, the engine's unique setup has caused multiple issues in the past. The vehicle's owner had installed the diesel engine at home but shortly discovered issues with the transmission. David and Mike step in for some much-needed modifications and fine-tuning. The host's work to replace the truck's transmission with a newer and stronger model along with an improved rear differential.

Next, the hosts turn their attention to the Charger, which is outfitted with a 6.1-liter Hemi engine paired with a nitrous oxide system. The car is already a beast but needs work done. The pair moves to the engine work and install upgraded exhaust headers and dial-in the car's nitrous system. The Charger was already a heavy favorite going into the race, but these upgrades make it an even more potent ride.

Once both vehicles are properly upgraded, the time has come for the ultimate drag test. The showdown takes place on a drag strip in Northern California, with a crowd gathered to witness the competition. After two practice runs, the competition starts with an epic race. The Rubber Duck is up first, and the truck takes off the line. But it seems that the drag strip is not kind to the truck's transmission engine combo, and there's trouble with the engine throughout the race. In contrast, the Dodge Charger has no such problems and powers down the strip with ease.

Next up is a grueling hill-climb. The hosts pushed both cars beyond their limits and under some serious stress. The Rubber Duck struggled, with engine and transmission issues holding up the vehicle throughout the difficult yet scenic climb. The Dodge, on the other hand, breezes up the hill's twist turns and climbs with relative ease. The team has put in so much effort to keep both the vehicles in top-notch shape for the arduous journey, and both barely make it. The episode ends in a cliff hanger with the hosts discussing the final race, which is yet to be run.

"Rubber Duck Ultimate Drag Test" is an incredible episode of RoadKill that showcases unique builds, impressive engine modifications, and some high-octane, gravity-defying racing. The team works hard to get both vehicles into racing shape, and the competing vehicles offer a glimpse of some serious mechanical work. The track race, hill climb, and final drag challenge will keep viewers glued to the screen to see who comes out on top. David and Mike are fantastic hosts and bring a lot of humor and charm to the show. Overall, this episode of RoadKill is a fantastic watch for car enthusiasts and anyone looking for an exciting, adrenaline-filled racing experience.