These limited hydroplanes are 22 feet in length, reach speeds in excess of 150 MPH on the straight-away and average more than 115 MPH in each five mile heat. Unlimited Lights run at most Unlimited Hydroplane events, and in-between UHRA events many race on the Grand National Hydroplane circuit.
These boats are limited to 468 cubic inches at 2000 pounds, or 511ci at 2200 pounds. All engines must be fitted with one four-barrel carburetor and the boats are allowed to run Sunoco High Octane Racing Fuel (no methane or alcohol here!).
Years ago, it was the Unlimited Hydroplanes that were known as the THUNDERBOATS. Now that most of those run the quieter jet turbines, the Unlimited Lights are the THUNDERBOATS of the 90's.
Powerplants in this class include Pontiac, Chevy and Ford engines. Some teams are rumored to be looking into the Chrysler HEMI engine, but their rarity makes development for the future difficult.
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