When the R&D crew at Barry Grant's decided to rethink the carburetor, they had a lofty goal in mind: the even fuel distribution of EFI without the hassles of electronics. The fulfillment of that goal is the revolutionary BadMan induction system consisting of the all-new Demon Inline four-barrel carburetor and Triple-D Aero-ram intake manifold.
One of the things Grant's team discovered early on was the superior fuel distribution of the inline carburetor allowed big, long-duration camshafts to idle at lower engine speeds (as much as 400 rpm lower) when compared to a single four-barrel. Improved low-end throttle response and part-throttle drivability, along with better fuel mileage, were additional benefits.
Similar to a conventional four-barrel, the BadMan has two primary throttle valves and two mechanically operated secondaries that open as the carburetor approaches wide open. But, while the progressive operation of the throttle plates is standard, a noticeable departure from the norm is the lack of a choke. According to Grant's people, a choke isn't necessary due to the superior fuel distribution; besides, most of the cars these systems will find their way onto don't see much winter use. Still, it would be our guess that some feathering of the throttle might be required on cool days until the engine gets up to temperature.
Interchangeable venturi sleeves that allow airflow ratings ranging from 500 to more than 1,000 cfm are available to make it easy to select the correct size BadMan for any application. This feature virtually eliminates the problem of having a carburetor that is too big or too small and provides the option of making carburetion changes as additional engine modifications demand. Another factor that is bound to make the BadMan popular is the emphasis on simplicity-there are only three adjustments: two idle-mixture screws and one idle-speed screw.
Currently, the BadMan is available for small-block Chevys, with versions to fit big-blocks and LSI to follow. Two finishes are available: as-cast or silver powdercoat, and side covers will be offered in polished or ribbed finishes to match valve covers and air cleaner. And, although there is nothing official yet, don't be surprised to see Barry Grant offering the BadMan with optional components such as cylinder heads and camshafts.
Each carburetor top is secured...
Each carburetor top is secured by four screws and sealed with an O-ring. There are no gaskets below the fuel bowls, thus eliminating leaks.
The removable tops eliminate...
The removable tops eliminate fuel spillage and make tuning chores easy. Jets are standard-issue Barry Grant, and float levels are easily set thanks to a sight glass in each fuel.
Two accelerator pumps are...
Two accelerator pumps are used-one for each primary venturi. The volume and duration of the pump's fuel delivery are adjustable.
There is a single idle speed...
There is a single idle speed adjustment screw on the front throttle arm to keep things simple. The lower hole is for an automatic transmission throttle valve cable.
An intake manifold's view...
An intake manifold's view shows the primary throttle plates (first and third from the left) and the secondaries (second and fourth). The secondaries are mechanically activated.
The design of the manifold,...
The design of the manifold, along with the inline configuration of the carburetor, is responsible for the BadMan's excellent fuel distribution.
The manifold's runners are...
The manifold's runners are not only equal length, but their design offers the air/fuel mixture a straight shot into the ports.
A series of countersunk screws...
A series of countersunk screws secure the carburetor to the manifold. Note the rounded shape of the intake manifold's sides that help direct the mixture into the runners and the unique thermostat housing.
This is the display that had...
This is the display that had people talking at SEMA-a complete BadMan package including the carburetor, intake manifold, heads, and cam. Perhaps a hint of things to come?