1968 Dodge Dart LO23 Herb McCandless "Mr. 4 Speed"

Courtesy HotRod Magazine – June 2016 by Geoff Stunkard

The 1968 Dodge Dart LO23 driven by Herb McCandless, known as “Mr. 4 Speed,” is one of the most significant factory-built HEMI drag cars of the muscle car era. Built under Chrysler’s limited Super Stock HEMI Dart program, this purpose-built drag car launched McCandless into professional racing—and left a lasting legacy on the AHRA circuit.

How Herb McCandless Acquired the 1968 Dodge Dart

Herb was introduced to the opportunity by Memphis Dodge dealer Chuck Hutton. Through a Chrysler-backed arrangement, Herb purchased the Dart in May 1968 below list price to promote Dodge on the track. Though it was still a major investment for the young racer, it became the vehicle that launched his full-time racing career.

Within months, he left his day job and hit the track full-time. By October, thanks to consistent success and prize winnings, the 1968 Dodge Dart was completely paid off.

Why the 1968 Dodge Dart Didn’t Compete in NHRA Titles

Unlike other Dodge HEMI cars built for NHRA Super Stock racing, McCandless tuned his Dart for AHRA heads-up racing, which better suited the car’s raw potential. The American Hot Rod Association (AHRA) allowed more flexibility in rules, making the Dart a dominant force in Super Stock eliminations.

In 1968 alone:

• Herb competed in 52 events

• Took home winnings at 40+ races

• Captured the AHRA points championship

Dart Setup and Modifications

While this 1968 LO23 Dodge Dart was HEMI-equipped from the factory, Herb and his team made minor modifications for competition:

• Removed restrictive NHRA exhaust

• Installed lighter front brakes

• Tuned the car for heads-up racing across the Midwest

McCandless raced in cities like Kansas City, Wichita, and Denver, where the Dart consistently outperformed the field. “I never had a bad day in that car,” Herb said.

Historical Significance

The 1968 Dodge Dart LO23 wasn’t just a car—it was a symbol of Chrysler’s commitment to factory drag racing dominance. Built in extremely limited numbers for Super Stock racing, the car featured:

• Lightweight components

• No factory warranty

• Race-ready features like a 426 HEMI engine, fiberglass hood, and acid-dipped body panels

This particular car played a pivotal role in Herb McCandless’s rise to fame and cemented his nickname as “Mr. 4 Speed.”

Restoration & Return to Glory

Thanks to Randy Hopkins, the Dart continued its racing life in SS/AH class competition before undergoing a meticulous restoration. The car was repainted by the same painter who originally painted it in 1968. Restoration work by Greg Fernald at SS AFX in Phoenix, AZ returned the Dart to its correct factory condition.

Today, this 1968 Dodge Dart HEMI stands as a rolling piece of Mopar racing history—restored, revered, and ready to inspire a new generation of enthusiasts.