Lauterbach Special GP-200 Hydroplane Bill G Meiner

One of the most photographed and active hydroplanes on the APBA Vintage Hydroplane circuit is Bill Gmeiner Jr from Detroit, Michigan. The first year of the event Bill came to Muscatine and is one of the nicest guys you can meet. Last year he was signed up until the Flood of 2008 washed away the race boats. We are glad to have Bill back and make sure you stop and get his autograph. He enjoys life to the fullest and the Lauterbach Special has been featured in many magazines and posters.
GP-200 is a 7 Litre/GP hydroplane built in 1976 by Lauterbach. Length of the boat is 21' 6" with a beam of 10'
The power plant will get your attention with an 8 cylinder - modified 2006 Chevrolet Big Block - 800+ HP naturally aspirated. The boat originally ran a supercharged Chevrolet 496 ci - rated at 1000+ HP. The gearbox has a 30% overdrive
Propeller is a racing 2 blade
The boats racing history is
Years Raced 1977 - 1990
1977-79-80-81-83 National Champion
1977-79-80-81 National High Point Champion
1981 Competition Record 104.5 MPH
1984 Competition Record 119.6 MPH
Past owners Norman Lauterbach & Don Ryan
Past drivers Terry Turner, Chip Hanauer, Tom D'Eath, Larry Lauterbach, Butch Kropfeld
Launch: By crane