RE: any one ever build a drag boat
Yeah, thats an old Dumas 36 inch Atlas van lines U-71 hull, sport 40. Only thing missing is the front and rear cowl. I have one that still in the box that I plan on building this summer.
heres some pics of one thats complete.
Your drag boat project should run like a rigger in the straights, but slow her down in the turns, or at least add a larger turn fin to keep from hooking if you wish, but for just straights, no turn fin needed.