Wizdeo Analytics

LATHAM Axial Flow Supercharger - Fascinating History of a Short-Lived Design

Published on Thu, Jun 6th 2024 Autos & Vehicles Rectangular HD

With only 650 units produced, the Latham Axial Flow Supercharger is one of the rarest vintage speed parts out there, but it's also one of the most well documented products I've ever seen. Dozens of magazine articles, brochures and photos exist of these unique supercharger systems, helping us understand the history and scope of the company and its high end blower setup. They were efficient, they were cool and they were highly publicized, but all of that didn't result in great sales. It is estimated that Norman Latham only built about 650 units before stopping operations in 1965.

Latham Manufacturing Company, owned by Norman Latham, began building custom axial flow superchargers in 1956. Latham Superchargers were used at Bonneville Salt Flats and Daytona Beach speed trials with great results. The superchargers were featured in Hot Rod Magazine, Motor Trend Magazine, Car & Driver Magazine as well as MANY other custom car publications.

By the 1960's, Latham Superchargers were available in kits to fit small block Chevy, Ford Y-block, Ford FE and many more applications. With prices nearing $1000 for a kit, Latham Superchargers were high-end speed parts. By 1965, the aftermarket was flooded with speed parts, and the Latham Supercharger was priced out of the market. Norman Latham held on to his patterns and materials, eventually selling the whole operation to Richard Paul.

The Latham Supercharger that started this whole research project is an 11-stage unit, originally built for use on a Ford FE engine. It is serial number 001427. It is complete with four YH Carter side draft carburetors, top and bottom pulleys, as well as the spring loaded tensioner. The most peculiar part of the equation is the Latham intake manifold, as most Latham kits simply used an adapter plate to mount the blower to an existing stock intake. This custom Latham intake is one of just a handful produced.