Shubham Iyer

← All projects

Pre-Competition Drivetrain Teardown

CWRU Motorsports (Baja SAE), SR26 · 2026 season

Before SR26 left for competition, I tore down the on-car 4WD assembly and the front transfer case to check every part for cracks and deformation.

The 4WD propshaft assembly, laid out after teardown.
The 4WD propshaft assembly, laid out after teardown.

What we found

The inspection turned up cracks and deformation, including a cracked torque limiter hub. That part would have been carrying drivetrain torque on the course.

The cracked torque limiter hub. The crack runs out from the cross hole in the boss.
The cracked torque limiter hub. The crack runs out from the cross hole in the boss.

What I did about it

I machined the replacement parts, then rebuilt and reinstalled both assemblies with every fastener torqued to spec. I also set steering toe as part of the testing prechecks. Everything was back on the car before the event.

Checking the propshaft yoke at the front transfer case.
Checking the propshaft yoke at the front transfer case.
An outboard joint at the upright.
An outboard joint at the upright.
SR26 in our paddock at competition.
SR26 in our paddock at competition.

Next project: EMAE 160 Machine Shop TA →