Exploding Rotors: why you do not drill

[AudiBiTurbo at aol.com]

--
[ Picked text/plain from multipart/alternative ]
In a message dated 6/20/2003 6:56:39 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
t44tq at mindspring.com writes:

> There is obvious cracking- why didn't someone catch this during
> trackside tech?
>
> Taka

Brett volunteered for tech inspection.  First, Brett isn't a mechanic but he
doesn't need to be for basic tech.  "Tech inspection" is only rudimentary and
is only designed to be so.  It's just to catch GLARING safety problems,
nothing more.  I always closely inspect drilled rotors (even Porsche cast rotors) as
best as possible during tech because I'm experienced with them, ASE
certified, etc.

Now, in this case, Brett did look at them as best as would be expected at
"tech."  They weren't failed, or necessarily even cracking at that point.  The
rotor gave way on the second day, the first day filled with rain (which can
further stress hot brakes).  Most likely, there were no humanly visible cracks
during tech.

The car owner is responsible for ongoing inspection AFTER EVERY RUN.  It's
the car owner who failed, not Brett and certainly not the "system."

Taka, I have a high opinion of you, and I suspect your comment wasn't meant
as it was written.  Track driving is very stressful on wheel bearings, tires,
and especially brakes.  It's part of the challenge and accepted by all who
participate in the fun and education.

This is a good reminder why we must carefully chose components and carefully
inspect them after every heat cycle.

Mark Rosenkrantz (A QCUSA instructor who attended this event)
AudiBiTurbo at aol.com