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TECHNICAL BULLETIN

Started by Sue Wilson, October 29, 2020, 02:52:11 PM

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Sue Wilson

This bulletin highlights the importance of rigorously inspecting all suspension components of your race car.  While Hondas are mentioned, all competition vehicles need to be inspected regardless of make.

At the last race at Gimli Motorsport Park (GMP), two Honda race cars experienced front suspension failures.  The first failure occurred with a 1986 Honda CRX.  The right front upright of the hub assembly broke as the car was being driven down the front straight.  The driver was able to pull the vehicle off the track and to the side of the airport runway safely.

Upon inspection of the face of the break, there were the telltale signs of a pre-existing crack (see picture).

In very next race, a 1999 Honda Civic suffered a similar failure exiting T8.  This time it was the left front upright of the hub assembly failed from a similar crack.

Unfortunately, the body dropped down and the fenders covered the tires.  The driver was unable to steer the car or brake as the left front brake line was severed.  With no brakes and no steering, the driver no longer had any control of the vehicle.

The car collided with an Armco barrier on the outside of turn 9.  The car came to a violent stop, suffering front-end damage, ruptured radiator etc.  The ambulance was dispatched to the scene and officials at the accident kept the driver in his seat until they arrived.  The driver was unhurt, but the car was unable to continue.

It is recommended that people with Hondas of a similar vintage should have these components magna fluxed or similarly inspected on a regular basis to ensure they do not have pre-existing cracks.
Sue Wilson
Administrator
Director - Licensing
Western Canada Motorsport Association