Quote:
Originally Posted by trick-kit
Now here's a theory, given that this problem isn't solely confined to Locosts but exsists in MX5's too, maybe it's not the mounting of the diff that causes the problem (OK, if it's allowed to move around too easily then it may highlight the weakness) but MX5's that have broken the diff have pretty much the same thing in common.
They have been involved in an accident.
The diff has a cast sacrificial point in it designed to break to prevent the PFF puncturing the tank. Now given that most of the kit cars using the MX5 as a donor are built from wrecked MX5's maybe we are inheriting the fault without noticing it.
As i said, just a theory  
TK |
It is true some of the donors used may have been involved in accidents but by no means all of those being used have been in accidents - many are now cheap enough (mot failures etc) to be used as donors without any accident history.
Not aware of MX5's suffering diff carrier failures. Anything likely to compromise the diff will like as not cause it to fail though there's always the 'exception that proves the rule'
Usually in a front or rear impact the power plant frame bends downward twisting the nose of the diff down to the road to avoid pushing through and puncturing the tank, this action usually fails the diff carrier so few would have made it on to other cars for further use or be available for sale as salvage.
The diff failure, as happened to Nathan, is something I've seen before and on diff carriers that were known not to be compromised, though I get the point we should all be vigilant and inspect all used parts in the build for signs of damage/fatigue.