Subject: Inspection of Viper Comp Coupe World Challange / GT3 Tilton Flywheels

During the 2007 season, some competitors experienced flywheel failures during races; two in Europe, one inthe U.S. These failures were associated with Tilton Steel Flywheels used with the triple place bronze clutch. Analysis indicates the failures start with cracks propagating from the edges of the radii of the timing windows or the lightening holes in the flywheel located closest to the O.D> of the clutch face.

It is most strongly recommended that all flywheels of this type currently in service be NDT, i.e. magnetic particle (Magnualux) or X-Ray inspected for cracks at the start of the season and every ten (10) hours of subsequent service by a certified laboratory. In addition, flywheels in service for three (3) full seasons or more should be replaced in order to prevent general fatigue failures.

Between the periodic lab inspections the area of the flywheel between the clutch face and the roots of the ring gear teeth can be checked with a commercial dye penetrant system such as Magnaflux Spotcheck or equivalent. If any suspicious indications are found the flywheel should be removed and sent out to have a more thorough inspection performed.

Any flywheel indicating cracks anywhere on the surface should be immediately removed from service and replaced. Failure to do so can lead to a flywheel failure which can severely dmage the engine and transmission.

On a final note, if a competitor does experience a flywheel failure, the engine should be shut off IMMEDIATELY to minimize damage to engine, transmission or the vehicle.

I.K. Zwicker / Dodge Motorsports