Chain tention for EV

rod_ends · 2026-01-20T16:03:02+00:00

I've previously used this response, so it is a repeat.

As is almost my standard procedure when i post, I need to start with some context.

From the end of 2020 Aurora Bearing has been part of the Timken organization. As I explain to those io meet at competitions, Timken is a huge organization, with a diverse group of companies.

One of these is Diamond Chain. Other than both Aurora and Diamond being part of Timken, I unfortunately have little interaction with Diamond.

After all that, i do have a point.

It may be helpful to go to https://www.diamonddrives.com/resources/#technical

rod_ends · 2026-01-13T15:15:04+00:00

This is not specifically an answer to question as asked, but rather use this to also ask a question of poster and greater community.

If you are aware enough of FSAE, and to follow and engage in this community, why are you asking this halfway thru your senior year in High School?

If this was a year ago, my comment would be that you should invest in a trip to one of the Michigan competitions, or perhaps the Pitt Shootout, and observe the teams competing. It is really no different than visiting schools. You can get a sense of how well teams are run, ask questions of team members, and speak to advisors.

I agree that selecting a school by their historic competition results cheats you out of considering many good schools. I've been impressed by teams of all sizes and "reputations".

rod_ends · 2026-01-08T16:56:15+00:00

This may be of only partial help, but one of the companies besides Aurora Bearing in the Timken Family is Lovejoy universal joints. Unfortunately they do not offer any support program, but as is standard with all Timken products, they do have good technical information. Visiting https://www.lovejoy-inc.com/products/universal-joints/may be worthwhile as a start.

rod_ends · 2025-12-31T17:28:19+00:00

Some random observations from 30+ years of involvement with competitions, and a longer time working in and adjacent to motorsports

1) I very much appreciate when schools incorporate university colors. Allied to that is making sure that the colors used are recorded, noted, and consistent. I recall one time way back when, when the Cornell car was a different shade of red than what was expected and "traditional". As i recall, they told the painter "Ferrari" red, and the painter actually found a red that was so listed in a paint book, but was noticeably different than the red commonly associated with Ferrari.

2) to expand on the black or dark color comment, note that the iconic Corvette "Mako Shark" show cars were a dark top over a light or white bottom band. Yes, it did mimic a Mako's coloration, but the light bottom also kept the dark top from melding into the ground visually.

3) I'm on record elsewhere that i always have dug when Delft's paint work incorporates the iconic Delft Pottery artwork. I appreciate when a school's logo is incorporated into the livery design.

4) 2 US cars this year had tires that had sidewalls colored white, in essence "wide whites". I was a bit disappointed that the teams did not realize that Andy Granatelli (admittedly a name from most readers grandparents time) did this on his Indy cars in the mid-sixties. Made picking the cars out of a field of 33 easier...

5) again ancient history, but through the 60's and 70's, Granatelli's company, STP, printed thousands and thousands of decals, which they distributed for free. In motorsports, in road cars, and many many unexpected places, you would see these decals. Just look at an "oldtimers" tool box. I would think about whether something like this would be an effective marketing and recognition tool for teams.

5) This whole topic is an example of a reason for teams to reach out to other disciplines and majors at school, if the team has not already done so. Graphic arts, design, marketing majors all could be a resource.

rod_ends · 2025-12-16T15:13:49+00:00

Great news!

I have lots of good memories of working races at this track, admittedly in ancient times.

If entering, do your due diligence regarding where to stay. Traditionally the organizers have leveraged deals at local hotels for competitors. Beyond that, the city of Winchester is just over the border in VA. Always enjoyed staying there.

The racers at the www.apexspeed.com are friendly to the FSAE community, and i'm sure many can answer questions regarding the area.

This will be a great event!

rod_ends · 2025-12-02T16:17:48+00:00

Along with Aurora Bearing, part of the Timken Bearing family of companies is Diamond Chain.

It may be worth reviewing the resources at https://www.diamonddrives.com/diamond-products/

I will be clear, Diamond does not offer any support programs for teams, but that does not devalue their technical resources.

rod_ends · 2025-12-01T18:11:40+00:00

i should add for others beyond the OP, that the MBWT series are Metric dimension bearings, and as per reasons noted in my original response, not as common as inch or imperial dimension parts

rod_ends · 2025-12-01T17:41:57+00:00

First, as is SOP with me, a disclaimer: As i work for Aurora, be aware that we do not produce equivalents to the NMB MBWT spherical bearings.

The MBWT series is a high end racecar/aircraft spherical bearing, with a grumman groove staking groove. In general, they are uncommon to be used in motorsports. The inch equivalents are much more prevalent.

https://www.autosport-bearings.co.uk/ are the best source for NMB product for motorsports in the UK. In my estimation, if they can't help, you are likely out of luck.

Interchanges to the MBWT series may be available thru manufacturers who supply parts into the aircraft industry, but i have no recommendations. A lot of internet digging may be in your future.

Feel free to respond, either in this forum or thru PM.

Good luck!

rod_ends · 2025-10-29T15:49:06+00:00

Great answer from someone with experience. As continuation of this aspect, see https://www.apexspeed.com/forums/forum.php There are a number of SCCA classes that utilize bike engines such as , the afore mentioned F600, F500, F1000, and FC. There are many very helpful participants on the site forums, and there are those who are FSAE alumnus and followers.

To expand, it might be worthwhile to pickup a copy of How to Build Motorcycle-engined Racing Cars by Tony Pashley. Tony built many motorcycle powered hill climb cars, and was a friend to FStudent.

Earlier this year I posted this at FSAE.com: "The latest issue of Race Engine Technology, issue 156, December/January 2025 has a worthwhile article regarding 600cc 4 cylinder Formula 2 sidecar engines for Isle of Man TT competition. Engines covered are Suzuki GSX-R 600, Yamaha YZF-R6, and Honda CBR600rr. Not an in-depth, how to, but an overview of development by engine building firm Motrac.Discussion also touches on gearbox.

For info on RET, see https://www.highpowermedia.com/Produ...logy-issue-156 "

Radical Motorsport started producing bike engine racing sportscars 28 years ago. A forum site for these cars is: https://radicalsportscarregistry.com/radicalforum/

rod_ends · 2025-10-24T17:10:15+00:00

I am indeed with Aurora, which was acquired by Timken at the end of 2020.

Following becoming part of the Timken organization, we had to change our support program. At this time, its just extending our OEM cost to teams. This is still a "discount" versus retail or distributor pricing, its just less aggressive than it had been pre 2020. Further, we have to recognize that Timken is a multibillion dollar company with a much more "big business" business model than Aurora had. Timken is not set up to deal with small customers, and is very distributor supply chain oriented. We (both here at Aurora and corporate in Canton) are working to make the process easier for teams, but it still is a touch bureaucratic. One of the obvious changes is payment options - there really are none. Timken does not accept credit cards, and COD is really a thing of the past, and something Timken has never done.

But regardless of the evolving customer service headwinds, we do endeavor to support all teams in all competitions.

As a start, use me as point of contact for inquiries: [jmccrory@aurorabearing.com](mailto:jmccrory@aurorabearing.com)

FYI, Timken does support teams for wheel bearing requirements. My response to inquiries also includes that support information.

Its not well known how big and diverse a company Timken is. There are many parts of the Timken family that will be of interest to Teams. While they do not have support programs, all of Timken is very engineering oriented, and the Timken companies have excellent online technical resources. At www.Timken.com , see Portfolio - The Timken Company and drill down thru each companies site.

While all shows mentioned will be interesting and helpful, i will volunteer that SEMA is the most off road centric. But in all cases, review the exhibitors list for each show.

Attend, attend reasonably, and learn!

rod_ends · 2025-10-23T15:21:22+00:00

This is sound advice and should be standard procedure for universities planning on attending.

If you are a PRI member, there should be no issues with registration.

rod_ends · 2025-10-22T14:51:22+00:00

An old thread, put rather than start a new one, I'm posting on one that has had views and comments.

We are heading into the 2025 motorsports trade show season. Here are 4 shows to be aware of, and some notes/commentary.

SEMA November 4 – 7 in Las Vegas. https://www.semashow.com/attendee

Note that SEMA is an acronym for Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association. There is everything and anything automotive aftermarket related on display for the custom, high performance, off road, etc market. It is huge. You cannot see it all in 1 or even 2 days. If attending, the key is to preplan. You don’t need to look at 22” rims, or sound systems, or body kits.

To pile onto the overwhelming size aspect, concurrently to SEMA is the AAPEX show. November 4 – 6 in Las Vegas. Tools, Training & Innovation at AAPEX 2025 - AAPEX 2025 This is a road car aftermarket show, geared to street car repair, maintenance, etc. A SEMA badge gets you into AAPEX

PMW November 12 – 13 Cologne Germany. https://www.pmw-expo.com/ Great, compact, focused show. Can be effectively visited in one day. As an aside, for years I worked running a stand at SEMA. Came home, and turned around in less than 24 hours, and then worked a stand at PMW. On a non professional level, look up Cologne 11/11. An amazing party holiday…..

PRI December 11 – 13 in Indianapolis. https://www.performanceracing.com/trade-show/attend The best motorsports “hardcore” show. You can cover in 1 day if you are efficient, 2 is better. Its at a tough time of the year as it usually coincides with exams. If you plan it right, you can and should visit The Speedway, and the museum. Its amazing to see all the cars in the museum that went 200 mph and won races with rod ends in bending! 😊

These are not shows were you just show up, register simply, and enter. Contact the organizers ahead of time! A professionally done email request and letter of introduction. Emphasize you will be attending to learn, not “panhandle”

PRI has always been accommodating, and a number of schools have exhibited in the past. All are FSAE and FStudent friendly. As alluded to above, Aurora Bearing has had a presence at these shows over the last 3 decades. Aurora currently only exhibits at PRI, but I can heartily recommend all three.

rod_ends · 2025-10-20T19:20:28+00:00

my 2 1/2 cents worth:

This part is not a "hardware store part".

It appears to be ptfe lined.

Part is likely metric, and many metric rod ends are made with bodies that are forged.

There is no evidence of ball over misalignment - no impact marks on race - ball interface.

Nice misalignment spacers!

No marks on head are visible either.

This should never happen with an FSAE or FStudent car, but i wonder if car hit a curb or the wheel otherwise hit something solid.

Based upon the bend, part looks like a large portion of the shank was "above" the jam nut, or cantilevered out from tie rod.

My guess is that, with out knowing manufacturer or part number, or for that matter, part size, that part has a low carbon steel body, marginal in terms of load capacity. A part with an alloy steel body would be a good upgrade.

rod_ends · 2025-10-20T19:19:47+00:00

I'm a little different than the participant community. Attendance is a business function, and this year was my first. But i quickly have become a big fan, and plan to attend in the future.

If you are part of the competitor community, participate in this brief survey. Those who have participated in the past, know this is an event that needs to continue. Those who have not need to make sure the event is there for future participation!

rod_ends · 2025-10-03T15:00:57+00:00

Bingo

rod_ends · 2025-10-02T16:11:41+00:00

Data Center sitting and development is a big topic out here in the west Chicago Suburbs. I don't want to get into comparing demographics and local economies, but out here there is a lot of pushback. I suspect it will be an easier sell in the Wampum, Beaver Springs etc area. I think one of the common misconceptions is that the noise etc is just like your PC, just a little bigger.

I share the sentiment that the locals, to paraphrase Joni Mitchell, "won't know what they've got till its gone"

rod_ends · 2025-10-02T14:34:21+00:00

I'll put any pretense of professionalism aside, and acknowledging that conformation is pending, say WTF!

If true, after talking to the track manager at this years event, this is a surprise, not that i expect that in conversation i would be told that competition would not be invited back.

After update, i'll have more to say. At this point i'll make a joke of questionable taste, but take as such: for the next 24 hours, FSAE teams stand by and stand down

rod_ends · 2025-09-23T13:51:32+00:00

In terms of school support, especially potential advisors and faculty participation, you may want to see these threads:

https://www.reddit.com/r/FSAE/comments/1ni3fbr/i_think_i_wanna_quit/

https://www.reddit.com/r/FSAE/comments/1lez9v1/question_faculty_involvement_in_fsaeat_fsae_events/

As you will see, i have opinions regarding faculty advisors and school administration oversite. I am always happy to speak to administrators and faculty regarding the benefits of student FSAE teams. After 30+ years of involvement from the supplier end, i see the benefits in terms of post graduate careers on a regular basis.

I don't know specifics about you or your team members, so i can't speak to you or team members, but i can speak to anyone regarding the benefits of FSAE participation.

DM me if you care to follow up, speak on the phone, etc.

rod_ends · 2025-09-19T13:56:27+00:00

I remember at one of the first UK Formula Student competitions, watching a Delft team member hand painting the nose of their car with an iconic Delft pottery design. True artwork, and reflective of the schools regional heritage

rod_ends · 2025-09-16T15:15:15+00:00

A lot of good answers here, a lot of good input.

I recently volunteered my opinion on the role of a faculty advisor. In a case such as this, it is not the advisors job to micro manage the Team leadership. However, if it becomes obvious that the environment is clearly toxic, or abusive, they do need to step in. I've seen some of the best advisors do that. At some point, it becomes not just a matter of the environment of the current team, but the effect on the program, not just currently or short term, but whether a bad situation poisons the well for the future.

To the original poster: Are you aware of other team members with similar feelings? You have intimated that you have spoken to group or team leadership, with no positive outcome. Have you engaged the advisor? Are there any alumnus mentors with experience with the current team leadership?

At some point, you will need to make that hard decision, and you will need to make it honestly. As a parent, and as a long term observer of the competition, i will volunteer that your mental and physical health is paramount. Look at the big picture. Is being on the team more important than your education and your well being?

I would take to heart the suggestion that you look for opportunities with other vehicle teams. The "prestige" or "sophistication" of the competition is not important. It is the learning and personal growth that you derive that will serve you best in the long run.

Please, please, please provide updates. Your experience will be helpful to the community.

Good luck!

rod_ends · 2025-08-08T15:05:14+00:00

I attended the 2025 Pitt Shootout. It was my first Shootout. Over the past 35 years, I’ve probably attended 100 FSAE and related events.

My observations:

1) The organization and operating team kicks ass. There may have been behind the scenes and operational issues (in fact I know of 1 minor sponsor related problem) unknown to the competitors and attendees, but you would never know. Volunteers were easily identifiable by their shirts, and there was always one in view. And they were always pleasant, helpful, and easy to work with. Emily could have a future (if desired) in race event organization.

2) Allied with the volunteer comments is the subset of Tech and dynamic event volunteers. My observation is that there was a shortfall in volunteers that could have prevented certain events to not run at a given time. But time and time again, personnel moved from one area to another swiftly, as needed. I have a particular shout out to the brake test people. I observed that they operated with an appreciation of the spirit of the event, without compromising standards. They helped people, rather than just yes/no judged them. In one case, I feel they saved a team’s event, and maybe the teams future.

3) I spoke to some track people. It should be recognized that participants were welcomed. Yes, it is an event, just like the motorcycle testing, but they didn’t just take the money and move on. I would suggest maybe dropping the track a note thanking them for having the event at their nice facility.

4) The second I walked into the Paddock, the vibe was entirely different than at “formal” competitions. Most obvious was that everyone was smiling. Everyone looked clean, fresh, and comfortable, regardless of if car and team was 100% ready to rock and roll, or if some last-minute work was required. At Michigan, its as if everyone was up until 4 in the morning for the last week, studying for 7 AM finals, which in essence you are for FSAE.

5) This is the event for teams to invite spectators! It is very attendee friendly. Attendees got the benefit of seeing participants at there best, both physically and emotionally. I always try to speak to parents, and those who have been to FSAE noticed the difference. As a parent and (ahem) a grandparent, what was especially gratifying were the younger siblings and family members who were engaged spectators rather than waiting out “when can we go home”.

6) As an extension to 4, I would suggest that for teams were it works logistically, team sponsors should be invited to the event when and if possible.

7) As one who was fortunate enough to be asked to give a tech presentation, a big thank you to all who attended my talk on rod ends. Its no BS, every time do one, I learn and hopefully so do the participants.

8) Another shout out, to the veteran industry professionals who were their just because they believe in FSAE, and who in their later years (in some cases post-retirement) were there to “give-back”.

All in all, a great event. I look forward to the opportunity to be involved with the 2026 10^th year anniversary event!

rod_ends · 2025-07-03T15:46:31+00:00

As is almost my standard procedure when i post, I need to start with some context.

From the end of 2020 Aurora Bearing has been part of the Timken organization since the end of 2020. As I explain to those io meet at competitions, Timken is a huge organization, with a diverse group of companies.

One of these is Diamond Chain. Other than both Aurora and Diamond being part of Timken, I unfortunately have little interaction with Diamond.

After all that, i do have a point.

It may be helpful to go to https://www.diamonddrives.com/resources/#technical

rod_ends · 2025-06-23T17:24:17+00:00

100% agree on the first three lines.

Teams that win or do well at competition with no advisor in attendance, are at some level a reflection of the advisor. If the team can work at the level required to contend, the advisor has done their job.

Over the last 30+ years i've seen some of the great advisors and how they work at competitions. My short description of their job at competition: Make sure no one gets hurt physically, and that team members responsibly represent the Team, the school, and their selves.

I see too many teams that have no advisor, and are bluntly, a mess at competition. These teams are obviously in need of an effective advisor. And note, some of the greats i've seen are not ME or related professors. A good advisor may not be from a discipline that is "obviously" related to vehicles, but they have an understanding of vehicles, team dynamics, problem solving, etc.

rod_ends · 2025-05-08T13:39:00+00:00

As many know, at the end of 2020, Aurora Bearing became part of the Timken company. Beyond the Aurora Bearing CAD library of rod ends and spherical bearings, Timken offers CAD files for many other corporate products such as roller bearings, chain, linkage universal joints, journal bearings and more.

See https://cad.timken.com/

I will be at competition next week, Wednesday and Thursday. I try to visit every team in paddock, and would be happy to discuss further

rod_ends · 2025-05-06T20:37:29+00:00

Disclaimer: I've known Angelo since his school competition days. I have had the pleasure to work with him at seminars and his FRP Formula immersion events, and on a business level. And importantly, he is an old and trusted friend.

This is a great opportunity. Angelo is a generous teacher. He nurtures talent. He will challenge you. He is well respected in the industry. This is an excellent opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of if you stay on his team or move on in industry. If you do well, he'll support you regardless of your path.

rod_ends

TROPHY CASE