Engine testing is set to take place ahead of the Repco Bathurst 1000, with updates planned for the Ford crankshaft following recent failures at Sandown. The testing program, conducted by AVL in the United States, will involve both Ford and Chevrolet engines. The Ford engine, in particular, will undergo testing with an updated crankshaft as a result of multiple failures during the Penrite Oil Sandown 500 and subsequent events.
At the recent Sandown races, three Ford Mustang Supercars encountered crankshaft failures, prompting an immediate investigation by Ford’s Supercars engine supplier, Motorsport Powertrains. In response to the issues, all Ford Supercar engines have been recalled to the Motorsport Powertrains facility in Queensland for rebuilding. Ford is also in the process of sourcing Mustang GT3 crankshafts to address the problem before the upcoming Bathurst event.
Supercars General Manager of Motorsport, Tim Edwards, emphasized that any modifications to the engines will be finalized before the Repco Bathurst 1000. He confirmed that testing sessions for both Ford and Chevrolet engines are scheduled at Queensland Raceway to implement the findings from the AVL testing program in Detroit. The goal is to ensure that the engines are in optimal condition for the highly anticipated race weekend.
Ford Performance has been actively involved in addressing the crankshaft issues, collaborating with Ford teams to rectify the problem. The company has undertaken significant engineering efforts to adapt the Mustang GT3 crankshaft for use in the Ford Supercar engine. This modification will be homologated by Supercars in preparation for the Bathurst 1000, with the number of engines utilizing the updated crankshaft contingent on the supply availability.
The Repco Bathurst 1000, a highlight of the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship, is scheduled to take place from October 10-13. The event holds significant importance in the Supercars calendar, attracting fans and teams from around the world. Tickets for the Bathurst race are already on sale, generating excitement among motorsport enthusiasts eager to witness the thrilling competition on the iconic Mount Panorama circuit.
In the lead-up to the Bathurst event, the focus remains on ensuring the reliability and performance of the competing engines. The collaborative efforts between manufacturers, teams, and Supercars officials underscore the commitment to delivering a competitive and safe racing environment. The developments in engine testing and upgrades reflect the continuous pursuit of excellence and innovation within the Supercars series, setting the stage for an electrifying showdown at the Repco Bathurst 1000.
As the motorsport community eagerly awaits the return of high-octane racing action at Bathurst, the preparations behind the scenes highlight the meticulous attention to detail and dedication to enhancing the on-track spectacle. The upcoming event promises to be a showcase of speed, skill, and strategy, with teams pushing the limits of performance in pursuit of victory on one of Australia’s most challenging circuits.
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