Open vs Closed Gearboxes

[BrendanB]

We covered our supershifters with metal flashing this season. Weighs next to nothing but next year we'd probably use thin lexan so we can see into the gearbox.

[Joey Milia]

We had Gearbox shields on the bottom of our gearbox for the first time last year. We did this because we were running worm gears and had to keep them free of debris, else lose more efficiency. The shield was made out of 1/32 aluminum and was very light.

We're doing so again on a new gearbox, this time it's less of an afterthought.

[BJC]

Historically we have machined new sideplates for the AM supershifter or Gen 1 although we have also added provisions for a third motor in some seasons. Per my understanding Andymark's fully covered gearboxes are more for legality and increased functionality in a greater number situations. (they can't get fingers sucked into them, they can be safely run on a table, and more easily interfaced to a great number of designs, etc.) Custom sideplates eliminate alot of functionality that while important for mass production/consumption may not be important in your design. This is traded off in favor of things like reduced weight, better packaging, more favorable gear ratios, etc which most teams find desirable.

In any case, we cover our otherwise open gearboxes with thin polycarb which seems to work well.

Regards, Bryan

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Gears produce metal dust and that dust can find it's way into speed controllers and other electronics. If you don't place covers then insure that there is some distance between the transmissions and electricals.

[topgun]

We used some aluminum tape last year on our open frame gearbox to seal it. http://www.mcmaster.com/#aluminum-tape/=jvj3k9

Not the cheapest, but it sealed well, lite weight, conformed to the surface, looks shiny, trims to edge very well, and very durable. One roll will last you for a long time.