window motor backlash

[Matt Adams]

Originally Posted by Cory

It is acceptable to modify the mounting brackets and/or other structural parts of the motors (output
shaft, housing, etc.) as long as the electrical system is not modified and the integral mechanical
system of the moving parts (bearings, bushings, worm gear output stages, etc.) is not changed or
removed.

Cory-

First off, I definitely wasn't out to make your team sound like un-GP cheaters. However, I think it'd be in everyone's best interest to ask FIRST about that modification. To me, the rule intent sounds like FIRST gives the thumbs up to modify the exterior of the motor and the piece that spins. To shove an extra piece of metal within the gear train is something that could be considered a more grey area.

It might be better to "play it safe" and realize that opening the cover of any motor (minus removing the pins in the drill) to modify the internals could be entering some sort of a grey area. When I think "output shaft", I think of the metal cylinder protruding from the housing, and I consider things within the motor housing itself to be the "holy ground" that dare not be touched.

However, it'd be best to get an answer straight from the source- the FIRST Q & A.

Good luck!

Matt