We have updated the previous article with information on the horrific failures captured on video.
This isn’t another story about Dodge Challengers SRT Demon drivers causing havoc on the streets. These guys did everything right, and even took their car to the track. They were not prepared for what was to come. We can now see the devastation in slow motion thanks to high-speed cameras. It’s not the drivers who are at fault in this instance, but the drivetrain. It’s one thing building an engine capable of producing 808 horsepower. It is a different matter to create a transmission or differential that can handle that amount of power and put it to the ground.
Sticky racing slicks can increase stress. Reduced wheelspin and greater grip mean more shock to your drivetrain during launch. This is the critical moment when the drivetrain feels the most stress. This YouTube video by Nick Olson ( Olsons ecoboost) shows that the differential failed to handle stress on at least two occasions. The clip shows the grey Demon first, which seems to have a great start with a strong launch and heavy front end that launches it skyward. The rear axle shakes violently, sending ripples through the car. As the front ends crash back to the ground, it follows with a strong launch. Finally, we finally see the wreckage: the remains of the rear differential that have been smashed and splattered on the track.
The second video, which features an orange Demon, is more of what you see. It shows the entire car shaking violently as its differential explodes. As the rear end releases, the trunk, exhaust, gas cap and rear bumper seem to be trying to escape the sinking ship. The shattering gear set actually bends the exhaust, which is a testimony to the immense forces at work. As with all platforms, however, the aftermarket will gladly supply stronger drivetrain components to dedicated racers who have enough money. Enjoy the chaos until then.