This week in the manual machine shop I’m helping out some old friends. When I was at the University of Kentucky, I was on the Formula SAE (Formula Student) team where we designed, built and raced with a Formula 1 style race car. The main competition we attended was at the MIchigan International Speedway, and included many performance based aspects like an autocross style endurance race. As well as engineering design and cost evaluations. Just as was the case when I was on the team, the new team was looking for help in whatever form possible. So I’m lending my machine tools and the little knowledge I’ve built up to help make the front wheel spindles. They are made from 6061 aluminum and connect the wheels and brake rotors to the car through tapered roller bearings. There is a lot of machining involved in these but I’m especially excited for all the glorious lathe work. And already I can see a few side projects creeping up. Enjoy!