Scattershield

A scattershield is a protective metal housing that surrounds a race car's transmission or clutch area to contain dangerous debris if these high-stress components explode or break apart during competition.

In motorsports, engines and transmissions work under extreme conditions that can cause catastrophic failures. When a clutch, flywheel, or transmission explodes, it sends sharp metal fragments flying at incredible speeds in all directions. Without protection, this shrapnel could seriously injure the driver or spectators nearby.

Scattershields act like armor around these vulnerable components. They're typically made from strong materials like steel, aluminum, or titanium that can absorb the impact and contain the debris. Think of it as a protective cage that keeps the dangerous pieces from escaping into the driver's compartment or the surrounding area.

These safety devices are mandatory in many forms of racing, especially drag racing. The NHRA requires scattershields for any car that runs faster than 11.49 seconds in the quarter-mile, because faster times mean more stress on the drivetrain components. Sports sedan racing and other high-performance categories often have similar requirements.

There are two main types of transmission shields: rigid scattershields and flexible blankets. Rigid shields are hard metal housings that allow air to flow around the transmission, helping keep temperatures down. Transmission blankets are made from materials like Kevlar and wrap around the components like a protective cover.

Installation is critical for safety. A properly mounted scattershield must be securely attached to the car's frame or chassis, but never bolted directly to the transmission itself. This prevents the shield from being damaged if the transmission moves during a failure.

Even racers who aren't required to use scattershields often install them as an extra safety measure, especially when running modified engines or lightweight flywheels that put additional stress on drivetrain components.