Powerful computers have changed the face of motorsports. Engines, suspensions, temperatures, loads, motion, speeds are monitored by sensors and instantly adjusted for optimum performance. Transmissions and transaxles have not been left out of the electronic revolution. Computer assisted shifting has made increased shift speeds possible while also reducing shift related damage due to improper technique. Whether enabled with a load cell shift knob or a full paddle shift assembly, race quality sequential shifting is now available for any driver, from the expert racer to the weekend novice. Available, that is, if the transaxle is mechanically capable of meeting these demands.

Taking full advantage of today's instantaneous electronic shifts. We made optimizing the shift quality of our Weddlle S-series Sequential Transaxles a priority. Like many projects the re-design of the ratchet mechanism literally started out as a napkin sketch. Initial ideas led to small trials. Prototype components were developed in house, tested, and refined until the majority of the ratchet mechanism had been upgraded. The result is the 3rd Generation (Gen 3) Ratchet Mechanism for the Weddle S-Series Sequential transaxles, included on every trans delivered since late 2022. 

Learn more about Weddle S-series Sequential Transaxles

Drum speed and rotation stops. The pivot points that rotate the ratchet and shift drum were crucial to the re-design. The pivot points were optimized for additional rotation of the shift drum from the same movement of the shift lever in the cab. The more aggressive rotation ratios equated to faster turns of the drum, making each shift feel snappier and more positive. During the re-design, physical stops were also added to the ratchet mechanism. These rotation stops are not just an end point to the shift but also physically lock the drum in place at the end of a shift. This prevents over-rotation which causes the trans to skip a gear. 

Compatibility. While the majority of the internal Gen 3 Ratchet Mechanism components have been upgraded from previous versions, the shift housing remained unchanged allowing older shift housings to be upgraded to the Gen 3 Mechanism. Not all older housings are compatible. Please contact Weddle Industries for details.

The result. The response from race teams has been fantastic. Weddle S-Series units with the Gen 3 Ratchet Shift Mechanism have had great results with paddle shift assemblies, load cell shift knobs or no electronic controls at all. Customer’s have also  seen improved dog life while experiencing more positive, faster shifts. What's the shift quality like? Ask top Formulat Drift driver Matt Field. 

Application: Weddle S4/S5 and Weddle S4D/S5D Transaxles

Call us at +1 805 562 8600 or email us for more information.