Previously, we’ve explored how Expand Machinery gives Arrow McLaren not only the tools to build race-winning cars, but also top-notch service. Those qualities are vital to success for Arrow McLaren in the ever-changing world of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. With a priority for constant innovation, Arrow McLaren must be on its toes to be able to prepare for different set-ups or adjust design changes throughout a season.
With Expand Machinery, that burden becomes a little less heavy to carry. As Arrow McLaren Senior Manager of Production Ricky Howerton says, they’re critical in keeping up with our ever-changing needs.
“Expand Machinery has been a vital part of Arrow McLaren’s development process through the early stages of the season when new products are being designed, manufactured and validated on the track,” Ricky says. “With increasingly more complex designs, manufacturing must stay up with those demands. That’s where the new equipment is key.”
From creating carbon fiber molds to suspension components and even transmission parts, Expand Machinery gives Arrow McLaren the ability to have an “in-house” shock program that puts the team at the forefront of technology. Improving the suspension program is always a key for teams across the series, as it is one of the few areas of the car that is truly customizable. Through three races, it seems that the program is running well given the impressive on-track pace from Pato, Nolan and Christian, thanks in part to Expand Machinery.
The search for progress won’t stop after the first few races, either. As we get closer to the summer, the INDYCAR schedule will feature more and more ovals, meaning vastly new setups for each of the three full-time Arrow McLaren entries. With the service and machines that Expand Machinery provides, though, making those adjustments will be much easier.
That kind of efficiency is vital in Ricky’s role, which involves overseeing the process of designing parts, from production timelines to computer-generated designs. It’s a role that has a lot of moving parts, and Expand Machinery plays a crucial role in his every day and long-term projects that ultimately help push the race team forward.
