I'm not versed on the deep technical aspects of the Burkland setup, but it gave virtually no trouble during all the runs the car made. One engine had a special cam/crank for running backwards. The engines were connected via a special coupler/shaft arrangment, essentially having them act as one V-16 with ablility to transfer power out each end. Putting the pinion in the differentials on opposite sides allows forward motion on the front and rear axles. I remember Tom pointing to the shaft in between the engines "floating" when the engines were both "happy" and in sync. Yes, if one engine has a problem it will drag the other down, but it's no different that one big V-16 running clutches/transmissions out each end. I would contact Tom for details. It was a very reliable setup that never failed as far as I remember.