I'm not sure exactly what happens that causes damage, but I do know the drive shaft (they always called it the "short shaft") has to be inspected by doing a magnaflux test to check for cracking. On newer models, the mags will short out if you try to roll the throttle on without the rotors engaged. You can expect the aircraft to be down for a couple of days, minimum.
BTW- Don't break it as Schweizer lists the part for $20,077.33!
Last edited by helonorth; 25th Jul 2012 at 13:45.