In this work a dynamic model for the overhung rotor, considering the contact phenomenon between the rotor and the stator is analyzed. It is modeled as a shaft-rotor- stator system with contact. The analysis of contact is particularly complex, due to the high nonlinearity of motion equations. Impact with the stator is accounted by a consistent contact model, as Kelvin-Vôigt model, and, rotor`s motion equation is encountered employing Lagrangean`s method; this equations are capable of capturing the phenomenon due to lateral vibration, as: forward whirl, backward whirl, rolling or sliding along the stator. Due to the combined parameters and the effect of nonlinearity in motion equations, the dynamical response is not simple or easily predictable. Numerical simulation is the preferred method of analysis, exactly is used the Runge-Kutta Fehlberg method with variable step. Simulation results show that under certain conditions, a rotor changes its orbit due the impacts with the stator and after that, it executes backward whirl motion. It is a kind of phenomenon, which is considered as the most violent and dangerous in rotating machines. To this end, the analysis of a vertical overhung shaft-disc system with annular guard is investigated. The passing through its critical speed is analyzed when driven by an electric motor (also when the system operates under a constant rotational velocity). In addition, in this work the results obtained with an experimental test rig are used to investigate the whirl phenomenon.