Absolute limit on Vin for Arduino Motor Shield R3

The absolute limit for the Arduino Motor Shield is listed as 18 volts. What sets that limit? I would like to drive a 24 volt solenoid. (Yes, I know this board is overkill for solenoids.) The L298 is rated at 46 volts. The bypass caps on Vin are rated at 35 v. The LEDs should tolerate the 2.2 mA at 24 volts. The SS14 Schottky protection diodes are rated at 40 v. So, why can't the board handle 24 volts? Thanks.