Will a chain saw engine work?

[andrewnitch]

I'm hoping to start building what will be my first kart. I have a small 2 stroke engine (35cc's) from a chain saw. Will this be enough power for a small kart?

[Affair_driven]

A good starting point is about 9 cu.in. or about 150 cc. (4 cycle) for about 3.5 hp.
Current home saws are just too small.
For the amount of work you'd have to put into it just to get it to work...you will be disappointed because of it's lack of performance.
Chainsaws aren't what they used to be.

[Kaptain Krunch]

Chainsaws aren't what they used to be.

so true, you should see my mac 10 compared to my dads new stihl, there both the same size, and dont get me wrong stihl's are great saws, but that mac 10 is just a beast. the combination of no vibration dampening, and such an open exhaust make it feel so powerful.


As for the engine, no a 35cc saw wouldn't do much. Especially if its one of those Poulan, or other walmart type saws that aren't even fit for cutting saplings. Your best bet is finding either a sled, or MC engine. If you cant find something like that for cheap, try to find an old tiller, generator, woodsplitter, water pump, snowblower, or something like that with a good engine. Just make sure it doesnt have a tapered shaft.

[EagleTalons]

Harbor Freight 6.5 HP engines are on sale for 119.99!

[andrewnitch]

Alright, I figured it would be too small. Thanks all for your input.