Awesome Chopper builder (pics!)

[imported_robertdjung]

Got some email from Chuck, a custom mini chopper builder, and he sent along some pics. I've invited him to join the discussion, if anyone has some questions -- and I'll bet we can think up quite a few!

[seney2]

http://home.nycap.rr.com/seney2/trike1.jpg
http://home.nycap.rr.com/seney2/trike2.jpg

[jrjulien1]

wow u do great work that thing looks awesome

[imported_robertdjung]

those are golf cart tires in the last photo?

[seney2]

Thanks for the compliments, yes those are golf cart tires, I sometimes use snowmobile trailer tires.....

I usually go to my local golf cart store and ask to buy used tires.... they have piles of them and most have more than 1/2 life left....

[imported_robertdjung]

that's a great idea -- those things aren't cheap. For your rear axles on the choppers, do you use the pillow block bearing/live axle set up? And what have you found to be "too long" for a run of chain. IE, at what point do you think you need to go with a jackshaft. (or do you always use some kind of multispeed setup?)

[seney2]

I have used both.... I think they both work well, but I happen to use the live axle more often. The live axle comes in a nice kit with brakes, hub, sprocket, bearings and hangers.

As far as chain length, I usually add a spring loaded chain tensioner. With either a idler sprocket or a roller skate wheel which holds it in place pretty good....

http://home.nycap.rr.com/seney2/chaintensioner.jpg

[jrjulien1]

looks awesome but for a long run over {4ft on my go kart} would i have to use a tensoiner or would i be ok without one also about how much do u pay for the golf kart tires i need some for my next project and a golf course is near my house

thanks

[seney2]

I would use a tensioner on any length, while you're riding the chain is always snug....

I pay anywhere from $15 to $25 per tire and rim.... on occasion they will give me 2 for that price...

[jrjulien1]

thats cheap i hope that i can get them for that much and one more thing how big of a diameter do those tires have or if it varies just tell me what youve seen

thanks

[seney2]

I've seen all different sizes.... rim size 8",9",10" and 12"...
overall sizes 18" up to 25"