Pipe, tires, axles

[khegna]

What's an ideal axle size for a go cart as follows:
-CB350 engine 35hp
-Frame: 1 1/4" 14 gauge (.083) box tube, schedule 40 1" pipe
-Suspension: rear swing arm, front double a-arm
-One seater w/ motor mounted to right of driver
-Rollcage
-Offroad rider (ditches, gravel roads, hills, etc.)


1. Not sure of tire size yet or of what size pipe for front a-arms. It is impossible to get round tubing around here, otherwise I would use that most likely. I've read a lot of forums and websites and decided to use some pipe for the project even though its fairly heavy, but hopefully strong. I've called almost every metal supplier in a 75 mile radius with no luck for round tubing.

2. Would it be fine using maybe 3/4" schedule 40 pipe for front a-arms?

3. What size axle is appropriate for the cart i'm building? I wanted to use 1 1/4" solid steel but they're so hard to find, especially in longer lengths.

4. What's your opinion on using a 1" axle? Is it too weak?

[Kenny_McCormic]

Somebody has to have round tubing.

[khegna]

Originally Posted by Kenny_McCormic

Somebody has to have round tubing.

Nope. I called at least 15 metal suppliers. No one needs round tube around here. - Southwest MN

[kibble]

Dang, that sucks!

[jr dragster Tyler]

1 1/4 X .83 wall will have a bit too much flex. You would be better off with 1 1/2 with a .120 wall.

[Kenny_McCormic]

Your gonna have to order it, I wouldnt trust waterpipe for anything.

[Walter Keller]

Try Wicks Aircraft Supply http://www.wicksaircraft.com/

The Chassis Shop http://secure.chassisshop.com/Default.aspx

Both sell 4130 DOM tubing all different sizes - I have bought from both

[kibble]

Ummm both links are the same...

[Walter Keller]

Whoops - thanks - fixed

[khegna]

any idea for what size axle to use?

[Aryukei]

1" or 1 3/4"

[khegna]

where would i find one any bigger than 1 inch? and at what length?

[5trucks]

It's all in the design. I always use 1 1/4" .083 hrew steel when i build. My carts usually weigh about 225-250lbs and that is @ 7' long with rear swing and front dual a arms. Remember this key word in your design, triangulation. My front a arms are made of 1" .083 hrew. Never use pipe. This is a great link on tube size and strength. Good luck!



http://www.pirate4x4.com/tech/billavista/Links/

[5trucks]

Try these places: State Steel in Spencer and Sioux Falls IA
and McNelius in Rodchester

If these don't pan out give me your location and i'll call a guy who may be able to get you in contact with a local welding shop that has what you need.

[khegna]

any idea where i can find an axle bigger than 1" or is that ok?

[Aryukei]

It's fine, stop asking.