Live Axle Kit Install Issues

[User12008]

So I bought a 1" live axle kit for my go kart and I am having issues installing the hubs and bearings. When I put the hub on, it is way harder than it should be to get it on and move it along the axle, and it sometimes gets stuck and will not move at all. The bearing will go on just a little bit but gets caught on something and gets stuck. It is almost as if the axle is too big for the other parts. Everything should be the right size because I bought it in a kit. Am I doing something wrong or do I need to get a different kit?

 

[Functional Artist]

I'd say your dealing with really close tolerances

Get some fine emery cloth (ideal) or fine sand paper & sand or kinda "polish" the axle
...then try sliding a hub or bearing on it
...if it still "binds", polish 'er some more till it slides smoothly

 

[User12008]

I'd say your dealing with really close tolerances

Get some fine emery cloth (ideal) or fine sand paper & sand or kinda "polish" the axle
...then try sliding a hub or bearing on it
...if it still "binds", polish 'er some more till it slides smoothly

Ok I will try that when I get home and let you know how it goes. Thanks!

 

[Denny]

Put some anti-seize between the hubs and axle and bearings and axle. So you can get it apart later if needed.

 

[Functional Artist]

Put some anti-seize between the hubs and axle and bearings and axle. So you can get it apart later if needed.

Good tip
...but, anti-seize isn't a usual household item
...what would be an acceptable substitute?

 

[karl]

usual household item
acceptable substitute?

peanut butter is oily and about the right consistency...

 

[Functional Artist]

peanut butter is oily and about the right consistency...

Wow!
...wonder how many folks will try that now?

 

[Denny]

You can make a sammich too! You can get anti-seize at any auto parts store.

 

[redflash]

Yes, Anti seize IS a household item for anyone building a go Kart, or 747 !

Da Flash

 

[Functional Artist]

Well, I can't see the average 15 year old (or mom tryin' to get their kids kart goin') having (or rushing out to get) a bottle of Never-seize just for this (1) time use
Just thought someone may have some "good" ideas
IMO Crisco would probably be a better "household" substitute than peanut butter

 

[User12008]

Well, I can't see the average 15 year old (or mom tryin' to get their kids kart goin') having (or rushing out to get) a bottle of Never-seize just for this (1) time use
Just thought someone may have some "good" ideas
IMO Crisco would probably be a better "household" substitute than peanut butter

I'll probably run out to get some just to have. Never know when I might need it again.

 

[Denny]

A small tube is not that expensive, just don’t try to make a sammich or cookies with the stuff. You can’t get it out of your mouth!

 

[MWKarter]

A smooth flat mill file works Good to uniformly take off the high spots / burrs along with your emery paper

 

[panchothedog]

If the axle is keyed take same emory cloth or fine sandpaper you need for smoothing the axle and work on the corners of the keyway, there are usually
burrs along the milled edge. After that work on the inside of your hub and
anything else to be slid into the axel. After you get it all smooth apply a light coat of most any kind of oil. The problem you are having is very common.
You must remember you are dealing with CHINESE machine parts, and while they will work they almost always need some pursuation. I have had to do this
to multiple shafts and sprockets, that should have fit.
If

 

[madprofessor]

having (or rushing out to get) a bottle of Never-seize just for this (1) time use

Ironically, this "(1) time use" is exactly the time you need Never-Seez or equal anti-seize lube. You should not ever need it again after the first use, unless you use it on another project. The whole idea is to use it just once and not need it again, since the parts should never seize up afterward.