2019 - New GrandDaddy build (contd 2018)

[pa17315]

2019-Predator Engine Remote Choke part 15

Remote Choke review/testing

The remote choke mod is a great feature for Predator engine 420cc. It is the best improvement so far for this go kart. I can start the engine, control the choke from the driver seat. The choke stop prevent the choke pull from over extend. I can control choke opening as needed for cold engine.

The day of getting in and out is over, call me lazy but if it saves me an annoying trip. I am okay with it.

I would definitely recommend this mod for your Predator engine.

 

[Corbie]

I have just spent the last hour or so reading this log from start to finish and i must say im impressed, well done to you, the attention to detail is first class. I hope the buggy gets the appreciation it deserves.

 

[pa17315]

I have just spent the last hour or so reading this log from start to finish and i must say im impressed, well done to you, the attention to detail is first class. I hope the buggy gets the appreciation it deserves.

Thank you, not too shabby job right. I am still a newbie but I have learned so much during this project.

The more I have learned, the more I want, the more money it would cost. Now I want, I want, want,,,,want.....a metal lathe, or a mill. CNC...I wish I have never build this go kart in the beginning...

Maybe I can start with a metal lathe from Grizzly. Small one to learn on. Grizzly G0765. I am doing research on it...Seem pretty decent except for the plastic gears.

 

[pa17315]

2019- Reverse gear box part 1

I have always wanted to install a reverse gear box on Predator 420cc engine.

Briefly look at the part required, It seems like it is a doable project again. However, I am sure some modification to current setup is required. Just a reverse gearbox addition, nothing major, simple but I tend to cringe when the word simple comes up.

We will see, more updates to follow.

If I can do this, then I don't have to get out and push the darn go-kart to turn around again.....The thing is getting so heavy...

 

[Bansil]

Waiting for your reverse trial! Been thinking same

 

[pa17315]

Waiting for your reverse trial! Been thinking same

Just looking around, however reverse gearbox for 6hp engine. Predator 420cc is 13hp, it's a crap shoot.

 

[pa17315]

2019- Reverse gear box part 2

Research:

I found this pic on the web, I am not sure it will work. Looks promising but I don't want to redesign the current setup and then it fails on me.

I may take the plunge but I need to explore possible failures first.

Go Kart Forward Neutral Reverse Gearbox 3-8HP Engine 40/41 3/4'' 10T With TAV30

3-8HP engine!!!!

 

[Denny]

That is too light of a gearbox for your kart and the 30 series won't fare any better than the box.

Keep looking, sorry.

Denny

 

[pa17315]

That is too light of a gearbox for your kart and the 30 series won't fare any better than the box.

Keep looking, sorry.

Denny

Yes, definitely too light for predator 420cc. I am sure some folk has done it already.

 

[russellcorleone]

bro, can u give me the plan? i cant afford to buy it

 

[pa17315]

bro, can u give me the plan? i cant afford to buy it

The basic plan doesn't really apply in my case. It has the appearance of "granddaddy" but much has changed to fit the driver. Your height should be taken into consideration when build. Take the basic plan and enlarge it, width and length on the main frame. front suspension frame should be enlarged. Rear engine frame has enlarged to accommodate larger engine. Beef up shocks, larger tires, electrical system....lots of thing to consider before building. Addition of wheel fender, side steps....emergency brakes...turning lights....

As for the plan, basic "granddaddy" plan is totally different than what I have build. Most of the time, it was sketched out on any kind of paper I have accessed at that moment and then onto build. Sketch out tirelessly and you have less trial and errors.

Use the pics that I have posted to use as a guide and utilize features you like. I can send you pics of area that you have questions.

It's a great learning process, enjoy it.

 

[Kartorbust]

The only FNR gearbox that would have worked, was the one from Comet. Not very many float around for sale anymore, pretty much all have been acquired and probably not even used, and will probably be scalped by people on eBay.

 

[pa17315]

The only FNR gearbox that would have worked, was the one from Comet. Not very many float around for sale anymore, pretty much all have been acquired and probably not even used, and will probably be scalped by people on eBay.

Just check around, you are right, no dice.

 

[russellcorleone]

Printed out the plans, organized different sections, redraw plans with dimensions,

Bro can you share this with me?

 

[pa17315]

Update

I have not been working on the go-kart for a while. I got side track and bought a Grizzly G0752 variable speed metal lathe. I hope this new tool will expand my capacity to make more parts for the go-kart.

I have known that it was a heavy equipment but totally unprepared for the size and weight. I have managed to push, heave, manhandled into my garage, but getting it onto yet to be build table is another matter.

In order to get there, I need a crane. Harbor freight offers a two tons crane hoist or build my own gantry crane with more height, better stability and an option to serve as welding platform. (Example: I can lift the go kart frame, setting it on supports and weld from below. 3 feet off the floor is better than 12 inches.)

To get there, I have found a straight path is not always feasible. There are always surprises and requirements.

If anyone interests, I can post my build as part of this go-kart

 

[Earthy]

Wondering where you bought the steering rack from, also what shocks did you go with (definately an upgrade over the ones in the plans )?

 

[pa17315]

Wondering where you bought the steering rack from, also what shocks did you go with (definately an upgrade over the ones in the plans )?

Front shock stays the same as per plan, however rear shocks were upgraded to stronger shocks from recommended shocks per plan. If you have read my posts, you will see that I have written reviews about the shocks system.

I would re design front end suspension to take larger, more robust shocks system.

 

[pa17315]

Wondering where you bought the steering rack from, also what shocks did you go with (definately an upgrade over the ones in the plans )?

Steering rack from Ebay and Amazon

 

[pa17315]

Front shock stays the same as per plan, however rear shocks were upgraded to stronger shocks from recommended shocks per plan. If you have read my posts, you will see that I have written reviews about the shocks system.

I would re design front end suspension to take larger, more robust shocks system.

Rear shocks from Ebay: (14.75" 375mm Pair Universal Motorcycle Scooters ATV Air Rear Shocks Absorbers ht)

Here is a similar shocks::

https://www.ebay.com/itm/14-75-375m...Scooter-ATV-/323898592655?hash=item4b69dc4d8f

---------- Post added at 12:37 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:24 PM ----------

Steering rack from Ebay and Amazon

Here is the link for rack and pinion from Amazon. Note: It is longer than specified to accommodate the increase size on the front suspension block.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BJ5P0A0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

---------- Post added at 12:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:48 PM ----------

For those who would like to use my build:

On the front suspension shock system, I have enlarged it so you would need to get longer steering part. I have also extended the front suspension from the main frame to add additional strength. Take special attention when aligning the arms. Specs call out for 1/2" offset, and that would rub the arms when front shocks are added.

In retrospect, I would redesign the front suspension from the A-arms alignment and the clearance for the rack and pinion system.

Good luck

 

[Bansil]

If I was near PA (assuming ) i would help get lathe setup, and yeah pics would be good...you gotta make chips to make parts