Chain size vs ease of use

[dcastillo]

Might be a dumb question that I think I know the answer to, but thought I would double check before going through the pain of changing a bunch of components.

Currently I am using a small #25 chain on my sons 250W electric go cart, but struggling with the chain jumping off and just not working smoothly...
Would going to a larger #35 chain be more forgiving to chain slack, sprockets not perfectly aligned and maybe a little frame flex under load?
I have obviously tried to eliminate those issues as best I could, but they still exist to some extent.

thanx
Danny

 

[itsid]

frankly.. I think a larger pitch would make it worse (less teeth aligning the chain to the sprocket)

I can't tell for sure.. but I think a small pitch stiff (laterally stiff that is) like 219 would be the better alternative here.

Okay it's likely even harder to find than decent #25 in the US... IDK,

How about adding a chain tensioner first, maybe that's the easiest and most promising thing to do for now anyways?

'sid

 

[dcastillo]

It crossed my mind as I have seen it on other carts.. Ill do some quick searching and see what I can find...
Just fell really bummed that my 3 yr old hasnt been able to ride his cart in 3 weeks
-Danny

---------- Post added at 02:48 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:33 PM ----------

found this one for cheap...
http://www.monsterscooterparts.com/chain-tensioner-razor-dune-buggy.html
maybe Ill give it a try...
also going to buy a long axle so my sprockets can better align..
thanx
danny

 

[OzFab]

FYI: #25 & #219 chains are almost identical, the only differences being width & strength...

Correct alignment of the sprockets is crucial, as is correct chain tension...

 

[dcastillo]

I have ordered a longer jack shaft so I can better align the sprockets, hopefully that is enough..
I am concerned that I snapped the #25 chain last time out, even with only a 250W motor
maybe cause its trying to push a combined weight of ~100lbs through the grass...
I may have to look into options to go to a stronger chain, especially since I plan to bump up the motor size as he gets older.
thanx again for the advice
Danny

 

[Functional Artist]

Hey Denny,

I would think the chain snapped when walking on top of the sprocket.

You know on top of the teeth (over stretched = broke)

I don't think a 250W motor is powerful enough to break a chain.

Even in grass (high resistance) the motor would more likely over heat.

Like OzFab said alignment is super important.

I would work on alignment before spending $ on chain & matching sprockets.

Go bigger, when you go bigger!

Alignment is difficult "by eye" you gotta use a tool.

If it helps, I usually use a paint stir stick. (straight edge)

Lay it against your larger sprocket (usually axle) & it will help show how well you align with the smaller sprocket.

 

[dcastillo]

wow, awesome idea with the paint stick....
Will definitely do that when I get the new shaft in.

Also, thanx for the FYI on the 250W shouldnt be able to snap a chain, makes me feel better.
-Danny