Check out new build - Stretched big block

[rockman96]

I picked up an old Streaker go Kart on eBay a few months ago. Lots of issues: motor (6.5hp clone), bent front axle on right, controls, you name it. So instead of making do, I decided to start cutting, fabricating, and welding up something more to my liking. Still not complete, but well on the way. Here's some features and pics:

- 16hp clone motor
- beefed up mount and outer axle supports
- stiffening gussets in rear of frame
- third axle bearing/support
- jackshaft support
- 7.5" frame/wheelbase/controls stretch
- steering and all controls supported on ball bearings
- custom steering support, and redesigned linkages (improved geometry)
- juice brake

There's more little things, but that's what comes to mind now. A lot is overkill, I know, but that's how I always end up doing anything I do.

Also, disclaimer: This project is a welding-learning project. Welds may not be pretty, but they're deep and I'm confident they will hold good. I'm getting better. (I don't see a 'blushing' emoticon)

How it started:

And so it began:

 

[rockman96]

Pic showing successful Ackerman geometry!

Also, this will mainly be off road (dirt) with occasional sprints around the block. Zero camber, about 5deg caster.

 

[OzFab]

Nice work all round; I have 2 questions:
1. Does it have a front bumper?
2. Where are the pedals/controls located?

 

[rockman96]

Thanks.

1) Not yet... it's work in progress.
2) Just behind the front axle, they aren't installed yet... you can see two pieces of tubing welded perpendicular to the side frame rails. There are two bearings in each one. Will post a pic when in place.

 

[Half-breeder]

Now THAT is a solid frame!!! VERY well done. I did the similar thing as you(just a grander scale)... and I have to say Im alil jealous... awesome job!

Also, noticed the placement of where your gonna be putting the pedals... an idea... if you find your tie rods hitting your heels on turns... ya may wanna 'raise' the elevation of the pedals/foot/heel-rests, to clear the swing of the rods, then weld a solid plate over the rods to shield the rods and rest the foot... just an idea.

 

[firemanjim]

VERY nice job!

 

[OzFab]

Also, noticed the placement of where your gonna be putting the pedals... an idea... if you find your tie rods hitting your heels on turns... ya may wanna 'raise' the elevation of the pedals/foot/heel-rests, to clear the swing of the rods, then weld a solid plate over the rods to shield the rods and rest the foot... just an idea.

I was thinking the same thing... or, something similar...

 

[landuse]

Nice work

 

[desrtrat]

The firebird in the background, I'm so jealous

 

[Scout]

One of the better jobs I've seen here

 

[rockman96]

Now THAT is a solid frame!!! VERY well done. I did the similar thing as you(just a grander scale)... and I have to say Im alil jealous... awesome job!

Also, noticed the placement of where your gonna be putting the pedals... an idea... if you find your tie rods hitting your heels on turns... ya may wanna 'raise' the elevation of the pedals/foot/heel-rests, to clear the swing of the rods, then weld a solid plate over the rods to shield the rods and rest the foot... just an idea.

Thanks! And thanks to everyone for all the other nice comments too!

Yeah, that tie-rod to pedal clearance actually looks worse in the pic than it does when you sit in it with the pedal(s) mounted temporarily... I *think* it's going to be ok, I'll find out for sure when I get to ride it.

 

[Joe-405]

I really dont know what your worried about, Your welding and fabrication skills are better than alot of other stuff i have seen. Great work.

 

[rockman96]

Getting closer... got my brake linkage done and the lines plumbed & bled. Also got the throttle linkage done on the engine side, this is how I did mine (I love shoulder bolts!):

Detail:

I decided to fab up a 'conduit' for the brake lines (for added protection). Check it:

 

[rmm727]

Getting closer... got my brake linkage done and the lines plumbed & bled. Also got the throttle linkage done on the engine side, this is how I did mine (I love shoulder bolts!):

Detail:

I like this.

What is that throttle cable originally from?

 

[rockman96]

Honestly, I dunno... I guess it's generic, I ordered it from BMI. I saw it had the 90deg feed tube and thought it might work well.

 

[mckutzy]

That kinda looks like a noodle from a bicycle V-brakes, used in the same fashion for smoothing redirecting the cable forces.

 

[rockman96]

Thought I'd post some update pics. Progress has been slow the past two weeks, but it's getting very close now. Wiring, battery box, and drive are all that are standing between me and a test drive!

 

[rockman96]

And a quick reality check... 6.5hp Predator next to a 16hp CS:

 

[gonegonzo]

Don't leave us in the dark now . Let's see some more updates .

Do you plan to install a roll cage ?

Gonzo

 

[rockman96]

Finally wrapped it up this afternoon and took the first test drive! The chain tensioner was the last piece standing in the way of a test drive. Man, this thing is peppy! Played around in the back yard briefly to get a feel for it, and then took it up and down the road. Just guessing, but I estimate the top end to be in the 40-45mph range, and it gets there pretty quickly... I was concerned about the 18.5" tires and the fact that I weigh 250 or so, but it never even hesitates... it really likes to root (in the yard, and uphill at that!) The steering is very responsive, and it tracks straight as an arrow. It's a real hoot to drive.

Finished pics: