Dual engine
- Thread starter Hellfish
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CustomShifter
New member
Timing, if you have them running at different cycles then one engine will drag and the other one will be more stressed which both end in catastrophic failure so you really need to make sure that your cable length is the same and the both start at the same time.
Nodroz
New member
It shouldn't be a problem on a regular axle. Just add another sprocket.
qtband
Well-known member
This may be a dumb question, but you know what they say.
Would it be possible to make a "Y" type intake manifold that would service both engines and have only 1 carb? Would it need to be too long for fitment?
Would it be possible to make a "Y" type intake manifold that would service both engines and have only 1 carb? Would it need to be too long for fitment?
Russ2251
AZUSA:Powered by LAWN-BOY
It could be done with some loss of power. My question is, why would you want to?
Nodroz
New member
This idea would work fine if both the pistons are working 2 cycles between eachother. Now, imagine both your engines are at the same cycle, the carburetor won't be able to give enough mixture to both the engines at the same time, thus causing loss of energy.
That's my idea about this...
Doc Sprocket
*********
Depends on how big the carb is. Personally, I think this all is way overthought. If both engines are reasonably equal, as are the throttle pulls, I think it will be fine. Maybe, at some point, one engine may be pulling the other a bit- but to suggest a catastrophic end is a bit chicken-littleish, IMHO.
r97
Measure twice cut once
I agree, you guys are over thinking this. If you are really worried you could set up an adjustable rod between the two carbs. If you are starting off with used engines, it would be a good idea to make sure both are in relatively the same condition.
Russ2251
AZUSA:Powered by LAWN-BOY
Very little!
I'm kinda' surprised that this isn't done more often. Perhaps it's the perceived expense?
If you already have 2 engines...you're 90% there.
Not quite 90%... I still need a kart! 
Actually, I have 2 B&S engines, but I think 1 is 4hp and one is 5hp. I need to run the numbers. Once I have a matching pair, I'll rebuild them. Hopefully by then I'll have a chassis, too.
Russ... Why have 1 carb? Only 1 throttle cable/linkage to deal with, no balancing problems, etc... but we all know more carbs = more fun. Obviously 1 carb designed for 1 engine wouldn't cut the mustard. Either a bigger carb or different jets would be required.
Actually, I have 2 B&S engines, but I think 1 is 4hp and one is 5hp. I need to run the numbers. Once I have a matching pair, I'll rebuild them. Hopefully by then I'll have a chassis, too.Russ... Why have 1 carb? Only 1 throttle cable/linkage to deal with, no balancing problems, etc... but we all know more carbs = more fun. Obviously 1 carb designed for 1 engine wouldn't cut the mustard. Either a bigger carb or different jets would be required.
gixxerkart
Big Boss
An awesome idea I was thinking would be to make a one wheel drive axle on BOTH sides! Then hook one engine up to each side and have two throttle pedals side by side so they are essentially a single pedal. If you got REALLY good at it you could even modulate your foot so your inside tire would spin faster and therefore corner tighter. Anyone done this?
Russ2251
AZUSA:Powered by LAWN-BOY
I had no such issues. Far easier than connecting one carb between 2 engines. Too much work.
Not quite 90%... I still need a kart!
Russ... Why have 1 carb? Only 1 throttle cable/linkage to deal with, no balancing problems, etc... but we all know more carbs = more fun. Obviously 1 carb designed for 1 engine wouldn't cut the mustard. Either a bigger carb or different jets would be required.
I think it would be better if you used similar HP engines
gixxerkart
Big Boss
I'm still promoting this idea. Unless someone can debate otherwise?
Doc Sprocket
*********
So... Try it!
More trouble than it's worth, IMO. If you want radius-burning steering, you're far better off with independent brakes- ask any tractor-owner or serious rockcrawler.
More trouble than it's worth, IMO. If you want radius-burning steering, you're far better off with independent brakes- ask any tractor-owner or serious rockcrawler.
gixxerkart
Big Boss
It's not a matter of turning radius. It's a matter of cornering speed. Ask any pro racer(like myself) and they will know a limited slip diff gives the best cornering results due to both tires being able to turn at differing speeds when under acceleration. Since a true LSD cannot be had on a kart, an improvised one like this would suit so long as the pilot understands the scrub concept.
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