First Kart

[Sprocket_X]

Hey forum, I just got a kart for free on craigslist that im fixing up on a low budget. Im wondering if I should rebuild the current 5.5hp engine *unknown brand* its in pretty bad condition, or should I find another engine

 

[landuse]

Welcome to the forum. That kart looks a little small. Will you be able to fit in there?

Concerning the engine, it is a bit hard to say without knowing what is wrong with it. If you have no engine repair skills, it might be worth your time and money just to get a new one. If all you need is a new tank and exhaust, well then it is better to fix her up.

Have you got spark? Is there any compression? What looks like it is broken?

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Welcome to the forum! And, I completely agree with Landuse's thoughts.

 

[Sprocket_X]

The tank and carburetor need to be replaced, it sparks fine but im not sure about the compression, ive got a buddy coming over tomorrow to take a look at it, I also have a horizontal shaft 8hp mower engine with the same size mounts, im considering using that, as its in a better condition. As for size I may have to mod the frame a bit, depending on the type of seat I get.

Do you have any idea what the speed range will be with a 8hp?

FYI its a Tyrod 4

 

[landuse]

The tank and carburetor need to be replaced, it sparks fine but im not sure about the compression, ive got a buddy coming over tomorrow to take a look at it, I also have a horizontal shaft 8hp mower engine with the same size mounts, im considering using that, as its in a better condition. As for size I may have to mod the frame a bit, depending on the type of seat I get.

Do you have any idea what the speed range will be with a 8hp?

FYI its a Tyrod 4

Speed will all depend on how you gear the kart. You can have a 2HP engine and a 20HP engine, and they will both go the same speed with the same gearing.

Speed also depends on the diameter of your wheels as well as the weight of the kart and driver.

Do you know what the ttoth count on your axle sprocket and clutch are? If you do, post them and we can do some calculations for you. Also give us the diameter of the tyres you are going to use.

There are a few speed calculators that you can have a look at here:

Speed calculator
http://www.diygokarts.com/speed-calculator.html
http://www.rbracing-rsr.com/gearspeed.html
http://www.csgnetwork.com/kartpotentialspeedcalc.html

Tire, gear ratio, RPM and Speed Formulas
http://www.diygokarts.com/vb/showthread.php?t=9591
http://www.csgnetwork.com/gearratcalc.html
http://www.4lo.com/calc/gearratio.htm

Jackshaft ratio calculator
http://www.fasttrackraceway.com/calc/index.php
http://www.compgoparts.com/TechnicalResources/JackshaftRatioCalculator.asp