First time builder questions

[19turtle65]

This will be an off road kart. I have started building the frame and am researching what would be best for off roading. So far I have a 11hp harbor frieght engine and 40 series comet torque converter. Now here is where I need your help! What would be the best way to set this up for off road use with what I have? Such as... Rear axle, tires and rims size, chain, sprockets and ratio. Any information would be great. Thanks

 

[Kaptain Krunch]

I'd go with live axle, 14-18 inch rims, and a 1:6 ratio (play with the speed calculator to get your desired top speed), and a nice set of disc brakes.

 

[19turtle65]

Ok I bought 18" tires for the back and 16" for the front. Playing with the numbers I see that a 1:6 ratio could be set up several different ways. Would 72 and 12 or 60 and 10 be better or would you suggest something totally different. Remembering this is for off road,\.

 

[19turtle65]

Oh, thought I would add that I weigh about 210# and will have my son with me who is about 100#. So I will need some good pulling power too, not just wanting high top end speeds. Thanks

 

[19turtle65]

Any more advice out here?

 

[theo]

Have and pics of the buggy you are building?

theo

 

[19turtle65]

Not enough there yet to take pics.

 

[Kaptain Krunch]

if you decided on 6:1 then go with 60 tooth on axle and 10 on jackshaft/clutch. You want as much clearance as possible.

 

[19turtle65]

OK! I have ordered a 60 tooth and the jack plate I ordered has a 10 and 14 tooth.

 

[modelengineer]

Jack plate?

If you want 6:1 you want just 10 tooth on engine straight to 60 tooth on axle. No 'jack shaft' or anything.

 

[19turtle65]

It's going to have a 40 series torque converter on it, that's the reason for the jackshaft. That brings up another question, where do you get a cover for the 40 series? Or do you have to make your own?