Front Brakes Only?

[spongerich]

Working on an off-road kart and I'm at the stage where I want to finalize my plans for adding brakes.

I'm using the front a-arms and spindles from a Honda ATV and I have the brake discs, calipers, and master from that, so front brakes will be a breeze.

The rear is a Peerless 900 Transaxle from a lawnmower. I've welded the spider gears in the diff, but I'm afraid that putting a brake caliper on just one axle is going to put a ton of stress on it, so I'm considering putting one on each axle or just having brakes on the front. I have most of the parts I need and can machine some hubs, so cost isn't a big factor, but I don't want to add a ton of extra weight and complexity if I don't need to.

 

[r97]

I would advise you to install front brakes, only if you install rear brakes. Locked front wheels (very possible on dirt) equals terrible steering. For most go karts, a single (properly functioning) band, internal expanding drum, or disc brake (hydraulic or mechanical) on the rear would be quite adequate.

For you, I would suggest one rear brake, and the front brakes from the ATV. If the axle can handle the engine, brakes shouldn't be a huge issue. Install two if you are that worried.

 

[spongerich]

Thanks.... I think I'll put a single disc on the rear and see how it works. I have spare parts so I can always add a 2nd one later if I break something. I was fortunate enough to pick up a busted Peerless 920 that blew out a gear and cracked the case, so I've got spare axles and spider gears. I guess it's off to the lathe to fab up a hub of some sort. I might have to invest in a broach to cut the keyway... I've seen it done by hand on the lathe but it looks like a **** slow process.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

I'll second what R97 said. I don't think adding a brake on one axle shaft is going to cause you any major issues.

 

[91blaze]

You definitely want brakes on the rear axle to stop the engine from spinning it. If you don't, the axle will keep turning even when you're stopped, which will cause steering and stopping issues.
If you were on pavement, the friction of the tires on the pavement would stop the rear axle from turning, but since this is an offroad kart, rear brakes are a must.

 

[fowler]

Depending on the engine size rear brakes are for steering

Not kidding quite a few off road safety standards have rear brakes as a must but don't require u to have fronts

 

[Br@ndoM@n]

Plus rear brakes are funner cause u get to lcok them up and slide the rear, everyone loves doing that. Thats how I stop 80% of the time stop the brake crank the steering wheel and slide her sideways. lol

 

[spyder1968]

maybe look into an adjustable proportioning valve too, to adjust the front/rear brake bias.

 

[spyder1968]

fronts only = fun ! power braking/holeshots etc........BUT
it also can be very dangerous ....especially on an offroad kart !!