Go Kart Clutch/Sprocket Help

[powerstrokekid]

Alright guys, I have a 48 tooth rear sprocket and a 10 tooth clutch on a single wheel drive Briggs 5hp Streaker go kart. I am looking to replace both the clutch and sprocket because they are both completely worn out. The sprocket teeth are so sharp you could use it as a Ninja Star haha. I am 6ft tall and about 210-215 pounds. Would it be better to replace them with exactly what I have or change up the ratio a bit. As i have no idea about ratios and all I came here. Where I ride at there is not much room for speed but occasionally I do take it to my uncles kart track. So i would like to keep it fast but with good take off. Sorry for the long explanation but any help will be greatly appreciated.


EDIT: I also need the pull start assembly for a Briggs 5hp. If anyone know where to get one for a reasonable price.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Two questions-
1)Are you happy with the current performance?
2)Did your old clutch ever slip too much/overheat/smoke?

 

[powerstrokekid]

Toystory, I am Ok with the performance of it now, but a little faster take off would be better. As far as the clutch yes it did slip ALOT and would smoke if rode for about 10 mins.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Armed with that information, I'd say gear it down a bit. Most likely, you will lose some top end, but your clutch should not smoke. Keep the 10T clutch size, and change the axle sprocket for something larger, in the 54-60 range.

How tall are your rear tires?

 

[powerstrokekid]

My tire size is 4.10/3.50-5. If I lose some top end thats fine as long as it isn't drastic loss. What is the best chain to be using for this application. The only thing I have lying around is 10ft of 420 chain, will that work or is it overkill?

 

[redsox985]

That is not at all overkill. For a heavier kart, 40 or 420 would be best due to it being stronger. What is the overall height of your tires, as the stamped size often is wrong.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

420- That's more or less equal to #40, is it not?

 

[redsox985]

Yes, it's more of a dirtbike/small quad chain, but will work without issues on anything designed for 40. Same with 428. I do not suggest 41 as it is much weaker than 40, 420, and 428.

 

[powerstrokekid]

Ok guys sorry for taking so long on a response. My tires are about 11 inches from top to bottom as they are on the kart.

 

[powerstrokekid]

If I replace the sprocket on the drive wheel does is have to be for #40 chain? The only 54 tooth sprocket i can find is for #41 chain, would this still work or no?

 

[Doc Sprocket]

The number #41 sprocket will work. It's just thinner, that's all. Might be prone to wearing faster, make sure sprocket alignment is very good.

 

[powerstrokekid]

toy story, how tight or how much slack needs to be in the chain? As I have never had to replace a chain I have no idea!

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Leave a bit of slack, say, 1/2" deflection in the middle of the run.

 

[powerstrokekid]

Ok thanks. It will be late next week before I have enough $$$ to get the clutch, sprocket, and brake drum. When I get everything back together, I may be back with more problems. I am doing a little makeover to the kart for my little brother.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Good stuff. Keep us updated.