Hello from South Carolina

[Dovahkiin Ant]

Hello everyone my name is Dovahkiin Ant (Elder Scrolls reference for anyone who plays video games) and I just got my first go kart. The story isn't crazy but I did get a free go kart so I work at a technical college in the engineering department and one of the students shows up with a go kart on the back of his truck. So I asked him about it just because it looked interesting and he told me he bought it from a guy for $20 just because the hasn't rode it since he was a kid and the student ask me if I wanted it so I told sure. So go outside to check it out and it doesn't look too bad so I ask how much and he tells me he will just give it to me. So I try to look for a place to put it because I live in a apartment and can't have stuff like that but I was able to leave it at my grandparents house where I'm free to work on it and get it running. I'm joining this forum because this is my first go kart and I want to make sure that I get it fixed and running properly while making new friends along the way. I will try to post some pics of the go kart as soon as possible

 

[ezcome-ezgo]

Welcome! We love pictures and brevity.

 

[MTNSleder]

Hello Welcome!

 

[Dovahkiin Ant]

Here are a couple of pictures. Did some research and it's a Murray Nitrox.

 

[Dovahkiin Ant]

does anyone have helpful information on what I should do since this is my first go kart

 

[ezcome-ezgo]

Remove engine, replace with Predator. Buy new chain, new clutch. Get brakes, throttle cables/linkages working. Put air in tires, have fun.

 

[Tpdingo]

Step 1: Take that Tecumseh PowerS*** and dump it in tje trash
Step 2: Go to Harbor Freight and get a predator 212.
Step 3: Install and enjoy
Step 4: do whatever everyone else says too.

 

[Texan]

On my projects, I always take lots of before pics for reference down the road. You may think you will remember where that washer or bolt goes, but most likely won't.

Do you plan on refurbishing it or just getting it going as is?

I'd start with checking the frame for cracked welds, looks like you are showing one on the 2nd pic.

 

[Dovahkiin Ant]

I want to try getting it going as is (except for that cracked frame) Everyone is saying dump the engine but I just had my 1st child and children are expensive so I plan to try to work with the engine that I have. If all else fail then I will get a new engine.

It also needs a new ignition switch seeing as the original owner didn't have keys to it

 

[ezcome-ezgo]

Pull the carb off that engine first and figure out what kind of condition it is in. I guarantee it will not ever run until that carb is thoroughly cleaned or replaced.

 

[Tpdingo]

Pull the carb off that engine first and figure out what kind of condition it is in. I guarantee it will not ever run until that carb is thoroughly cleaned or replaced.

I guarantee it won't run period.

 

[Randy H]

You don't have to get rid of that Tecumseh. I've actually ran a couple of those engines. At least in stock form they ran just fine. Clean the carb, adjust the valves. Derust the flywheel magnet and coil. Given that it's not siezed and has decent compression.

It's not worth putting money in it, hop up parts aren't available, as far as I know. But it's worth a little elbow grease.

 

[Dovahkiin Ant]

Like I said before I'm new to working on go karts but are Tecumseh Power Sport engines that bad and I price checked a Predator engines $179.99 and I maybe able to work the price in somewhere between saving for a new car and diapers and food for my son

 

[Texan]

Check Harbor Freight for the 212cc 6.5hp Predator Engine. Not sure where you got $180, they are currently $94.99 with a coupon.

 

[Whitetrashrocker]

You better forget the new car. Food and diapers are gonna take all you can cough up.

I'd try to get the Tecumseh running. Or at least assess the damage.
Bolting on an engine is just an easy way out. This is DIY but there are some here think that means derp it yourself.

 

[landuse]

Welcome!