Help with first kart build plans

[T3clay]

Hey everyone I'm starting to plan for a kart build this fall it will be my first kart not sure if I should start from scratch or a Craig's list kart.

Ok here's what I want an offroad kart l either a two seated or a one seated that my son can sit between my legs. I want to ride on gravel roads field drives pastures and trails. I'm most concerned with acceleration, I want it to go! High speed isn't super necessary 30mph would be good if I can hav wicked acceleration by obviously faster is better.

So the questions,
So suspension My initial plan had only rear do I need front suspension too?
Motor recommendation ?
Jack shaft? Torq converter? Shifter ?
Ground clearance? How much should I have?

Thanks for all the help

 

[dnuccio]

for offroad, a torque converter is the best option. if you dont want to spend the money for that, you can do a jackshaft for lower gearing, but your top end will suffer. im going the jackshaft route with my off road kart.

 

[T3clay]

I don't mind loosing some top end speed I just really want acceleration

 

[dnuccio]

if youre just after acceleration, i would set up a jackshaft geared super low