Identifying Go Kart

[TJ Salyers]

I'm trying to figure out what model or brand this go kart is I asked for a pic of the ID tag but haven't got a pic yet does this have a live axle

 

[Hellion]

It appears to have a live axle, whether both wheels turn at the same time is another matter, lol.

Another forum member found out that one or both of his rear wheels had a very casual relationship with the axle and was wondering why his kart had so little power. The wheel was slipping on the axle (no key).

Anyway, it looks like a Carter Brothers kart.

 

[Hellion]

Best I can tell it's a Carter Brothers model 1136 ZX (or KX), from this parts list: https://www.bmikarts.com/PDF/Carter-Bros/1136-3016.pdf

There are detail differences, namely the way the kart's axle in your photos is bare/naked and the one in the parts list above is encased in a protective tube. I think that is a change they made as a result of product liability lawsuits. Carter and other makers have been sued over the years for customer injury and so a whirling, unprotected axle can entangle a rider's sleeve or long hair with disastrous results.

Other details vary, like whether a Carter kart has one steering wheel support leg like in your pic or two, like a loop. But the steering linkage in your pic is a definite Carter Brothers feature.

I see a label at the back of the kart in image #3. That might be the kart's ID.

The steering wheel is missing its rubber or plastic cover, probably deteriorated from age (rotted off) or user damage.
Here's one of the same style (10 or 12 inches) if you want to replace it: https://www.bmikarts.com/Steering-Wheel-10-or-12_p_1435.html

 

[pearl111]

Like Hellion says, it looks like a Carter Brothers kart.

 

[TJ Salyers]

Thanks guys

 

[Hellion]

I want to correct myself and add that it could be these other karts too:

1708-XXXX various sub model #'s
1720-XXXX various sub model #'s
https://www.bmikarts.com/Carter-Brothers-Go-Kart-Manuals

These karts have frames that more closely match the photos in post #1, the brake and gas pedals match, the live axles are supported by bearing flanges and are "open" and they have factory torque converters like the one in post #1. I think those Carter Brothers parts manuals are just a suggestion of what the karts really look like because they are pretty crude drawings and it's pretty safe to assume some parts manuals are missing from that site.

The 1708 and 1720 karts have dual band brakes operated from one pedal, not sure if the kart in the photos has it or has been altered, but that is pretty nice.

Anyway, I wouldn't hesitate to buy one of these old American-made go karts......as long as the price is right

*We should support BMI Karts and thank them for listing those Carter Brothers manuals.

 

[Denny]

I think that is a Jimmy. Jimmy Carter!