live axle to 1 wheel drive

[salmirabile]

hey everyone, I'm converting my little boys power wheels with a live axle at the back but i realised after i finished it that it turns for s**t! I've searched for answers but haven't really found exactly what i need.

the current axle is a 25mm live axle with rear wheel hubs but I found a front hub with a 25mm bearing. is there any way of fitting one of these to allow 1 wheel to freewheel?

here's the hub i found: https://www.kartpartsuk.com/product...s/front-wheel-hub-with-25mm-bearing-75mm-long

the only way i can think of changing this is by cutting the axle in half and installing another 2 pillow blocks to effectively have 2 shafts.

thanks for any help!
Sal

 

[salmirabile]

Just thinking out loud. Maybe using shaft collars either side of the hubs should secure the bearing hub, right?

 

[Functional Artist]

Howdy

IMO For a lightweight, kids size, power wheels type of a kart, I'd just remove (1) of the "keys"
...grease 'er up a bit
...& let 'em ride

It'll probably wear a little
...but, will probably last until he out grows it

 

[itsid]

yeah I'd go for bearings.. and a locking collar
(the outer end should have a nut anyways or a snapring or whatever)

But to be honest, I'd just fix the bad steering instead..
proper ackermann geometry usually works wonders and isn't too complicated to do.

Also, with powerwheels one issue is terrible weight distribution
an engine sitting behind the rear axle, or just above it for example.

So finding a way to spread the weight a bit better might also help alot.
sometimes it's as easy as relocating the tank to the front and installing a fuel pump,
sometimes installing a heavy front bumper can help too.


'sid

 

[salmirabile]

Thanks for the reply gents!

I was thinking about just removing the key but didn't really fancy too much wear even though it probably will outgrow it pretty quickly.

I'll check out the steering geometry and see what I can do. For a quick fix, I'll use the bearing hub with a collar so he can at least use it in the next couple days while I think about the steering.

Your right about the weight distribution! Most of it is obviously at the back. I'm keeping the car electric so I've mounted the motor as far to the front on the metal chassis I made to keep some weight at the front.

Will let you know how i get on.

So cant wait to get my little one going and soon will get him a proper kart.

Thanks again guys,
Sal