Making axle and I have some questions

[Dirtkarter]

I'm making a new 30mm axle for my race kart. I'm wondering about the key-way (6mm). I remember years ago when I wanted a axle made I was told it is better to cut a key-way on both sides (2 key-ways the whole length) or they tend to bend. Is this anyone's experience? Or is it better just to cut a key-way where I need it ie hubs, sprocket and brake? I'm making a grinder jig to cut my own keyway so it would definately be easier to cut one full length keyway.

Is it normal to need a Circlip on the ends of the axle? I was just checking ebay and all the 30mm axles have circlip grooves on the ends, FYI I'm using clamp type racing hubs 70mm from memory. Is there a standard width axle? They seemed to be 1143mm(45") 1070mm(42") and 1090mm(43"), atleast the ones I found on ebay were.

What are anyones thoughts? BTW it is for dirt racing.

Thanks in advance.
Justin

 

[landuse]

IMO I would just cut the keyway where you need it. Cutting all the way just on one side is not going to affect it in any way, like bending it

 

[Poboy kartman]

IMO I would just cut the keyway where you need it. Cutting all the way just on one side is not going to affect it in any way, like bending it

I agree- if you look at crankshafts on racing engines for example- those that make hundreds to thousands of hp and spin at thousands of rpm's- as far as I know- they only have one keyway......

 

[anderkart]

Snaprings at the ends of the axle are a safety feature to ensure the wheel hub could never slide off during a race. Most racekart tracks here in my area require them.

Your axle length will depend on the width of your frame. Just make sure you have around 6 inches past the frame on each side, so you'll have a good range of track-width adjustment.

I prefer a full length keyway, so you'll always have the option of locating the sprocket and wheel hubs wherever you want.

I've never heard anyone claim a dual/full-length keyway strengthened an axle, but that could certainly be a handy feature in case one of your keyways was somehow damaged.

 

[Dirtkarter]

Thanks for the replies guys, that clears things up a bit.