Need new go kart engine

[Dee]

We have a streaker go kart that is at least 10 years old and we would like to put a new engine on it but we do not know what model we have. Any help on what it is and where to find a replacement engine would be very helpful.

 

[landuse]

You have a Briggs and Stratten engine, but I am not sure what HP.

 

[j.concepcion54321]

i think its a 5 horsepower. whats wrong with it? im selling one for parts. if its not seized then you could just buy my engine and take off the parts that you need. from what i can tell maybe a new flywheel, ignition system, and the recoil side cover, you might aswell change the carb while your at it. let me know if your interested and we can work something out.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Dee, unless you're concerned about keeping the kart "original", don't worry about what you already have. Suitable engine options are abundant. Hondas and clones, Subaru, Briggs, Tecumsehs- I do mean lots. Any industrial engine in the 5-8 hp range will share the same shaft size, and mounting pattern. A very popular choice is the 6.5hp clone engine from Harbour Freight, and many many other equivalents. They can be had from under $100USD up to, say, $250-$300.

What to look for- Just verify that the engine that you're scouting has a 3/4" straight, keyed shaft. Generator engines often have tapered shafts which are not suitable. Some 8hp engines (and up) have a 1" straight, keyed shaft- which will not fit your clutch.

 

[InOmaha]

Are you replacing it because it doesn't run or you want something that runs better? Does it turn over?

If it doesn't turn over, spray WD 40 in the sparkplug hole, put the plug back in, and let it set for a day. Try to turn it over by hand, repeat the process for a couple of days and hopefully it will turn over.

The flywheel/coil look rusted in your first picture. Take the coil off (the black thing in the center/top of the first picture) and clean the rust from it and the flywheel magnets with 200 or 400 grit sand paper. Then put a piece of cardboard about the width of a box from a case of pop in between it and the flywheel when you put it back together. Slide out your cardboard, remove the sparkplug and check the gap on it.

If you're engine is shot, Home Depot also has cheap engines or look on craigslist for an inexpensive 5-8 hp snowblower or horizontal shaft engine.