New Member's first build

[zeeman]

I have posted some pictures in the Introduction forum, but realized that I should start an official build thread. I am not in a hurry to complete this kart, but want to document my progress. I already have 4 other vintage minibike projects going on at the same time. I got this kart free from a junk yard. It had small trees growing through the frame, and it is obviously in rough shape. I still do not know a brand name, so if you have ideas, please post.

So far, I have taken off the floor, wheels, etc., and started to grind/cut on some broken parts.

Wheels in case that helps with ID

 

[zeeman]

Here are a few more pictures.

 

[Mrpinhead11]

looks like a 70s gokart maybe a lil later. idk though. it appers to be newer because of the band brakes unstead of the old tire breaks.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

Well, you've definitely got some work ahead of you. But after seeing what you did to that engine, I think you can really make a go of it! Good luck, my man...

 

[zeeman]

Thanks guys. I don't feel too bad about cutting on it and modifying it.

 

[zeeman]

Here is my latest progress. It's not much, but I have to stop and make some decisions like:
Whether to go back with the dead axle. (I'm leaning toward this at the moment)
What type of tie rod arms to get. I like the look of the original type.
I need a new motor mount plate, band brake drum, etc. There will be a lot of welding done, especially where I have to graft a new section on for the rear end. Any suggestions are welcome, since this is my first experience in restoring a kart. Thanks.

Anyone know if I can get a dead axle with the spacing I need for the rear wheels (3 1/2" on the right, and 4 1/2" on the left?) BMI has a similar axle, but the bolts are the wrong length for my wheels. I guess I could cut them off and re weld, but that seems to run the risk of me not getting them back on nice and square.

 

[zeeman]

Here's the engine I'm planning to use. It has a TAV, but I don't believe it will fit without making the engine sit way up high.

 

[KieranM]

Looks home-made haha.. sweet engine man

 

[Doc Sprocket]

I'm trying to figure out that oddball bracketry on the right hand framerail opposite the engine mount.

That thing started off pretty danged fugly, but I think you can handle it.

 

[zeeman]

Thanks for the words of encouragement guys. The bracket on the right rear was never complete when I got the kart, but I'm pretty sure it's part of the throttle set up. There is a long rod that goes from the gas pedal through the two holes in that 'U' shaped bracket. There were the remains of what looks like it was a spring on the rod, and a threaded nut with a hole for a throttle cable. What the cable did after going through that U, I have no idea. The angle bracket that I showed in one picture is a mystery to me too. I'm looking for a dead axle and some tubing before I can do much else.

 

[Stratogeezer]

You may be beyond this stage by now - but when I've brought kart frames back to life, I've started by having a local guy sandblast all of the rust and paint off of the frame and major parts (+ wheels, steering wheel, etc).

It cost about $100 - but it gives you a better base to begin repairing any structural issues and a far better paint coating.

 

[zeeman]

You may be beyond this stage by now - but when I've brought kart frames back to life, I've started by having a local guy sandblast all of the rust and paint off of the frame and major parts (+ wheels, steering wheel, etc).

It cost about $100 - but it gives you a better base to begin repairing any structural issues and a far better paint coating.

You are right. I need to sandblast it for sure. I just have to buy one and get myself psyched up enough to do the job. No matter how well I dress, I always end up with a lot of sand on me. I have not made much progress since the last post. I'm still trying to figure out if I should buy a new axle (which I can't find), or fix the broken one. Thanks.

 

[mckutzy]

zeeman- get yourself a full cover painters suit. put your goggles a face shield plus a dust mask, gloves and your set to go. I think thats the nature of the beast unless it is done in a cabinet.

 

[kaymo]

i love the pedals and wheels and seat. makes it look super vintage. your motor makes it look great. its your project but i would love to see this thing in stock form with some sparkle blue paint and white steering wheel and wheels

 

[zeeman]

zeeman- get yourself a full cover painters suit. put your goggles a face shield plus a dust mask, gloves and your set to go. I think thats the nature of the beast unless it is done in a cabinet.

Yeah, that's what I usually do, but it's still not fun. I'm sure you've experienced the fun too!

 

[zeeman]

i love the pedals and wheels and seat. makes it look super vintage. your motor makes it look great. its your project but i would love to see this thing in stock form with some sparkle blue paint and white steering wheel and wheels

I'm pretty much going back with a stock look except for the engine, and a few little things. I had to cut the arm rests off, because the seating area was too small for my rear. I'm going to weld them back on at an angle. It was originally blue, but I might go with red since I have several blue minibikes already.

 

[Doc Sprocket]

zeeman- get yourself a full cover painters suit. put your goggles a face shield plus a dust mask, gloves and your set to go. I think thats the nature of the beast unless it is done in a cabinet.

AND- Ear muffs- Blasting media in your ears really, really, REALLY sucks!!!

 

[zeeman]

Yeah, the ears are the worst! I agree.

 

[Blazkowiez]

Looks a bit like a Cody kart, but I'd have to do a bit more looking into. Check out pages of restores on older karts like Rupp, Clark, etc.

 

[sparky]

My first cart looked just like that,broken and welded in the same spots.It came with the Indian chief motor .Techcumseh? the motor was real fussy and had bad valve so HB preditor 212 was put on .Ran the wheels off of it in the desert and bent rear axle to a ''V''.They handle great with 6 degrees camber.Wish I did alive axle conversion but glad to give vintage form a shot.Sweet patina!enjoy!