off road go kart drive train

[rovert21]

Hey guys, someday I would like to start a 2 seater off road go kart/ mini buggy build, a arms for front suspension and rear swing arm with a live axle probably around 20" tires. For right now im just trying to put together a plan. I want to have enough power to move the weight of a 2 seater at a decent pace 30-40 mph and im not sure which way to go. I was originally going to do a small engine with a torque converter, but economically i think that takes away a reverse gear and i dont think i would have near enough power or reliability. So then i thought atv or snowmobile with a good engine and a reverse gear but im not sure how much engine i need and what would all be involved with getting the gearing and clutch set up to work for a go kart. Whats your guys opinions which way should i go. Thanks

 

[souperman000]

I would go for a motorcycle or sled engine. probably 30 or 40 hp would be good. Check out MysteryBoy28's buggies. He uses sled engines, ans they turn out really well.

 

[OzFab]

Another option is an ATV engine; they have multiple forward gears & reverse

 

[Doc Sprocket]

I'll second the above opinions.

 

[rovert21]

I think when I start Im going to try to find an old sled I looked at Mysteryboy28's build I like the idea of taking the frame from the sled and putting it right on the kart. Thanks guys