Someone Please Help

[revjolly]

I am a total noob when it comes to go karts. i want to be a mechanical engineer one day so i thought i would try this project. i love to work on my car so i have a LITTLE experience when talking about motors. i have so many questions to ask.

1. whats first...the frame or the motor?
2. whats a good 5hp engine that i can use? i was looking at the Honda gx120
3. how much money should i be prepared to spend?

 

[RobertD]

I'd say:

1) Either/Or. You'll need both.. though you won't be able to finish your frame until you have a motor. I'd say if money is tight, order all your frame parts first and make that first.

2) I bought a honda knock-off at Pep boys for less than $180. It's very good.

3) Hmm. $400-700 probably off the top of my head. Depending on scrounging ability.

Anyone else got some thoughts?

 

[GoAlterBridge]

1. It depends on if you are building the cart, or buying the frame, if you are building it, I personally think you should get the motor first so you can build the cart around the motor. On the other hand, if you bought the frame, you could take measurements, then find a motor that fits the measurements.

2. If you wanted a slightly higher HP then a 5, you could go with the 6.5 HP Costco Champion 6.5 HP is pretty good, plus it's only $160.

3. If you build the cart you would only be looking at MOST, $500 or so. If buying, up to $700+.

 

[revjolly]

I am going to assume that the Costco Champion is sold at costco? lol $500 sounds like a good amount for this summer project. so after buying my motor, then i should build the frame?

 

[dirtynelson]

I'd say:
Depending on scrounging ability.
QUOTE]

i have managed to scrounge almost all parts so far and probabliy will spend less than $200

 

[RobertD]

awesome scrounging!

and yes, just get after building the frame when you get the motor, or before. but if you're hazy on exactly how all the parts will fit, it would help to have them in front of you to visualize before you start, ya know?

 

[2or3wheels]

You could always use a used motor. Tuc. usually work good, and its easy to clean the carb.