Why are Differentials so short?

[Cole Tallerman]

Hey all. I'd like to put a differential in my kart (i've considered live axle and single wheel drive) The only problem is the longest affordable one that I can find is 27" long. http://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?item=13-1495&catname=powerTrans

I found the Northern tool one but it is $119 and says "not for on-road use"

Does anyone suggest a good differential with 1" shaft that is long enough?

Also, do I need more than 2 pillow blocks for a differential?

Thanks!

 

[Doc Sprocket]

In no order...

That unit is not particularly wide, because Tecumseh-Peerless designed it for lawn tractor (and other) duty. Throw on a couple of 8" rims, and the track width is ideal for the purpose.

"Not for use on road" does NOT mean you can't use it on pavement. It means that it is not intended for street-legal vehicles, and the sort of power, speed, and abuse that such a vehicle would be subjected to.

Yes- you'd need 4 bearings, one bearing close to each end of each axle shaft.

Also be aware that you will now have to either a)Install a brake on BOTH axleshafts, or brake the centersection housing itself (like I did on my kids' kart).

 

[tractor guy]

Peerless 820, 30" wide. 1" keyd axle, 5/8" stepped input, $140. Smallenginesurplus.com