Lawnmower Go-Kart drivetrain problem

  • Context: Automotive 
  • Thread starter Thread starter S_McLachlan
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on building a go-kart using a lawnmower engine, with a focus on drivetrain solutions. Users recommend utilizing pulleys and drive belts for simplicity, while others suggest using #35 roller chain for lighter karts and #40 or #41 chain for heavier models. A common setup includes a 10-tooth clutch paired with a 60-tooth drive sprocket for light karts, with variations for heavier models. The importance of installing a chain guard is emphasized for safety.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of drivetrain components such as clutches and sprockets
  • Familiarity with roller chain specifications (#35, #40, #41)
  • Knowledge of gear ratios and their impact on speed
  • Basic mechanical skills for assembling go-kart components
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specifications and installation of #35 roller chain for go-karts
  • Learn about gear ratio calculations and their effects on performance
  • Explore safety measures, including the installation of chain guards
  • Investigate different pulley systems and drive belt configurations for lawnmower engines
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for DIY enthusiasts, go-kart builders, and hobbyists interested in converting lawnmower engines into functional go-karts.

S_McLachlan
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I've got myself a lawnmower engine and I'm wanting to make a go-kart. I was going to rig it to a bevel gear combo and then just put it straight onto the back axle but I'm struggling to figure out the drive train.

What is the best way to do this?
What do people normally do? Seems to be a lot of people on youtube making lawnmower engines into stuff.

Forgive my ignorance.

Cheers, Stuart.
 
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For the sake of simplicity and flexibility, I'd be mighty tempted to use pulleys and a drive belt.
 
Welcome Mclach..been a while since I ran one of these..a " fun Kart" typically uses # 35 roller chain..the carnival karts and go cart land cartsuse # 40 or 41 chain but I never had probs with # 35 and this is what the world cart racers runuse a 10 tooth clutch and 60 tooth drive sprocket on light karts..on heavier carts use 12 tooth and 72 tooth final drive sprocket..the 5 to 1 drive ratio give more spped but the 6 to 1 is good compromise.. the 7.2 to 1 is for fat kids...( final drive ratio = drive sprocket teeth count devided by clutch teeth count)
PUT A CHAIN GUARD ON THE WHOLE THING!

www.appcokarting.com

call APPCO Karts, Parts & Accessories at 1-800-676-6636
 
Doing a go kart by yourself is quite compliacte. I have tried it once but it was really bad. That's why i bought a new one and everything is ok! :)
 

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