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Replacing a Go-Kart Clutch

Go-Kart clutches are the heart of a racing engine. They are discs that engage and create speed for a Go Kart to travel. A Go-Kart clutch is often a wet, multi-plate clutch system. A four stroke Go-Kart clutch is the most common and they can either be made at home or bought. When a Go Kart stops working it is often a problem with the clutch. A clutch can be removed and replaced to find and fix potential problems.

Things You'll Need

Metal brush
Penetrating oil
Bolt wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Dig rust, if there is any, from the Go-Kart clutch with a metal brush and spray some penetrating oil on the clutch hub as well as the crankshaft. One or two sets of bolts are located in the clutch hub, which is by the engine and perpendicular to the crankshaft. Loosen these bolts using a bolt wrench that fits the bolts of the clutch hub. Remove the clutch hub.
- 2
  Oil the bushing of the clutch, which is located in the sprocket. Apply oil like 10w30 or a 30HD weight oil to this area which is by the snap ring at the end of the clutch. A bronze bushing, behind the snap ring, will need lubrication. Inject several drops of oil. Make sure to do this when the bushing is warm.
- 3
  Remove the chain by simply pulling it off with the bolt wrench. Oil the chain. The same kind of oil should also be used as the oil inside the Go-Kart engine. Make sure to dissemble the clutch and apply oil before the chain kinks from dryness. Not dissembling the clutch for this purpose will damage the sprocket.
- 4
  Reassemble the clutch. Install the clutch hub. Replace the bolts and add new washers. Use washers that measure at least 1 1/16 inches for the outside diameter. Tighten the bolts of the clutch hub using a bolt wrench that fits the bolts. While tightening the bolt make sure that the ignition is in the off position. When the bolt is tight as it can be, start the motor. Tighten the bolt while your turn over the motor.
- 5
  Turn off the motor. Align the sprockets to their original position and install the oiled chain. Make sure not to over tighten the chain or make it too loose. This will put undue strain on the sprocket and cause damage.

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