Hobbies And Interests
Go-Kart Chassis
Every good go kart project begins with a strong durable chassis. Your chassis needs the strength to not only hold the components of your cart such as engine and drive train, but the driver as well. Build your chassis using either steel tubing for the most durable frames, or plastic tubing for one that's a bit more lightweight and easier to work with, without as much strength or durability. For a steel chassis you'll need to weld the pieces together, so a welding torch and kit will be necessary. These can be expensive to buy, but are available for rent from local equipment rental shops. Add a go-kart bucket seat for comfortable riding.
Steering Assembly
Your steering mechanism should be as accurate and quickly reactive as possible. A column with lever-arm system is a commonly used steering mechanism where the steering wheel is attached to the front axle for front wheel drive. Lock the front wheels to limit them to a range of 40 degrees left or right for maneuverability without over-steering problems.
Tires and Brakes
As with real cars, a good set of tires attached to quality brakes are vitally important. You should go with 10-inch pneumatics with steel rims for your tires as they are strong while being lightweight. Get two sets, one for wet conditions and one for dry conditions, an off-road set will be necessary as well if you'll be going off the track with your kart. For best brake results, use a disc brake system.
Propulsion System
To propel your kart, go with a pair of 36 volt, 750 watt DC engines, one for each rear wheel. To control the power, use a 100+ 36 volt controller attached to the power and brake pedals. This power setup should provide you with 50 amps of power, peaking at 100 amps for acceleration.
You'll need power to run your kart engine, so battery choice is important. Three 12 volt, 40 AmpH batteries should give you enough power for an hour's worth of karting. Lithium-ion-phosphate batteries can provide you with a generous power source, but they tend to swell and crack if used without being kept under pressure. Build a pressure cage around the lithium batteries if you decide to use them.