O.T. Help with Go Kart Setup

Anonymous-0 · Aug 13, 2011

Hey,

What is the benefit of using a torque converter on the drive system of a go kart versus just using a centrifugal clutch arrangement?

I am building a go kart from an old frame with a newer motor. It seems like it would be easier to just use a centrifugal clutch with the chain going direct from the clutch to the drive axle.

Seems like with all the diverse backgrounds on here someone might have some ideas on this.

Thanks!
Stan

glennster · Aug 13, 2011

the torque converter set up gives kind of an infinitely variable transmission. the sheaves start out in a "low gear " position, and as the unit picks up speed, the drive sheave squeezes the belt further out and the driven sheave allows the belt to reduce size. basically like a snowmobile set up.

frdmnn · Aug 13, 2011

the torque converter will get you a higher top speed, so if your gonna put young ones on it, use the centrifugal clutch and a big sprocket on the axle to slow it down.

Janicholson · Aug 13, 2011

if it is a fluid coupling that is mounted like the clutch, but with fluid in it, it is a great way to connect the system it can be operated at lower speeds withouut burning up (as a centrifugal clutch can easily do). If it is a belt drive it will make more starting power, and be a bit more maintenance. It will not transfer as much power, maybe 15% less. Jim

jose bagge · Aug 14, 2011

The torque converter set up on a fun kart, or a golf cart for that matter, doesn"t necessarily provide more top speed- its designed to allow you to pull more RPM at lower speed with an infitely variable transmission. On a yard kart, if the kids are small (and the back tires small)I"d just go with a centifical cluth and chain...If it"s a two seater or gonna have heavier kids or bigger diameter tires on it, go with a converter set up like the one in Northern hydraulic. I tried a straight chaim set up on a golf cart conversion I did and just could get enough low gear out of it to make it work with out the converter set up.

Tony S. · Aug 14, 2011

Centrifugal clutch is pretty much used for full throttle. Works good for racing, not so good around the yard. Lots of slipping will wear it out pretty fast.

O.T. Help with Go Kart Setup

Anonymous-0

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glennster

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frdmnn

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Janicholson

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jose bagge

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Tony S.

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