Home Made Go Carts – How to Build Your Own Go Kart
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Do you wish to put together your own home made go carts?
What kid (and many adults) does not like the thrill and excitement of a speedy go kart? Their basic design is simple and building one on your own is something that can be done easily enough, even by those who are mechanically challenged.
There are few more rewarding activities than planning and building a go kart as a family project, as the main resources required are simply time and patience.
Plans for building a go kart can be found at your local hobby store or online. Most are easy to read and are weekend mechanic friendly. Kits are available that include ‘everything you need’; however, many people find that building home made go carts from scratch is a lot more interesting, economical and challenging. And you can make your speed buggy top of the line or a junkyard creation, depending on what your budget will allow.
The frame of home made go carts is constructed by joining pieces of tubing, usually by welding, which shapes the skeleton used to attach the body to as well as functions such as steering and the braking system. This tubing can come ready to assemble or by manually bending it on your own. Tubing for your kart can be light weight or heavy duty, depending on the strength required for the road worthiness you will need.
The suspension system is very important in ensuring a smooth ride and the durability of the kart as it absorbs the shock of the journey, although a basic kart built to stay around your neighborhood streets may not need a suspension system.
You will be able to calculate your speed by the size of the engine that you choose. Lawn mower engines have been used for years to power go karts and can be fashioned to provide very reliable power for your vehicle. They are, however, often hard to adapt for go-kart application.
A 3-horsepower (HP) engine works more readily for the average family home made go cart, providing none of the drivers are too overweight. If weight is an issue, a 5 HP engine will be necessary. Both are relatively easy to install and will propel you along at about 20 to 30 miles an hour. Some karts that are expected to carry heavier loads or roll over rougher terrain can use 8 to 10 HP engines.
The finish will be the final act in construction. Do not rush through it, as you have put so much of your blood, sweat and tears into the effort. This will ensure your home made go cart looks good too. If your neighborhood streets are not suitable for cruising, or your creation is beefed up, then there are plenty of go kart tracks that will allow you to test your equipment.
As much fun as go karts can be, safety is always a priority. Always take into consideration the vehicle’s height to width dimensions to ensure the vehicle does not tip over. A good roll bar is required in case of mishaps, and a seatbelt is also highly recommended.
Welding is hazardous, so take extra care or find someone who is comfortable with the task. The sense of accomplishment when you complete your home made go carts will only be overshadowed by the enjoyment you derive from driving it.
Have fun!
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