jvdv
19th January 2008, 09:04 PM
I am trying to mount a 5.5hp Briggs and Straton motor to the back of my sons go cart.
The photo shows the mounting positions of the sprockets. The small sprocket has 12 teeth of which 6 teeth (50%) is engage at any one time by the chain. I was wondering if this would be enough?
Any other comments on the drive system with relation to sprockets would also be welcome. Should I be using a tensioning roller to tension the chain?
Wood Butcher
19th January 2008, 09:20 PM
I think that the contact would be sufficient. As for a tensioner it depends on how much slack is in the chain. If you can lift the chain enough that it might jump over the side of a tooth then maybe a tensioner might be necessary but you could also remove a link or if needed replace one full link with a half link.
China
19th January 2008, 09:51 PM
I built one a couple of years ago, the engagement of the teeth was about the same, it has worn out to engines and 3 centrificle drive clutches but the sprockets are fine and don't even look like jumping teeth
dazzler
19th January 2008, 11:53 PM
No Probs with that!
joe greiner
20th January 2008, 12:40 AM
A tensioner would be good insurance against losing purchase. Many years ago, one of my mates had a motorcycle with chain drive between the motor and the transmission. Just a thick spring-loaded nylon (or such) shoe riding on the outside of the chain. I don't remember the brand, but I think they also branded hearing aids of all things. Tensioner on the outside tends to increase purchase without serious detriment to the rollers; on a belt drive, also increases purchase, but also increases the stress range and reduces the belt's lifetime.
Joe
Fossil
20th January 2008, 08:23 AM
I love the look on every kids face when they first fire up their first go kart.
I am in the process of building one for my son at the moment.
Please some pics when it is done and going. :D
Chris Parks
20th January 2008, 10:21 PM
A B&S motor will not trouble the drive. We put 28hp through a 12 tooth gear on my son's kart. No tensioners are needed just careful adjustment of the motor on the sliding mount. You will notice that as you turn the rear axle with the chain on both sprockets if the adjustment is close to right. Set the tension on the chain with about 5mm of movement and turn the rear wheel and you will notice how the tension varies on the chain. As long as it hasn't got a lot of slack it will be ok. Make sure before you put the chain on that the outside of the gears are in line using a straight edge so the chain is not running at an angle as this will chop out the gears, especially the rear as it is alloy. If you need any further help PM me.