[Kartbuilding] Power output for simple go kart

[Stephen Burke]

Hi James,

I got 20mph with a 3.5hp briggs and stratton engine. I used the 
belt-tensioner clutch ( as on: 
http://kartbuilding.net/Lawnmower_Powered_Wooden_Go-Kart_Plans/belt-tensioner-clutch.html 
) and while the take-off was slow (working the belt tensioner clutch), as 
the engine struggled, once I got going, it got to 20mph no problem.

As a result, I don't think it will be the size of the engine that will be 
the problem. It will be making a light kart. If you can get a better 
steering setup, that would be brilliant. As you said at fast speeds 
steering with your feet is not ideal.

Best of luck,
-steve

On Sat, 2 Jul 2011, James Cotter wrote:

> Hi, I am currently building the simple wooden go kart with a lawnmower engine and I had a question about the engine, how much
> output (hp) do you think would be suitable to getting it to 20+ mph? I will be redoing the steering so it will be safer, because
> steering at 20 mph with your feet could pose a problem. I am going to use a briggs and stratton engine. I would appreciate any
> suggestions.
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