How The Pros Pick Used Go Karts
View PDF | Print View
by: GoKartMama
Total views: 34
Word Count: 538
Go Karts are coming back into popularity. At one time, most go karts were home made jobs with old lawn mower engines attached. Nowadays, go karts come in all shapes and sizes. You can get mini go karts designed for kids all the way up to high performance racing go karts.
Before you decide on whether or not to buy a used or new go kart, you must first decide on what you'll be using it for. Taking a cheap yard go kart off roading will likely leave you with a busted and broken go kart.
First time buyers need to be aware that there are different go karts for different uses. The most popular go karts are those used by kids in the yard. Be aware that there are huge differences even in these types of go karts. Go karts designed for off road use are generally beefier and have stronger components along with a roll bar.
The frame of a used go kart should be the first thing you check. You'll want to give extra attention to the welded joints of the frame. Check for cracks in these areas. Also be on the lookout for bent framing members or frame sections that look like they have been recently painted. This may indicate a recent repair.
Wheels should be the next stop on your inspection of a used go kart. Support the front end on blocks and check for excessive play in the wheels. You can do this by pulling in and out on the wheels and then side to side. Once done at the front, go to the back and do the same thing. Loose wheels normally indicate trashed bearings.
Start the engine to see how it runs. If it's hard to start or dies often, this could mean a problem with the carb or ignition. Also, if the oil is milky colored, it means there is water in it. Be sure to smell the oil to see if it has a gas odor to it or a burnt odor. Either one is bad news and may mean an overhaul or replacement.
Another area where you'll want to pay close attention to is the linkage of the steering column and brakes. Worn or rusted connections need replaced. The throttle cable should also be checked for wear or damage. Replace if either one is found.
Take the go kart out for a spin. Does it handle well? Is the steering loose? Loose steering can mean bad linkage problems or mis alignment. If you'll be buying the go kart for kids, make sure the engine has a governor or limit switch. Kids driving go karts at excessive speeds isn't safe.
By following these easy to do tips, you can go a long ways in ensuring yourself of getting a good reliable used go kart. Using the advice above doesn't take any special skills, just some patience. A dependable go kart should give you years of enjoyment.
These simple tips for choosing a used go kart will help ensure that you don't buy a lemon. There are many owners out there looking to unload crappy or damaged go karts to unsuspecting consumers. Follow the tips above to make sure you're not the one buying their problems!
About the Author
Locating reliable go kart parts can be difficult. Getting reliable parts is even trickier. Click here to find reliable go kart engines and other parts to keep your kart going.
Rating: Not yet rated
