How The Pros Pick Used Go Karts

December 4, 2008 – 10:16 am

by Dwayne V Clegg

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 running out and buying the cheapest go kart on the market, there are some things you need to know and some questions you need to ask before laying out cash for a go kart.

For starters, you need to figure out how you will be using the go kart. Are you buying it for the kids to ride around the yard or will you be taking it off road. Many consumer go karts will not hold up under severe off road use.

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.

Check the front and back wheel bearings by supporting each end on blocks. Pull in and out on the wheels checking for wobbly wheels. Then check them again by pulling side to side. Bad bearings can lead to spindle damaged and any wheel bearing found to be bad should be replaced immediately.

Pay close attention to the engine. Check the oil for water. Oil with water in it will look milky or chocolate colored. Also check to see if the oil smells like gas or has a burnt smell to it. Either one can mean serious engine trouble.

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.

The next step will be to take the go kart out for a drive. Drive around slowly to see how the go kart handles. Loose steering can indicate problems with the linkage. Speed up to see how the engine handles at top speed. An engine that sputters, smokes or mis fires can indicate major trouble.

Drive the go kart. Is the handling tight or does it have a lot of play? Look at the connections from the steering shaft to the wheels. Rusted or damaged connections will need to be replaced.

To ensure you get the very best possible go kart you can for your family and you, simply follow the above tips and use a little common sense. If the deal sounds to good to be true, it probably is!

About the Author:

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Tags: Automotive & Cars