Go Kart Drive System Enigma: Tire Size Versus Sprocket Size: What Is The Best Combination?

Question: "I have this go kart and I want to make the rear tires bigger. If I change the diameter of rear sprocket so that it increases correspondingly with the rear tire, will the performance of the go kart suffer? In other words will the go kart go slower than before and will the go kart have really poor off the line acceleration?"
Good question, I have often thought about that myself. I have often said that the rule of thumb for a go kart to have optimum performance is to have the rear sprocket be nearly 85% of the rear wheel diameter. The question is, does that apply just for 12 inch diameter wheels or does it apply to 16 inch rear wheels too?
The answer to that question may surprise you. It surprised me. When I ran through the calculations a funny pattern emerged:
- A 12 inch diameter tire with a 12 inch diameter rear sprocket yielded a speed of 22 miles per hour at 7.3 feet per second squared of acceleration.
- A 16 inch diameter tire with a 16 inch diameter rear sprocket yielded a speed of 22 miles per hour at 7.3 feet per second squared of acceleration.
I thought that was erroneous so I ran a whole slew of tires sizes with corresponding sprocket sizes and still came up with the same numbers.
So the answer is no. No, your performance will not suffer if you increase your sprocket size correspondingly with the wheel size.
What will happen if you do not increase your sprocket size is that the clutch will become over loaded and smoke. The go kart will require pushing to start and will have horrible low end performance.
But if you increase the diameter of the sprocket so that it is 85% of the rear tires diameter, the performance should stay nearly constant.
That is an unexpected result, but one you can depend on if you are designing a go kart from scratch. The rule of thumb stands: "The rear sprocket should be nearly 85% of the rear tire size for optimum acceleration and speed performance."
The belt drive system for example is quite dependent on this relationship. The reason is that the drive pulley for a belt drive can be quite large, 1.75 inches in diameter, and requires that the rear pulley be as large as possible.
In the case of the wood go kart that I designed, in order to keep the ratio a simple one to one system (versus adding a jack-shaft) the rear pulley had to be the same size as the rear tire. I was able to get through this problem by making a wood pulley which was durable enough to handle road conditions, cheap enough to make myself and best of all gave the performance that was needed for good acceleration and overall speed performance.

Bushwacker Fender Flares for the Bold Look

n the 4-wheel drive community, Bushwacker is a common name, as Bushwacker is a manufacturer of high quality Jeep accessories and fender flares that established itself decades ago. The products are not only high quality, they are stylish and what the Bushwacker name has been built on.
Bushwacker backs all their Jeep accessories and fender flares that come with a limited warranty for the life of the duration of the accessories or fender flares life and they are manufactured so that they are easy to install. For the 4-wheeler, there is nothing better than decking out their ride, and Bushwacker definitely provides the high quality, stylish parts and accessories for this.
Bushwacker has many different styles in their flares which will transform your Jeep in a stylish manner and within minutes.
Bushwacker Fender Flares
Bushwacker Pocket Style Flares: When you size up to a wider, larger tire, you must keep your Jeep legal. The Bushwakcer Pocket Fender Flares are the perfect flare for the job. The installation of the flares is quick and convenient and require no drilling. Features of the Pocket style flares include no warping, cracking or fading. The fender flares come with a stainless button-head torque head bolts.
Bushwacker Extend-A-Fender Flares: These Bushwacker flares are another stylish flare with the cost much less than most flares. The Extend-A-Fender Flares provides the Jeep with a sharp, bold look that sets it in a class of its own. These flares provide a 6" coverage can easily be custom painted.
Bushwacker Cut-Out Flares: The Bushwacker Cut-Out Flares provide extra tire coverage to the Jeep, and protect its paint job. Cut-Out Flares are designed for Jeeps with bigger tires and provide 6" of tire and made of Dura-Flex 2000® for optimal flexibility and durablity. Features include no warping, cracking or chalking. These fender flare come with self tapping button head stainless torque screws which provide a fast and easy installation process. On some models, drilling may be required.
Bushwacker Flat Style Flares: Bushwacker Flat Style Flares, are stylish flare, as well, and add additional tire coverage to the Jeep, as well as, protection. Installation is easy and within minutes the Jeep will be transfored to a distinctive looking vehicle that shines. The process is fast and adds that off-roader look to the Jeep that so many Jeep enthusiasts admire. Bushwacker Flat Style Flares do not warp, crack, or chalk.
Bushwacker is definitely a name that has bult it reputation through high quality and durablity products over the last four decades. Fender flares are just one of the many Jeep accessories that sets the Jeep aside from others, and gives a sharp, bold look that makes 4-wheel vehicles. There are many online suppliers that offer Bushwacker products, such as, 4WD.com, which is a reputable supplier of 4-wheel drive vehicles. 4WD.com carries the best in high quality products from leading manufacturers in the industry such as Bushwacker and Smittybilt, as well as, other quality manufacturers that are known throughout the 4-wheel drive community

How to Buy Quality ATV Batteries Online

If you are buying ATV batteries, you won't find a better deal than most dealers for motorcycle batteries. If you want to save money on batteries, then you should consider them.
However, before you make your purchase, you may want to consider shopping around first. If you don't, you could end up losing your shirt, and who wants to do that? So, to get the best value for your money, here's what you need to do:
First, you'll want to visit the search engines. You'll get the best results using Google, so you may want to consider going there.
Do a search for your search term in quotes. Since you're replacing ATV batteries, you'll want to search for that.
Once you reach the appropriate site, then your next step is to search the site for a battery for your brand of ATV. Start by comparing cost. Next is the shipping and handling because this can actually cause the cost a lot more than you expected, so avoid buying from a site that charges it if you can.
Look for additional accessories. For example, you may also want to consider looking for portable battery chargers, especially if you plan to travel and want to take your ATV with you. This will allow you to recharge your battery in remote locations if you need to, as well as perform any necessary maintenance.
One important thing you want to remember here is to never use a car charger on your battery. If you do, you will destroy the battery as a car battery charger isn't made to be used with this type of battery.
You could also hurt yourself, so it's best just to avoid this altogether. Since most of these types of sites will sell accessories too, then this will help you buy everything you need and save money at the same time.
Customer service is one of the final issues you want to consider, as well as being able to buy locally. If you need it now, you'll want to locate a company nearby that sells what you need. Consider using Google Business Local for this one. You can search by location and topic.
If you have problems, good customer service will help you get it solved more quickly. Many sites will offer you a phone number, email address or maybe even chat.
When you have finished your research, place your order. Don't forget to check when you can expect to receive your battery.
Depending on who your company uses to ship your order, you can determine how quickly you'll receive your order. If you need it now, you don't want to order it online. Otherwise, you'll have to wait to get it, so you'll need to decide here how long you can wait.
When you receive your order, check to make sure it's complete. Install your new battery and make sure everything is working. If you run into problems, contact customer service and get their help. They will also be able to assist you with installing the battery if you're a little nervous and want some help.
Buying an ATV battery is a simple process, especially if you buy one online. Take the time to do your research before making your purchase. Don't forget to bookmark the site you purchased from when you're finished. you'll save yourself a lot of hassle, as well as a lot of time and money in the long run

Needed Equipment for an Off-Road Trip - ATV Battery and Motorcycle Batteries

Trip planning is often stressful, especially if you're going completely off-road and miles into the wilderness. An extra ATV battery and motorcycle batteries may not seem terribly important, but they could save a lot of headache. No one wants to be miles away from civilization without tools, a flashlight or other necessities.
Don't let planning your next trip be overly stressful; keep this checklist handy:
Flashlight: Don't underestimate this small, but much needed item. Even if you're just planning a day trip, take a flashlight just in case you're out past dusk and something happens to prevent you from getting home safely.
Toolbox: This may seem redundant, but a little reminder never hurt anyone. Always make sure your most-needed tools are in the toolbox and the toolbox is in the vehicle with all of your other necessary items.
Jack: Make sure to take a jack in case you need to change a tire or get under the ATV to fix something. You never know what may go wrong when you're miles away from everything familiar and need something so simple.
Pry Bar: Thin and easy to stow away in the back of the truck or in the trailer with your ATV or motorcycle, a pry bar could come in very handy for lifting heavy items.
Spare Tires: Flats happen. No one likes them, but tires do occasionally go flat. Take a spare tire for each motorcycle or ATV you take on the trip. A can of tire fixer and portable air pump is also a nice addition to any off-road trip.
Electric Drill: Changing parts in the middle of the wilderness is time consuming. An electric drill with attachments and extra batteries could save a lot of time in the event something breaks down.
Tape: Both duct tape and electrical tape should always be kept in your toolbox for emergencies. You never know when something electrical may malfunction, requiring on-the-spot repair. Duct tape is strong enough to hold some pretty serious weight if needed for parts that don't generate heat.
First Aid Kit: Never leave home on a motorcycle or ATV trip without a first aid kit. Simple first aid should always be understood by all participating in the trip. Advanced first aid is preferable in the event of serious injury. Consider first aid and CPR classes in case of emergencies.
Batteries: Extra flashlight batteries, motorcycle batteries, or an ATV battery are absolute necessities. You may not always have cell phone service, but make sure you take a fully charged phone just in case of emergencies.
This is a very basic checklist for the bare necessities. Your list of personal necessities may be a bit more entailed. Other items you decide to take may be added to the list on an as-needed basis. Some other items may include a sleeping roll, a hammock or tent, or even cooking utensils for overnight stays.
The checklist for a full camping trip will, of course, be much bigger. Aside from motorcycle batteries, an ATV battery, and tools; you'll need canned foods with a manual can opener. Don't forget the toilet paper. Every trip should also include a ready-to-leave checklist so you make sure to leave the wilderness as clean as it was when you arrived.

How To Select The Best Catalytic Converters For Off-Roaders

Truck and jeep owners who participate in off-road adventures need quality vehicle products including Catalytic Converters. These exhaust products must be able to handle rough terrains, rock crawling, and mudding. 4 Wheel Parts is a leader of vehicle products for off-roaders including catalytic converters which are required for vehicles that are used both on and off the road.
There are several types of catalytic converters. Some are legal for street use while others are not. This may be state-specific so be sure to know your state's law regarding it. Each type of converter has individual benefits. All are critical to an effective vehicle exhaust system.
Converters play a major role in reducing vehicle emissions. These exhaust products convert emissions from vehicle exhaust systems into non-toxic outputs. To do this, a chemical reaction occurs in the converter that changes toxic pollutants created by an internal combustion engine into non-toxic substances.
Many view trucks and jeeps as particularly responsible for producing harmful vehicle emissions. This is particularly true for those that run on diesel fuel. The larger the vehicle's engine, the more pollution. Or so it seems. In reality, there are several high-quality catalytic converters that truck and jeep owners can purchase through 4 Wheel Parts to significantly reduce toxic exhaust emissions.
When you buy a "49-State" catalytic converter, you get a product that meets EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and emissions requirements for vehicles. Two types are made: universal fit and direct fit. Universal fit converters can be used with most vehicles. However, installation requires customization with cutting or welding equipment. You will need to have this type of converter professionally installed.
If you prefer to install the converter yourself, the "49-State" direct fit model is your best option. This type of catalytic converter meets the specific requirements of each vehicle make and model. While you can keep it simple by using the bolt-on installation procedures, you may want to further secure it by welding it to insure it stays in place.
A "California" catalytic converter meets CARB (California Air Resources Board) and emissions requirements for vehicles. Like the "49-State" converter, the "California" catalytic converter is available as a universal fit and direct fit product. The universal fit product will require professional installation while the direct fit can be self-installed. Both are for legal for street use. Unlike the "49-State", the two "California" converters cannot be modified beyond stated applications and remain compliant with CARB.
If you are planning to use your truck or jeep for off-street racing, there are race converters available that produce limited back pressure. This allows you to meet racing as well as emissions requirements. Diesel catalytic converters are also made for racing vehicles.
Off-roaders need high-quality converters because they push their vehicle's engine which produces more exhaust. That is available from 4 Wheel Parts reduce harmful vehicle emissions. Through a chemical reaction that results when specific pollutants and exhaust chemicals interact with one another, converters help keep our air and environment clean. And they are ideal for off-roaders who are rough on their vehicles.

Preparing for Your MOT

Although submitting your vehicle through an MOT may seem like a time consuming and expensive hassle, truth is, that without your MOT certificate, your vehicle simply isn't roadworthy. As long as your vehicle is in good condition and it's been regularly serviced and maintained to manufacturers specification, your vehicle should pass the MOT test.
The Directgov website explains, "your MOT certificate confirms that your vehicle, without dismantling it, met the minimum environmental and road safety standards required by law."
In order to prevent your car from being off the road for any longer than the duration of the test - which is usually around 40 minutes - you can give your car a quick once over in order to check for any potential problems. This way, you can get them fixed before your vehicle enters its MOT. Please note that maintenance checks should be done on a regular basis, not just prior to the MOT test. So, what can you do in preparation for your vehicle's MOT?

• Give your car a quick clean and wash off any mud or dirt from around and underneath the vehicle. Not only does it look more professional when you bring a clean car into the MOT, but a tester can actually refuse to examine your vehicle if it's really mucky. Your number plates should also be clean and legible. Quickly take it through the car wash prior to the test.
• It's best to empty the boot so that the vehicle isn't carrying any excess weight. Any clutter could potentially hinder the test.
• Test the brake pedals by pushing down on them with your feet. If they feel a little resilient and springy then you should get these checked out prior to your MOT. The brakes should have a firm bounce.
• Pull the handbrake lever up and assess whether it's as it should be. If you're able to pull the handbrake lever too far or it feels a bit loose then cable may need adjusting.
• To check the vehicle's ABS, hold down the steering wheel and keep it help down while your turn the engine on. If the wheel pulls down and then returns to its normal position then your ABS is fine. You should also check that there are no abnormal or unusual movements in the steering wheel when you turn it.
• If possible, ask someone to help you out and hold a cloth over the end of the exhaust while your start up the engine. If the engine stalls then this is good; it means there are no leaks within the exhaust system.
• Look out for any large and noticeable cracks that may obstruct your vision of the road. Minor cracks are usually OK, but it's best to get them sorted prior to your MOT.
• Ask a friend to help you check all of the vehicle's lights. Test the brake lights, indicators, headlights and number plate lights etc. If a light is blown or become broken then replace the bulb.
• Keep an eye out for any tyre damage and objects that have become jammed in the tyre's tread. If the tread is less than 1.6mm then you must replace your tyres immediately. Worn and uneven tyres are deemed unsafe and are a common factor to vehicle's failing their MOT.
• Check that the horn, ignition, wipers, washers and seat belts work.

Important Facts About the Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types of ATV Tires

People often overlook important details about the maintenance of their automobile, thus most of the times decreasing its life span, and in some extreme cases, even putting lives in danger. Even though tampering with vehicles is not recommended (and also illegal in most countries), an owner still has an active role in deciding what parts can fully satisfy his needs.
When talking about vehicles, there are two elements that must be known and properly understood: services and parts. Generally, automotive services such as oil changes, wheel alignments or brake repairs are done by professional mechanics, in authorized services that can give guarantees of their quality work. However, this commodity is not a reason why people should not know how to perform a simple oil change when in need. Regarding oil changes (and most automotive services for that matter), most countries consider it mandatory that they are made at least on a yearly basis. The simple oil change is one of the actions that can prolong the time that the car can run well and can be necessary anywhere between three or twenty-four months, depending on the driver's habits and, of course, on the type of vehicle.
Even if a certain quality control is imposed for all services, things tend to change when talking about the automotive parts industry. Most of the times it happens with a poorly made mirror or headlight, but when important elements such as tires are not properly manufactured, the safety of the driver and passengers can no longer be ensured. This is even more relevant for ATV enthusiasts, who rely greatly on the quality of their tires.
Different models of ATV tires exist, and even if some of them are regarded as "the best for any terrain", in reality you must know what you need them for. The main choice is usually between comfort and resistance to tough terrain. When used on a daily basis, most manufacturers usually recommend less aggressive ATV tires, for more "enjoyable" rides; however, if used rarely and in extreme driving conditions, an 8 plies carcass tire will surely suit your needs a lot better. The same comfort factor is essential when choosing between radial and bias ATV tires. Of course, most distributors and manufacturers offer guidance in the decisive process, so you should always address any questions to the specialized staff.
No matter what you desire to invest in, always look for products with a quality guarantee because they will almost always prove to be reliable in the long run.