| Go-Kart -- Steering Components and Rear-Axle Assembly |
From "Weekend Mechanic"
episode WKM-106 |
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Steering Components and Axle-Bearings
With the front wheels and tires installed, the next phase is to connect them together, beginning with the steering linkage. The go-kart uses an automotive styled steering linkage including two identical threaded rods (figure A).
Tie-rod ends with swivel joints (figure B) are connected to the ends of the rods. These are used to connect the wheel to the steering shaft.
Steps:
- To assemble one side of the linkage, install a jamb nut onto each end of the rod, then install the tie-rod end.
- Attach the tie-rod end to the bracket on the spindle by inserting the retaining bolt (figure C). Secure the bolt using a lock-nut, making sure that the nylon ring on the nut is facing away from the threads.
- Repeat the steps on the other side.
- The steering shaft is installed next. The steering shaft has two pitman arms located near its end (figure D). This is the area where the tie-rod will attach.
- Before attaching the tie-rod, the steering shaft must be assembled. Install the locking collar on the steering shaft, placing it so that it rests against the bottom pitman arm (figure E). The locking collar is held in place by means of a set-screw.
- Next, install the split nylon-bushing onto the shaft so that the shoulder on the bushing comes into contact with the collar (figure F).
- With the nylon busing in position, install the lower end of the steering shaft into the center hole at the front of the welded frame. Avoid forcing the bushing into the hole. If you have trouble inserting it, use silicon-spray or other lubricant to make insertion easier.
- With the shaft in place, connect the two tie-rods which bolt together at the shaft. Then slide a locking collar down the shaft to secure the assembly (figure G).
- Install the steering hoop. It fits over the shaft and inserts into tubular holders on the kart frame. Make certain that the ends of the hoop are seated firmly.
- Slide the locking collar back up the shaft, and tighten it using the set-screw. To allow the locking collar to slide more easily, you may need to remove some of the paint from this area of the shaft.
- With steering hoop installed, you can install the steering-wheel hub onto the top of the shaft (figure H).
- Be sure that the wheels are straight, then place the steering wheel onto the hub. Bolt the steering wheel in place, and secure the bolts using cotter pins (figure I).
- With the front steering components and steering wheel installed, a front-end alignment can be done on the kart. To do this, run a tape measure across the treads at the back of the tire. Use the mold-mark on the tires as a reference (figure J). Repeat the measurement on the front. If the wheels are aligned properly, the two measurements should be identical -- or at least within 1/8-inch of each other.
- If the alignment is off, the wheels can be re-aligned by adjusting the tie-rod ends (figure K).
- Measure again (figure L), and adjust until you reach proper alignment.
- With the steering done, the rear-axle bearings can be installed. The bearing is held in place by two plates. The first is installed against the kart frame (figure M).
- Place the bearing on top of the first plate, then place the second plate and secure the assembly with a retaining bolt (figure N).
- On this side, longer bolts are used to hold the brake spacer in place (figure O).
- Install the axle bearing on the other side following the procedures above.
This completes the first day's work on the go-kart. In the segment that follows, work begins the following day with installation of the brake assembly.
RESOURCES :
The Haynes Small Engine Repair Manual
ISBN: 1850106665
Author: Curt Choate, John H. Haynes
Haynes Publishing Group
Chilton's Small Engine Repair Up to 20 Hp
Model: 0801983258
Author: Kerry A. Freeman
Nichols Publishing
Small Gas Engine Repair
Model: 0830641424
Author: Paul "How to Troubleshoot" Dempsey
Go-Kart Racing Chassis Setup
Model: 0960506845
Author: Brian Martin
Martin Motorsports Pub. Co.
International Karting Industry Buyer's Guide
Model: 0966146743
Author: Darrell E. Sitarz
Kart Marketing Association of America
Gokartparts.com
gokartparts.com
Dorchester, WI 54425
Fax: 800-294-4144
Email: sales@mfgsupply.com
Website: www.gokartparts.com
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