Go+Kart

This project depends on collaborative behaviour between a group of L2 Students. The GoKart is built to a formula. Each Student takes a responsibility for system as well as contributing to the overall construction

At the end of the school year the teams will put their machine through its paces. The go karts will then be put up for sale.

=Go Kart Formula=

Dimensions 1800 long x 800Wide max O/A Chassis welded mild steel Engine as supplied. Foot operated throttle. Wheels as supplied. Belt drive transmission, single speed with layshaft. Overcentre hand operated clutch. Band brake operated by right foot. Rack and pinion steering mechanism. King pin steering with appropriate geometry. Single person seat and belt.

As of 1st September 2011, 4 teams ... red. black. green and blue, have struggled to get their projects on track.

the chassis materials and basic designs have been decided, the engine mounts have been determined and the countershaft and back axles have been mounted.

the primary drive is A section vee belt from the existing 60mm pulley mounted on the engine. the countershaft receives drive by way of either an 8" or 9" pulley. Secondary reduction is by 1/2" chain .. approx 4:1 reduction to the back axle. both rerar wheels are strengthened trolley wheels... spokes and hub boss... wheels, sprockets and pulleys are roll pinned to their shafts. the clutch is a belt tensioner in the primary drive... either over centred or locked in tension mode. hopefully one belt will suffice/

the front axle of the go kart involves a fully calculated steering system which includes consideration for king pin inclination, camber angle, caster and ackerman angle. the steering column and 'activator' ( wheel or whatever) are high geared through ball joints at both ends of the track rods. we will endeavour to achieve quality steering at speed on grass by tracking as necessary. the front wheels are plastic centred which have been toughened by installing rim plates and filling voids. Valve extensions are necessary.

the exhaust sysyem will be a retrofit... non standard for maximum effect!!

the throttle will be foot operated via bowden cable.

the clutch will be hand operated.

the seat will be a steel sheet with cushions for individual drivers.

the brakes are on order and should arribe towards the end of october. meanwhile the spec in known and axle flanges have been manufactured.

each kart will be scrutinized for weld safety and passenger safety before it is operated in anger. A roll bar will be mounted to give an anchorage for 3 point seat belts. ( probably rigid) Each kart will have a prominent kill switch and a fire extinguisher on board.