The 5 Best Clutches For Go-Kart Engines
Choosing a racing clutch out of a dozen often makes it difficult to decide which one to buy. How can you tell if an automatic clutch is right for your vehicle?
Most clutches available in the market are made out of steel and do not have any unique features other than just helping the engine bear a greater load without breaking down.
In our testing, we found that Bravex Centrifugal Go-Kart Clutch got the job done fast, was easy to install, and performed consistently over its lifespan.
We’ve gathered the best choices for your demand below, along with their specifications to make your decision straightforward. Keep reading to unveil the most suitable clutch for you.
Our Top Picks For The 5 Best Racing Go-Kart Clutches
Go-Kart Clutch ¾ Bore 12T
This is the finest clutch for a go-kart used with a 3/4 bore shaft and has 12 teeth. It works best for engines that provide up to 6.5 HP and has an average torque of 2300 RPMs.
The exciting thing about this karting clutch is that it can fit any other car as well. It also has a keyway of 3/4”, making it compatible with most 5.5 HP clones and 4-7HP motors in all brands of go-karts.
Since it constitutes steel, you’ll find it durable, reliable and sturdy. Due to its many teeth, it has a broad area of contact with the chain. In this way, the chain receives a greater power transmission while increasing its life span.
This clutch is easy-to-use and great for DIY kart owners, hobbyists or even professionals who deal with go-karting.
Compatibility: It works perfectly for any go-karts that have Honda GX160, GX200, GX 140, or GX120 motors or Harbor Freight Greyhound 196cc motors as well as Briggs and Stratton Tecumseh engines with crankshafts of three-quarters dimension and keyways of 3/16” size.
Specifications:
- 3/4″ bore
- 12 Teeth
- 2 set screws
- For # 35 Chain
- 2.68 pounds weight
- 4.45 x 4.41 x 2.44 inches dimensions
Auto-Express Centrifugal Clutch
This racing go-kart clutch works efficiently with a set of chains and sprockets that are available separately. We recommend this clutch for go-kart engines that yield between 2 and 6 horsepower. You’ll see an engagement range of 2200 * 200 revs upon installation.
Its most notable feature is the anti-slip design that helps prevent too much slip under hard acceleration or braking. The set of 12 teeth makes it an excellent choice for kids’ go-karts, as the teeth sprocket and chain make it easy to remove.
It mainly serves the 35-inch chains, which means it’s compatible with the bikes of 4.5HP and 6HP ones. Also, it comes with a sprocket key, which is quite convenient and helps tighten the set of chains and sprockets to the clutch.
Further, it works well when used with a 1/2 inch keyway and maintains durability even after years of usage. The three-leaf spring design helps it to keep its performance strong even at hard use.
Specifications:
- 3/4″ Bore
- 35# Chain
- 12 Teeth
- 2.61 pounds weight
- 4.53 x 4.45 x 2.64 inches dimensions
Bravex Centrifugal Go-Kart Clutch
Whether you prefer a 10-tooth or 12-tooth sprocket, the Bravex Go-Kart Clutch has what you need.
It’s got a 10-tooth sprocket in two different sizes, designed to be compatible with #40/41/420 chains, while the other designed to be compatible with #35 chains. However, this respective go-kart clutch does not include the chains.
Go-kart clutches feature 3/16″ keyways fitted to 3/4″ bores, a 3/4″ bore, and a 3/4″ crankshaft. A go-kart engine is suitable for this, with a displacement of less than 200cc and a 3 to 6.5 HP power output.
What’s more interesting? Thanks to the lightweight and wear-resistant steel construction, the Bravex kit offers a 50% longer life expectancy than other clutches on the market!!!
Specifications:
- 10 Teeth
- 3/4″ Bore
- #40/41/420 Chain For Motors No More Than 200 cc Only
- 2.68 pounds weight
- 4.8 x 4.6 x 2.5 inches dimensions
FDJ Predator 212cc Centrifugal Clutch
The FDJ centrifugal clutch is an excellent go-kart clutch, even for a small to the medium engine. It is not only a good quality go-kart clutch, but also compact and durable enough for the toughest of tasks.
This 212cc predator engine clutch features an outside diameter of about 4 3/4″, a total height of about 3” and a weight of only 2.1 lbs, making it perfect for go-karts.
Its long-lasting wear-resistant steel construction will benefit you for many seasons to come.
You will find this go-kart centrifugal clutch in three variants and with a 10, 11 or 12-tooth sprocket and compatible with chain #40/41/420. It is available in other sizes too, but please remember that the outside diameter and height will change.
Specifications:
- 10, 11 or 12 sprocket teeth
- 2 HP to 7 HP engine fit
- 2 pounds weight
- 4.45 x 4.41 x 2.64 inches dimensions
Motovecor Centrifugal Clutch
When it comes to centrifugal clutches for go-karts, there is nothing better than this one!
This centrifugal clutch for go-karts offers a number of applications besides its quality and versatility. Tests reveal that it can handle up to 7 horsepower and a variety of small engines. Impressive, right?
It is also compatible with most the industry-standard engine types, such as 2-6.5hp clones or 2-6.5hp with 3/4” shafts like Tecumseh motors or the new GX200 series of engines Motorex now offers.
The clutch also comes with an adjuster to set it up for optimal performance at any RPM range. It comes with all fittings you need to get your motor connected nicely, including chain and bolts.
It mounts onto the crankshaft with a set screw and washer at the end of the crankshaft and then to the engine block itself through the mounting holes.
People who want to run this clutch with 3/4″ shafts will need to make sure that the mounting holes are facing where you want them to, and there are also two spacers included for more prolonged, taller engines.
Specifications:
- 10 teeth
- 40, 41, 420 chain
- 2.6 pounds weight
- 4.5 x 2.8 x 4.5 inches dimensions
Factors To Consider When Buying Go-Kart Clutches
Our comprehensive buyer’s guide on go-kart clutches can help you with your purchase decision. Besides that, it’ll explain how go-kart clutches work and which one’s right for you.
As we delve further into the details behind this clutch, you’ll learn how to identify the crucial areas you should consider when buying a go-cart clutch.
Which type of go-kart clutch should you choose?
Centrifugal go-kart clutches have a fixed gear ratio and an engagement range of about 2,000 – 2,300 rpm in the field of transmissions. At around 2,000 – 2,300 rpm, the clutch of a go-kart engine engages when the crankshaft spins.
Torque converters, on the other hand, have a lower engagement range. This is very important to keep in mind when deciding if a clutch is suitable for your kart. Each transmission type has its advantages; however, it’s always a good idea to determine which is best for your go-kart.
- Racing Go-Kart Clutches: They are generally more appropriate for racing go-karts because a go-kart clutch has a wider engagement range than a torque converter.
Their response is much snappier, and they perform very well at higher torque ranges. The effect is more apparent at high speeds, so most racing go-karts utilize a racing clutch.
The clutches of professional go-karts usually have multiple disks for maximum efficiency. As a standard go-kart, however, a centrifugal clutch will suffice.
- Off-Road Go-Kart Clutches: When replacing the transmission on your go-kart, you may want to consider a clutch instead of a transmission. The torque ranges of off-road go-karts tend to be low to medium rather than high.
During uneven terrain, especially at low speeds, this tends to happen. The result is a less efficient clutch and a shorter lifespan due to the clutch slippage it will suffer.
When the go-kart clutch isn’t fully engaged, slipping occurs. As a result, the clutch will burn and eventually wear out.
- Homemade Go-Kart Clutches: Homemade or custom go-karts intended for racing are another excellent application for go-kart clutches. In comparison with torque converters, they’re very inexpensive. You may want to opt for a torque converter if you expect a lot of stop-and-go driving or if you expect to travel mainly at slow speeds.
Common Go-Karting Clutches
Go-karts use different types of clutches that operate differently. As a result, some clutches will suit certain situations better than others. Here are the most commonly used clutches;
- Centrifugal Clutches: Go-karts benefit from centrifugal clutches. They cost about $30 to $40, making them one of the cheapest clutches on the market. As well as being affordable and easy to install, they are also beginner-friendly.
A centrifugal clutch engages and disengages the load using centrifugal force. The load will only engage with some centrifugal clutches operating at least 2,000 to 3,000 RPM. As a rule, typical engines can run for around this amount.
- Variable Transmission Clutches: These clutches give the go-kart the ability to accelerate and hold higher speeds even while running at lower RPMs.
Transmission clutches consist of two pulleys of varying pitches with a constant-length belt. The driver pulley would be helpful when the big pulley is on the load member for more torque.
- Electric Clutches: Since batteries power electric clutches, they’re an excellent option for eco-conscious consumers. The battery spins a disk of iron using an electromagnet after getting a complete charge. Disks move and act as clutches, stopping the load. Magnet clutches can cost as much as $60 to $100, so they tend to be pricey.
How does a go-kart clutch work?
The clutch acts like an automatic transmission when the engine RPM increases. During idle time, the clutch shouldn’t engage. Engine manufacturers are responsible for setting the idle speed at the factory. In most cases, the engine idles at 1,650 RPM plus or minus 200 RPM.
What is the primary material of a go-kart clutch?
Steel is the material of choice for a go-kart clutch because it is durable and long-lasting. The clutch must endure the strain and heat generated by friction once it is engaged. There are also interior parts made of steel, like the bushings, friction shoes, and arrestor springs.
What parts are necessary to find in a go-kart clutch?
The key to buying a good go-kart clutch is to pay attention to several things. Be sure to take into account all the parts needed for the installation of the clutch. There are some components you will need to buy separately if specific clutches don’t include them.
You can simply reuse the stuff that you already have. You can also buy a go-kart clutch kit if you fail to purchase the missing parts separately.
- 1 x Set of tools
- 1x Clutch
- 2 – 3 x Set screws
- 1x Keyway
- 1x chain
What is the ideal engagement range for a go-kart clutch?
There’s a reason they often show a clutch’s engagement range. In a clutch, the engagement range refers to the revolutions per minute at which the inner components spin before pressing against the drum and engaging the clutch.
The range of clutches is crucial since you need to find one that is compatible with your engine. As a general rule, go-kart clutches engage at 2,000 – 2,300 RPM and reach their full engagement at about 2,600 RPM. As the clutch slips, anything in between isn’t ideal.
Does a clutch for go-karting require maintenance?
Your clutch for go-kart racing might lose its functioning due to various reasons. The best way to maintain it is to apply multiple tips.
You can avoid heat damage to your clutch by properly oiling it. Warranty coverage does not apply to heat damage. Once the clutch damages because of heat, the engine will automatically take off when the engine starts.
Within the clutch drum, you can see the metal turning from black to blue from heat damage. It is necessary to replace the clutch if the heat damage prevents it from disengaging.
At least once every two hours, oil the bushing in the sprocket.
When riding in tight spaces with small children, and when the clutch is never fully engaged, you will need to oil the clutch more often. As the clutch generates heat, it eventually reaches the friction surface.
Oiling the chain at the same time is a good idea. You should use a high-quality oil like 10W30 or straight 30 weight. The chain can become kinky when there is too little oil, which can cause damage to the clutch sprocket. A new chain will be cheaper than a new clutch.
What specifications should you look for when buying a go-kart clutch?
It is vital to ensure that your clutch is compatible with your go-kart setup. To ensure proper compatibility, it is advisable to ensure that the crankshaft diameter, chain diameter and engine’s output are all compatible. Make sure you thoroughly review the clutch specifications.
Choose the right Gear Ratio
In the case of a vehicle that needs to negotiate terrain and deal with high levels of torque/acceleration, you need to consider its occupants and how often it will stop and start and what sorts of top speeds it needs to achieve.
There is a golden rule that requires a smaller gear ratio with larger driven wheels. When engine RPM working zones are wide, the gear ratios are shorter, enabling a higher top speed with more acceleration. Calculate your gear ratio by dividing the clutch sprocket by your rear axle sprocket.
The output range of the engine
If an engine is compatible with a clutch, it will have a recommended engine output. The clutch on a go-kart may get overworked with an overpowered engine, and it is simply too small to handle such demands. Go-kart engines with low horsepower are not powerful enough to fully engage the clutch, resulting in the clutch slipping frequently.
If you want to know the recommended engine output of a specific product, you should check its actual description. For these clutches, they suggest an average engine output range of 2 – 7 horsepower.
The amount of weight limit
It is a known fact that centrifugal clutches can move a significant amount of weight. If the weight limit exceeds, then the clutch will begin to wear out faster. The kart and its driver (and passenger, in the case of a two-seat kart) should not weigh more than 400 pounds.
With the driver (and passenger) added to that, the kart weighs about 150 pounds. It is better to buy a torque converter go-kart if you anticipate exceeding the 400-pound limit because then your clutch will not burn up by trying to do too much.
Check the compatibility of the crankshaft
A typical brake clutch for smaller go-karts and homemade go-karts has a bore diameter of about 3/4-inch and is suitable for smaller go-karts. It’s an opening around the crankshaft that goes through the center of the crank.
Therefore, if the bore diameter is 3/4″, the crankshaft must be 3/4″ in diameter to fit perfectly. A 3/16″ keyway is also present on this type of crankshaft. Make sure that the crankshaft and keyway are compatible before choosing a clutch.
Look for the ideal chain size
There is a chain size stamp right on the chain links of most go-kart and minibike chains. There are four leading chains used on American Go Karts and Mini Bikes: #35, 40, 41, 420, and 50.
Usually, a clutch sprocket with 11 or 12 teeth indicates 35 chain usage. Sprockets with ten teeth typically use #40, 41, or 420 chains.
It is always possible to remove any extra links if you order too many chains. You should not run the chain too tight; it will damage the teeth of the sprockets very quickly.
What is the lifespan of the clutch?
With the correct installation on the crankshaft, without using a “magic hammer’s” force to pound the clutch on, and using a correctly sized key (1/2″), a clutch usually lasts a long time.
This clutch may only last 20 minutes if installed incorrectly or driven in dangerous conditions such as sand, steep terrain or excessive weight in the kart.
What is a typical go-kart clutch price range?
Depending on the components included, a standard go-kart clutch typically costs $25 to $50. It is generally more expensive to buy clutches that do not have any go-kart chain and cheaper to purchase with no additional components.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve reached here, it surely has become easier to decide which go-kart racing clutch to buy with all the essential information in mind.
Our top five picks are compatible with all budgets and racing needs, but Bravex Centrifugal Go-Kart Clutch stands out for its brilliant design and adjustable trigger that encourages you to drive more smoothly.
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