How to Build Go-Karts for a Novice

Go-karts have come a long way since the days when children first mounted small engines to their soapbox cars. Today's go-karts are technologically advanced racing machines that tear up competitive tracks nationwide. Due to the rules of go-kart racing, all karts are required to be constructed substantially the same, opening up the market to companies offering kits with complete instructions on how to build your own competition-level go-kart, regardless of whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned veteran. In some cases, the go-kart kits even include the right engine for the class of racing you intend to join.

Things You'll Need

  • Go-kart kit
  • Go-kart engine
  • 3/8-inch drive socket set
  • Screwdrivers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the outer packages in which the go-kart was shipped. Each individual inner box will be labeled with the parts contained within. Locate the instruction manual and read through it from front to back before beginning to build your go-kart. This way, there won't be any surprises, and you'll know the order in which the go-kart parts are assembled.

    • 2

      Unpack the go-kart frame from its packaging. Depending on the manufacturer of your go-kart kit, It will either be shipped as a single unit or in a series of tubes that are assembled by you. If necessary, follow the package instructions to bolt together unassembled frames with the socket wrench.

    • 3

      Install the rear axle and wheels onto the go-kart. If the kart has a suspension system, this will have to be installed, as well. When the rear of the kart has been assembled, install the front suspension, steering system and wheels. Different go-kart manufacturers use their own mounting techniques for these parts, so while the go-karts will be essentially similar, there may be slight differences that can only be accounted for within your specific go-kart's instruction manual.

    • 4

      Mount the controls into the cockpit of the go-kart, such as the brake and gas pedal, followed by the engine. Once the engine is in place, connect the throttle linkage and the brakes according to the instructions, then the fuel tank.

    • 5

      Mount the seat into the cockpit followed by the body, if the go-kart kit included body panels. Once this is completed, go over the kit instructions again and double-check all of your part installations to make certain that the parts are tightly fitted and work correctly. Connect the fuel line from the gas tank to the engine carburetor, then connect the go-kart's battery, if it is equipped with one. Pull-start go-karts are more common.