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How Can I Use A Lawn Mower Engine To Power A Go Kart?

I am 14 years old and trying to make a cheap little go kart. I am using wood to build it so it is not very complicated, but I do not have the funds to use a horizontal shaft motor. Do you have any ideas of how I can make it work???

Changing a horizontal engine to a vertical engine is not the easiest, nor inexpensive task. Changing it requires 45 degree gears which are expensive and may not last long (depending on manufacturer and intended purpose). You are better trying to find an edger gas engine (although lower horse power than lawnmower), a tiller (which some that have more HP than lawnmowers).

In addition making the frame out of wood spells disaster. It may be strong enough for a while but with time it will come apart (most likely on a turn). As I was younger I looked into making a go kart and putting it together from scratch it is not the most economical way. Trying to get one used is definitely cheaper unless you can weld your own parts. Another way to look it used is by buying used parts and put it together.

By the your question I can tell you are looking at 1 problem and not thinking of the rest.

Do you have the entire plans for the go kart.

What are you going to use for wheels?
What type of braking system you are thinking of?
How about clutch? (lawn equipment usually does not have or require any so the engine do not have any).
What is your budget?

No matter what it is not a $20 project.

BTW, check out ebay to see what parts are available and how much used parts go for.

For instance a full (cheap) go kart goes for $340.
A new go kart nice 90cc full cage kart goes for $900.

Hope this helps