Building a go kart frame can be a simple project or complicated one depending on what the go kart frame is being used for. Racing go karts frames can be extremely complicated and the welds need to be much more strong to endure the hard cornering and G. forces that racing a go kart places on the go kart frame. If you’re looking for a go kart frame for more of a do-it-yourself project and you already have the engine, wheels, brakes, steering column, centrifugal clutch and other parts needed the frame can be a simple project if you have access to a Welder. Most homemade go karts utilize a go kart frame is a ladder box construction consisting of either square or round steel tubing with steel floor plates bolted to the go kart frame. A racing go kart frame can be made of steel and aluminum and there are some all aluminum go kart frames available as well.
Most ready-made go karts, already assembled in the go kart frame is designed specifically for the geometry of that particular kart. When it comes to homemade go kart frame geometry is very important as well as size, wheelbase and most of all go kart frame length. Many home a go karts and their builders do not place enough emphasis on the geometry of the go kart frame and you end up with a frame that is either too long and narrow or too short and wide. Longer drivers need a go kart frame that is going to give their legs enough room in stretch to work the pedals properly tour they don’t feel like their knees are pressed up against their chest. However, as you lengthen the go kart frame you need to make corresponding adjustments in the wheelbase and axle length or else you’ll significantly change the geometry of the go kart affecting the handling, stability, breaking and control.
If you look on the Internet there are significant number of plans available to build your own go kart frame some of these plans are free and some of these plans are for sale. Having good plans is the first step to building quality go kart frame, the second and probably more important component is to have the right building materials, the right tools and the ability to make strong welds to metal. Nothing is more dangerous than a go kart frame this poorly welded together. Can you imagine your go kart falling apart from underneath you as you make it turn at 40 mph? Believe me it’s not a pretty sight. So if you’re making your own go kart make sure that whatever parts you choose are securely fastened to a strong, durable and reliable go kart frame.