When your go-kart won’t start, there are a few things that you can check to get you back out on the track. Following a short list of items, you can protect your kart from damage and ensure that whatever is nagging you gets fixed. So how do you fix your go-kart when it won’t start?
The most common reason a go kart won’t start is because the engine is flooded or it’s not getting fuel. Other common issues include no spark or faulty spark plug, dirty air filter, carburetor issues, or the engine has no compression.
Working with mechanical items can be intimidating to those who are inexperienced or aren’t good with tools. However, everything is a work in progress, and being intimidated doesn’t change the fact that a job needs to be done, and you can fix it. So read on and learn everything you need to fix your go-kart when it won’t start.
What to do When Your Go-Kart Won’t Start?
Gas-powered engines are often reliable when kept in proper working order. However, when they are left to sit for the off-season or fall out of normal usage, there are things you can do to get the kart back into action.
Requirements for Getting a Go-Kart to Start
While it might seem helpless, there is a tried and true list of items that will allow you to get the engine going with just a bit of elbow grease and know-how.
Remember that you are working with combustible materials and wearing protective equipment, and working in a ventilated area is in your best interest.
Some of the things to check for when your go-kart won’t start are as follows:
Check for Spark
One of the first things to check is the make sure the engine is getting the spark it needs. To do this, you must ensure that the spark plug wire is connected to the plug and there is no debris build-up around.
If the spark plug wire has corrosion around it, the connection could be bad and need to be replaced.
Here’s a good video showing how to troubleshoot spark issues:
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Bad Gas
Another thing to check if your kart is starting is the fuel. Often when gas sits around, water can condense inside the gas tank.
So if the kart has been sitting for a while, there’s a good chance the gas has been diluted to the point that it won’t spark. Bad gas can also come from cans sitting in a wet environment.
Dirty Air Filter
Once you have a constant spark and good fuel, you must ensure clean air. The place to go for air issues is the air filter, which is often located around the outside of the engine in a separate case.
Once the filter is removed from the case, quickly dusting with a paintbrush or broom should free up any loose objects.
Carburetor Issues
Some mowers will have a carburetor. A carburetor is the location where gas and air meet. Sometimes these carbs need adjusting to get the correct mixture to make the kart run properly. Carburetor issues can be a nightmare unless you’re careful with your adjustments.
Engine Configurations
Some karts will have configurations for the engine that could keep it from starting. Some dead switches on the machine could prevent critical parts from allowing gas into the engine or the spark plug from creating the needed spark. Changing the setting will enable the kart to return to regular operation.
Getting your kart going is easy once you know what you are looking for. You understand what it takes to make the engine work by looking for the listed items.
Becoming more familiar with your kart means you can fix problems through your experience. Nothing trumps experience when dealing with gas-powered engines in a racing environment.
How do you Unflood a Go-Kart Engine?
One of the essential things to know about gas engines is that they can flood. Flooding is when too much gas enters the carb and prevents air from reaching the spark. In essence, the gas drowns out the ability to make fire. However, it is an easy fix that will have you up and going in no time.
The steps to unflood a go-kart engine are as follows:
- Crank it – One of the most obvious ways to fix flooding is by cranking the engine repeatedly. Doing this removes excess fuel from the carburetor and allows it to generate a spark that will get the engine going. It might take several pulls on the cord before you get the engine going, so be prepared to work to get the spark you need.
- Floor it – Once the engine is going, the next thing to do is run it. By keeping it cycling, you will keep fresh gas heading into the carburetor with equal mixtures of air. If possible, revving the engine will ensure that it stays in motion and doesn’t drown again.
- Wait – Sometimes, waiting around for the fuel inside the carburetor to dissipate is a good option. However, when cranking becomes daunting or monotonous, it is best to let it sit for a while and let physics do its job.
Fixing a flooded engine is a simple task that almost anyone can handle. With a bit of pulling on the starting cord or turning over the switch, you can help to dissipate any excess gas that could be keeping it from starting.
Where do you Spray Starter Fluid on a Go-Kart?
If you are trying to get a spark by spraying starter fluid, it must be sprayed into the carburetor. Spraying it there gets is closest to the spark ignited when the engine turns over, increasing your chances of getting it to fire up.
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Conclusion
Getting your go-kart started can be daunting if you are unsure where to start. However, ensuring the fuel is good, the spark plug is in order, and the engine is set correctly could be the significant difference between getting on the track and dragging out the toolbox.
Go-karting requires knowing about your equipment before heading out onto the track or race area. By knowing how to get the kart going, you learn the basics of engine repair and get an idea of what tools and tactics to take to solve your problem.