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Frequently  Asked  Torque  Converter  /  Clutch  Questions

Torque  Converter 

(Look at the picture.  The unit on the left is called the "driver," and it attaches to the crankshaft of your engine.  The unit on the right is the "driven," and it is mounted on the jackshaft, which looks like a small axle and also will contain the "driving" chain sprocket.)

This is a torque converter with the covers off.  The lower unit (by the fingers) is called the DRIVEN unit.  The one on the engine is the DRIVER.  This set-up was used on Brister's Thunder Karts -- the DRIVEN unit is mounted "backwards" of most units, and this requires a special unit.  (Do not operate the engine without all the guards in place.)

Clean and lubricate
 

Symptoms - When torque converters get dirty, they will (a) jerk when you hit the gas pedal, similar to "popping the clutch", and/or (b) creep -- move slightly forward -- when idling.  Severely dirty torque converters will lock-up, generally in the engaged position.  This can cause the engine to die when you depress the brake and stop, and cause the wheels to push the kart forward when you pull on the pull rope.  The longer you wait to clean it, the more damage it does.

Interval - Torque converters on engines <8 hp generally need to be cleaned and lubricated within the first 5 hours, and about every 20 hours thereafter.  Special lube is required.  Consult your owner's manual, as this is not difficult, but if it's done incorrectly, it can ruin your torque converter.

Torque converters on larger engines (8+ hp) generally only need cleaning about once a year, depending upon use.  Read your owner's manual carefully, or take it to an authorized shop.

Rust - Rust on either of your units (driver -- on engine;  driven -- on jackshaft) will "sand" the belt on the side, similar to rubbing it with sandpaper.  This will narrow the belt, and can damage the torque converter units.  The unit should be replaced, but its live may be extended by sanding off the rust.  You will still get excessive belt wear, but not as badly as before.

Torque Converter Video -- Press "Play" (below) to Start

You must be 18 years or older to view these instructions;  minors should never work on go-karts.

You may save this to your computer for future reference, but you may not otherwise copy it in any manner, nor use it for any public display.  Click here to purchase a higher-resolution DVD containing this video and others.

Download Windows Media Player

Belt Replacement
 

Interval - Torque converter belts wear, and will eventually break.  It's a good idea to change your belt before it breaks, as the belt may damage the torque converter when it breaks.  Depending on how much you ride your kart, you can expect about 9 months from a belt.

Caution - Many torque converter belts are asymmetrical, i.e., one side has a considerable angle while the other side is so little an angle it appears to be straight.  When replacing this belt, it's important to put the "flat" side toward the engine -- most belts will indicate the direction on the outside of the belt.  Failure to install the belt correctly will cause the belt to self-destruct as soon as you give it the gas.

Centrifugal  Clutch 

Lube
 

Interval - Centrifugal clutches must be oiled every hour around the bronze bushing.  Use lubricant designed especially for clutch karts, or 30w motor oil if chain lube is unavailable.  Do not use anything with Teflon or PTFE in it -- they can ruin the clutch.

Exception:  BDM karts, and several other brands, have special "grease fitting" clutches.  These should be lubricated with high temperature grease every 4 - 6 hours.  (These also require a special "GF" clutch when replacing the clutch.  Replacing the clutch with a "standard" clutch will defeat the lubrication system.)

Clutch Video -- Press "Play" (below) to Start

You must be 18 years or older to view these instructions;  minors should never work on go-karts.

You may save this to your computer for future reference, but you may not otherwise copy it in any manner, nor use it for any public display.  Click here to purchase a higher-resolution DVD containing this video and others.

Download Windows Media Player

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