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International Karting Industry Buyer's Guide

GO KARTING!
A Guide To The World's Most Popular Motorsport.

Kart Expo International

All Fun Karts have one of two types of drive systems: centrifugal clutch or a torque converter or belt drive system This month, we will focus on the maintenance of the torque converter system, the much more complicated of the two drives. 

Because of the complexity of the system, the need for regular maintenance is essential. Here we will discuss both the drive portion – the part of the system that is on the engine and the driven portion – the part that is on the jackshaft. We will also discuss potential problems you may encounter and their solutions.

DRIVER UNIT
Normal maintenance is just keeping the unit clean and lubricated with a dry lubricant such as Comet GP730A. This would mean periodically disassembling the driver clutch, cleaning any dirt or belt dust out of it and spraying the sides of the weights and mating cover and sheave and re-assembling the unit.

DRIVEN (or Secondary) UNIT
The Driven unit should be checked periodically for dirt and wear. Clean the driven portion at the same time the driver is being cleaned and spray with Comet-brand dry lubricant in the bushing area. This can be done by removing the belt and rotating the movable sheave and pulling it open.  The driven unit can then be cleaned with a clean, dry rag. The best way to lubricate the driven unit is to allow the unit to close up and spray the bronze bushing through the spring area.

COMMON TORQUE CONVERTER PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
The most common problems with torque converters are caused by the following conditions – the solutions follow.

1. Problem: Improper alignment of the torque converter system and/or improper belt tension. 

Solution: Check the torque converter system for alignment. The TC system should be mounted on parallel shafts. When the TC system is in neutral or idle, the belt should be straight in the sheaves. When the belt is straight, it should also be square to the engine crankshaft and the jackshaft. The TC drive unit must NOT float on the engine crankshaft.

2. Two Related Problems: Pushing the vehicle backwards with the torque converter fully engaged or Jumping the vehicle while going uphill (when vehicle lands, it moves backwards with the TC engaged. 

Solution: Both of these conditions can be corrected by simply not moving the vehicle backwards while the TC system is engaged. Remember - Any action that will move the vehicle backward while the TC system in engaged could unwind springs, break buttons, and break posts and cams. 

3. Problem: Torque converter unit is installed backwards. 

Solution: Know the TC system. Be sure the driven unit is installed properly.

4. Problem: Belt slipping - Getting the belt wet when it is hot such as driving through deep water or having water splashed on the hot belt.

Solution: Keep the belt dry when using.

5. Problem: Spring unwraps.

Solution: Replace nylon buttons. Missing or worn can buttons can cause the cam to override the buttons and unwrap the spring.
 

Proper maintenance of your torque converter can provide hours of enjoyment. Take the time to keep your fun kart clean and safe, and always wear a helmet!
 

END
 

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