Clutch Maintenance

Racing clutches are subject to extreme conditions and require proper maintenance in order to perform up to their greatest potential. For best performance, keep the clutch friction surfaces clean from lubricant and dust build up.

Clean the clutch with an aerosol spray of disc brake cleaner. Be sure to first shut off the engine and allow the clutch to cool to ambient air temperature. Then aim the nozzle of the aerosol can toward the top, inside edge of the clutch. Do Not use solvents, gasoline or soap and water to clean the clutch.

With use the bearings may require additional grease. Avoid an excessive amount of grease.  Do Not get grease on the shoe or drum friction surfaces.

Trouble-Shooting Tips

With the proper clutch and gearing set-up, you will feel an even pull when coming out of the corners and a constant acceleration in the straight-aways.

Kart Chatters or Shakes
Check shoe position and try a softer, smooth setting.

Kart Bogs Down
Check shoe position.
Springs are too light; therefore, the clutch is operating
below the useful torque of the engine.

Kart Hesitates — Poor Acceleration
Spring is too light — below the useful torque.
Spring is too heavy.
Gearing is too high; add teeth to the axle sprocket.

Insufficient Straightaway Speed
Spring is too light; increase engagement.
Gearing is too low; drop teeth from axle sprocket