What is a Live Axle on a Go kart?
If you found this page, you probably heard the term "live axle" and are wondering what it really means.What is the difference between a go-kart and a car?Is a live axle just an ordinary one?Equal power distribution to both of the rear wheels is achieved with a live axle on a go-kart.
Don't worry if it's too much to take in.In the next section, I will go into more detail about what live axles are and what they do for a go-kart.Some advantages and disadvantages of live axles will be discussed.We will compare them against other types of axles.There is a lot of information that is ready to be read.
A live axle on a go-kart is the same as a rear axle that delivers power to both rear wheels.The live axle needs to be one long shaft where both wheels are attached to both ends.It does this by attaching a go-kart chain to the engine's crankshaft.
Both rear wheels spin at the same speed when the rear axle spins.A differential setup allows wheels to spin at different speeds.We will go into more detail later on.
A live axle is defined by spinning both rear wheels at the same time and with equal force.Regardless of which section the sprocket is attached to, a live axle rotates uniformly.
There are different sizes and dimensions of live axles.Depending on the type of go-kart you have, the best live axle is dependent on it.The components and parts that are required to operate a live axle on a go-kart come in a kit.
There is a review and buying guide on the best live axle kits for go-karts.If you are looking for a live kit, check it out.There are many things to consider when choosing the best live axles.
Go-karts do not have a differential.They have a live axle for two reasons.The first reason is that it makes it easier to accelerate.As both wheels are powered by the same engine, there is no need for an intermediate component to split the Torque.
The power transfer to the rear wheels is as efficient as it can be.It translated into faster accelerations out of corners and chicane.The weight is the second reason.Live shafts connect both wheels.You will be able to accelerate and reach top speeds faster because this saves your go-kart a decent amount of weight.
A live axle gives you more efficient power transfer to the wheels and it's also light in weight compared to its alternatives.There are other advantages to live axles.Go-karts have a very low center of gravity due to its low profile.There are only the axle, two bearings and two pillow blocks that need to be maintained.
Go-karts are defined as having a live axle, but there are other disadvantages.Equal power delivery to both wheels is its greatest disadvantage.
If both wheels spin at the same speed, you can accelerate in a straight line.It is not that great when driving.Let me tell you why.The go-kart will skid if both wheels accelerate at the same time.
The inner wheel covers less ground than the outer wheel.The outer wheels have to travel further.This will cause the go-kart to skid.The handling around corners is a major disadvantage.
The ride will be a little bumpy if you have a live axle.It won't affect you a lot in go-kart races, as you'll be on level ground.
Equal power distribution to both of the rear wheels is possible with a live axle on a go-kart.Torque is transferred from the crankshaft to the rear axle via two sprockets and a chain.Torque can be transferred to both rear wheels from the live axle.
A dead axle is one that isn't able to transfer Torque to the attached wheels.It only supports the wheels.There is no power or Torque transfer to the wheels.Go-karts do not have dead axles for the front wheels.
The front wheels on a go-kart are attached to the frame via spindles, as they are required to turn when moving the steering wheel.Go-karts do not have dead axles.The extra weight of a vehicle is not required for go-karts.
Torque is transmitted to each wheel by differentials.Depending on which wheel requires more of it, it can split and distribute it.A differential allows wheels to spin at different speeds, which helps with grip and handling around corners.Most cars have differentials.
When you accelerate on a go-kart, both rear wheels spin at the same speed, because the live axle doesn't have this feature.Go-kart live axle vs differential, what is better?Go-karts are not equipped with a differential in the first place due to the fact that a live axle is more suitable.
Less maintenance and less ground clearance are some of the benefits of live axles.The go-kart's center of gravity is very important.Go-karts are required to excel in a straight line and out of corners because they give faster acceleration.Live axles are more suited for go-karts.
This was an interesting read, but what does it mean that the other wheel spins free?
I think you mean a dead axle setup.The back wheels have a sprocket attached to them.The other one does not use a differential.Hope this helps.
Go-kart racing information can be found in guides, articles, reviews, track details and more on this site.