Do you hear odd noises from your clutch? Don’t worry, it’s an easy fix!
If your Go kart clutch is making noises, it usually means the internal clutch components need some lubricating.
In this post, I’ll go over 5 different noises your clutch might make and explain what causes it, and show you how to get rid of all these noises.
Why Is My Go Kart Clutch Making Noise?
A go kart clutch can make various sounds that indicate different things.
Here are the most common noises:
Chattering Or Squealing Noises
If you’re hearing a high-pitched chattering or squealing sound from the clutch, it likely means there’s metal-on-metal vibration.
This happens when clutch plates make direct contact without enough lubrication to prevent friction, and they grind against each other, creating the noise.
Also Read: Why Is My Go-Kart Backfiring
But chattering can also indicate excessively worn friction plates that are no longer smooth.
Grinding Noises
Grinding noises also means friction.
The clutch shafts and bearings are probably grinding against each other while spinning instead of smoothly gliding on a lubrication film.
Squeaking Noises
Squeaking noises usually indicate that pivot points, like bearings, lack proper lubrication and are squeaking as they turn.
However, higher-frequency squeaking can also come from loose components.
For example, a worn belt that doesn’t have the right tension will make these sounds.
Whining Noises
If you’re hearing whining sounds during engaging or disengaging the clutch,
it could be due to issues like chain tension being too tight, or worn bearing surfaces.
Also Read: How Muck Slack Should A Go-kart Chain Have
Sprocket misalignments can also cause these noises too.
Clunking Noises
Loose parts inside the clutch can make clunking noises when they rattle around or move unexpectedly. This could happen if bolts are coming loose or surfaces are worn out.
These movements can create loud clunks when the clutch is engaged or disengaged.
A snapped spring can also make a loud clunk as it suddenly grabs.
How To Stop Go Kart Clutch Noises
The main reason behind most of those noises is dry clutch components – so all we have to do is lubricate them. Here’s how to do that –
#1 Gather Supplies
You will need:
- Clutch lubricant (recommended: gear oil or engine oil 10w30)
- Oil dispensing can with nozzle
- Clean rags
- Wrenches to remove clutch cover
#2 Remove The Outer Guard
Start by removing the clutch guard, chain, and belt to reveal the internal clutch components.
Thoroughly clean the exterior of clutch components with a degreaser spray and rag to prepare the surfaces for applying new lubricant without any contamination.
#3 Lubricating
Apply a moderate amount of oil to the high-friction contact point between the clutch drum and shoes using the dispensing nozzle while manually rotating the drum.
Also Read: What Kind Of Oil Does A Go-Kart Take
This evenly coats the entire surface to prevent shoe adhesion and friction squeal.
However, the interior surface of the clutch shoes should remain dry to grip the drum, so avoid overspraying.
Lightly oil the shoe curvature that rides along the drum as well.
Next, lubricate any bushings, sprocket shafts, or balance points along the drum and transmission shafts with motor oil to prevent metal grinding.
That’s it. Now wipe off any excess lubricant.
#4 Reassemble And Test
After all friction zones are lubricated, reinstall the clutch chain/belt, sprocket, and cover, and tighten everything to spec.
It’s time to test!
Start up the engine to test if the clutch works well and if you hear any noises when accelerating, decelerating, and across different RPMs.
If you do it right, the oil will make the clutch engagement feel smooth and quiet.
Other Things To Do
If that doesn’t stop the noise – make sure things like bolts and belts are properly installed.
Tighten or replace any parts that have come loose due to vibrations from riding over miles.
This can also prevent annoying squeaking sounds.
If you’re experiencing chatter because the clutch plates are uneven, damaged, or excessively worn, replacing them with a new set of friction discs should restore smooth performance.
