Racing Articles

Maintenance & Repair 101

In this month’s segment of “Grassroots Tech Barn”, we are going to cover two issues that although completely unrelated; both can create problems at the track. Just as with all previous articles, we will try and make this a simple step-by-step process to remedy the problem quickly and efficiently. Last month, we covered starting issues and the diaphragm gasket is one of the items that can cause starting issues on the flathead Briggs engine. The diaphragm dries out over time due to the dry …

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Anatomy of the Animal: The Valve Train

If you look at the similarities between a human and an engine, I would compare them like this - The oiling system is the heart; it transfers vital fluids (oil) to the critical areas of the engine. Without it the engine would not live very long. The intake system is the lungs, it takes oxygen and mixes it with fuel to ultimately have its energy converted to power once inside the engine. This then makes the piston, rod, and cranks the muscles of the engine. They take the energy from the lungs …

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Animal 12V Electric Starter Kit

NOTE: This starter kit can be installed only on engines equipped with a compression release cam. Installation: Disconnect the spark plug lead from the spark plug to prevent unintentional start up. Remove the blower housing. Remove the flywheel using the appropriate flywheel puller. Install the ring gear to the flywheel with four screws. Torque the screws to 35-50 lb-in. (4-6 Nm). Using a small hammer, knock out the notched piece of the cylinder (shown below) to create clearance …

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Getting Your Head Back On...

Over the last few months we have covered replacing different gaskets and seals to stop oil leaks. This month, we want to revisit replacing the head gasket on both the Raptor and Animal engines.   Leaking head gaskets can adversely affect engine performance, and if run undetected for an extended time, can damage the cylinder, the cylinder head, or both. Be aware of higher than normal head temps and wisps of smoke from the deck area, as these are …

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The Animal Carb No Beast Here...

The Animal carb is very intimidating to some racers.  They feel the carb is a vicious beast just waiting to act up and put an end to their day at the track. Basic maintenance and an overview of its operation should clear up this misconception. This is the goal of this month’s “Grassroots Tech Barn”. I have stated many times that many of the problems racers have with this carb are self-inflicted. It is very easy to get in a hurry and cut short your maintenance, but believe me; you will …

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Featured Article

Junior Kid's Kart Engine & 206 Gift Card Program

Briggs & Stratton 206 Engine Gift Card Rules and Regulations Buy any participating Junior/LO 206 engine (Identified by this hang tag/unscratched validation code) Must be 18 …

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Highlighted Parts Corner

Now Available — The Junior 206 Engine adaptor plate by Fastermotors.net

FasterMotors.net has engineered the first Junior 206 adaptor plate designed to fit any of today's kids kart frames with the raised and welded Comer engine plate. ‘Fastermotors has made converting your kids kart to the Junior 206 engine as simple as mounting this plate to the chassis, setting on the engine, and off you go' Stated Dave Klaus, Briggs & Stratton.

Suggested retail $49.95