Go Kart Wheel Spacers - Improving Performance Through Proper Fitment

Introduction to Go Kart Wheel Spacers

Go karts are a thrilling way to race around tracks at exhilarating speeds. One of the keys to improving go kart performance is proper wheel alignment, and a great way to adjust this is by installing go kart wheel spacers. Wheel spacers provide many benefits for your go kart such as increasing track width for better stability, allowing for larger tires, and improving handling and cornering.

What Are Go Kart Wheel Spacers?

Go kart wheel spacers are circular metal or aluminum discs that bolt between your wheel hub and rim. They space out the wheel from the hub to create wider track width. Most stock go kart wheels have a track width of 28"-32". Adding 2" wheel spacers increases this to 30"-34", resulting in a wider and more stable stance.

Wheel spacers are available in different offset sizes to fine tune fitment. Common sizes are 15mm, 25mm, and 35mm. So if you add 25mm spacers, you're pushing each wheel 25mm further out from the hub. This expands the overall track width by 50mm or ~2 inches.

Benefits of Go Kart Wheel Spacers

Here are some of the main benefits you'll gain by installing go kart wheel spacers:

• Increased track width improves stability and cornering
• Less susceptible to rollovers around turns
• Allows fitting larger diameter tires for better traction
• Adjust track width for ideal weight balance
• Levels wheel alignment if hubs are off center
• Quick and easy way to tune handling
• Cheap modification compared to wider axles

Potential Drawbacks of Spacers

While spacers provide many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Puts extra stress on wheel studs/bolts
• Affects steering geometry
• Requires longer wheel studs/bolts
• Increases leverage on components like ball joints and bearings
• Heavier compared to stock wheels
• Improper installation can be unsafe

How to Choose the Right Go Kart Wheel Spacers

Here are some tips on selecting the right go kart wheel spacers:

• Measure your current track width to determine desired increase
• Pick a spacer thickness that expands track width by 1.5-2 inches
• Match the spacer bolt pattern to your wheels
• Choose 6061 billet aluminum for strength and lightness
• Make sure the spacers clear brake calipers and suspension
• Get extended wheel studs/bolts to fully seat with the spacers
• Use quality hub-centric spacers to evenly distribute load

Installing Go Kart Wheel Spacers

Installing go kart wheel spacers takes a bit of work but can be done with common garage tools:

1. Jack up go kart and remove wheels
2. Remove existing wheel studs/bolts
3. Install extended wheel studs/bolts
4. Place wheel spacer on hub
5. Install wheel onto spacer studs/bolts
6. Tighten nuts to OEM torque specs
7. Re-install wheels and lower go kart
8. Get an alignment to correct toe angle

The most important steps are using proper length studs/bolts and tightening everything to spec with a torque wrench. Improperly installed spacers can vibrate loose or put excess strain on components.

Maintaining Go Karts with Wheel Spacers

Here are some maintenance tips for go karts running wheel spacers:

• Occasionally check for any looseness in the wheels
• Listen for any strange noises that may indicate issues
• Retorque wheel nuts to spec after initial use
• Inspect wheel studs/bolts for any damage or wear
• Check wheel bearings for premature wear from added stresses
• Examine ball joints and tie rods for looseness under hard cornering
• Consider shorter spacers if noticing excess component strain

Conclusion

Go kart wheel spacers are a great inexpensive way to improve the stability, handling and traction of your go kart. Just be mindful of proper installation and maintenance when running wheel spacers. With the right spacer setup, you'll be able to take turns faster and tighter on the track.

FAQs

What size wheel spacers should I get?

25-35mm spacers are common to widen track width around 2 inches. Measure your current width and pick a spacer size to reach your desired widened stance.

Do I need new wheel studs/bolts with spacers?

Yes, you'll need extended studs or bolts to properly mount the wheel over the spacer. Stock hardware is usually too short.

How much does track width affect handling?

Wider track width greatly improves cornering grip and stability. But too wide can make steering overly sensitive.

Will spacers put more stress on components?

Spacers do increase leverage on parts like wheel bearings. Inspect components regularly for wear and use shorter spacers if needed.

Do I need an alignment after installing spacers?

Yes, an alignment is recommended to correct toe angle after installing spacers and resetting the wheels.