Regan Brown
There are various ways to make a fuel tank for a go-kart. Some people have used Heineken mini kegs, diesel fuel filters, or big tomato juice cans. If you use stainless steel, it's important to wear a respirator during cutting as it produces hexavalent chromium, a known lung carcinogen. You can use cola or soft drinks to check for leaks. For asphalt sprint karts, a small cap with a barb is used for a tank vent, with tubing to prevent sloshing and spilling.
Characteristics and Values Table for Making a Fuel Tank for a Go-Kart
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless steel pipe (grade 304 or 308) |
| Welding Type | TIG welding with 308L filler rod and back purge to prevent weld "sugaring" |
| Respiratory Protection | Wear a decent respirator to avoid inhaling hexavalent chromium, a lung carcinogen produced during abrasive cutting of stainless steel |
| Leak Testing | Use cola/soft drinks to check for leaks by shaking the tank |
| Alternative Materials | Heineken mini keg, diesel fuel filters, tomato juice cans |
| Ventilation | Use tubing with the end zip-tied up to prevent sloshing and spilling; a small vented catch can be added |
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What You'll Learn
Use a Heineken mini keg
Using a Heineken mini keg as a fuel tank for a go-kart is a creative idea. The thin stainless steel can and small CO2 canister inside the keg can be utilised to make a functional fuel tank. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this:
Step 1: Remove the Tap and Bleed Off CO2
Start by removing the plastic tap handle and spout from the Heineken mini keg. Then, bleed off any remaining CO2 gas by releasing it slowly and safely.
Step 2: Cut and Drill Holes
Using aviation snips, cut a 2-inch hole in the top of the keg, which will be used for the marine-style filler. Additionally, drill small holes for the fuel outlet and vent. These holes will also be used to secure the brass fittings in place.
Step 3: Remove the CO2 Cartridge
Inside the keg, there is a small CO2 cartridge held in place by a plastic bracket. Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the cartridge. If the bracket is glued, apply gentle heat with a plumbing torch to loosen it, and it should come right off.
Step 4: Secure Fittings and Test for Leaks
Install the marine-style filler, fuel outlet, and vent fittings into the drilled holes. Use epoxy or another suitable adhesive to secure them in place. Once the epoxy has cured, test the fuel tank for leaks using cola or soft drinks, as suggested by some go-kart enthusiasts.
Considerations and Precautions
While using a Heineken mini keg as a fuel tank is innovative, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Some have expressed concerns about the thin steel of the keg, worrying that it might split or rupture in an accident. To mitigate this risk, consider reinforcing the keg with an additional bladder or lining to enhance safety.
Additionally, over time, vibrations from the go-kart may cause stress cracks in the thin metal. Rectangular tanks are generally considered more practical as they provide a flat surface for mounting objects. If you're set on a cylindrical shape, a used propane or CO2 tank might be a stronger alternative.
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Cola/soft drinks to check for leaks
While building a go-kart, you can use cola or soft drinks to check for leaks in your fuel tank. This is a simple and effective method to ensure your tank is secure.
Firstly, you should ensure your tank is built and ready for testing. Once you have your cola or soft drink of choice, pour it into the tank and seal the tank as you would with fuel. Shake the tank vigorously, as you would a bottle of cola. The sugary drink will coat the inside of the tank, and any leaks will be clearly visible as the liquid will escape and likely leave a residue.
This method is a great way to test for leaks as it is safe and non-flammable, unlike gasoline. You can also use cola to clean your tank, as it will eat away at any rust inside. It is also a good way to give your tank a nice shine. However, it is important to note that cola or soft drinks should not be used as a substitute for gasoline or diesel. While it is a fun experiment, it will likely cause significant engine damage, as engines are designed to run on gasoline only.
If you are using cola to test for leaks, be sure to thoroughly clean the tank before adding any fuel. While a small amount of soft drink in the engine will not cause substantial damage, a larger amount will. Water from the soft drink can get into the fuel pump and fuel line, causing issues with the valves. The sugar may also melt onto the fuel filter, requiring a replacement. Therefore, it is important to be cautious and thorough when testing with cola or soft drinks.
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OTK tank for asphalt sprint karts
OTK karts are designed for Honda or Comer 50cc kid kart racing engines and are meant for kids aged 4-8 years old who are just starting their racing careers. OTK karts come with OTK factory fiberglass racing seats that are adjustable to fit kids of all sizes. The karts also feature OTK's mechanical brake system and aluminum wheels.
If you're looking to build your own fuel tank for an OTK kart, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll need to decide on the material you want to use for the tank. Some people have used stainless steel pipes, while others have attempted to make a tank out of a Heineken mini keg. If you're using stainless steel, it's important to wear a decent respirator during the cutting process to protect yourself from the carcinogenic hexavalent chromium produced.
Once you've chosen your material and constructed the tank, you'll need to test it for leaks. One method is to fill the tank with cola or soft drinks and shake it to see if there are any leaks. This is a safe way to test for leaks before filling the tank with fuel.
When it comes to welding, if you're working with 304 or 308 stainless steel, it's recommended to use 308L filler rod when TIG welding and to back purge to prevent the weld from "sugaring" on the inside. It's worth noting that TIG welding requires more skill and practice than MIG welding, so you may need to invest some time in learning the technique.
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Use tubing to prevent spills
To prevent spills, you can run a piece of tubing up above the table. This will prevent sloshing and spilling. It is recommended to zip-tie the end of the tube up high under the nose of the kart. This is a common method used in asphalt sprint karts.
The fuel system of a go-kart typically requires a basic fuel line of around 6 feet in length. This is enough to plumb a basic fuel system, including catch cans, the main fuel line, an in-tank plenum, and overflow bottles. However, if you have a high-flow fuel system or one that uses return lines, you may need more than 6 feet of tubing.
The tubing plays a crucial role in preventing spills by providing a controlled path for the fuel to flow. It connects the different components of the fuel system, ensuring that the fuel is directed where it needs to go. Additionally, the tubing helps to maintain the pressure and flow rate within the system, further reducing the chances of spills or leaks.
When using tubing to prevent spills, it is important to ensure that the tubing is securely connected to the fuel tank and any other relevant components. Leaks can occur at connection points, so using appropriate fittings and clamps to secure the tubing is essential. Regular inspection and maintenance of the tubing and connections will also help to prevent spills over the long term.
By following these guidelines and utilizing tubing effectively, you can significantly reduce the risk of fuel spills in your go-kart's fuel system, contributing to a safer and more reliable riding experience.
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Use diesel fuel filters
When making a fuel tank for a go-kart, it is important to consider the materials you will use. While some people have used unconventional items like kegs, cans, or pipes, it is important to ensure that your fuel tank is safe and functional. One option to consider is using diesel fuel filters. Here are some reasons why you may want to use diesel fuel filters and how to go about it:
Advantages of Using Diesel Fuel Filters:
- Cost-Effective: Diesel fuel filters are a low-cost alternative to purchasing a ready-made fuel tank. By using diesel fuel filters as the building blocks of your tank, you can save money without compromising functionality.
- Trap Contaminants: Diesel fuel filters are designed to trap crud, grit, rust, and flakes of old fuel tank paint. By incorporating these filters into your fuel tank, you can help protect your go-kart's engine from wear and tear caused by these contaminants.
Steps to Build a Fuel Tank with Diesel Fuel Filters:
- Quantity and Sourcing: Determine how many diesel fuel filters you will need to achieve your desired fuel tank capacity. You can source used diesel fuel filters or purchase new ones, depending on your budget and preferences.
- Cleaning and Preparation: Ensure that the diesel fuel filters are thoroughly cleaned and dried before use. If necessary, follow specific guidelines for preparing and treating the filters to remove any residual fuel or contaminants.
- Assembly: Connect the diesel fuel filters together securely, forming a structure that suits your go-kart's fuel tank requirements. Consider factors such as the size, shape, and orientation of the filters to optimize fuel capacity and flow.
- Testing and Sealing: Once the filters are assembled, test for leaks by filling the structure with water and shaking it. If leaks are detected, address them by reinforcing the connections or using suitable sealing methods. Finally, ensure that all openings are capped and sealed, creating a closed fuel tank.
- Integration: Install the fuel tank into your go-kart, ensuring it fits securely and is properly connected to the fuel lines. Refer to go-kart fuel tank installation guides or seek advice from experienced builders or mechanics for a safe and proper setup.
Using diesel fuel filters to create a fuel tank for your go-kart can be a creative and cost-effective solution. Remember to prioritize safety and follow established guidelines for working with fuel systems.
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Frequently asked questions
Some materials that can be used to make a fuel tank for a go-kart include stainless steel, Heineken mini kegs, diesel fuel filters, and tomato juice cans.
You can use cola or soft drinks to check for leaks. Simply shake the liquid in the tank and observe if there are any leaks.
If you plan on doing any abrasive cutting on stainless steel, it is important to wear a decent respirator to protect yourself from inhaling hexavalent chromium, which is a known lung carcinogen. Additionally, when welding stainless steel, use a 308L filler rod and back purge to prevent the weld from "sugaring" on the inside.
