Adjusting a kart chain – tension, alignment and lubrication
Chain tension and alignment are two different things. Chain tension concerns the slack in the chain, while alignment concerns the position of the rear sprocket relative to the engine sprocket. Both need to be correct when you adjust the chain on your kart.
Start with the instructions for your kart
Use the instructions for your engine, chassis and chain type when setting the chain slack. Follow the specified measurement and measuring method, along with the adjustment and tightening instructions. Do not assume that a general slack measurement applies to every kart.
Align the rear sprocket with the engine sprocket
The rear sprocket must be in line with the engine sprocket. Check the alignment when changing sprockets or the engine. Chain tension does not indicate whether the sprockets are correctly aligned with each other.
One tool for this check is the Sniper SA Inox Kedjelinjeringslaser. It is battery-powered and can be used with the chain fitted or removed. Follow the tool’s operating instructions for positioning and reading.
Check the chain length
Chain length is specified by the number of links, with lengths available from 96 to 114 links. This range does not mean that every length fits every kart. Check which length suits your chain type, sprockets and the kart’s adjustment range before choosing a chain.
Set the chain tension
Adjust the chain slack according to the instructions for your kart. Keep the slack check separate from the sprocket alignment check: correct chain tension does not replace correct alignment, and correct alignment does not replace correct chain tension.
Follow the specified sequence for adjustment, tightening and final checks. Use the torque settings specified for the relevant fasteners.
Lubricate the chain regularly
Make regular lubrication part of your chain maintenance. Follow the chain spray instructions for application, quantity and any waiting time before driving.
- Kedjespray Xeramic Vit 500 ml leaves a whitish film that makes the lubricant visible on the chain and sprockets.
- Kedjespray Syntetic Xeramic 500ml comes in a pressurised 500 ml can with a long nozzle.
Quick chain checklist
- The rear sprocket is aligned with the engine sprocket.
- The chain length suits the kart’s chain and sprocket combination.
- The chain slack has been checked according to the instructions for your kart.
- Tightening and final checks have been completed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- The chain is lubricated regularly according to the product instructions.
