A differential axle is a mechanical part on wheeled vehicles (automobiles, go karts etc..) used to transfer torque and power to the wheels so they move independently if needed. This is good for taking turns on hard surfaces such as concrete or pavement. In most go karts for instance a live axle is used which allows both wheels to spin at same time because they are connected by a single axle and usually driven by a chain drive system.
When making turns with an axle the inner wheel needs to travel a much short distance than the outer wheel and this causes drag on the outer wheel with spinning on the inner wheel which results in excessive tire wear (skidding). This lack of control is often a reason for accidents.
Advantages:
- An advantage to having a go kart differential axle
is having more control over your kart when cornering. This would be advantageous if you were going to be doing some go kart racing or a lot of cornering on hard surfaces. In muddy or off road terrain it could be difficult and maybe often result in getting stuck.
Disadvantages:
- The downside to having a differential on a go kart is if you are off road karting and get one of your wheels stuck in a ditch or hole. This becomes the weakest link so to speak because it is the path of least resistance so you will end up getting stuck as this wheel will just spin while the other remains in place. This is where a fixed axle has the advantage because both wheels move at the same time.
So to look at it another way with fixed rear axle go kart doing donuts in a parking lot is extremely easy because inside tire must “slip” to keep up with the fast moving outside tire.
A differential allows you to take corners with ease and no chance of overcorrection or oversteering
The most popular option for a go cart differential is sold by Norther Tool.
Differential Details:
- Pinned steel cut gears
- 1 inch diameter shaft 361/8 inch long
- Delivers up to 150 pounds of torque
- For use with 10hp or less go-karts or ATV’s
- 38 inches long
- Keyway 1/4 x 6
- Warranty 3 months
- Shipping weight 12 pounds
- Compatible with item # 13631
- “I have had this differential for almost 20 years. It has taken a beating and still keeps working. It has been hammered with powerful torque that kills bike parts but have had no issues. I have only had to clean and grease it once. Highly recommended!”
- “Great design and very durable! If you plan to hit the brakes hard you may want a disc brake on both sides”
- Excellent quality! This differential is very beefy and definitely high quality. I would recommend this to anyone”
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Heavy-Duty Differential Axle – 38in. Length
Pinned differential axle has steel cut gears. 1in. diameter shaft is 361/8in. long. Delivers up to 150 ft.-lbs. torque. Use on up to 10 HP go-karts and ATVs. Use with our sprocket #13631. Not for on-road use. Application: Differential axle, Length (in.): 38, Engine: Up to 10 HP, Compatible With Item Number (s): 13631, Torque (ft./lbs.): Up to 150, Keyway (in.): 1/4 x 6
$119.99
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