Simple Homemade Go-Kart in a Day
The New Welder
The boys wanted a welder for months. We found one at Harbor Freight Tools for $99 and decided it was time to get one. After all, we had several small projects around the place where a welder would come in handy.
When we brought it home, Garen and Bryson had it out of the box and started looking for a project to do.
Big Designs
Bryson came up with a creative designed for a go-kart. The boys collaborated on the design and resources. They had a green light! Like a charging bull and a matadors red cape, Garen hooked up the welder and metal saw. Bryson ran around collecting parts.
Using metal poles welded together, they formed a triangular shaped frame. They then found an old wagon front end and retrofitted it to the front. An old mini-bike provided the wheels, gear setup and engine. They attached the handlebars and seat from the mini-bike.
To Break or not to Break
The breaking system was a small challenge. They found a disk brake system on the mini-bike. The problem came when the tire needed some addition work. Garen made the needed changes and the breaks are working.
Done in a Day
This was truly a unique experience for the boys. They built the go-kart literally, in one day. We saw the creativeness of two come to life in a collaborative project.
The YouTube Video
I could hardly get Garen and Bryson to slow down so we could take pictures and videos. After we produced the YouTube video, we were surprised at how many people were interested in building a go-kart. The feedback we received convinced us that it is serious business. Their go-kart received comments from it being a piece of junk to people admiring the creativity. Whatever the opinions are, the boys learned about engineering, welding and designing. The best part is, it runs!
Gary and Shelly
December 2012
Partners
Resources
www.greenhomebuilding.com/adobe.htm
www.earthbagbuilding.com/articles.htm
www.earthbagplans.wordpress.com
We moved from the city to the country in 2005. Since then, we have been building structures, raising livestock and growing some of our own foods. We are crazy about family, nutrition and want the best for our growing family.
