The clutch is an automatic transmission that is activated by the increased rpm of the engine. The clutch should not engage when the kart is at idle. The engine manufacturer sets the idle speed of an engine at the factory. The idle speed of the engine is normally around 1,650 rpm +/- 200 rpm.
MoonSun Go-Kart Clutch
The MoonSun clutch is the best go-kart clutch in our list, as it offers the perfect ratio of build quality and affordability. It’s a great clutch for Briggs and Stratton, Tecumseh, Predator and other small to medium go-kart engines. Generally it will support any engine with an output of about 4 to 7 hp. The MoonSun has an engagement range of 2300 ± 300 rpm and also includes a #35 roller chain. Which you don’t have to source separately.
Specification
- Bore Diameter: 3/4″
- Clutch Diameter: 107mm (4.21″)
- Sprocket Teeth: 12
- Clutch Height: 55mm (2.17″)
Compatibility
- Crankshaft Diameter: 3/4″
- Required Chain Size: #35
- Engagement Range: 2300 ± 300 rpm
- Recommended Engine: 4 to 7 hp
FDJ Go-Kart Clutch
The FDJ Clutch is another great entry into our list of best go-kart clutches. It’s made of wear-resistant steel, which is heavy-duty and is built to last. This makes it very compact and suitable for small to medium go-kart engines. It’s available in 3 different variants featuring a 10, 11 or 12-tooth sprocket.
The FDJ Go-Kart Clutch is compatible with any go-kart engine from 2 to 7 hp, with a 3/4″ crankshaft and a 3/16” key. Overall, it’s a well-built go-kart clutch that is suitable for for a #40/41/420 chain. Please note that no set screws are included.
Specification
- Clutch Diameter: 4 3/4″
- Bore Diameter: 3/4″
- Sprocket Teeth: 10, 11 or 12
- Clutch Height: 3″
Compatibility
- Recommended Engine: 2 to 7 hp
- Engagement Range: 2300 ± 300 rpm
- Required Chain Size: #40/41/420
- Engagement Range: 2300 ± 300 rpm
Trkimal Go-Kart Clutch
The Trkimal Centrifugal Go-Kart Clutch is another great choice for karts that are powered by a 2 to 6.5 hp engine. It’s crafted from durable steel that is wear and heat-resistant. It also features an inner bore of 3/4″, meaning that it’s compatible with crankshafts that have a diameter of 3/4″ and a 3/16” keyway. The clutch is 54.5mm (2.15”) in height and has an outer diameter of 107mm (4.21”), which also makes it small and compact.
Specification
- Clutch Height: 54.5mm (2.15″)
- Sprocket Teeth: 10, 11 or 12
- Bore Diameter: 3/4″
- Clutch Diameter: 107mm (4.21″)
Compatibility
- Crankshaft Diameter: 3/4″
- Required Chain Size: #35
- Engagement Range: 2000 ± 100 rpm
- Recommended Engine: 2 to 6.5 hp
Auto Express Go-Kart Clutch
The Auto Express Go-Kart Clutch is made out of high-grade steel and is another great option for smaller sized go-kart engines. It’s a centrifugal dry clutch and only comes in one variant that has a 12-tooth sprocket. You can either source it yourself or hook it up to your go-kart immediately, if you have an existing roller chain.
The Auto Express Go-Kart Clutch is recommended for go-kart engines that have an output of around 2 to 6 hp. Once installed, the clutch has an engagement range of 2200 ± 200 rpm.
Specification:
- Bore Diameter: 3/4″
- Clutch Height: –
- Clutch Diameter: –
- Sprocket Teeth: 12
Compatibility:
- Recommended Engine: 2 to 6.5 hp
- Crankshaft Diameter: 3/4″
- Required Chain Size: #35
- Engagement Range: 2200 ± 200 rpm
Bravex Go-Kart Clutch
The final entry on our list of best go-kart clutches is from Bravex. The Bravex Go-Kart Clutch comes in a 10-tooth or 12-tooth sprocket configuration. It’s suitable for go-kart engines that are around 3 to 6.5 hp and should have no more than 200cc. Overall, the build quality of the Bravex Go-Kart Clutch is great and promises a 50% longer lifetime, due to its high-impact and wear-resistant steel construction.
Specification
- Bore Diameter: 3/4″
- Sprocket Teeth: 10 or 12
Compatibility
- Crankshaft Diameter: 3/4″
- Required Chain Size: #35 or #40/41/420
- Engagement Range: 2300 ± 300 rpm
- Recommended Engine: 2 to 6.5 hp
