A Practical Mechanic’s Guide to TKM Karting Formula TKM - BT82 engines are intended to be raced in standard unmodified form but there are a few bits that can be legally ‘set-up’ to achieve maximum performance. Several books and a truckload of folklore and advice is available covering the subject of kart set-up. The manufacturer designed and tested the chassis to give optimum performance with settings in a mid position. So if you are in any doubt, adjust the settings to a mid position and you will not be far out. Take care with second-hand karts, as parts may not be as the designer intended. e.g. The back axle may have been changed for a length which is different to the design length. You can only improve if you measure the validity of set-up changes against actual track times and finishing positions. Record and analyse settings and results in order to identify the best settings. Keep a detailed record of set-up changes. The sort of things that should be recorded are; •
Reasons for making the change and its effect
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Times/positions achieved with various set-ups
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Engine/carburettor combinations used
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Initial carburettor settings & changes to carburettor settings.
•
Exhaust length used & changes to exhaust length.
When you start racing you will not be able to detect the difference that small set-up changes make, so be bold and experiment with large changes. This will enable you to understand the difference that particular changes can make. Ensure that you keep a detailed record of the changes and their effect. Spend time now and again reviewing your records. 4.1 Tools required Long small diameter screwdriver for adjusting the low jet. Long nose pliers for removing and replacing various springs. Plug spanner
Chris Compton (compark) 2001
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