Is a centrifugal clutch necessary on a go kart?

Question

I want to build one, but don't want to spend all the money. What would happen if I had a 8HP horizontal engine hooked up right to the drive axle (without a clutch)? Would it zoom away by itself?

Answer 1

Favorite Answer

the best for a go cart would be something like a dirt bike engine that would already have a clutch system in it... if you went your way you would have to have a centr. clutch... if not as soon as it starts.... there would be nothing allowing it to stay in one spot..

Answer 2

Yes it would zoom away by itself and run over some kid whose parents would sue your *** off. You need a clutch.