Tecumseh go kart engines are built for durability and are available in a selection of horsepower ratings. Some of the engines are equipped with an electric starter as well as alternators to power lights and recharge batteries. These small engines pack a punch, however, as with most engines that require heavy usage, wear and tear will occur. A little preventive maintenance and troubleshooting will go a long way to extending the life of your Tecumseh go kart engine. Clean the air filter, change the oil regularly and look out for damaged spark plugs and contaminated fuel.
Change the oil if the engine is difficult to start. Disconnect the spark plug wire and use a socket wrench to remove the plug. Ground the spark plug wire to the engine.
Pour 14ml of fresh engine oil into the spark plug hole. Hold a cloth over the spark plug hole and slowly crank the engine several times. Take care not to allow oil to spray out of the hole. Reinstall the spark plug and spark plug wire.
Clean the air filter element if the engine loses power or smokes excessively. Unlock the tabs holding the air cleaner cover in place. Remove the hex nuts holding the air cleaner element. Wipe the air cleaner body clean.
Remove the air cleaner element and polyurethane pre-cleaner. Remove the old gasket (seal) between the carburetor and air cleaner assembly. Wash the pre-cleaner in water and liquid soap. Rinse and squeeze the element to remove excess water. Wrap the element in a towel to fully dry.
Apply clean engine oil to the air cleaner element and distribute the oil evenly over the surface. Remove the excess oil and reinstall the clean element and new gasket. Replace the air cleaner cover. If the air cleaner element is made from paper, replace it.
Check the engine crankshaft if the go kart vibrates excessively. Use a straight edge or square to check for bends in the crankshaft. Check that the engine mounting bolts are secure.
Check for the presence of gasoline in the cylinder if the engine will not start at all. Remove the spark plug and check it for wetness. If the plug is wet, this could indicate fuel in the cylinder. Place a towel over the spark plug hole and turn the engine over slowly three or four times. This should remove the excess gas from the cylinder. Wipe the spark plug dry and replace it.
Adjust the carburetor timing if the engine runs erratically. Turn the main mixture adjusting screw counterclockwise 1/8 turn at a time until the engine runs smoothly. Test each setting while the engine in running and under load. The main adjustment screw is on the bottom of the carburetor. If the engine smokes excessively, turn the main adjustment screw clockwise 1/8 turn at a time while the engine is under load until the smoke thins out.
