Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

Todd Sanders · Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2002 9:27 am Post subject: Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

Is there anything I should know about putting a Rotax in a vertical kart stand? I'm considering purchasing one for my garage to gain some space. Is it not recommeneded? Didn't see anything in the archives on this.

Thanks,
Todd

Charles Pou · Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2002 12:06 pm Post subject: Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

Todd, if the vertical kart stand doesn't clear the pipe, make one for next to nothing like mine.

I got a couple of shipping timbers from Home Depot (free). Saw one to the width of the back of the kart. Use the other one to cut 2 legs. Using wood screws mount the legs to the bottom the long piece. Most shipping timbers have a groove on one side, so leave this side up, i.e. the bolts that hold the back bumper to the kart will fit into the shipping timber groove.

To mount the kart, place the stand at the back of the kart and lift the kart from the front. With a little practice, you will be able to move the kart around by walking/ sliding it on the stand. The stand is probably not too good for trailer use, but it should work well in a garage with a smooth concrete floor.

I also anchor the top of the kart to the garage wall, just to make sure it can't fall over (accidents will happen). :-)

Sam Cooper · Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2002 12:19 pm Post subject: Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

We use the Streeter vertical stand on our karts, the stand is designed to hold the kart from the outside of the bearing carriers on the axle. They fit well and are easy to move around in the shop or garage.

But like Jeff said - be sure to empty the fuel.... and keep it away from your water heater for obviouse reasons.

Sam Cooper
Speedwerx Motorsports

Bill Wright · Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2002 3:48 pm Post subject: Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

Hi guys,

Any time you are going to place your Max vertical, make sure you drain the fuel system, INCLUDING DRAINING THE FLOAT BOWL. Failure to do so will result in a Max that is VERY hard to start, if not impossible. ( Speaking from experience )

Another little note: The choke on the carb is not very effective. If you can't get the kart started when cold, I suggest you put your hand over the intake tubes. Works ever time.

Bill Wright
"Get on Course!" with FK www.formulakart.com

[ November 21, 2002: Message edited by: Bill Wright ]

Charles Pou · Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2002 11:17 pm Post subject: Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

Todd, I stand my RMax up against the wall in the garage between races.

Only issue for me is the battery, i.e. I am pretty sure it's not good to leave it on the kart lying on it's side, etc. So, I pull the battery, clean it, charge it, and set it out of the way. Also, I drain the gas tank, which is a safety issue for me.

Otherwise, the engine doesn't seem to leak oil or water anywhere or cause any problems for the next race. :-)

Rob Martin · Posted: Thu Nov 21, 2002 11:35 pm Post subject: Rotax in a vertical kart stand?

Todd,
Sorry but most vertical kart stands won't work with the Rotax pipe and pipe supports.

Most vertical kart stands use the rear axle and either the upper or lower bar on your rear bumper.

You could do a quick check by seeing if you have a clear shot at the axle when viewed from the bumper level.

Jeff Edwards · Joined: 10 Sep 2001 Posts: 193

If you do stand it up, by whatever means, be sure to first drain the carb of fuel. The warning I've heard is that when tipped up, the fuel in the bowl can drain down into the motor causing problems later.