How to Fix Go-Kart Brakes: The Ultimate Guide

Go-karting is a favorite summer activity for many, but when go-kart brakes stop working, it can be quite frustrating to say the least! Looking for a go kart brake repair guide? We have the answers that you need right here. How do I know? Well I am an experienced mechanic and if anyone knows about fixing go-karts then it’s me! Follow Along to to fix your Go kart brakes.

A go-kart brake system is the most important component for our little racer – it’s the only way you can quickly stop. When your brakes are not working, there isn’t much you can do to safely slow down. That means that before each race, it’s best to see if your go-kart braking mechanism.

Types of Go-Kart Brakes 

In this guide, we’ll cover the three most common brake types for go-karts and their advantages over one another. Band brakes are the oldest design among our group with a variety of benefits but also some downsides. Disc brakes will make for smoother braking while drum brakes offer more stopping power.

How to Fix Go-Kart Band Brakes

Go-karts, and also some smaller models that are less well known, use a band brake. This classic braking mechanism is typically activated with a stainless steel band that constricts around the wheel’s spinning drum when pulled. The friction leverages against the tightening of the steel band forces to slow down the go-kart and

Despite being relatively simple in design, brake bands are also susceptible to failure. Fixing a go-kart brake often requires replacing the brake band itself or the cables. The following steps will help you solve both issues.

1.1 Wear and tear on the brake band

Worn brake bands will lead to problems with stopping and should be replaced as soon as possible. When inspecting the wear, it may be difficult to spot tears due to the inconsistency of wear on the surface, but in general our recommendation is to replace your used gear when you notice any elongation/looseness in its appearance

Replace a Brake Band that is Worn Out

The solution is simple—just replace the brake band with a new one of the same size. I’ve also created this guide on measuring your brake band, if you find yourself unsure about what size to order.

1.2 Worn out Brake Cable

The most common problem with brakes is a wear brake cable. The brake line consists of two parts: an inner cord or wire and outer casing. Over time and repeated use, the metal can elongate- when you press on your go-kart’s brakes, you’ll feel less resistance because there’s less tension in the line.

The brake cable is the most common wear point on a go-kart. You can check this quickly by looking at it and seeing if it’s not tightly tensioned, but you can also spot other problems that are less obvious like worn or broken pins in the axle.

Fixing a Worn Out Brake Cable

Installing a new brake band or rod is an effective way to fix worn brakes with little effort.

How to Fix Go-Kart Drum Brakes

Drum brakes consist of brake shoes or discs inside a basket, which you apply the brake cable to. Brake cables are attached to either end of the brake shoe or disc with metal clips on them.

When go-kart brake bands for drums are not functioning the same way as you would like them to, it is important to see what might be causing your problem. Before starting any diagnostics, however, remove your wheels from the cart so they can be analyzed without obstruction.

Exhausted Brake Cable

Drum brakes found on go-karts use a cable and lever system, whereas hydraulic braking systems are more common. If your cables have little tension, they will need to be replaced immediately. Brake cables can wear over time which can result in gradual lack of pedal effectiveness…

Fixing a Exhausted Brake Cable

If your drum brakes are causing squealing or other noise, replacing the brake cable (or both cables) could solve this problem.

2.2 Displaced or Damaged Parts

Drum brakes are designed to last a long time. The interior parts of a drum brake though, may become damaged or dislodged with heavy usage. To keep the drum brake at its best functioning capacity, it is important for owners to make sure they check the inside components every so often and replace any pieces that show wear and tear early on in their

If you’re using a hydraulic drum brake, the cylinder needs to be checked. If it leaks, it should be replaced. Mechanical drums don’t have a leaky cylinder, but they do have more items that can cause issues like bent cam or broke shoes. These should be inspected for maintenance needs as well.

Fixing Displaced or Damaged Parts

To fix a go-kart’s brakes, you need to remove the wheel and wheel hub for access. Then take note of any damaged or dislodged components before replacing them accordingly.

2.3 Rust or Corrosion

Over time, water and dirt can cause brakes to become inefficient. To fix overworked brakes, use a jar lid to remove the brake pad then use soapy water to wash off the surface of the metal.

Drum brakes are made of small components that aren’t able to function when the brake shoe isn’t sliding. Rust or corrosion can also be heard, as squeaking or squealing is usually emitted from this type of braking mechanism.

Fixing Rust and Corrosion

The first step to fixing the brakes on your go-kart is taking off the wheel and cleaning it. After you’ve removed any rust, be sure to use WD-40 so break give metal and remove rust accumulation. The rust should be removed before assembly can take place. Though brake drums are relatively inexpensive to replace, sometimes corrosion or excessive rust have rendered the brakes inoperable.

How to Fix Go-Kart Disc Brakes

For an effective braking system, a disc break is superior due to its unsurpassed ability to stop. They can be found on any race go-kart, and for good reason: it is the most effective brake system for high speed.

Brake performance on a go-kart is crucial for the safety and control. This article will explore all of the most common issues, as well as how to fix them should you notice any.

3.1 Air Buildup in Brake Lines

If you have go-kart brake issues, the most likely culprit is an air bubble in one of the lines. Brakes on go-karts work by using hydraulic pressure to distribute evenly from master cylinder to all four brakes. If there is air in the line, your brakes will feel spongy or ineffective.

Fixing Air Buildup in Brake Lines

One way to bleed your go-kart brakes is by releasing the air bubbles in them. Air bubbles clog up brake lines and make it harder for you to stop.

**You should bleed your brakes as soon as they start acting up, because if you wait too long, the air will push all of the brake fluid out of the

3.2 Exhausted Brake Pads

If you have been hearing a screeching or squealing sound when braking, you may need new brake pads. Brake pads measure 3mm and the kart manufacturer’s that they are easy to replace.

Fixing Exhausted Brake Pads

Troubleshooting brake pads on a go-kart is as follows: detach two bolts from the caliper, remove it and depress the brake piston. Replace with new brake pads and reassemble everything.