How to Paint a Go-Kart: Step-by-Step Guide
Paint is a great way to customize your go-kart and make it stand out. Painting a go-kart is not as difficult as you might think, but there are some steps that need to be followed if you want the paint job to last.
Follow our simple step-by-step guide for painting a go-kart and learn how easy it can be!
5 important things that must be considered
- The size and shape is very important when choosing your color palette. You can also add some personal touches by doing striping or designs on it too!
- The base coat should always be applied in the shade.
- Choose a paint color that is reflective so it will look better at night!
- Pick two colors for your design and stick with them throughout the project. For example, if you are doing red on top of black then don’t have white or yellow need to break up those hues!
- Take your time! Make sure to do it in an area with good ventilation and wear a respirator.
Types of Paint You Can Use on Go-Karts
The most common types are two-part polyurethane or epoxy paint. They are used for all metal surfaces because they provide the best protection against rust and corrosion, as well as abrasion. These paints can be used to paint most surfaces of the go-kart, including the wheels.
There are also less durable paints available on the market for painted metal surfaces such as powder paint or enamel. However, these types will not stand up to harsh weather conditions and have a shorter life span than other coatings that work better in damp environments since they can easily fade, chip or peel.
If you are painting a non-metallic surface, then you should use an acrylic latex paint that is water based. These paints dry quickly and can be applied by spraying without the need for extensive masking of surrounding areas. This type of paint works well on plastics because it prevents yellowing over time due to sun exposure.
How to Paint a Go-Kart?
Removing the go kart’s body shell.
Use your screwdriver and pliers to remove all screws from their holes. Look for ones that are hidden or hard to see, as they might be holding other parts in place! Try not to strip the screws, as you’ll need them later. Once that’s done, gently remove the body shell and set it aside.
Be sure to do this in a well-ventilated area. If you aren’t, it will be hard for your paint to dry! Plus the fumes can build up and cause breathing problems over time. Make sure that there is no dirt or dust on either part of the go kart before applying primer coatings.
Remove Pre-existing Paint and Rust
You must remove all the old paint and rust from your go-kart using a wire brush. You can also use chemical paint remover if needed, but be sure to wear protective gear such as goggles and gloves.
If there is still some stubborn rust on the metal surface after brushing it with a wire brush, use a steel wool pad (0000 grade) to rub it away. If the go-kart has been repainted before, you must remove all traces of old paint using mineral spirits or chemical paint remover.
You need to be extremely careful as these chemicals can damage the finish of your go-kart. If you’re repainting a go-kart that has been previously painted, sand it down with fine grit sandpaper (220 or higher) before continuing.
Mask The Unpainted Areas With Tape
A painter’s tape is a must-have when you are painting. It works on any surface, including metal and rust, so the go-kart frame is no exception to this rule. Use it around areas where you do not want paint to reach or touch up afterwards with sand paper if necessary. If your kart has any decals, you will need to remove them before painting.
To protect unpainted areas, Cover them in masking tape. You can also use a blank paper or newspaper to cover these areas. If you are going to paint where there used to be rust, make sure it is completely cleaned off first so that your paint sticks.
Prime The Go Kart Surface
Start by sanding the entire kart to get rid of any dirt or rust that may be on it. Once you have done this, wipe down the machine so there are no dust particles floating around. Prime all areas where paint will be applied with a spray can primer.
Paint your desired color
While you are waiting for the machine to dry, begin working on painting the tires and any other part of the kart that requires unique colors or designs. You can use spray cans or an airbrush for this step if preferred. For more detailed areas where a brush is needed, apply several coats with acrylic paint.
Don’t forget to include an image of a go-kart! This is optional, but it’s what will really make your post stand out! You can upload images directly from the media library or link to them instead if you prefer not to use photos.
Painting Rims
The rims must be removed from the kart before putting on a new coat of paint. Take off all bolts and nuts that hold the rim to the tire, then remove it carefully by sliding it straight outward once all fasteners are detached. If you plan on painting over your existing chrome or powder-coated rims choose a primer designed to adhere to the material.
Steps To Paint GO kart Rims
- Remove rims from kart using these instructions
- Use primer designed for your rim type before painting over it with a color of your choice. For example, use steel or aluminum primer when painting chrome and powder-coated rims. If you plan on keeping them in the same color as before, skip the primer and paint directly over it with your desired color.
- After painting is finished, allow at least 24 hours for drying time before reassembling the kart’s rims to its tire. Be sure all bolts and nuts are replaced securely so there will be no risk of having the rim come off while driving.
- Reinstall rims by sliding them back into place over the tire, then secure it with bolts and nuts for a tight fit. Be sure not to tighten any of these fasteners too tightly as doing so will result in warping the metal used on your kart’s rims.
- Be sure to go over the nuts and bolts holding your rims in place with a fine tooth comb, removing any of them that may be loose or replace if necessary. If you have concerns about your kart’s safety while driving please seek out professional help from an auto mechanic who is trained on how best to handle the safety of these parts.
Bottom Line
The go-kart can be painted in any color. The paint needs to dry, so give it time before riding the go-kart again. If there are no cracks or damage on the frame of your go-kart, you should not have to repaint it for a long time. So keep that in mind if you plan on keeping the go-kart for a while.
