hi,
ive recently got into karting and have got myself a second hand x3 with a KA100. I’ve just ticked over 13hrs and I am putting it in the shop for a top end rebuild this week.
Can anyone shed a bit of light on how long these engines can go for between top and full rebuilds?
Thanks,
Ryan
Comments6
Take the plug out. Take exhaust off & look up the exhaust port whilst moving the piston up & down note the black discolouration on it. This is commonly termed 'blow by' & indicates your engine is losing compression, thus power. Light hone & replace the piston & ring.
Thanks for that Richard. Is there a generally a certain amount of hours between rebuilds or can it vary quite a bit? If so, how many hours do you recommend? Also, are top end rebuilds quite simple and able to be done at home, or is it advised to take the engine to a shop to get machined?
Sorry Ryan, can't help you with the KA 100 rebuild time because I've never owned one. Unless you have all the necessary gear & the skill in doing a top end I would take it to a reputable engine builder.
the rebuild is quite simple but you will need to hone the barrel so you could take the barrel to a shop get them to hone and size a piston and then take it home and put it back together yourself......
On our race motor we aim for top end rebuild 10-12 hours, on practice motor 16 hours+. This works for us, I know some people get the top end done for every big meet or after 8 hours, but this works for us. Unless I really notice the power dropping.
Bottom end, usually when it goes! Should be at least 2/3 times the top end hours.
That helps heaps Brett/Steve. Thanks for the advice