How to Wire Electric Start on a Go Kart & Other Small Engines

Today we walk you through wiring up a key switch on a go kart engine. This will work for any of the following engine brands and more Predator, Duromax, Honda, Lifan, Tillotson, Tool Shed, Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Kawasaki and more... Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more how to videos!!!
Parts Used On This Build
John Deere Key Switch - amzn.to/3jzg60Z
Vegas Carts Key Switch - bit.ly/33xt5uy
4 Gauge Wire - amzn.to/2SwCM6s
16 Gauge Wire - amzn.to/3d3EYfe
Crimp Connectors - amzn.to/34mVBhS
Solder Connectors - amzn.to/2I120rB
Milwaukee M12 Soldering Iron - amzn.to/3cbrtcW
Thin Solder - amzn.to/2I113j1
Thick Solder - amzn.to/30CbIqD
4 Gauge Ring Terminals - amzn.to/36BEtry
Marine Heat Shrink - amzn.to/33xXGbx
½” Braided Wire Loom - amzn.to/3nmu88v
Helping Hands - amzn.to/3lhyQ5E
Propane Torch - amzn.to/3iwBin1
Butane Lighter - amzn.to/34rihO7
Vise - amzn.to/2Svcq4Q
440cc Engine - bit.ly/2X0FDG2
40 Series CVT Kit - bit.ly/2Q6mjG7
Performance Kit - bit.ly/2CA7raI
Build Your Own Header - bit.ly/2NDPdM9
Muffler - bit.ly/3441q2e
Engine Top Plate - bit.ly/2NDP1fT
50lbs Valve Springs - bit.ly/2ptuaCu
Engine Plate - bit.ly/2rxt1KX
Front Wheels - bit.ly/2MGvCKy
Front Tires - bit.ly/2NYI8Vh
Front Wheel Bearings - bit.ly/2WikDuc
Rear Wheels - bit.ly/2qJPbsM
Rear Tires - bit.ly/33C86EL
Rear Hubs - bit.ly/32AS6Bw
Front Hubs - bit.ly/36SCLj1
1” Axle - bit.ly/2D9Q6Gh
Brake Disc - bit.ly/2JjSOfQ
Brake Hub - bit.ly/31Pskt2
Sprocket Hub - bit.ly/340rc7m
Sprocket - bit.ly/31LdL9w
Brake Caliper - bit.ly/32LDCQ2
Brake Master Cylinder - bit.ly/2BEKjHZ
Axle Bearings - bit.ly/2WclT1C
Battery Hold Down - bit.ly/2CbwfG7
Check us out on ROKU - bit.ly/30lHmaA
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Quantum Welding Table - bit.ly/2HVk8jl
Everlast Welder - bit.ly/2T0V0xK
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*********Disclaimer*********
Please do not try to re-enact or recreate anything you see in these videos. We are trained professionals. Red Beards Garage does not take any responsibility for injury's created by doing so.
#RBGKarts #RedBeardsGarage

[@ProbeGT2]

This is, i think, your most extensive tutorial. Everything is well explained, simplified and organized. Great job!

[@trentonjoziah1092]

instablaster.

[@christopher33277]

Finally someone properly explains everything professionally! This is perfect timing as I'm adding that exact motor to my kart with head lights, electric start and charging coils. Thank you!

[@jonpardue]

A fuse in the Yellow "always hot" wire would be a good addition. Good video.

[@username-mk8gf]

I used to think those cars that die at every complete stop were stupid, until I was told no, that's the best hybrid system you could have, because the engine doesn't have to be engineered to idle and the power requirement is easily met with regenerative braking, and because the starter motor is already reduced, you don't need a first gear. I wonder if these starter motors are capable of such a thing too, because you could potentially have a two speed transmission. I always enjoyed taking off with the starter motor in my neon.

[@peterburns1004]

Hey RBG Im a qualified mechanic....... I noticed that your not referring to open and closed circuits properly.......A open circuit is NOT a complete circuit and a closed circuit is a completed circuit....... Great video love your work.

[@davidalderman5496]

That was driving me crazy!!

[@RoundBoyRanch]

Ya, I was grinding my teeth over that....

[@charleslittle458]

Had most other terminology correct

[@yobentley7274]

yeah. drove my crazy too.

[@Jbro824]

Drove me nuts to listen to the wrong terminology.

[@justlive56]

This video was posted at a perfect time. I'm about to swap the stock motor off my xtk go kart to a 16hp duromax and didn't want to lose the electric start.

[@royalwilson6640]

Thank you for the time you spent to help us beginners.Thank you, you are appreciated..seriously

[@RedBeardsGarage]

We really appreciate you for supporting us. We couldn't do this without you. Also your welcome!

[@xrebblegames8688]

This is hands-down the best video I’ve seen on the setup. It’s very detailed

[@Tampaboys]

This was a very detailed video bud great job I really appreciate all the knowledge always have trouble with the wiring systems

[@MorphineDragon]

Thanks for the tips, never thought of soldering wires etc. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@walterschilling4512]

Can't teach an old dog new tricks ?This old dog learns alot on Red's Channel ,thanks for all you do!

[@hadenhitz7010]

Amazing video man, really appreciate how professionally it was performed and how clear you made the process.

[@neeleywoods3149]

Anyone else notice the syrup bottle on the bench behind him ? lol LOVE IT!

[@josephmadden6860]

Thank you! Finally a video that’s clear to the point and explained perfectly. The off road kart I’m working on has headlights so I’ll be looking for your video on how to do that. Thanks again! Although I think you touched on it in the switch video on where to hook up the headlights

[@minibikegarage1577]

This is exactly what i was looking for. Thank you brother for the great content.

[@Midlifecrisismods]

Rbg, Thank you for the clear and concise guide on this. I've been following a lot of your performance and dino videos on the predator 212 and stuff to do with go karts. I purchased two 3 am systems to put on mine since it said in your video it would come with just one if it had one on my clone. Also, I'm using the non-heavy 212 and I ordered port and polished valves, a performance head and a 224 mirkani flathead carburetor as well as a straight true axle, upgraded tires and brakes. I forgot how fun go-karts really are and as a 41-year-old your videos are super duper helpful. Keep them coming

[@tunechilee6052]

This is a very detailed and well explained tutorial!! I wasn’t looking for this video but I’m glad I found it. My uncle just brought my son an old go kart and I’m just trying to figure out how the choke works. I have no business doing anything you explained in the video but after some more research I have you to come back to if we ever decide to mod it. You got yourself a new subscriber!!

[@cbr600rx7]

Thanks for taking your time to do this. It definitely helps

[@scottpeck1149]

Proper connection, never turned back. That's what I learned long ago also👍🇺🇸

[@johnpoole7816]

Is that pancake syrup on the table @6 min. into the video, now we know why the karts are so sweet. You guys are great,love the videos, been a fan from the start. God has blessed you guys .

[@JonnyMudMower]

The soldering iron I never knew I needed till right now ,,,,,,,🍻🇨🇦👍🏻

[@lXxXsoulXxXl]

Dude that helps alot for someone who doesnt know what there doing this helped alot and i wish u lived close to me because i have a project i want to do

[@Theloss52]

Showing people how to wire a proper ignition harness; right on dude 👍🏿

[@andrewmasonwerdna]

9:12 pull the connection to check it, don't just assume, also soldering tips should be coated with pre melted wire before soldering helps penetration. I don't think I've cleaned it once, decade old gun never seen a wire brush, original tip, just the tip.

[@jaysonG2010]

Looking foward to the next one

[@randall9791313]

Very helpful. I got distracted for a second and had to rewind when you said yellow, you said “yeah-llow”

[@jonmartin5344]

Appreciate the video brother, my 5 boys are wanting to rebuild the old family go-kart, found an on sale electric starter, this video was great!

[@bigedd91]

great job explaining things. thanks

[@lorenmeyer5290]

Great video! Very helpful! Thanks!

[@loganmartin7442]

You know more bout engines in stuff than anyone bro I been watching your videos sense it came on you tube bro your the best racing engine mechanic I have ever watched on here you do know what your doing

[@mikedavis6566]

Nice video. Well thought out and well explained. Very helpful. Looking forward to the rest of the series (Charging system, Lights, Accessories, GPS, DC Fridge, etc...). Will you show how to put in a fuse block and the correct usage of relays? Thanks, you are going a great job.

[@TetraHydroCannabinolTHC]

Excellent tips with the soldiering

[@sanantoniocowboy82]

I see a golf cart limo canopy!!!! I cant wait to see that next video.

[@timelson6659]

I saw that too. I seached the comments first to see if anyone else saw it! Good Eye!

[@enjoiboy385]

Can you make a video about installing the actual starter to something like a predator 212 that doesn’t come with one?

[@christopher33277]

This. Please

[@jg1746]

This comment needs to blow Up, I support this one whole heartedly

[@LightGesture]

Yeah, exactly what im thinking

[@danieldelarosa8806]

I lost focus all I could think about was did he have 🥞pancakes or 🧇waffles

[@armandcalunia7036]

Hey BEARDS that's cool explanation.... please WE ARE EXCITED TO WATCH HOW to do the set up of connection charging the Battery.. you have the Best explanation 5 star thumbs up

[@abrahampeshko1858]

Thanks for the video RBG

[@christinaanderson6026]

Great explanation! Very informative.

[@SPR1326]

Thank you for this.

[@mrshiloblack]

Good stuff. I would tin the battery cable wire prior to dipping it in connector though. Your creating a cold solder joint with your method. Also, a wet sponge is excellent for cleaning the solder iron after each use.

[@andrewmasonwerdna]

Very simple setup!

[@bridgelund]

I've been wanting to make my mini bike Key (Electric) Start, thanks for the info

[@TheWilliammccormick]

You had me at rosin, again

[@duckyybabyy5]

UPDATE:1 year and still cranks within the first 2-3 pulls. Probably will buy another when this one finally does bite the dust kzbin.infoUgkx43QMbQqu67IZadu9ou8Sg1BdrunMRNqX . No issues at all. Very happy with it.UPDATE: After 6 months of use and over 70 uses I would still highly recommend this pressure washer. It does vibrate a decent amount but never had it “walk” like others have mentioned. No oil leaks, still seems to run like the day I bought it. Still cranks within 2-3 pulls every time. Very happy with my purchase!Have used it about a dozen times now. Plenty of power, cranks up on 1-2 pulls every time. My only complaint would be I wish it was a little taller to make it easier to walk with it (hits my ankles a lot) and that the two hose connections were a little further apart but it hasn’t caused me any issues. Seems to run a good 1-1/2-2 hrs on a full tank, overall a well built machine and definitely worth the money in my opinion.

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

I bought a 440 this spring for my go kart and I just took the switch module off the engine and extended the wires. I found that the rectifier diode for the charging coil was inside the module. Not that you can’t move it back to the engine but be aware it’s there !

[@fundingo11]

That was perfect 👌

[@CheapBikeOwner]

Love this 🤘🏻

[@Nitewatch-xc9yz]

Glad I watched this,, wiring is not my strong point,,,, thanks Greg

[@BankboiMulah704]

Awesome

[@its_me_voltron6394]

It's good to be well grounded 😎

[@michaelamykels6605]

I have an old snow thrower that has electric start but the way they get power is by plugging into a cord and the push start is on that box is that a voltage converter changing it from 120vac to 12vdc

[@Malakai_K_]

Thank you so much I am wanting to convert my ct200u exr to electric start

[@bryduhbikeguy]

I never remember to buy Heat Shrink,so I use my Permatex rubber gasket stuff and seal so no water gets into the wires,etc.No corrosion after 2 years still.

[@captaincaveman5766]

Great video. Dreading making a wiring harness for my Owosso BDI Explorer. I can't even work an ohm meter yet. Any chance for a "remote choke" video. Moving the choke up on the "dash"

[@kwatt-engineer796]

Jst a slight refinement to corrosion on the wire. The copper cladding is very thin. It is there to compensate for the fact that bare aluminum will corrode immediately. The problem is that aluminum is sacrificial to the copper. The aluminum will corrode leaving the thin plating behind . Functionally the whole wire corrodes. The plating is likely not even visible

[@davidbroad4834]

Good job on video.

[@lloydbaker7099]

Nice job

[@Bri-tg6xr]

Such a clean install, I need to wire like that. Do they have 90-degree battery connectors to try and hug the wire closer to the battery? That bugged me, kinda looked like it might be under stress.

[@saavedravideos258]

Thanks 🙏 this will help me for an eventual build

[@TheWilliammccormick]

awesome video!!!!! I'm trying to install a cheap amazon rpm/mph digital display. Having issues getting a good place to read the rpm. Not sure if the wrap the wire technique works with the setup i have.. that said i'm assuming grounding everything out is probably going to be my answer. The 212cc reads if i connect to the spark plug bare wire, but it wont start. no starter just pull start. The tach goes up when i pull the chord. so that gets me some answers.... just gotta find out why its not allowing it to start.

[@MrCarmelo1959]

Hi I liked this really informative I’m doing this to convert a battery gulf cart to a gas motor but it’s not key start engine. Until I follow your steps awesome thanks. But I need to learn to mount a starter kit to my engine from start to finish. Do have a video showing these steps thanks and yes I subscribed to your channel thanks

[@MegaKencam]

I'm looking forward to the charging system video. Please add suggestions for troubleshooting issues. I added a 2nd coil and a rectifier to my 420 and it will not charge my battery.

[@TheWilliammccormick]

You had my attention at Dab, all of it

[@MCscarfacematt]

my plan to wire the electric start is not to add it but move it but its a bit of a pain with one hand but when i move the stock key box ill be adding a remote choke because ill have to choke it out to start in the cold Canadian winter

[@notajp]

On a lawnmower, L would be for lights, M is magneto. BTW, I don’t understand why you don’t follow convention and use red for battery hot. I generally use yellow for lights/accessories. Have built many wiring harnesses and that’s the way I’ve always done and seen it done.

[@bradmaas6875]

Always use full copper wire. I like to pre-tin my wires before attaching them and and clean them after attaching with alcohol. Does the key release in accessory position?

[@TrojanHorse1959]

Great video and tips, thank you! P.S. You might want to let your viewers know that you can overheat copper and if you do it will not take solder well leading to bad connections. Only heat it enough to melt the solder and no more. Otherwise, you have to start over and clean it thoroughly before you can get it to work properly.

[@traemarks7213]

Also beneficial to scuff the inside

[@REAL_LIFE]

Hey Redbeard idk if you will see this but could you tell me if the tq converter from a predator 212 will bolt to a Duromax 212?

[@docj604]

that is cool

[@straighthustlebullyz5315]

Quick question I have a cateye pocket bike I’m going to do a engine swap soon but my question is can I rotate the back rim to have the sprocket ⚙️ on the left side and would it work or would I have to weld the sprocket cause it’s a free spin

[@fatbuddycat]

RBG, can you guys do a video on the basic tools and welder needed to get started? I'm relocating my steering wheel and while I'm waiting for my rear axle I want to try welding it together myself. I have a Chicago Flux125 and a 100 amp AC stick that can only handle 3/32 6013 and burns through everything with 6011 before it sets a good bead. What would anyone who reads this do??

[@minidraglife6732]

can you use the stock little box that comes on the side of them i took apart mine and kept everything on now i have to wire everything so could i do that ?

[@PatTheBaker855]

Would the Vegas key switch work as a kill switch for the mb200 mini bike? It would be nice to have because i always worry about my bike when i run into a gas station and thinking someone could just walk up and start the bike and drive away with it

[@jubileefan6079]

Thanks, Red Beard! I am HORRIBLE at wiring...

[@uncletoddsgarage]

Great video! Thanks! But is that Maple Syrup behind you on the bench???

[@krissadams7259]

I enjoy video , way better most but it been nice if you would of shown your self connecting wires to switch that way even if ya don’t understand it all, this way you would feel secure it was 100% correct

[@Desertjoe789]

I used to solder the big copper ring terminals until one over heated, melted the solder and the battery wire came out and set fire to the vehicle. It’s much safer to simply get a hydraulic crimper and crimp the battery cable ends, and then shrink tube then to keep water and acid out.

[@RealManSkills]

Thanks for a great tutorial. I am now going to buy a bunch of stuff! Do you think that I would need a bottle of syrup for the shop? God Bless Brother!

[@warniedaniel9867]

Can you do a video on how to wire a gy6 150 stand alone. Like all the wires for cdi box and all that stuff, as if it was a donor motor going on another project

[@tonesdrones7395]

Hey red I put 2 coils for charging my battery because I want to run turn signals and brake lights and a radio! Can I run all this off of my coils with a rectifier? And how many ac volts come off those coils?? Thank you! And by the way I love your videos keep up your good work friend!!

[@davidcallender3784]

If you tin the wires first it will prevent them bird caging when you crimp and then soldering goes real fast. Just a suggestion.

[@spikeharvey6464]

hey i was wondering if you guys can do or have a video with a mod 2 cam vs a 308 cam

[@tylardixon3208]

So if I was to add light I would use the accessory spot on the ignition as my power source instead of going all the way to the battery?

[@dennisboyd6829]

Has the second video been made? Really would like to know how to install the charging coil

[@sammylisasmith2104]

Me and my family love the video one system at a time just like the confesion video makes scents one step at a time

[@t-bone1890]

put the bigger batter in your Milwaukee soldering gun, and it works much better

[@TheSkoto1]

I see you work on these a lot and just recently bought one for my old tuff built tractor. I shorted one of the cheap wires out moving the control box about 3 feet. It smoked the wire that has 2 wires in it and another. now no mater where I put that wire it won't cut off with the switch. Starts and runs great but won't shut off with the switch. I could just use another switch to ground it out but was wondering what it cooked besides the wire, 5 wires coming off the engine but only 4 in the switch box. Any idea. Yeah and i should have removed the fricking battery wire but got in a hurry, It is the stock wiring that came with the engine.

[@jwalkerftw]

Does this apply for the tillotson 212 as well?

[@thedivinehammerswoodworks1895]

I see you are using that Milwaukee M12 soldering iron, I have seen nothing but reviews for it melting the collar or the heating element breaking in them, how long have you had yours? I am a Mechanic and I have the M12 ratchets so I was looking at this for working under dashes but if it melts or the elements fail, it will do me no good.

[@geoffreyallen9687]

Hey redbeard I have a Colman 200uex. My plan is to put a tilitson 220 on it w/ electrical start. Will the same circuit work for that app? / And a side note pretty for me I've had some problems with ordering the things I need I'm hoping that this is not one of my selfish wims so I'm leaving it in God's hands. Keep up the good work!!!

[@carlossolano5003]

Do you have an idea on how to wire it to an existing harness ! I have a Chinese buggy with a Honda gx motor on it ! I’m getting an electric starter kit and would like it to start with the original key ! Any help would be appreciated

[@romansmetak9212]

mr. red beard, i have a question, which elect start kit fits the predator 212cc hemi, i just bought a new one and i was thinking of installing this on my motor, its on a 3 wheel bicycle along with said motor Ive seen a bunch of kits for hondas the one im interested in is on eBay its the Honda GX390 13HP GX340 11HP Electric Start Kit Flywheel Starter Motor kit, has flywheel starter key set etc. iM sure you're familiar with em is there any special tricks im going to run into? would appreciate any advice or e help u can provide LOVE YER STUFF MAN ITS REALLY COOL!

[@nateboyd1758]

Will this also work for the HF predator 459cc ?

[@mtbsobe]

Hows the quality of a stock setup for these engines? It will not be on a gokart just a log splitter turning a 22pgm hydraulic pump. Thanks

[@Mustang086]

Love the video but do you think you could make a video with an electric start and charging system. I've been trying flip back and forth between your two videos on the topics to create a wiring diagram but it's been kind of difficult and tedious. I think you could help a lot of people out with a video combining the two systems.

[@nou755]

This is precisely what I've been trying to figure out, any insight on what you did?

[@withoutprejudice6]

@RBG any word from GFO on when they will have more 440's in stock?

[@callofdutymobilegameplaywi7217]

About to do this myself only problem is I am running a high compression build 223cc wildcat with forged rod +0.50 etc I am scared it won’t have the UMPH to even turn it over … I’ve read on some forums some people say high compression builds don’t work with electric start setups at all period … ummm…hmm any advice ?

[@MultiBassman55]

I am looking at a Predator 300series engine for my golf cart and I would love to hook up a electric start…show us how please!

[@socialmediaego]

@redbeard’sgarage hey will all this work for a Massimo Mb200 pull start engine ?

[@Damiantjuh]

is it possible to add a electric starter to a 2 stroke bike wich has standard only a kick-start?

[@ronaldmontenegro559]

What gauge wire was used on the switch and also how can I add a push start button