Predator 212 Go Kart Torque Converter Install

[@nate9009]

Awesome video Redbeard. Love the Simplicity in which you explain things. It really helps. Thanks for being so informative. As an avid go kart enthusiast I look to your videos a lot to help me recondition and rebuild older karts and motors. Thanks for all.

[@RedBeardsGarage]

No problem man and we have a lot more coming so stay tuned

[@williambrown6721]

I just ordered that same kit red beard.... what I like about your videos you show everyone step by step how to install everything you do.... when people are watching you put what ever it may be together, you don't need instructions....... thanks my brother!!!

[@bigataoolimpio3900]

por que a minha tá quebrando a correia

[@DSB420]

I had to cut off the oil cap top wings was keeping me stuck out a tiny bit but deff noticed it lol thanks rgb for teaching me almost everything I know about 212 predator!! Went from Not knowing anything about it to being pretty comfortable with doing anything on it thanks again have a blessed day

[@homesteadonomics]

Very helpful! Working on a kart project myself and you made this part very simple to understand👍🏻😀

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Glad we could help

[@tomwarren5258]

So the bolts that are supplied or actually the ones that work on it I same one video before that they said you had to switch him out with some other kind because the threads weren't the same

[@shawnmcintyre4773]

Bought mine at Go PowerSports , man what a huge difference it made compared to a centrifugal clutch ! Thanks for sharing

[@RedBeardsGarage]

No problem man. I think i like a normal clutch a lot better on the road but it is a must have for off road. I get a lot higher top end with a standard clutch.

[@Miragegagt]

Just bought one of these setups for predator 212 becuase the kids kept blowing up the old stock comet. Beware those sprockets, they have broken the keyway one in half more than once, so i upgraded it to an ebay replacement with keyway built in, eliminates that weak point. Thanks for the video

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

AH! I just bought a 9 tooth to replace the 10 for more torque, but I thought it looked thin and weak where the keyway is cut in... I did see the ones with the key molded in, makes sense! Good heads up!

[@Bubbaomw]

Link? Wdym?

[@ryanmaile6361]

Love the video a have a question. Can you put the sprocket on the back side of the torque converter? If you can, I’m assuming I’ll have to cut the key provided?

[@grumpysteelman]

Yes

[@jimbob78ify]

Random I know: Thank you for putting your hand behind the parts. God dang that’s helpful. Wish more people did that.

[@Lilly-ym3do]

As😊 da a😊a😮😊😊😊

[@johnwallace2100]

U the man red beard..exsplains everything..no hesitation speaking.very proffesinal.. I perfer u if i need info...i just watched for the hek of it..i did learn one thng.dnt hamer on year puly.because ofvser clip on otherside .good good info..see.professinal. U the man.

[@manoffaith2501]

Excellent instructional video. Just used it to install the same torque converter on my predator 212. Red Beard thanks for your help.

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Thank you for watching

[@zx.chicken]

Couldn't have asked for a better video

[@bobsbarnworkshop]

Read Beard... I just bought a used Baja Warrior and it has a Preditor 212 and CVT but the problem I have is the two pulleys are about 1/4" out of alignment, the drive pulley is too far in... I removed the washers on the rear shaft until the chain hits the backing plate. I suppose I need to make a front spacer to fit on... another problem I created is that I stripped the threads in the center of the engine drive shaft, so I'm going to have to drill it deeper , tap it and get a longer bolt to hold the drive clutch on... so beware!

[@RhiceyHarierar]

Just want yo say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your information on these builds. It has helped me fly by things tremendously ❤ love you big ol red beard dewd

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Glad to help

[@kenreed6181]

Gotta say your vids really help when a problem comes up. Best youtube small engine help I have seen. My only problem is I have the hemi predator and the bolt holes are all fine thread while all the bolts in the kit are coarse thread. lol. I guess thats why they have hardware stores.

[@javascriptmikecoder5790]

Thanks! I took mine apart and needed a reminder how it went back together, your video was perfect!

[@darrellshields8106]

That was a lot of help. I ordered the same kit n after watching this video see that I put my kit on all half ass backwards. Thanks again. Great video.

[@Sms8668]

Awesome Videos. Just did this to my predator 420 and the Bike Fly’s. It’s a Nitro 44 frame. Now I have to add Nitrous next !!! Had no clue how to install until your video. Thank God for You Tube !!!!!! Thanks Bud !!!!!!!

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Thanks for watching man

[@codylegodude659]

Thanks the guy who sent it to me on eBay didn’t send instructions. This helps a lot thank you!!!!

[@leowaters5779]

Speaking from experience, he probably didn’t receive instructions either when he bought it new😂

[@gierhedd75]

Outstanding step-by-step instructions!

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Thanks man. I try to do them the best I can.

[@nextlvlroy]

Thank you for the guide. Will follow this to a T when I receive my torque converter. Random question - which length of 5/16-24 bolts do I need to mount my predator to my Go-Kart? Thank you.

[@genesmith2355]

Thanks red beard . Got a rare 3 wheeled chopper go cart project. You helped a lot.

[@paulmoritz2240]

Yet again red beard! You make all of your tutorials nice and simple! It will make my installation of my torque converter cake.

[@Picklejam08]

Several have made inaccurate comments about problems with the front bolt (thread and length). I bought this same exact clutch ( Comet 30) from gopowersports last year, used the same bolt here in this video, and the front bolt works perfectly with my Predator Hemi 212 from Harbor Freight. I would know if the threads didn’t match… I’ve been turning a wrench for 45 years. You guys are misinformed. Amateur hour & armchair know-it-all’s.

[@robkovach7130]

You're the man Red Beard keep the videos coming

[@mr.bailey3971]

Love your videos! As a novice I've learned so much from your vids. I will post vids of the drift trike with torque converter I am building.

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Sweet man thanks for watching

[@genesmith2355]

That's what I'm building to a drift trike it's a chopper really cool

[@phonymontana4254]

Thanks red! Nibody gives the full step by step like u do!

[@leebarker539]

Great editing and clear, concise descriptions. I have a correction, which may have been made somewhere down in the comments. That shaft is tapped for a 5/16-24 bolt. The metric bolt that comes with the clutch is not only the wrong thread, but also too short. Feel free to double check me on this; there are lots of videos and discussions about this TAV on the Predator. I made this mistake and fixed it by making a tap out of a 5/16-24 grade 8 bolt to restore the threads. I used a grade 5 2 1/2" bolt which gives good purchase in the shaft with still enough length for a lockwasher and flat washer under the head.

[@skylark4901]

Exactly, 5/16-24, and the one supplied is too short, I'm surprised (not really) they haven't supplied a longer bolt by now. 👍

[@Picklejam08]

I bought this same exact clutch ( Comet 30) from gopowersports and the bolt works perfectly with my Predator Hemi 212. I would know if the threads didn’t match… I’ve been turning a wrench for 45 years. You guys are misinformed.

[@zachhuckabee7108]

Do you have a video of an electric start install on a hemi 212 predator engine and information on where to get a starter kit???

[@rdooski]

Warning! The 4 bolts that are needed to mount it to the motor are 5/16 - 24. I didn't see it mentioned anywhere and spent a couple hours and trips to 3 different stores all while lugging the motor with me the entire time to find out.

[@BubbaB43]

Why didn't you just look at the engines manufacturer's spec sheet, Google your engines owners manual and shop maintenance guide PDF download, they tell you everything you would ever need to know.

[@NateBuczacz]

​@@BubbaB43 While that is a good point, the poster's point is that the info in the video is wrong on the bolt specs.

[@Hateradecampaign]

Somebody may have asked this, and if so I apologize: I have a kit 196 with a shaft welded on the back. I assume I just remove the rear pulley from the plate and put on frame shaft correct? Love your videos thank you for what you do!

[@tommyhajimoto6968]

Hey Red Beard, your knowledgeable about these things I got a question? Can a torque converter go bad enough to stop an engine? I noticed it's been happening lately and when I try to restart it the wheel moves with the pull string. If I roll the bike a little bit it breaks loose and I can start the motor back up. Could it be one of these pulleys going bad or getting stuck?

[@ishniana]

RedBeard...you the freaking man. Because of this video I was able to figure out what I had misplaced!

[@ecotrea]

Perfect video. I got my gokart running thanks to Red Beard!

[@1_ebuzz]

was a bit worried about installing torque converter on my 212 predator (there aren't instructions) but feel confident now -- thanks bruddah!

[@nutz4all71]

Truly an excellent and informative video! Clear and concise instructions, many thanks! I also subscribed. Happy New Year RB!

[@timothy3727]

When you mount the clutch to the crankshaft that is not a 10mm bolt. It is a M1.25 metric bolt which should not be used because the predator crankshaft comes tapped for 5/16" 24 (fine thread) bolt

[@timnell9423]

Tim othy 5/16 24 = m8x 1.25

[@skylark4901]

@@timnell9423 Not true.

[@ChrisfromKeyfarm]

I'm converting a 1990 EZ-GO to gas, just got my torque converter today, thanks for the video.

[@coleswaggins]

Keyfarm what are you using for a motor?

[@ChrisfromKeyfarm]

@@coleswaggins first I'm using the predator 212cc from harbor freight to get it rolling, eventually I will put that engine on my tiller and upgrade to the predator 420cc. Everything will remain the same, except I'll have to drill new mounting holes in the engine plate. Everything on the rear shaft will be strong for either engine

[@coleswaggins]

Keyfarm I just got a Facebook gc160/190 (?) today for fifty bucks! I have to look up the serial number for it. Gonna fab up a motor mount and rear suspension for it soon. It’s going on a Honda spree.

[@coleswaggins]

It’s a Honda

[@ChrisfromKeyfarm]

@@coleswaggins yea, I think they call the predator engine a Honda clone

[@randomking2261]

Thank you go power sports and red beard 🚁⚓️🚁🚤🚉💺🚁🚢

[@me-ho6wp]

Thanks for the video, just used it to help me install my torque converter on my 224 predator. Great tips, keep it up 🤙🏼🔧🪛🔩⚙️

[@CainSample]

I just built my drift trike and finished it(looks sick) and i broke my torque converter back plate in half SMH ....do you think i should get it welded somewhere or is it easiera and cheaper to buy a new one? If you watch my video youll see i just bought a new $60 clutch from tractor supply for now...but id like to Get the torque converter on it and fixed..thanks man your channel is awesome! 👍

[@kylancook3477]

Perfect, exactly what I needed, only question on mine tho, mine interferes with the exhaust bolt when using the middle bolt hole, so I had to use the edge hole. Is that normal?

[@flip_flop_farmer]

thanks man i installed the torque converter ty for the video its so much better no chain grinding and higher speeds without engine rpms being high better for the engine

[@stickymolasses8358]

I was told you don’t want to over tighten the bolts on either pulley. You didn’t mention that, was it just someone thinking they know best or is there actually something to that?

[@JacobNegRay]

Couldn't ask for a more detailed video, great job and thank you!!!

[@farmlifeflorida6462]

So I burned up my belt is that due to the brass ring? Or is that my son road it for two hours straight? You have been very helpful thank you

[@abrahamvalencia6896]

Hey bro, I got a quick question since I am building my first gokart. Where would the clutch go after you put in the converter or where is the sprocket for the chain?

[@nathanfryer3538]

Thanks RB...you did that demo very seamlessly.

[@gardenwind4186]

I purchased a TORQUE CONVERTER KIT CLUTCH 3/4" COMET TAV2 30-75 218353A 12T #35 10T 41 for a golf cart. I found drive belts for (30 Series Torque Converter Belt Comet TAV2 203589 Manco 5959) will these drive belts fit they say they will fit the COMET TAV2 but the last numbers are difference? Also long will these belts last? I like your videos keep them comming.

[@jeffreystone7327]

Thanks great instructional video. Greatly appreciated. I’m considering using a TC on a kart for our grandson. The engine is a 212cc Ghost. What are a good size sprockets to use on the TC as well as on the rear axle sprocket? One last question please. Sorry to be a bother. What is the biggest advantage or disadvantage using a TC vs centrifugal clutch? Thank you very much.

[@peeinacan1]

if your cart weights a lot, or has big tires, or has tall gearing, the clutch has trouble locking up, and might overheat and be ruined. TC pretty much gets rid of that problem. Also the TC changes gears as you speed up, just like a real CVT, so theyre nicer in my opinion. But a clutch is 20$

[@jeffreystone7327]

@@peeinacan1 Thank you. Greatly appreciated.

[@davidforesr.8045]

Just replaced TC as in this video (enjoyed it BTW) and I have a question...Why is the belt so hard to place over the brass slip ring? The belt is a 669, but after locking everything into position, it is so tight my wheels keep turning. No idle. Thanks.

[@Si_Hano]

been watching your vids...nice job. can the sprocket you used be changed to something else? i think u used a 10t.

[@RedBeardsGarage]

+Si Hano yeah you can buy different sizes

[@tiller6108]

Great vide but i have a question where can i get the steel spacer and brass bushing from

[@mgate01]

The bolts on predator engine are 5/16-24 for the crank bolt and mounting plate bolts also

[@TheKingjames57]

Thank you so much for this video. I'm very new to all of this and I just got me a dingo by manco. Couldn't get enough torque with the amazon clutch so I decided to get me a torque converter.

[@ReReCups]

nah man, I'd reckon you were getting too much torque with the amazon clutch, too much torque can lead to slower speeds.

[@TheKingjames57]

@@ReReCups well thats kinda the problem, I never got up to any speed. Couldn't get the thing going unless ot was downhill.

[@ReReCups]

mmhm.

[@williamcobb106]

If you install the washer on the rear shaft before installing the drive sprocket it moves the sprocket too close to the rivets in the main plate and when a #40 chain is installed the rivets in the chain....especially for the master link.. rub against the rivets in the main plate. The drive sprocket for the chain needs to be installed first and then the washer after that. It then allows enough space for the chain to clear the rivets. I discovered this after the installation and had to disassemble the rear shaft and reverse the order....sprocket first and then washer afterwards. This was on a Predator engine, but I had the same problem with a similar engine with electric start. I also noticed that the inward bevel in the front keyed square drive sleeve doesn't allow very much engagement with the crankshaft keyway when using both the washer and the spacer. I was tempted to mill it down a bit to get more key engagement, but you didn't and seem to have no trouble with it, but there's not a lot of keyway there driving the outer front belt pulley. I'd estimate that there is only about 3/8" key engagement the way it is designed. Is this something to be concerned with? Thanks for any help with this!

[@RedBeardsGarage]

+William Cobb I actually noticed this after I installed it but I just switched it around like you was stating thanks for the comment though man and I don't think the key way is a problem at least I've never had a problem with it

[@williamcobb106]

Thanks for verifying that I wasn't nuts or had a different setup than yours! Great video by the way. I did go ahead and leave the square driver as is and you are correct....the thing goes like a bat out of hell with no issues except for overly sensitive steering since it's not rack and pinion. The engine is a Duro Max electric start that I pulled the governor from and installed a Mikuni carb on it. Should have left the thing stock.... I can't let the neighborhood kids drive this now...it's too darned fast! I need to find a small rack and pinion steering system for it as well...it's all over the road with the cheap go kart steering that it has. Everything else is great though and I appreciate the video you made!

[@hayselaster8636]

Where did you get that exhaust???

[@Pick6fun]

Holy crap, just found your channel and you have awesome videos! Off topic question, when would an upgraded flywheel be needed? Plan on doing air filter, jet, header for now. Thanks!

[@RedBeardsGarage]

+Pick6fun I always say if your pushing high rpms you need one

[@chaosofpeace5150]

Don't know if you'll be able to answer this but I have a dilemma. I'm converting my 40 Series TC into a jackshaft but I need the drive sprocket mounted on the OPPOSITE (back/inside) side of the main plate on the rear shaft. Im simply using a centrifugal clutch on the crank, chained to the jackshaft, and from there to the rear axle. The final sprocket is fixed in place on said axle. I can not find a video or explanation of what shaft/bearings I need to make this work and whether or not I NEED a pillow block bearing for extra jackshaft support. Love your videos and happy Veteran's Day. {Mounting a Honda gx340 on a chinese quad for a ride to work because its getting cold out}

[@chaosofpeace5150]

Abridged version: what dimensions of keyed shaft do I need or where could I find one?

[@JustinsGarage]

I am looking into picking up one of these, my only problem is that I have a 428 sprocket and chain for my bike and I can’t easily change to one either the 420 or #30 chain/ sprocket. Are the sprockets that come with with the torque converter replaceable with different sizes?

[@tonyash8080]

I’m installing on a HF predator 212, the bolts included were not correct. I needed 5/16-24 SAE.

[@jantonkin1014]

I had the same problem

[@tomwarren5258]

What bolt did you use for the crankshaft on the torque converter

[@guido1534]

Tell me why to choose this TC over just a clutch? I don't mind spending the money for this TC but is that money justified for it over a simple $30 clutch? What do you think red beard?

[@tabipapi]

Hey great instructions,in your opinion would this Torque converter would work to drive a prop shaft to a small (30feet)sailboat/the dc electric motor is a PGM132 ?

[@brokeboigarage3138]

this might be a stupid question, but i’m fairly new to minibikes. would installing a torque converter eliminate the need for a clutch?

[@benperez2990]

Red - Is the torque converter only for 212 hemi or could I put it on my regular 212. Also would it make it faster?

[@lasvegasminibikes]

Hey guys I’m at Harbor freight right now I’m trying to get 301 do you guys have a discord call that I can use to get a little bit cheaper

[@giofang5618]

I heard that metal bushing wears quick and can cause problems is it better to just keep it off

[@Str8sixfan]

Perfect. I plan on doing this for my 5hp briggs flattie this weekend. This is super helpful.

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Thanks for watching

[@timothy3727]

Don't use the metric bolt

[@Str8sixfan]

Yea, I was previously warned

[@Str8sixfan]

Ok, so I never ended up putting it on all the way when I made this original comment, but...just had to rewatch to put it on today, thanks RB!

[@boisebadboy93]

Hi RedBeard great video. Used it to install a new $65 TC off eBay for the 212. However, after I installed it, the go-kart vibrated REALLY bad and didn't accelerate worth dookie. I've done engine swap before and such, so I made sure everything was aligned properly, bolted on tight, chain had just a little slack, belt clutch on drive shaft tight (had to use shaft spacer to align clutch with jackshaft), even made sure the tires were equally inflated, what could be the problem!? It didn't vibrate before the TC install

[@RedBeardsGarage]

+boisebadboy93 I really have no clue what it could be. It's hard to diagnose something over the internet

[@fernandofelix5258]

what’s better for big guys a torque converter or a clutch ??

[@kirbytaylor3456]

Hey Red. When running this setup would you consider running 35 series chain, or is 40 series the only way to go? Thanks

[@IPCRo]

Got a problem. In my country I can't get a predator engine but similar. The problem is the jackshaft dismeter is either 18mm or 20 mm. Do you think the cvt kit will fit in one of them

[@CountZarko1992]

This is kinda off the subject to the video but I'm trying to install headlights on a go kart using the same 212 predator and I was wondering if you could explain it to me or maybe post a video of it to kindly make it easier to understand thanks! Love the projects you do and am a happy subscriber!

[@jeremypauly4491]

Is the juggernaut something you can put on after this or is it a performance kit that comes before this torque converter kit

[@Kettenhund75]

Mr. Beard Sir, what do those of us unfortunate enough to have a 196cc clone do for the crank bolt? The crank is externally threaded. I have seen a couple of "solutions" on youtube, but nothing I was really happy with.

[@terpin83]

Pretty sure the key washer you put on the first pully goes on the outside of the sprocket and the sprocket to the bearing

[@tinytruckin4096]

Appreciate the video, made putting my daughter's kart back together real easy👍👍👍

[@levibrousseau7608]

Can you go in reverse with the torque converter? If not, can you have a reverse kit and the torque converter together?

[@HondaRue]

Thanks a bunch... the instructions that came with the torque converter are a bit outdated so i had to Google. I heard I was going to have to relearn how to ride my doodle bug after this due to the engine braking but the engagement of the belt was the biggest surprise. Had to give it throttle and wait a second for it to engage. I have a hole in my knee at the moment due to Whiskey Throttle... be ware. Otherwise this is awesome

[@jimbo05551]

Hi red beard I have a 212 predator on a ct200u straight chained with 10t clutch and 50t rear.is this a good setup?

[@jonathanwise4252]

Will you do video of changing driven red spring setting to achieve higher tourqe setting.for hill climbing

[@RedBeardsGarage]

+Jonathan wise yeah I will get the parts in and make one

[@mirkoschaper2846]

I got the same torque converter and everything fits very well, but if i speed up its sounds very Bad and the spring vibrate hardly on the engin side . I think its because of the spring on the driven side. Its looks like its made for the other direction. My Engine is turning against the clock. Have tourque converters a direction ? Or they work booth ways ? Edit: sorry for my german english

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Are you sure you seated the outside bell on the flat sides of the inner cog?

[@finnfamilyfun1310]

That motor was obviously upgraded. If the torque converter is for a 6.5 horsepower motor how did it do for you 12, maybe 10 horsepower motor?

[@kikegoleador315]

I have a similar torque converter but it doesn't disengage when idling...I made sure that the belt is aligned and that it is facing the right way but still no luck...any ideas on why this is happening?

[@samuelgarza7685]

Hey Red Beard. I just got my torque converter on from Go Power Sports and I love it. But I think there might be problems? 1. The belt moves when the engine is on. 2. The go kart takes off on stand still. 3. And the engine tuns off when coming to a complete stop. What should I do? Also there's an aluminum flywheel and stronger replacement drum springs on the torque converter to withstand the higher RPMs on my Honda gx200 engine

[@RedBeardsGarage]

Have you double checked the installation of the tq? Make sure you installed everything in the correct order. I had one a while back that did the same thing. Im trying to remember what i did to fix it.

[@samuelgarza7685]

I put it on just like you did?

[@aaronhickerson6092]

Your engine idle rpm is too high.

[@JorgePerez-il2fc]

I have a question!!! What do you think about torque converter and stage 1 kit together? Or do you tried it before? Please help I'm going to install it on a baja warrior

[@synshenron798]

Yeah my buddy and I had trouble with the first pulley and that stupid 10mm bolt. It would turn the whole rotating assembly

[@samuelskelton9603]

Thanks red beard this vid helped me a lot!!!

[@bedrockfab.199]

Nice vid. I'm installing one on a rail runner this week. thanks for in info.

[@RattyFlyer]

Good idea to put lock tite or similar on all fasteners.

[@mountainmike1685]

So it doesn't matter if the front flat pulley lines up with the rear flat pulley does it because on mine, to line them up makes the engine shaft too short. Thanks for anybody's comments

[@armandovalencia9417]

I am planning to build a 4X4 Go Kart but I don't know where to get the parts I need for 4wheel drive go kart.

[@ridewrenchrepeat3550]

Do you happen to know the size and thread pitch on the crankshaft bolt?😊

[@billybones58]

Agreed, big man, since most of these sets do not come with detailed instructions. Keep building boys.

[@davelivetoride7163]

I want to put a Predator 301 and a series 40 kit on my mini bike (Carl Heald Super Bronc) but I do not want to change the frame or space my motor up. How far can I move the center to center of the driver and driven and still buy a belt . I am assuming i will have to make my own mounting plate and maybe a Jack shaft

[@datnis916]

Can you run the sprocket on the outside of the pully. I'm having clearance problems on my manco

[@scottyw8502]

hey Redbeard I have a question I have the maxpower 455 35c 12T max torque clutch...my question is if I take that out and replace it with a torque converter is there any difference in speed..top end especially...thanks

[@RedBeardsGarage]

+scotty w we gained top end when upgrading to the CVT from a clutch. The torque form the CVT alone is worth it.

[@rickythelamo]

Does it matter what angle you have the converter? Do you have to use those middle bolts or can i angle the whole converter?

[@rossboyack7434]

Hey red bead. Hope you are still replying to this video I bought this setup to use on a Yamaha four wheeler that had no motor the problem is that the chain that I need to use for the torque converter is different than the sprocket on the Yamaha four wheeler was wondering do you know if gopowersports has a rear sprocket that will match up what's the torque converter I tried contacting them through email a week ago and haven't got a response from them I think I need a split sprocket does the split sprocket on there website line up with the torque converter tooth count? The bolt pattern is really wide on the Yamaha banshee thanks for your time I appreciate your videos

[@robertpolicastro1]

Red beard, I need to know can the small sprocket be installed on the other side of the plate and not behind the driven pulley? And what do I need to do it.