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Getting Started in Power Wheels Racing

Posted: Tue Dec 12, 2017 10:05 am
by Jason
Finding information and details about this league can be a little... all over. Here is a list of links that should help you get started with registering and with what and where to buy components for your build. Please Note! In addition to registering with Power Racing Series, you have to register an exhibit at the maker faire you intend to race at. Most faires will allow you to choose that you are part of the racing series when you sign up.

2019 Race Schedule

Helpful Links To Get Started
Main website can be found here: http://www.powerracingseries.org/
Register your team http://www.powerracingseries.org/register (Please note, you will need to register as a maker at each event you plan to attend)
Find the latest rules http://www.powerracingseries.org/assets ... SRules.pdf
Racing series waiver. Bring one pre signed and save some time! http://ppprs.2xlnetworks.org/misc/waiver

Additional useful links for the league.
  • Official Power Wheels Racing Series Wiki page here
  • List of Bill of Materials for various carts Here
  • Our own Lazy Gecko builds including BOM and CAD can be found here
  • Fun getting started PowerPoint from team Lemon+Aid Here
  • Official internal discussion Facebook Page here
  • Official google group here
  • Great source of off the shelf kart components, BMIKarts here
  • Great source of “while they last” off the shelf parts, Surplus Center here


Helpful hints and tips:

  • Do not use harbor freight tires, they will not hold up.
  • Consider these as a base standard tire, Kenda 10″ tires. Here
  • Consider this as a base standard motor, 1800w Brushless Here.
  • Consider this as a base standard motor controller for a 48v setup, 1500w Brushless controller Here
  • Harbor freight hubs can be used, but require strength upgrades or they tend to break their welds. Even still, they will probably break.
  • Shoot for a top speed of 15-20mph.
  • The higher voltage (48v max) in general the less heat your system will generate.
  • Use decent bearings.
  • Nissan Leaf, Chevy VOLT are some of the best batteries you can get.
  • While #25 chain in a single run can hold up, you are riding the edge of strength and alignment. Consider #35 or higher for chain.
  • Brushless motors will be better than a brushed motor.
  • Keep your seat as low as you can for turning safely and quickly.
  • Add metal support to the left and right of your seat, to give the driver something to learn into.
  • Quickest way to get faster? Get lighter, hit the gym and drop some metal.
  • 1"x1"x.06 Mild steel tube is plenty for a chassis, cheap and available.