Getting Your Kart Ready for the New Season
A practical pre-season checklist from REV Performance Materials
As the off-season comes to an end and tracks begin to open across the country, it’s time to get your kart out of storage and ready for the season ahead.
A proper pre-season prep doesn’t just help you roll out for the first session—it sets the tone for your entire year. Small issues missed now can turn into lost track time (or worse) once race weekends start.
At REV Performance Materials, we work with racers at every level—from club competitors to national champions—so we’ve put together a straightforward checklist to help you start the season properly.
While many of these tips are especially relevant for Briggs LO206 racers, they apply across most karting disciplines.
1. Start With a Full Clean & Frame Inspection
Strip the kart down (bodywork, seat, axle, cassettes) and give the chassis a proper clean.
While cleaning, inspect the frame closely for:
- Cracks
- Stress marks
- Weld fatigue
This is something you should be doing regularly—but pre-season is when it matters most.
2. Replace Fuel Line & Fuel Filter
Fuel lines get brittle over winter and can crack without warning.
Start fresh with:
- New fuel line
- New fuel filter
Cheap parts, expensive problems if ignored.
3. Throttle Cable & Housing Check
Look for:
- Fraying at the pedal
- Drag or resistance in the cable
- Worn housing
If there’s any doubt, replace it. A sticking throttle is not something you want to deal with mid-session.
4. Brake System Inspection
Before your first lap:
- Check brake pad thickness
- Test pedal feel
- Confirm immediate pad engagement
If the pedal feels soft or delayed, you likely need to bleed the system.
5. Sprocket Wear
If the anodizing is worn through, it’s time to replace it.
Worn sprockets increase friction and reduce efficiency—small losses that add up quickly.
6. Chain Condition
Spin the axle and check for:
- Tight spots
- Stretch
- Inconsistent tension
Chains wear faster than most people think—starting the season with a fresh one is a smart move.
7. Axle & Bearing Check
Your axle should spin:
- Smooth
- Free
- Without resistance
If not:
- Clean bearings
- Realign components
- Replace if necessary
8. Check All Other Bearings
Don’t stop at the rear. Inspect:
- Front hubs
- Spindles
- Tie rod ends
- Steering column bearings
Any resistance or play = replace.
9. Pushback Bumper Components
Make sure everything is:
- Straight
- Functioning properly
- Within regulations
Worn or previously activated components should be replaced before your first event.
10. Engine Service
Start the season with a properly serviced engine:
- Carb clean
- Valve check
- General inspection
For LO206 racers, regular maintenance is critical for consistency and reliability.
11. Air Filter
Simple but often overlooked.
Dirty filters restrict airflow and hurt performance—start fresh.
12. Clutch Maintenance
Depending on your setup:
- Clean
- Inspect wear components
- Rebuild if needed
A well-maintained clutch is key, especially in Briggs racing.
13. Alignment Check
Verify:
- Toe
- Camber
- Squareness
Even small misalignments can impact handling and tire wear.
14. Chassis Straightness
If you’ve had contact last season, it’s worth putting the kart on a chassis table.
A straight chassis is the foundation of performance.
15. Bodywork & Graphics
Clean off rubber buildup or consider a fresh sticker kit.
It’s not just about looks—clear numbers matter for officials and timing.
16. Number Panels
Replace worn or faded numbers so they’re clearly visible on track.
17. Wheel & Tire Leak Check
Inflate tires and check for leaks:
- Bead seals
- Valve stems
A quick water test can reveal small leaks before they become a problem.
Final Thoughts
Pre-season prep isn’t about overhauling everything—it’s about eliminating weak points before they cost you time.
The drivers who start the season prepared are the ones who stay consistent throughout it.
If you need parts, maintenance items, or advice on getting your kart dialed in, REV Performance Materials has you covered.