Caster

[Jimmy Moore]

How can you measure caster. I've never seen any jig that will do it.

[Mark Dismore Jr]

quote:

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Originally posted by Jimmy Moore:
How can you measure caster. I've never seen any jig that will do it.

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Buy a digital level and you can measure it a few ways. It kind of depends on your kart. I make sure my gauge is longitudinal with the chassis and put the level on the top of the Kingpin bolt. I always measure the same so I always have a baseline (which is really all it is anyway, castor in and of itself means nothing). I also use a long metal ruler and put it on the outside edge vertical with the tire to measaure camber. There are karting specific gauges out ther but my digital level (available thru MSC among other places) is fast, easy, accurate and does a great job. I'm sure there are better ways but I have used my gauge on other chassis as well and it has always worked well. Don't over complicate it.

[John Learmonth]

quote:

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Originally posted by Jimmy Moore:
How can you measure caster. I've never seen any jig that will do it.

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Jimmy,
Its not really that important to know what the caster angles are in actual degrees (its enough to know if its more or less at whatever adjuster setting), but it is important to know that it’s equal side to side when the adjusters are at the same settings (assuming you have adjusters, which you should).

This is a good method to check caster is equal side to side: obtain a length of machined (ground) bar (make sure its straight!), having the same diameter as the OD of the king pins. Cut the bar in half so you now have two bars. Remove the king pins and stub axles (spindles), insert the two bars in place of the king pins. The bars should protrude entirely from above or below the chassis.

Now, place yourself to the side of the kart and visually line up one bar with the other bar. If there is any difference in caster angles you should see it easily.