ILONPA Centrifugal Clutch for Go-Kart 5/8" Bore 11-Tooth #35 Chain — Steel, Fits 2–6.5HP Engines

ILONPA Centrifugal Clutch with a 5/8" bore and 11 teeth delivers reliable automatic engagement for small engines driving #35 chain on single-wheel go-kart setups.

This clutch is engineered for mini karts, mini bikes, choppers and light utility machines running engines between about 2 and 6.5 horsepower. Built from heat-resistant steel, it mounts directly to compatible crank shafts (5/8" bore) and engages automatically as engine RPM rises, powering #35 sprockets for simple single-wheel drive applications. It’s a direct, no-frills replacement or upgrade for older small engines including many Predator 97cc/2.8HP and similar 3HP units.

How does this clutch engage and protect my engine during use?

The centrifugal design uses weighted shoes that expand outward as RPM increases, gripping the machined drum and transferring torque to the output sprocket. Engagement is smooth when broken in correctly and helps prevent stalling at low speeds by remaining disengaged until a preset RPM is reached. Because it is solid steel, it resists deformation from heat and repeated engagement cycles.

• Automatic engagement based on engine RPM for hands-free drive connection.
• Steel construction reduces wear and handles friction-generated heat.
• Designed for single-wheel drive with tires up to 15" tall on go-karts.
• Works across a range of small gasoline engines (approx. 2–6.5 HP).

Will this fit my Predator 2.8HP 97cc or older 3HP engine?

This clutch is made for a 5/8" crankshaft bore and 11-tooth sprocket output that accepts #35 chain, matching many Predator-style 97cc engines and some older 3HP units. Confirm your engine’s shaft diameter and intended sprocket specification before ordering. Set screws are not included, so you’ll need appropriate hardware to secure the clutch to your shaft.

• 5/8" bore — measure your crankshaft to confirm compatibility.
• 11 teeth sized for #35 chain (chain not included).
• Fits common mini-bike/mini-kart 2.8HP/97cc applications and similar engines.
• Set screws must be sourced separately for final mounting security.

What installation and break-in steps ensure reliable performance?

Prepare the clutch by applying a light lubricant around the circlip area and rotating the assembly to let the oil settle before you install it. After mounting, perform a controlled break-in: run no-load cycles to the first engagement several times with cooling intervals, then repeat under light load. This seats the shoes and ensures repeatable friction characteristics.

• Pre-lube the circlip area and rotate clutch before installation.
• Initial no-load runs: let clutch engage for ~10 seconds, cool, repeat 3–5 times.
• Progress to loaded intervals with two-minute cool-downs between full-speed runs.
• Re-check set screw tightness and alignment after break-in.

How durable is the clutch and what can I expect for maintenance?

Constructed from high-quality steel, this centrifugal clutch tolerates repeated friction and elevated temperatures better than lower-grade alloys. Periodic inspection of shoes, drum surface, and mounting fasteners keeps service life long; replace worn shoes or damaged drums to maintain consistent engagement. It’s intended as a rugged, economical component for hobby and light utility vehicles.

• Steel body resists wear and heat from repeated engagement cycles.
• Inspect shoes and drum periodically for glazing or scoring.
• Replace set screws and alignment parts as needed during maintenance.
• Designed for routine use on karts, mini-bikes, and small garden machines.

Who is this for: The ILONPA 5/8" bore 11-tooth centrifugal clutch is aimed at DIY kart builders, mini-bike and mini-chopper owners, lawn/garden equipment hobbyists, and anyone replacing or upgrading the drive on small single-wheel drive machines. If you run a Predator 97cc/2.8HP engine or a comparable older 3HP motor and need an economical, robust clutch that accepts #35 chain, this unit offers a straightforward, durable solution — just verify shaft diameter and source appropriate set screws before installation.