Stripping and Preparing the Frame

Disassembly Process

With the Go-Kart frame in our possession, it was time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. The first step was to strip the frame of its existing components. This process was both exciting and challenging as we began to see the potential of our project take shape.

1. Removing the Wheels and Components: We started by removing the wheels and other attached components. This required a variety of tools, including wrenches and screwdrivers. Some bolts were rusted and needed extra effort to loosen.

2. Documenting and Organizing: To keep track of the parts, we documented each component we removed and organized them in labeled containers. This would help us later when reassembling or refurbishing the parts.

3. Frame Cleanup: Once the frame was stripped, we cleaned it thoroughly to remove any dirt, grease, and rust. This step was essential to ensure the primer and paint would adhere properly.

Sanding and Priming

With the frame stripped and cleaned, the next step was to prepare it for painting. This involved sanding the entire frame to create a smooth surface and applying a primer to protect the metal and ensure a good paint finish.

1. Sanding: We used both coarse and fine sandpaper to sand the frame. The coarse sandpaper helped remove any remaining rust and old paint, while the fine sandpaper smoothed out the surface. This was a labor-intensive process, but the result was a clean, smooth frame ready for priming.

2. Applying Primer: After sanding, we applied a coat of primer to the frame. The primer acts as a base layer that helps the paint adhere better and provides extra protection against rust and corrosion. We chose a high-quality automotive primer for this purpose.

Painting the Frame

Once the primer was dry, it was time to add some color to our project. We opted for a sleek, professional look with black spray paint.

1. Choosing the Paint: We selected a durable, high-quality black spray paint. The black color would give our go-kart a sleek, professional appearance, while the spray paint would ensure an even, smooth finish.

2. Painting Process: We applied multiple thin coats of spray paint, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. This ensured a smooth, even finish without drips or runs. The result was a beautifully painted black frame that looked brand new.

Current Progress

At this stage, our go-kart frame was looking fantastic. The transformation from a rusty old frame to a sleek, painted one was incredible. However, we were far from finished. The next steps involved working on the drive shaft and beginning the coding for our electric motor.

Next Steps

In our next post, we will discuss the process of fixing and assembling the drive shaft, a critical component of our go-kart. We will also share our initial steps in coding the Arduino and creating the motor logic.

Stay tuned as we continue our exciting journey of building an electric go-kart!