A Massive Chinese Diesel V-Twin Serves as an Impressive Go-Kart Engine.

      CarsandCameras via YouTube

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      In many respects, today’s Internet is disappointing, yet it remains excellent for shopping. Deep within Ali Express lies a listing for a large V-twin diesel engine, which the YouTubers at CarsandCameras recently purchased and attached to a go-kart.

      The 2V98FDE has a displacement of 1,300 cc, generates 26.8 horsepower, and revs up to 3,600 rpm—all contained in a unit that weighs 244 pounds dry and cost $1,999.73 during its purchase. The specifications displayed on the website, on the crate, and on the engine itself varied; the V-twin had to be weighed on a scale to verify its weight. Additionally, the experience with Ali Express didn’t fall short of expectations in other ways. The engine took several months to arrive, and when it finally did, there were holes in the sides of its cardboard crate. Furthermore, the engine was not secured for shipping.

      CarsandCameras via YouTube

      Today's Chinese automotive industry challenges the notion of poor quality, but this engine serves as a reminder of how those perceptions originated. It exhibited poorly cast components, traces of still wet Loctite, overspray, and the manufacturer's name on the valve covers was upside down. A random bolt piercing the intake manifold probably affects airflow negatively, but on the bright side, the engine came equipped with electric start, an additional electric fuel pump, and an emergency valve lifter to prevent uncontrolled combustion.

      It started right up, but fitting it into a go-kart was still going to be a challenge. For reference, the kart originally had a 98cc engine (although it had been modified with a 400cc diesel previously), and 670cc is about the largest size kart engines typically reach. Fully fueled and with the kart's CVT attached, the Chinese diesel weighed approximately 300 pounds on its own. This is nearly the same weight as a standard go-kart with a driver.

      We Bought a GIANT Diesel V Twin from China and Put It on a Go Kart!

      To accommodate the V-twin, the kart’s rear axle had to be moved back six inches. The engine itself is mounted on a subframe and a steel plate reinforced with angle iron. Once installed, it stands about as tall as a seated driver. However, with 26.8 horsepower and diesel-like torque, it allows for tire spinning at will. Despite the manufacturer’s lack of quality control, the V-twin seemed to function reasonably well. The primary concern was the transmission, which required some adjustments to ensure full engagement.

      CarsandCameras believes the V-twin has enough power to drive a car, although such a swap would likely prioritize fuel efficiency over speed (similar to this Chevy S-10 diesel build). Alternatively, it might be interesting to see how much work this diesel engine could perform; a go-kart tractor pull would be quite exciting.