Clinton A400 Issues

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Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Sun Dec 16, 2018 10:06 pm

Thanks Terry!!! I am going to redo this engine slowly and a step at a time. So I will need occasional tech assistance and/or parts references.
001.JPG
Here is as far as I got tonight. By the way-the PB Blaster seems to have worked-the recoil is retracting nicely now!!! Soon the flywheel will come off-then the ignition will be addressed. Then a cleaning while it's apart. I have a gas tank on the way. Then the carb......Etc.Etc.Etc. Thanks again-I guess I'll need a Panther Service Manual too.

REAR
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by REAR » Mon Dec 17, 2018 6:26 am

Like to thank everyone for this thread, being new to Clinton engines this thread is very interesting.

On the ignition modules can anyone list who makes them, whats the part number, and who sells them ?

Is there a right hand and left hand module ?

R.E.A.R.

Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Mon Dec 17, 2018 8:19 am

Glad you are showing some interest-I am planning this restoration step by step and I'll keep everyone posted. Of course, I will have to refer to some on this forum for assistance from time to time......

Terry Sullivan
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Terry Sullivan » Mon Dec 17, 2018 9:32 am

Modules will work on left or right hand Clinton engines. No changes are required, as long as you have the correct flywheel.

Here is one source for modules. Free shipping.
https://www.walmart.com/reviews/seller/ ... 8D7A0B7E5A

For go kart use, you might want to replace that heavy cast iron flywheel. Here is a direct replacement:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NOS-New-Vintag ... 1438.l2649

Timothy Klatte
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Joined: Sun Mar 13, 2016 4:21 pm
Vintage Karting items owned: Simplex Challenger Mk4
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Mon Dec 17, 2018 5:46 pm

I see the ad for a new flywheel-is this aluminum? Why would it need replaced for go kart use?

Terry Sullivan
Posts: 295
Joined: Sun Aug 12, 2007 9:36 am
Vintage Karting items owned: 4 Bugs, including the Wasp bought by my Dad in 1959. Many Clintons and a few Macs
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Location: Cumming, GA

Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Terry Sullivan » Mon Dec 17, 2018 6:54 pm

The heavier flywheel will keep you from beating me at TBO!
It just keeps the engine from revving up and down quickly.
Not a big deal if you just want to putt around.

Timothy Klatte
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Joined: Sun Mar 13, 2016 4:21 pm
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Tue Dec 18, 2018 7:40 am

How high can a Clinton A400 rev? It doesn't make that much power anyway-so every rev matters.....

Terry Sullivan
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Vintage Karting items owned: 4 Bugs, including the Wasp bought by my Dad in 1959. Many Clintons and a few Macs
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Location: Cumming, GA

Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Terry Sullivan » Tue Dec 18, 2018 12:40 pm

The last model of these engines were rated 2.75 hp at 3600 RPM.
I have seen 6000 RPM on some of mine with open exhaust, Go Power style manifold and a small Tillotson carb.
I always use the improved connecting rod introduced on the 500 series engines. Part number 245-110-500.
The early rods were the weak point for engines used on go karts.

Timothy Klatte
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Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Timothy Klatte » Wed Dec 19, 2018 10:12 pm

I will be looking for an exhaust manifold.What do you suggest? Also, You mentioned a Tillotson carb. Which model is recommended? Thanks.

Terry Sullivan
Posts: 295
Joined: Sun Aug 12, 2007 9:36 am
Vintage Karting items owned: 4 Bugs, including the Wasp bought by my Dad in 1959. Many Clintons and a few Macs
User Agreement: Yes
Location: Cumming, GA

Re: Clinton A400 Issues

Post by Terry Sullivan » Sat Dec 22, 2018 11:04 am

There are a few expensive after-market exhaust solutions, but I just use standard Clinton parts.
This picture shows a 'quiet' muffler and a short exhaust header.
For racing, I usually drill a few large holes in the end of the short header.
Either one can be occasionally be found on ebay for about $30.00

My favorite Tillotson is the HL189. No longer made, but not too hard to find.
A little smaller, but available new, is the HL166.
Attachments
exhaust.png

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