Question 1

Will thick pads fit in my GTK caliper?

Accepted Answer

To use thick pads you must have short pistons.  Short pistons can be identified by being flush with the caliper surface when fully wound in.

Question 2

Why should I always use DOT5 silicon based fluid?

Accepted Answer

Using anything other than DOT5 will perish the internal seals and cause leaks.

Question 3

How many Pad compounds are there?

Accepted Answer

Kelgate offer soft (black), medium (yellow) and hard (red) pad compounds in all pad types.
A hard compound will require greater force on the pedal to slow down but they will last longer.  Some hard pads are also available in Thick variant for extra longevity.

Question 4

Which way should the disc be mounted?

Accepted Answer

Kelgate brake discs are specially designed to expel air on rotation.  Cool air is drawn in at the centre of the disc and expelled on the outer edges when the disc is rotating.
When looking at the top centre of the disc (from either side) the veins should be "leaning backwards" so that the outermost cross drill is closer to the rear than a cross drill closer to the centre.
Our newest 12x200mm discs (GTK) now come with a directional arrow.

Question 5

What is the benefit of a floating caliper?

Accepted Answer

The floating caliper bracket ensures the disc and caliper remain at a constant position relative to each other.  This means that any flex in the axle or chasis will not cause the disc to drag against the pads.  This typically occurs when cornering and will hamper a quick exit particularly for the lower powered karts.

Question 6

Are Kelgate brake only for Go-Karts?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not.  Kelgate brakes are used on a variety of motorsport vehicles as well as an industrial brake.

Question 7

Which calipers will the Floating Brackets fit?

Accepted Answer

The Kelgate Floating Calipers only fit the GTK and the K calipers and with a 30mm axle.

Question 8

What are Ceramic Coated Pistons?

Accepted Answer

The smooth operation of the caliper pistons, particularly piston retraction is essential for optimal performance.
Ceramic coating is significantly tougher than anodising and ensures a smooth surface for the seals to interact with as well as insulating the caliper from brake pad heat.

Question 9

How do I get my pistons out?

Accepted Answer

1. The easiest way to remove your pistons is to pump the brake slowly whilst connected to the Master Cylinder.  Ensure there is something inserted between the pistons (where the disc would be) to prevent any piston popping past the inner seal - a piece of wood is useful for this.
 
Once the pistons are 90% out they can easily be removed fully by hand.
 
2. If the caliper is disconnected the next best approach is to insert a 3mm or 2.5mm allen key (3mm for slotted magnets / 2.5mm for smooth magnets) into the screw in the centre of the magnet.  Using a clockwise rotation (anti-clockise may undo the screw) rotate the whole piston whilst pulling outwards.  Once the pistons are 90% out they can be removed by hand.
 
3. If your pistons are perforated (holes drilled around the circumference) a 2mm diameter bar can be inserted through one hole and out through an opposite hole.  Rotate and pull outwards to remove the piston.
 
4. If there are no magnets or perforations then internal pliers are the next option.  Grip the piston strongly and rotate whilst pulling outwards.  If the pistons surface is damaged it will only be in the inner part of the piston and not affect the efficiency of the seals.

Question 10

Do prices include VAT?

Accepted Answer

No, all our web prices no longer include VAT at 20% due to Brexit.

Question 11

What about Brexit?

Accepted Answer

Now the UK has left the EU we no longer charge VAT on any purchases so the EU web prices are 20% cheaper than the UK site.
 
However please note that your local customs (via the courier) may charge you VAT when your parcel is delivered.  Throughout these first few weeks of 2021 some customers have had a small charge but others have not.

+44 (0)1296 433457

sales@kelgate.com

Frequently asked questions

Will thick pads fit in my GTK caliper?