I’m running in a predator class where a top plate is optional. Some have them, some don’t. Are there any advantages, other than the size of the fuel tank, to running a top plate with fuel pump vs the stock tank?
Lower center of gravity . But it's more a preference than anything , plus most floor mounted tanks vents better , It can also be a safety factor with an over turned kart . It could leak fuel out of the cap , and with the tank over top of the engine , it could cause a fire when flipped back over . Plus if the cap comes off during a race , floor mounted tank will not splash fuel all over your upper body and head , like an engine mounted tank possibly could . JM2CW
^ All good points.
With most Predator racers drilling the vent hole larger in the stock fuel cap, I wonder how long it'll be until something very bad happens.
I am not a fan of running the stock tanks at all, especially when mounted high (ie gravity feed.) If you must run a Predator, a top plate certainly seems like a wise decision.
Roll-over check valves are cheap and simple to install. I'm really kind of surprised they are not mandatory in all classes of karting.
I'd prefer the top plate if it is allowed, wont have the problems of engine cutting out because of cap problems , and I would feel better not having my gas tank sitting above an ignition source . It was a no brainer choice for me when they allowed the top plate in the early clown , I mean clone days !!
With a top plate / external fuel tank you can use all of the fuel in your tank.
If your engine is on an angled motor mount, the stock tank's fuel outlet gets pointed up - it can get uncovered long before the tank empties. Then the motor cuts in and out. Always make sure that your stock tank is completely full before heading onto the track - especially for longer races.