Deep pockets, patience and an ability to use choice language without your lad hearing !!!
Seriously though, a set of T-bars for undoing / tightening bolts, a set of spanners, a set of screwdrivers and a basic socket set are a must. You don't need really expensive tools. Machine Mart are a good source for these items and I have always found the guys in the store to be really helpful.
Other stuff that you will need are a few spares (nuts and bolts and stuff that wears easily), fuel can and filter, chain lube, WD40, bearing lube and brake cleaner (for cleaning the brake caliper and pads, as well as getting grease off various bits of the kart), old rags and some sprockets (to suit the track you are going to race at). Once you start, you will quickly find out what you need to replace on a regular basis.
This time of year (and also during this past 'summer') I would suggest that some sort of awning would be useful. It doesn't have to be expensive to start with, but makes fixing / tuning in the rain much more pleasant. Some bargains are around this time of year. A 3x3m 'gazebo' would probably suffice if you anchor it down properly. A quick wander around any paddock will give you some ideas.
Another thing that we learned quickly was the value of a good 'wet suit' for your lad - keeps them warm and dry.
With regards to setup, each chassis will have its peculiarities - start with a basic setup and adjust from there to suit your driver. You will find that as he progresses you will need to adjust this. Knowing how your kart is put together helps greatly with this.
One particularly good idea is to make sure that the seat is the right size - I see alot of kids sliding around in seats that are too big for them. A good fitting seat helps to 'connect' them to the kart and gives them confidence, as well as a better degree of protection.
The list is almost endless, but if you start with some of the right gear you will find it more fun. Again, ask around the paddock and get talking to people - it is much more fun racing with people that you know - especially when 'racing incidents' occur......
I would suggest going to the 'Kartmania' show next weekend if you can - it will give you a feel for what is out there. It might also put a large hole in your bank balance as well - Beware !!
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