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There are a few variables, the big one being whether you've got the new thrust washers for the little-end bearing or not, but the big reason for rebuilds is that they get slower as the ring wears and gums up. Top end power seems to stay about the same, but they don't pull as well low down, and you start to feel other karts pulling away from you.
I normally rebuild every 8 hours running now, but wouldn't normally expect to notice signs of work being needed until somewhere between the 10 and 12 hour mark. I just don't want to find I'm losing performance half way through a race. When I was learning how to go karting I got 18 hours between rebuilds once, but as I got quicker the higher engine temperatures encountered meant the ring got coked/gummed into the groove much more quickly.
Top end needs a look at every time, with particular attention being paid to piston, ring and little end bearing - the new thrusts last forever, the old ones need changing every rebuild. I put a new ring in every rebuild, but sometimes go 3 rebuilds before going up to the next bore size and a new piston.
In the bottom end it's wise to check main bearings and always change main bearing seals (remembering to grease!), but the big end bearing, con-rod and crank pin should last a good few rebuilds. Main bearings are cheap enough that if I'm unsure about whether they feel a bit rough, or have play, I just change them.
All the above very much "in my experience", so don't take it as gospel. Hope it helps.
Liam
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TKM Rebuilds, How often? by 'Tkm27' (12 Mar 2014 @ 19:58)
