This film, “The Champion” features comedian Donn Knotts promoting McCulloch “Champion” engines for go karts. McCulloch go-karts were popular in the early days of karting, primarily due to the use of McCulloch two-stroke engines, originally derived from their chainsaw line, in these karts. These engines were used from the late 1950s through the 1970s, powering many karts, including those driven by future motorsport champions

0:00 The film opens by addressing Don Knotts, a potential go-kart buyer, emphasizing the many choices available and quickly focusing on the engine, specifically the McCulloch “Champion” engine, touted for having more world championships than any other kart engine.

1:10 McCulloch engines are highlighted for dominating races, including the Go-Kart Club of America nationals at Willow Springs, California, and the St. Louis Grand Prix, where they secured 10 out of 11 top positions.

1:45 McCulloch engines are noted for twice winning the International Trophy at the Nassau Grand Prix and achieving victories in every event entered, establishing McCulloch as the “undisputed world champion of karting” with thousands of trophies and numerous track records.

2:12 The narrator suggests to Don Knotts that owning a McCulloch engine makes one feel like a champion and then transitions to introducing a new kart frame designed to match the engine.

2:35 The construction of the new kart frame is detailed: steel ribbons are sent through forming machines, precision cut, and shaped uniformly. Notched sections are interlocked and sigma-welded, creating a frame capable of supporting up to 500 times its own weight (a Volkswagen Beetle is shown dangling from a frame), ensuring strength and safety.

3:30 The front wheels ride on flame-hardened steel spindles with nylon kingpin bearings (never needing lubrication) and automotive-type roller bearings for a smooth, safe ride.

3:52 A new McCulloch steering concept is introduced: front wheels are coupled by tie rods to a specially designed pitman arm that exaggerates “Ackerman steering.” This guides the inside wheel through turns at a tighter radius (14° extra turning radius), eliminating wheel-driving action during high-speed cornering and allowing the driver to use sliding for better control.

4:41 Other kart features are highlighted: a direct-linkage throttle pedal, disc brake, chrome steering wheel, a rigid seat assembly with an integrated, baffled fuel tank to prevent sloshing, and durable upholstery for comfort.

5:14 The most “revolutionary aspect” is presented: four pairs of sturdy rubber mounts provide cushioning for McCulloch’s detachable rear axle power unit. The axle, wheels, mounts, and engine attach as a single, fully shock-mounted unit, separating the frame and driver from track and engine vibration. This is achieved with just four bolts.

5:49 A demonstration shows how effectively these shock absorbers soak up vibration.

5:55 The McCulloch kart is presented as a versatile racing kart suitable for all racing events (from Class A to Supers) simply by interchanging axle units fitted with engines to match the class, marking a new era in karting.

6:24 To appreciate the McCulloch’s smooth speed, it’s compared to an “ordinary” kart, which is shown to have “vibration backbreaking, body-banging arm vibration” that tires the driver.

7:18 Knotts experiences a ride in the new shock-mounted McCulloch kart, highlighting how the shock absorbers absorb track and engine vibration for a smooth ride, reducing arm and shoulder fatigue.

7:46 For acceleration, the McCulloch kart goes from a rolling start to 45 mph in 2.5 seconds, showcasing its championship potential.

8:07 In a race, McCulloch’s Ackerman Steering proves its worth, with the inner front wheel tracking the corner, allowing the front wheels to slide through the turn with minimal correction for perfect control into straightaway.

9:28 Conclusion: choosing the McCulloch kart means “driving a champion.”

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