Leecart Tom Lukenbach

A Leecart Restoration - owner: Tom Lukenbach

This is one of the first kart we are featuring on the REAR web site. It is unusual enough that we thought everyone would enjoy seeing it. The kart is a 1961 Leecart kart. It is owned and was restored by Tom Lukenbach. We took most of these pictures at the Lansing kart track last fall. The last picture in the snow was taken after he installed a set of the reproduction Go Power wheels from Scott Wigginton.

Tom did a nice job restoring this kart. He had to fabricate his own motor mount, as the originals were cast aluminum with an integral chain guard. He also had new upholstery made from pictures he found in some old issues of "Racing Karts" magazines, as all he had was the seat back to go by. The kart has the original floor mat, steering wheel / shaft, and all related gas and brake components including a Leecart made 5" drum brake. In July 1961 the cost of the kart new was $239. Tom also has a foil sticker that says "LB 320" and was wondering if anyone knows what it means.

Leecarts were produced in Hollywood California. In 1961 there were three models produced; the MC6 "Sebring", the MC20 "Daytona" and the AH-82 "Riverside". They could also be ordered with West Bend motors. The word "Duo" was added to the name if it was a dual engine model. All the parts were interchangeable between the different models. The frame is made of 1 ¼" 1015 seamless tubing. The kart came stock with Go Power wheels. He purchased this kart off of Ebay.

The kart is featured in "Racing Karts Magazine July 1961". Tom was unable to find any info on a Leecart Company by 1963.

Leecart Specifications

MANUFACTURER: Leerak, Inc Address 11323 Vanowen St. North Hollywood, Calif.

WEIGHT LESS ENGINE; 78 lbs

OVERALL WIDTH: 36"

OVERALL HEIGHT: 20"

WHEEL BASE: 45"

TREAD Front 32", Rear 32"

GAS TANK CAPACITY: 3qt

FRAME CONSTRUCTION: (tube size) 1 1/4'" , (wall thickness) .083

FRAME MATERIAL: 1015 mild steel

REAR AXLE: 1" steel cold rolled