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EM Technology sprocket/pinion aligner: does it pass the test? Our review
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Checking correct sprocket-to-pinion alignment is one of the most important operations to carry out before heading out on track. When the sprocket and pinion are not perfectly aligned, the chain no longer runs in a straight line and begins to work at an angle, rubbing laterally against the teeth. This immediately results in an unwanted loss of engine power, with a clear impact on performance. Over time, as laps are completed on track, incorrect drivetrain operation leads to rapid and abnormal component wear, increasing the risk of premature transmission failures or, in the worst cases, issues affecting other engine components. To make this adjustment easier, a range of tools has been developed over the years, from rigid bars, which are inexpensive and intuitive, to laser pointers, which are more precise but also more costly (for further insight: “Must Have | 4 tools (and 4 modes) for perfect alignment between the kart's sprocket and pinion gear (the fourth one you don't expect!)”). In 2025, EM Technology, an Italian company specialising in the manufacture of radiators and karting accessories, introduced a new aligner produced using 3D printing, priced at 16.40 euros excluding VAT. We tested it on both Shifter and Single-Gear karts to evaluate build quality, ease of use and overall effectiveness, also comparing it with one of the most commonly used procedures among kart drivers: checking alignment with a rigid bar. This allowed us to identify the advantages the tool offers and the situations in which it may instead show certain limitations.
Editorial note
Checking sprocket-to-pinion alignment is only one of the fundamental inspections involved in kart drivetrain maintenance. What are the other essential operations? You can explore them in the following articles:
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