AKA Information Regarding IAME Leopard Engine

AKA press release

The Australian Karting Association (AKA) in conjunction with Remo Racing, the Australian importer of the IAME products, would like to clarify the recent rule changes regarding ignition units on the IAME Leopard engine.

In an effort to maintain the reliability of the 125cc engine Remo Racing has worked closely with the AKA and the IAME factory to develop and implement a rev-limiter to the class.

The implementation date of the Leopard rev-limiter will be compulsory as of the 1st of May 2009, but is optional as of 1st January 2009. This gives the opportunity for people buying a new engine to purchase it with a rev-limiter as it is already included as standard ready for the compulsory date of May 1, 2009.

Above: The new ignition unit is a distinct fluorescent green in colour with AKA 20L clearly visible, as opposed to the previous black box

While the new ignition is optional for regular Open Meetings until May 1, 2009, however, drivers competing in any Championship or some Open Events will be required to have the new ignition fitted to their engines.

“The Leopard engine was original designed by IAME for use as a recreational engine with a maximum rpm of just under 16,000 but once we received National Status we saw more and more people pushing the ‘envelope’ with more rpm which the engine isn’t designed for,” said Remo Racing Managing Director, Remo Luciani.

“To keep the karters in mind and the long-term benefit for the future of the class, we worked closely with the AKA and IAME to introduce the rev-limiter which will bring the reliability of the engine back to what was once ‘bullet-proof’.

“The Leopard engine was designed to be used in a ‘straight out of the box’ format and I believe this new ignition unit will not only see a more reliable engine but also more enjoyable racing.”

Both the AKA and Remo Racing acknowledge that there is a small cost to the karter to exchange or purchase the new ignition unit, however, the new unit has significant benefits for the karter.

“Firstly, the new ignition unit is a distinct fluorescent green in colour with AKA 20L clearly visible, as opposed the previous black box. This will allow for easy identification at any Event – whether it be the Nationals, State Championships or a country race meeting,” said Luciani.

“There is new firmware and software in the ECU unit and with the ignition module able to be plugged into a laptop for the advance curve to be easily monitored by AKA officials.

“Remo Racing has also provided the AKA with software to enable the module to be plugged into a laptop computer to monitor the advance curve easily and effectively.

“This is a revolution, and is a world first, for karting and certainly gives piece of mind to the karter by knowing that at anytime they be easily and effectively be randomly-checked by the AKA or Club Official at the Event.”

Restricted Leopard engine competitors can still use all three ignition units during a 12-month faze-out period, which ceases on January 1 2010.

The old green and red button analogue 4-pole ignition will continue to be eligible for a 12-month faze out period but will not eligible for State and National Championships or Leopard Series events where it may be stated 'only key-start is allowed' in the Supplementary Regulations.

AKA President Richard Erdmann believes the introduction of the new ignition module will be beneficial for technical conformity verification.

“The introduction of the rev-limiter should assist with the reliability of the Leopard engine and ensure the longevity of the class based on the information provided to the AKA,” said Erdmann.

“This is achieved by allowing the advance curve to be easily monitored by the AKA officials at not only major events but any event across the country.”

A rev-limiter is not uncommon in motorsport to ensure engine reliability with many of the world’s top-line categories using the formula – including Australia’s V8 Supercar Championship Series.

pic - Ash Budd

Extraction from the 2009 AKA Manual Additional Information

45.20 Ignition
There are 2 types of ignition permitted:
• Selettra 4 pole, incorporating included charging system as supplied by manufacturer (this is the original type). This ignition is not permissible to be used at State or National Championships.
• IAME S.p.a. Selettra Digital-K Ignition System –This is the later “key start” type Ignition. Woodruff Key must be retained and no modifying permitted. Spark plug cap is a non-tech item. This ignition is eligible for use until 1st May 2009.
• From the 1st May 2009, the only eligible ignition module to be used is a GREEN module marked with AKA20L
• In the event of required repairs the plastic fittings registered and homologated as parts of the electrical looms for the ignition and starter assembly are permitted to be replaced with non-supplied fittings.

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