Set yourself a budget first. Although this is an entry level kart it is the running costs that tend to be low - new they are equally as expensive as anything else.
The top 3 chassis of the moment are MS, 7Kart and Wright R2. Correctly set up there is nothing between them. As regards engines you will want to know just how long it has been since they have been rebuilt (in hours as well as period) and the latest receipt or dyno print out from the engine tuner should at least be a start. If it has been DIY tunes obviously that is a little harder under they can produce receipts for parts (rings, valves, springs, plug, oil, gaskets perhaps).
The obvious consideration is how tidy it looks. Clean karts with no rust tend to have been looked after (but not always). Scuffs on bodywork is nothing - nor is the underside of the frame. See how the axle spins - check if the wheels bob up and down - could be bent. If it spins freely or does the brake drag or are the bearings clean or full of cr4p. Make sure the brake actually works with no visable signs of leaking at both the caliper an dthe master cylinder. Look at the steering column and the track rods - are the straight or bent. Similarly with the stub axles (if you can get hold of lasers it would be a good test to slip them). With the chassis on a flat surface turn teh steering wheel full lock both ways. The inside front wheels should lift off the ground - this lift shoul dbe equal both sides - this is a rough test as there are some many variables like flat surface, tyre pressures, castor/camber set correctly.
As for engines, make sure they start and rev freely. there should be no knocks or bangs. Stick your finger in the oil and see what colour it comes out - black isn't necessarily bad if, for example, it has not been changed following the last race (which might have been a six hour one).
Finally, ask around its history. Sprint chassis will last a lot longer than enduros purely because they are not driven for as long at each race meeting.
Alternatively talk to a dealer. yes you might pay a little more, however, you are more likely to receive support and assistance.
Hope this helps - and welcome - you will love it.
Graeme
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