by offset link,do you mean a half link?
if so,tack a tiny weld on the pins backside.
they use a tiny cotter pin that isnt really that strong.
i use one on the 4 wheeler build,its holding up so far.
thoughts,this is a go cart,why cant you run a shim on the motor plate?
set the chain up pick up the motor with the chain on have someone measure it or stick something under it n measure it yourself.
thats your shim height.:shrug: problem solved...?
actually Edit.
i bet i know your problem to begin with.
yerf dog go cart and you are running Straight clutch chain to axle correct?
it Should have a Tav on it and that Tav Sits on a Plate thats around a half inch Higher than the engine plate.