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golf cart switch only works when tight

by Marcella Herzog Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Find the ignition wire on your golf cart. This runs from your ignition switch to the starter solenoid. Check this over for corrosion on either end and make sure you’ve got a tight connection.

Full Answer

What happens if you tow a golf cart without flipping the switch?

If you do not flip the switch to “TOW” prior to pulling the vehicle, you can cause serious and even catastrophic damage to the controller, the motor, or both. The most common component to sustain damage by towing the cart without flipping the switch is the controller.

What does the direction switch do on a golf cart?

The direction switch or forward/reverse switch controls whether the golf cart moves forward or backward. This switch is one of the most used parts in a golf cart, which means it will be subject to wear and tear. You'll find what the issue is if the switch is acting up.

Are there any problems with the key switch on a golf cart?

No matter what brand of golf cart you own, it will eventually have problems starting due to normal wear and tear. These problems can range from minor to major. A common area for golf cart owners to troubleshoot is the golf cart key switch.

Why is my golf cart not working properly?

A bad or damaged solenoid could be the reason why your golf cart is not working correctly. Solenoid often stops working because of the following reasons. A bad or damaged solenoid can cause many other cart problems. Make sure to inspect it properly. If you find a damaged solenoid, the best thing is to take your cart to a garage.

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How do I know if my ezgo golf cart solenoid is bad?

First, turn on the ignition while looking for a reading on the smaller terminals. If nothing is appearing, then press on the accelerator. If the needle doesn't move, then the problem is not with the solenoid. If it jumps and displays full voltage, then the solenoid is the problem and should be replaced with a new one.

How do you test a directional switch on a golf cart?

Place your foot on the car's brake, insert the key, and put the forward-reverse key in the forward position. If you see that the solenoid charges up pushing the pedal, then your forward reverse switch is working fine. As you put your Golf Cart in the forward mode, check your multimeter for full voltage.

What would cause an electric golf cart not to move?

Solenoid Wear When there is a disruption in the flow of the electrical current, your cart will not operate. A common reason for current disruption is solenoid wear. Each time the solenoid activates as you press down on the gas pedal, the solenoid compounds down onto a thin metal contact plate.

Why wont my golf cart go forward or backwards?

Check the Forward/Reverse switch of your golf cart for loose connections. If the connections are intact, interchange the top and bottom wires at the rear. If the cart now goes in reverse but not forward, the problem is with the switch. You have to just change the switch in this case.

How do you test a EZGO directional switch?

Check all the connections and make sure each part is getting power by using the multimeter. Have your foot firmly on the brake, put in the key, and the F/R switch in the forward position. When you push the go pedal if the solenoid charges up then your EZGO F/R switch is good to go.

How do you bypass a micro switch on a golf cart?

You can bypass the reed switch in an EZGO golf cart by connecting the red wire of the reed switch to the white wire from the charger receptacles and to the red wire from the FRN micro switch.

How do you reset a golf cart electric motor?

First, you'll want to reset your motor. It should have a small reset button (Usually it will be red) located near the main battery supply. Hit the reset button and then put the cover back on the motor. The next step would be to recharge your cart and try turning it on again. If it starts up then you're in luck!

What does a potentiometer do on a golf cart?

It sends an electrical signal to the speed controller from the accelerator pedal, indicating the pedal's position. When it is working properly, the potentiometer allows your golf cart to accelerate smoothly. Find your potentiometer and inspect it for any cracks, broken parts, or disconnected wires.

How do you troubleshoot a golf cart controller?

Here are 5 steps you should follow for a DIY fix to your golf cart's speed controller.Flip the maintenance switch. ... Reset the battery cable. ... Check your connections. ... Test the solenoid. ... Check your controller's power output.

How does a golf cart forward reverse switch work?

0:139:43Golf Cart Forward and Reverse Switch Direction Selector Tutorial - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThat is brand new it simply cables connect to the bright copper colored contacts. And the switchMoreThat is brand new it simply cables connect to the bright copper colored contacts. And the switch rotates through a hand action and that changes the polarity.

How do I know if my electric golf cart motor is bad?

You have enough going on in your life without your golf car refusing to start when you turn the key in the ignition. If your golf car won't start, is slower than it used to be, or is experiencing other technical problems, you could have a bad motor on your hands.

Why replace the key wire on a golf cart?

Replace the golf cart key switch wire if the connector to the key switch or solenoid is significantly frayed or corroded. Over time, corrosion will build up on the ends of the wire due to exposure to damp weather. Significant corrosion build-up can prevent your cart from starting consistently and ultimately result in the cart failing to start.

What direction does a golf cart transmission selector go?

Confirm that your golf cart transmission selector switch is set fully to the forward, reverse or park direction , depending on your model of golf cart. If the switch is partially set in between modes, it can result in your cart failing to start correctly.

Where is Jackson Lewis?

Based in Memphis , Jackson Lewis has been writing on technology-related material for 10 years with a recent emphasis on golf and other sports. He has been freelance writing for Demand Media since 2008. Lewis holds a Master of Science in computer science from the United States Naval Postgraduate School.

How to check if key switch is working?

If you wish to check if the key switch is functioning properly, follow these steps. There are two probe wires present in the battery pack – a black and a red. Connect the black probe wire to the 36v negative terminal of the battery pack. The red probe wire should be connected to the back of the battery pack.

What is the difference between blue and red wires on a cart?

The basic rule is that the blue wire generally is connected to the solenoid while the other red wire will be connected to a fuse. From the fuse, the wire will be further extended to another terminal of the solenoid.

Do all golf cart keys have the same key?

Yes, all club car golf cart keys are the same. The downside of owning a golf cart is that the key switch can be easily accessed using any key from the same manufacturer. If you have a single key from a particular manufacturer, you can easily use it to open all the carts made by them.

Is the Ezygo golf cart the same as the golf cart?

Yes, all EZYGO golf cart keys are the same. A key from one golf cart can be used on another EZYGO golf cart. All golf cart keys are dependent on the manufacturer. Each manufacturer will have the same key molds for the keys. Yes, the keys are universal and limited to the manufacturing company.

Can you park a golf cart on a golf course?

Some people park their carts on the golf course but do not prefer other people using it. To avoid this problem, you can change the key switch or use a combination of other techniques. This way the cart cannot be used by others without your permission.

Can you replace an ignition switch on an Ezygo?

If you have identified an issue with the ignition switch on your EZYGO, you may need to replace it with a new one. It is really an easy task to replace the switch with a brand-new one. The first step would be to get the right switch for replacement.

Can you replace a switch with a new one?

It is not too difficult to replace the existing switch with a new one. It can be easily installed without much hassle. This way the access to your cart can be restricted. In general, most people don’t bother about the key as it is not used for any other purpose other than unlocking the cart.

Why does my golf cart not click?

This can be a faulty wire connection, but can also mean the solenoid is beginning to fail. The golf cart solenoid doesn’t click when the accelerator is pressed. This again can be faulty wiring or a failed solenoid.

How to tell if a golf cart won't start?

The first and most obvious symptom is the golf cart won’t start. If it is a gas-powered cart, the engine doesn’t turn over, and if it is an electric cart, the cart doesn’t move. The engine on the gas-powered cart starts, but the starter doesn’t disengage after starting. When the contacts weld together, the power to the starter never stops ...

How to tell if a golf cart is bad?

Symptoms Of A Bad Solenoid 1 The first and most obvious symptom is the golf cart won’t start. If it is a gas-powered cart, the engine doesn’t turn over, and if it is an electric cart, the cart doesn’t move. 2 The engine on the gas-powered cart starts, but the starter doesn’t disengage after starting. When the contacts weld together, the power to the starter never stops and will result in destroying the starter, the wiring, or the flywheel. 3 The relay clicks and works sometimes, and sometimes it doesn’t. This can be a faulty wire connection, but can also mean the solenoid is beginning to fail. 4 The golf cart solenoid doesn’t click when the accelerator is pressed. This again can be faulty wiring or a failed solenoid. 5 The golf cart solenoid clicks, but nothing happens. This will sometimes be the result of burned contacts or contacts no longer coming in contact with each other as shown in the illustration at the bottom of this page. This can also be the result of not enough voltage amps reaching the solenoid control connection due to a low battery.

What causes a car to start when the spark plug is replaced?

If it sputters and tries to start, then the likely culprit is the fuel pump followed by the carburetor. The fuel pump on most gasoline powered carts usually has three hoses going to it.

How to check if a gas cart battery is charged?

First, you turn the key, press the pedal, and listen for a click. If nothing happens, it’s most likely an electrical issue. On gasoline carts, check the battery that turns the engine over to make sure it is charged. On Electric carts, the battery pack should be checked for a full charge.

What to do if a gas cart key switch fails?

There should be a reading or continuity between any combination. If this is a gasoline cart, set the switch to “ON” and take a reading between the terminals. There should be continuity. If the key switch fails any of these tests, it’s worn out and should be replaced.

Do key switches wear out?

They do wear out from time to time. Before troubleshooting the key switch make sure that your forward-reverse switch is fully in the forward, reverse, or neutral position. Any space in between would cause an interruption in the electrical flow to the key switch.

How to check if micro switches are working?

First, get the forward and reverse switch in a neutral state. This is followed by disconnecting the micro switches, both forward and reverse. Use an ohmmeter to check the micro switches as you move them in forward and reverse position. If the switches are working perfectly, put them in back in place.

Why is my golf cart only going in reverse?

Golf cart only goes in reverse. If your golf cart is only moving in reverse, there could be an issue with the contacts in the forward and reverse switch. This can be checked by swapping the two wires present in the swivel terminals in the center. The micro-switch present at the FR knob might be preventing the golf cart from going in ...

Why is my golf cart not rolling?

If the golf cart is not rolling across freely, there might be an issue with the brakes. Inspect the brakes and rear ends and check out for any seizing up. There can also be an issue with the controller. Make sure that you have new batteries inserted in the golf cart and that they are not drained.

Why won't my golf cart move forward?

There might be several reasons why a golf cart won’t move in forward or reverse. The most likely reason is incorrect wiring or a faulty accelerator. If you’re mechanically experienced, you can attempt to use the tips below to fix the problem yourself. I have outlined the most likely causes and steps to fix this below:

Can a golf cart controller get wet?

Often the plug between the controller can get wet, and this would keep the golf cart going in reverse only. Get it dried out and see if it gets your golf cart working in the forward direction. Often, the plug stays wet when the cart is washed, so make sure you dry it out properly. The forward and reverse switch is controlled by a single solenoid.

Do golf carts run on gasoline?

Once pulled, the golf cart will start moving in reverse. Golf carts are based on electric motors. They are explicitly designed to be eco-friendly as they do not run on gasoline that would release toxins into the environment. There is no considerable difference between the mechanics of cars and golf carts.

Do you put a seat belt on a golf cart?

As a precautionary measure, it is always good to put on your seat belt even though golf carts do not go up to a very high speed. Next up, you need to get your golf cart in gear that can either be ‘forward’ or ‘backward.’. This may, however, vary from cart to cart. Make sure that you lock the lever before proceeding any further.

Why is my golf cart speed controller not working?

There are many reasons behind a speed controller malfunction. The most common problem that happens in the controller has aged due to infrequent use. These are just some of the issues that could be affecting your vehicle's acceleration. If you have trouble finding the issue of your golf cart accelerator, don't be afraid to take it to the mechanic.

What happens if your golf cart doesn't accelerate?

Bad Solenoid. If your golf cart does not accelerate, there is a possibility of the damaged solenoid. The solenoid is basically an electrical switch that enables the battery's flow from the battery into the motor. Check out the signs of the bad solenoid.

Why is my golf cart not accelerating?

When your electric golf cart does not accelerate, the first thing you need to keep in mind is that it is not a regular vehicle like your car . That's why the methods and solutions you use to get your car to start are not the same as the solutions you can apply to your cart.

How does a golf cart solenoid work?

The golf cart speed controller and solenoid are both controlled by the accelerator. The pedal is connected to the potentiometer. That means when you are pressing the pedal for acceleration, you are actually going through the potentiometer by pushing a rod. The potentiometer works as a communicator and tells the speed controller how much voltage it ...

Do E-Z-Go Golf Carts have titles?

E-Z-Go Golf Carts, unlike vehicles, do not have a title, but they do have serial numbers. If you are buying a golf cart, it is essential to check the serial number to ensure you do not buy a stolen one. Each E-Z-Go Golf cart has a unique serial number that you can use to identify your golf cart.

Where is the E-Z-Go Cart Serial Number

As mentioned above, all E-Z-Go Golf carts have unique serial numbers. These numbers are essential when buying replacement parts for your golf cart. Textron Specialized Vehicles has been building golf carts for a long time, and the serial numbers are placed on different parts of the golf carts.

How do I push my E-Z-Go Golf Cart?

It can be frustrating when your battery is flat and your golf cart will not roll. To push it to the nearest charging or gas station, you need to release the motor brake. Follow these easy steps to do that.

Why does my E-Z-Go golf cart not move

There are several reasons why your cart refuses to move, but you should check the battery before anything else. If the battery is charged, here are some other reasons why your golf cart will not move.

Are all E-Z-Go Golf carts electric?

No, there are both electric and gas-powered E-Z-Go Golf carts available. Bear in mind that there are several models you can drive on the street, but those are all-electric. These electric models run on batteries that you have to charge at least every 24 hours, depending on how much you use them.

How to tell the Assembly year of my E-Z-Go golf cart

The placement of serial numbers is discussed above, and you will find the manufacturer’s number right next to it. The manufacturer’s number consists of one letter and 3 or 4 numbers. The last two numbers indicate the last two digits of the year of assembly.

How to service E-Z-Go Golf Cart

Like all vehicles, E-Z-Go golf carts require regular maintenance to enhance longevity and performance. You should ensure that your golf cart is serviced after every six months of use. That will ensure that you spot problems and repair them early, which will help reduce repair costs. Here are essential guidelines for E-Z-Go golf cart maintenance.

Safety Notice

Before attempting any maintenance or repairs on your golf car it is imperative that you consult the owner’s manual and follow all the safety guidelines. The following are a few safety tips, but may not be all inclusive.

Check Battery Terminal connections

The most common reason for your golf cart jerking is often the battery terminal connections are loose and/or corroded. A poor connection prevents the correct amount of current from flowing through the set of batteries to your speed controller (or resistor coil), and ultimately to your electric motor.

Check Battery Voltage

Once you’ve cleared all the battery terminals of corrosion, you’ll next need to check that your batteries are providing the correct amount of voltage. This can be accomplished using a simple voltmeter.

Check Resistor Coil (For Older 36V Golf Carts)

If you have an older 36V golf car that doesn’t use a speed controller, and you’ve completed all the steps above and your golf car is still jerking in set to forward, but works fine when the direction is changed to reverse you may have a bad resister coil.

What is a direction switch on a golf cart?

The direction switch or forward/reverse switch controls whether the golf cart moves forward or backward. This switch is one of the most used parts in a golf cart, which means it will be subject to wear and tear. You'll find what the issue is if the switch is acting up. There is a big chance that it will need to be replaced. Again, it's best to choose a mechanic for repair.

Why won't my golf cart start?

Like any other electric vehicle, the batteries are mainly at the root of why your cart won't start. After all, they are the primary source of power for your electric golf cart. If your cart is not working, this is the first place to check. Generally, lead acid-based batteries are used for electric golf carts, and you must recharge them regularly so that they function correctly.

Can a solenoid cause a cart to run with the key off?

Yes a solenoid that is stuck will cause the cart to run with the key off. It could also be the key switch itself but it's more than likely the solenoid.#N#Welcome to the forum.

Can you use a resistor on a new solenoid?

No you can use the old resistor and diode on the new solenoid. Make sure you wire the new solenoid the same as the old one and aim the stripe on the diode in the same direction. Also if your cart has a run tow switch make sure you flip it to the tow position before working on it.

Can a micro switch cause a battery to drain?

If the micro switch in the pedal box is working no but it can cause batteries to drain if that micro switch fails to work properly. If the solenoid is stuck you definitely want to get it replaced ASAP.

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