You can test the solenoid by simply disconnecting the main circuit high wires and by using a multimeter. Disconnect two large terminal cables and wrap the ends with electrical tape to avoid any sudden accident. Shut the key off and also put the car in no mobility neutral position.
Full Answer
How do you test the solenoid on an electric golf cart?
With the key off, and the cart direction switch in a neutral position, set your voltmeter to ohms, and place a probe on each large terminal (see first image below). There should be no reading. 4. Now, with the cart's direction switch in the forward position, and the key on, step on the accelerator. You should hear a click coming from the solenoid.
What are the symptoms of a bad solenoid on a golf cart?
Understanding what a solenoid is in a golf cart is vital for troubleshooting and repair. The common symptom of a bad solenoid is no clicks when the cart’s ignition is on and you press the accelerator. How do you test for a bad solenoid in your golf cart?
What does a solenoid do in a golf cart motor?
For a gas golf cart, the function of the solenoid in a golf cart motor is to use a small amount of electricity (made possible by turning on the ignition switch) to close two heavy-duty contacts that are needed to get the starter turning over. It also functions in the same way with an electric golf cart.
Where is the starter solenoid on a golf cart?
On some models of golf carts, the starter is also the alternator and acts to charge the battery as the cart is driven. In all golf carts, new and old, the solenoids can be found under the seat or in the engine well and are easily identifiable by the wires that lead to them.
How do you test a ezgo marathon solenoid?
This can Also be tested by putting a test lead on each small terminal and pressing the gas pedal. The meter should read 36 V when the gas is pressed. If this voltage does exist when the gas pedal is pressed then the solenoid should click and engage.
How do you test an electric golf cart solenoid?
Set your multimeter to ohms and insert a probe on each large terminal with the key off and the cart direction switch in the neutral position. Press on the accelerator with the cart's movement control in the forward position, and the key is turned on. A click should be heard first from the solenoid.
Can you bypass solenoid on electric golf cart?
To bypass the solenoid of your golf cart, simply connect both the large side wires of terminals of the solenoid. And after making the connection, attempt to start the cart. If you fail to start, this is an indication that there is no problem with your solenoid.
How do you check if a solenoid is working?
Do your best to listen for a “click” noise. If the click is strong and loud, it most likely means the solenoid has enough power and is working properly. If the clicking you are hearing is quiet or repetitive, it may be that your solenoid is not strong enough or does not have enough power from the battery.
How do you troubleshoot a solenoid?
Check if the power supply is correct and the coil can dissipate heat by ventilation. Install a new coil and never power the coil when not mounted on the valve. Check for moisture within and replace if necessary. Replace any damaged or bent armatures as well, and check media compatibility with your valve.
Why is my solenoid not clicking?
If you do hear clicking, the solenoid may be engaging, but not sufficiently. Hearing clicking without the starter motor moving means the solenoid is transferring the electricity, but it may not be enough. No clicking means the solenoid is not properly engaging, but this may also be due to a dead battery.
How do you test a starter solenoid on a golf cart?
0:182:58Solenoid Troubleshooting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTroubleshooting this solenoid is actually quite simple in order to troubleshoot the solenoid we'llMoreTroubleshooting this solenoid is actually quite simple in order to troubleshoot the solenoid we'll use the continuity feature of our multimeter we can either use continuity or the resistance feature.
How do you jump a solenoid?
0:271:17How to Jump the Solenoid on your ATV or GoKart - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhat we have to do is we have to move the coverings over the two bolts. This is black is negativeMoreWhat we have to do is we have to move the coverings over the two bolts. This is black is negative red is positive.
How do you test a starter solenoid with a screwdriver?
You can test a starter solenoid by manually jumping the solenoid as well. Using a long, metal screwdriver, you can test a starter solenoid by placing the screwdriver on the large bolt and battery cable on the front of the solenoid and the small terminal that the starter wire is attached to on the front of the solenoid.
How do you know if a solenoid is bad on a multimeter?
0:441:43How to use a Multimeter: Solenoid Testing - Purkeys - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow one thing gets people in trouble is if you don't know what the specs are how do you know if thisMoreNow one thing gets people in trouble is if you don't know what the specs are how do you know if this is good or bad this particular solenoid has a spec that says 12 point 3 is in the good range so I
How do I test a starter solenoid with a multimeter?
2:283:42How to Test a Starter Solenoid - Summit Racing QuickFlicksYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLead hook it up to my negative again and I'm going to go ahead and jump the solenoid the way that I'MoreLead hook it up to my negative again and I'm going to go ahead and jump the solenoid the way that I'm going to do that is take my short piece of wire. And. I'm going to hook. It up to my positive.
How do you test a starter solenoid on a golf cart?
0:182:58Solenoid Troubleshooting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTroubleshooting this solenoid is actually quite simple in order to troubleshoot the solenoid we'llMoreTroubleshooting this solenoid is actually quite simple in order to troubleshoot the solenoid we'll use the continuity feature of our multimeter we can either use continuity or the resistance feature.
Can you bypass a starter solenoid?
5:037:29Solenoid Bypass - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll you have to do to bypass the solenoid. And make the starter turn is basically connect this hardMoreAll you have to do to bypass the solenoid. And make the starter turn is basically connect this hard copper wire to this point on the battery. Then you're not doing anything with the solenoid.
Why does my golf cart click but not move?
A Club Car golf cart can start clicking but not move, due to dust accumulating inside the battery ports. Opening the battery ports and checking whether there is any dust accumulation can tell you if this is the case. Cleaning it thoroughly with a cloth can resolve the problem.
What causes a golf cart solenoid to go bad?
In some cases, this happens because the coil of the battery is worn out or is too old. It can also be a sign of a faulty battery or even loose connections within the solenoid. Additionally, you could be dealing with overheated contacts. This is an issue you need to take seriously.
What voltage is applied to the two small terminals to activate the solenoid?
Battery voltage is applied to the two small terminals to activate the solenoid, which then connects the two large terminals together. From time to time, the two large terminals malfunction and the solenoid needs to be replaced.
What happens if a voltmeter shows full battery voltage?
If the voltmeter shows full battery voltage, and there is no click, the coil inside the solenoid has failed and will need to be replaced.
How to check a solenoid?
Follow These Simple Steps to Check the Solenoid: 1. You will need a couple of tools: a voltmeter or multimeter, and (typically) a ½” wrench. 2. Disconnect any cables from the two large terminals. Be sure to wrap the cable ends in tape, and keep the ends separate from each other. 3.
How many volts does a golf cart have?
NOTE: When buying a new solenoid, be sure to buy one that matches your cart's voltage. Most golf carts are either 36 volt s or 48 volts. The voltage will usually be written on the side of the solenoid.
How to Test a Bad Solenoid on a Golf Cart?
Testing bad solenoids in a golf cart is relatively simple, especially for Do-It-Yourself enthusiasts.
Where Exactly Are Solenoids Located?
Before knowing more about bad solenoids, you need to know their location. Usually, solenoids are located under the seat or just above the motor.
How to tell if golf cart solenoid is bad?
One of the most common and obvious signs of the bad solenoid is the golf cart's failure to start when you initiate the ignition process. Once you click the accelerator and turn on the ignition switch, it is supposed to send a signal to activate the solenoid and start the cart. If the cart does not start, there is a big possibility ...
Why is my golf cart not starting?
If the cart does not start, there is a big possibility of a damaged solenoid. Another reason for a bad solenoid is that the contacts are starting to get damaged due to overheating or high current passing through them. Note: You may not necessarily experience all of these issues to recognize bad solenoids on your golf cart.
What is a solenoid in golf carts?
Simply put, a solenoid is a device that can transform electrical energy into mechanical energy. It's a coil of wire which is used as an electromagnet. The solenoid has the capability of creating a magnetic field with the help of an electric current. Solenoids work as the “go switch”, which is a must for any golf cart.
Why won't my golf cart turn over?
For a gas golf cart, the most common symptom is the starter failing to engage, so the engine doesn't turn over. Starters have the responsibility of activating the flywheel. When the flywheel starts to work, the starter is supposed to disconnect.
How to tell if solenoid is working?
Step on the gas and try to listen to the sound of clicking. If you hear the clicking sound, look for a reading of fewer than 0.4 ohms. If you get a higher reading, the solenoid is not working and needs to be replaced.
What are the symptoms of a bad solenoid on a golf cart?
In addition, the spring that pulls the pinion back to its resting position could wear down leaving the starter engaged continuously. (Starters are supposed to get the flywheel moving, then back out of position – disengage.)
What does it mean when a golf cart solenoid goes bad?
Technically, in fact, a solenoid is a shape – a shape in which the length of something coiled is longer than the diameter of the coils. In engine starters, this refers to the smaller motor ...
Why does my golf cart make clicking sounds?
On a gas golf cart, the most common symptom is the starter failing to engage – so the engine doesn’t turn over – while all you hear a series of very futile clicking sounds.
How to check ohms of a cable?
Once you’ve disconnected the cables safely – using your multimeter – use the voltmeter on the ohms setting and touch each large terminal with the probes with the key turned off. You should get a zero reading.
Why does my solenoid wear out?
Like any switch that relies on wiring, the solenoid could also just wear out due to overheating. This might cause it to fail to retrieve the pinion gear.
What does a solenoid do when you turn the ignition?
Step by step, it looks like this: When you turn the ignition key, a small amount of electricity goes to the solenoid. The solenoid uses that small amount of juice to close two heavy-duty contacts that allows a large jolt of electricity to pass through the starter. The solenoid also sends a pinion gear forward, which is the device ...
Why do starter contacts wear out?
Secondly, the contacts could begin to wear out from overheating or exposure to high levels of current. This needs to be fixed right away if possible, because this causes continuous use of the starter. If not caught in time, the solenoid and the starter will both need replacement.
How to bypass solenoid on an EZGO golf cart?
Sometimes, a person may not have a multimeter or a voltmeter with them. Therefore, to check the solenoid, you can connect the large wires into the solenoid together and see if the cart starts.
Why EZGO solenoid gets hot?
If the EZGO cart solenoid is getting hot while running, then the problem may be somewhere in the circuit or in the solenoid itself. It is better to replace the solenoid if the damage is extensive.
Why is the EZGO solenoid constantly clicking?
Then, it can be a problem related either to the solenoid or the wiring.
Why is my solenoid overheating?
Using a higher amperage wire for a stock solenoid can cause the solenoid to get overheated. Having a low capacity solenoid in a high capacity or modified cart can be the problem as well. Maybe the wiring is lost or old. High resistance can be one of the issues causing overheating.
Why is my EZGO cart not working?
But a bad solenoid can be the most common one. Always check the battery voltage and the clicking sound while pressing on the pedal.
How to test gold cart solenoid?
You can test the solenoid by simply disconnecting the main circuit high wires and by using a multimeter.
What to do if your solenoid is damaged?
Here the formula is simple; if one thinks that the solenoid is damaged, then jump the solenoid from the circuit and check. If the cart starts then, the problem could be the solenoid. If the cart doesn’t start even after jumping the solenoid, then the issue lies somewhere else and not in the solenoid.
Where is my solenoid?
Now that we have an idea of the solenoid’s job, it’ll be a lot easier to diagnose the solenoid in the case of no start or no go. Of course, before you get your tester out, it may be a good idea to know where the solenoid is and what it looks like.
Why does my golf cart have no solenoid?
Golf cart solenoids are also typically one of the first components to fail in your golf cart, because they work very hard, turning on and off every time you stop and go in your golf cart. If you have an issue with no start or no go then your solenoid should be pretty high on your list of things to check.
What is a golf cart go switch?
On your golf cart, this high powered circuit is either your ignition on a gas golf cart or your electrical motor power circuit for an electric golf cart. Basically it’s your golf cart’s go switch, and it’s absolutely essential to your golf cart’s ability to do its job. Golf cart solenoids are also typically one of the first components ...
What is a solenoid relay?
Good question! A solenoid, for our purposes, is a type of relay. A relay is a type of switch that uses a low power circuit to operate a high power circuit. A solenoid uses a magnetic coil (the actual solenoid) on a low power circuit to push a rod that closes a high power circuit. On your golf cart, this high powered circuit is either your ignition on a gas golf cart or your electrical motor power circuit for an electric golf cart.
What happens if a solenoid reads infinity?
If it reads infinity or open lead, then the solenoid has an internal fault and requires replacement. Your solenoid should also have a range that it operates in, and if the resistance reads outside of that range, you should replace the solenoid even if it works to avoid damaging other components.
What is the most important part of a golf cart?
One of the most important components of your golf cart is the solenoid. It is one of the main components of your golf cart that allows it to move. Whether you have a Yamaha, E-Z-GO, or Club Car golf cart, and no matter if it is an electric or gas golf cart, you need a properly operating solenoid to get anywhere. Contents [ show]
What happens if you don't have a voltmeter?
If you don’t then you aren’t getting low side voltage, or the solenoid is bad. From this point there are two ways to continue, a safe way with a voltmeter, and a fun way without a voltmeter. If you have a voltmeter, then it is really in your best interest to use it.
How Do I Tell What Kind Of Motor I Have?
In 1999, some golf cart manufacturers started offering Separately Excited Motors. Sepex (Regenerative) Motor carts have a toggle switch F&R device as opposed to the lever-action. In addition to this identifier, they have a tow/run or tow/maintenance switch which cuts power to the controller. Most of the modern-day carts are equipped with a Sepex motor.
What is the advantage of a Sepex motor?
The advantage of the SePex motor is that they prevent the cart from freewheeling down an incline and over-spinning the armature. This form of electrical braking is switched on and off with the tow/run switch. Since most of the heavy lifting is done by the controller, the F&R switch and tow/run switch have a lighter gauge wire. There is also a controller pigtail coming out of the back of the electric motor as shown here…
What is a series motor?
A series motor has field and armature windings that have the power fed to them from the same source, either in series or parallel. A SePex motor, as the name indicates, is a motor that has a separately excited field and armature windings. These two motor functions are sent to the PDS or DCS giving greater control over the motor.
How to check if electric golf cart is running?
It sounds absurd, but if your electric golf cart is not running, the very first thing I would check is the reset button on the side of the motor, if your cart is so equipped. Check around the outside of the motor and see if you can find a small button to press. This is usually a safeguard against overheating.
How to test golf cart motor?
Using a multimeter, a jumper wire, and a 12-24 volt power source, you can test the condition and functions of your golf cart motor without removing it from the cart.
What is wrong with my electric golf cart?
Electric golf carts are usually trouble-free and do their job efficiently and with no fuss, but sometimes you suspect your golf cart is experiencing a problem. If the speed seems to be off, or your cart gives off a burning wire smell, your golf cart motor might have a problem. Using a multimeter, a jumper wire, and a 12-24 volt power source, ...
Why is it important to test a motor before replacing a controller?
This is an important test to do on your motor before replacing the controller because a short could damage the new controller irreparably. Please note that this test will not find a short in the armature. Note that continuity testing is not directional, so it doesn’t matter if the red and black are reversed.