Solenoid in Electric Golf Carts: When you push down the pedal of the golf cart downwards, the inductive throttle sensor sends out the first low power signal to activate the solenoid on its low side and the speed controller. The low side is the steel rod of the solenoid.
Full Answer
What should the voltage be on a 48V golf cart solenoid?
This reading must be less than the above-noted battery voltage by 0.1 volts to 3 volts. If the reading is the same as the battery voltage noted earlier, the solenoid must be replaced. The solenoid wiring for an EZGO 48v golf cart is similar to that of a 36-volt cart.
What is a golf cart solenoid?
A golf cart solenoid is a relay switch used in golf carts. This switch controls a high power circuit with the help of a low power circuit. The solenoid pushes a rod that closes a circuit with a magnetic coil.
How do you wire a solenoid on a 36-volt EZGO golf cart?
The easiest way to wire a solenoid on a 36-volt EZGO golf cart is to follow the solenoid wiring diagram for the cart. This diagram gives a clear illustration of the wiring connections made from and to the solenoid. In most carts, the wiring is very straightforward and simple.
How do you connect a golf cart solenoid to a microswitch?
Connect one small solenoid activation terminal of the solenoid to the potentiometer microswitch that has a positive 36-volt feed. If you have a 1986 EZGO golf cart, the solenoid is configured as A, D, C, B. The yellow wire with red stripes is connected to the D small stud that leads to the ignitor.
How do you know if you have a bad solenoid on a golf cart?
If your golf cart fails to turn on when you turn the key on, this is the most obvious sign of solenoid failure. The solenoid clicks a little with the ignition system in regular operation; in most cases, a failing solenoid will not snap.
How do you test a 36v golf cart solenoid?
Set your voltmeter to the ohms reading, and connect its probe to each one of the big terminals. Of course, the reading should be zero. Next, move the cart's switch to forward, turn it on, and accelerate slowly. Your solenoid should click.
How do you bypass a 36 volt golf cart solenoid?
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.
Can a golf cart run without a solenoid?
Without it, the golf cart will simply not function correctly if at all. The very nature of golf carts means that they constantly start and stop. Every time their tires move the solenoid has some serious work to do. They generally consist of a central rod encased in a coil of wire that is enameled or insulated.
How do you test a 36v ezgo 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 a 36v solenoid with a multimeter?
1:492:58Solenoid Troubleshooting - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd will turn out our meter. Should hear a click and if it's a good solenoid will hear a beep. OkayMoreAnd will turn out our meter. Should hear a click and if it's a good solenoid will hear a beep. Okay that tells us this solenoid is good some common causes of the high amperage side of the solenoid.
What wires go to the starter solenoid?
The negative (ground) cable connects the negative "-" battery terminal to the engine cylinder block, or transmission, close to the starter. The positive cable connects the positive "+" battery terminal to the starter solenoid.
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 jump a starter solenoid?
3:207:29Solenoid Bypass - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can do it with a pair of jumper cables. Anything you want but basically all you got to do is getMoreYou can do it with a pair of jumper cables. Anything you want but basically all you got to do is get power from the positive terminal of the battery. Down to the positive lead on the starter.
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.
What does the resistor do on a golf cart solenoid?
Prevents arcing across your solenoid terminals and keeps your electrical system safe.
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.
Will an electric golf cart run with a bad solenoid?
The ability of your golf cart to function properly depends largely on the solenoid. If the solenoid is broken and not working correctly, you may notice your golf cart won't start, picking up speed, or even working at all (issues with acceleration could also be caused by a bad speed controller).
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.
How do you test a solenoid?
0:282:31DIY: How to Test a Solenoid - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you don't have to the risk of getting shocked. I'm going to take the two ends of my tester I'mMoreSo you don't have to the risk of getting shocked. I'm going to take the two ends of my tester I'm turn to continuity with the alarm. So if I touch them together. You hear the alarm.
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 is the solenoid on a golf cart?
Every golf cart, regardless of whether it is gas or electric, uses a small but powerful device called a solenoid. Solenoids are constantly working in your golf cart, and are what allows the electrical current from your battery to provide power to the rest of the vehicle.
Why do golf cart solenoids need to be replaced?
Because solenoids are responsible for so much, they are one of the more common parts on a golf cart that will need to be replaced. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly a solenoid is, and why it’s so integral to keeping your golf cart functioning properly.
How many amps does a solenoid conduct?
On a day that your cart gets moderate to heavy use, your solenoid can start and stop up to 1500 times per day and will conduct about 300 amps per use (in an electric golf cart). It’s actually pretty surprising that solenoids don’t break down ...
What is a solenoid?
On the contrary, solenoids are actually pretty small devices and are made up of two main sections. First is a steel plunger, and second is a coil made up of thin wire. Every time you turn your cart on or press the pedal, a small amount of voltage passes along the wire coil and triggers the steel plunger to close.
Why won't my golf cart start?
The ability of your golf cart to function properly depends largely on the solenoid. If the solenoid is broken and not working correctly , you may notice your golf cart won't start, picking up speed, or even working at all (issues with acceleration could also be caused by a bad speed controller ).
What is a solenoid in a golf cart?
A golf cart solenoid is one of the major components of any golf cart. This part is essential regardless whether you own an electric or gas golf cart because both types primarily rely on a solenoid for their movement. What this means is whichever brand or model you choose for your cart, a solenoid is truly an indispensable part of the vehicle.
What is a solenoid wiring diagram?
A solenoid wiring diagram can be very helpful in guiding you about the various connections made to and from the solenoid. This can come in handy when you set out to troubleshoot a problem in your cart on your own. The solenoid wiring diagram is generally very simple, straightforward and self-explanatory.
How to get a golf cart going without a glitch?
To get your golf cart going without a glitch, you most definitely need the solenoid of your cart to be functioning properly. Thus, it goes without saying that you must check this component occasionally to monitor its performance so that you don’t get stranded mid-way.
What does the inductive throttle sensor do on a golf cart?
When you push down the pedal of the golf cart downwards, the inductive throttle sensor sends out the first low power signal to activate the solenoid on its low side and the speed controller. The low side is the steel rod of the solenoid.
How often do solenoids work?
Since solenoids need to work very frequently; turning on and off each time you use the cart, they are prone to wear and tear easily. This is not surprising as they can switch on and off as much as 1,500 times a day). One of the first indications that a solenoid is faulty is when your cart fails to start.
Why is my golf cart not clicking?
This may be because the safety reed switch is not working properly in the charger socket. There could be a loose connection of the MOLEX plug.
Why does my gas cart not turn over?
In a gas cart, a bad solenoid prevents the starter from being engaged and therefore results in the engine not turning over.
Where are the solenoids on a golf cart?
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. Banks of heavy duty solenoids, as in the previous illustration, are mounted on the side or back panel near the electric motor.
How to test golf cart solenoid?
A diode allows current to run in one direction, but not in the other. Testing the diode is a simple procedure. Remove the diode from the circuit and check the leads with a continuity tester.
Why doesn't my golf cart solenoid 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.
What to do if your solenoid is not zero?
If the reading is not zero, then the solenoid is stuck and needs to be replaced. If the ohmmeter does read zero, set the cart to forward travel and turn the key switch on. Press the accelerator pedal (or have a friend do it) and you should hear a click. If you don’t hear a click, measure the resistance anyway.
How to tell if solenoid is bad on golf cart?
The common symptom of a bad solenoid is no clicks when the cart’s ignition is on and you press the accelerator.
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. Now, on to the next symptoms…. The engine on the gas-powered cart starts, but the starter doesn’t disengage after starting.
Is a solenoid an electromagnet?
A solenoid is NOT an electromagnet, but like an electromagnet, it IS a coil of wire, partially surrounding an iron core, that is made to move inside the coil by the magnetic field caused by current flowing through the coil. It is used to convert electrical energy to mechanical energy, as in the operation of a switch.
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.
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 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.
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.
Why do golf carts have solenoid?
The solenoid is simply there to allow electricity to flow freely to the controller and motor which will result in a running golf cart. RELATED: 4 Signs you need to Replace your Golf Cart Batteries.
How to check if a golf cart solenoid is silent?
On an electric golf cart, if the solenoid is silent – no clicking – use the setting voltmeter to DC volts using the 200 range. 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.
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 ...
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 won't my solenoid click?
The solenoid might not be getting enough electricity to do its work – which could be caused by loose connections, a weak battery or the coil wearing out.
Why do you use electrical tape on a solenoid?
When you do this, use electrical tape to seal the cable ends, so they won’t form a circuit by accidentally touching each other or connecting through a metal conductor inadvertently. Doing this will ensure the vehicle will not run while testing the solenoid.
Why is my golf cart not clicking?
On an electric golf cart, the most common symptom is the solenoid is not delivering electricity to the controller when the vehicle’s ignition is turned on. In normal operating conditions, the solenoid clicks on and off with the ignition switch. A failing solenoid will generally not click. Two things could be going on here.
How to check if a golf cart has a solenoid?
You can check if a solenoid is good or bad in your golf cart by following the steps given below. Raise the rear tires of the golf cart from the ground. Keep jack stands below the axles so that the golf cart doesn’t start moving accidentally. Remove the charger from the golf cart and set the Run/Tow switch to Run mode.
What is the solenoid on a 1997 Ezgo golf cart?
In a 1997 EZGO golf cart, the solenoid present over the speed controller has a red wire connection. The cart can be operated if there is a jumper connection from the B+ post of the connection to the solenoid post that has the red wire connection.
What is the solenoid on a 1986 Ezgo?
If you have a 1986 EZGO golf cart, the solenoid is configured as A, D, C, B. The yellow wire with red stripes is connected to the D small stud that leads to the ignitor. The cable from one large solenoid post leads to the battery while the other large post is connected to the starter/generator. The red wire from the voltage regulator is connected to one of the small solenoid posts.
How to wire a cart?
You can do this by following these steps. Connect the main positive battery terminal to one of the two large solenoid terminals. Connect the positive terminal of the cart’s controller to the other large solenoid terminal.
What is the white band on a golf cart?
The white band must be on the positive side of the small solenoid terminals. If you’re using the original controller of your golf cart, it’s worth noting that it comes with the setting for a 36-volt solenoid. You’ll have to get it reconfigured for a 46-volt solenoid.
Where do you connect a voltage reducer to a control switch?
If you plan on using a voltage reducer with a control switch wire, then the reducer must be directly connected to the solenoid bolt that is opposite of where the positive output of the battery pack is connected to the solenoid.
Can you fix a golf cart on your own?
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