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what do i need to know to upgrade my golf cart

by Dr. Nyasia Bechtelar Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The first step in upgrading your golf cart is determining which drive system it has. There are two categories of drive systems. All golf carts fall in 1 of these 2 categories. A bigger speed control will allow the motor to access more amperage.

Great Golf Cart Upgrades
  1. Overhead Covers. Many carts are lacking in coverage from the elements. ...
  2. Rear Seats. Getting a set of rear seats on your cart is one of the most common ways to upgrade the vehicle. ...
  3. Seat Belts. ...
  4. Upgrade Your Wheels. ...
  5. Hubcaps. ...
  6. Light System. ...
  7. Lift Kits. ...
  8. Order a Custom Cart.

Full Answer

How can I upgrade my golf cart?

Here are 5 ways to upgrade your golf cart: Most stock golf carts come with what are called street tires. These street tires are 8” golf tires, and as their name suggests, they are great for driving along paved surfaces like asphalt.

What should I look for when buying a golf cart?

It’s important to know exactly what you’re expecting from the golf cart you plan on purchasing. My advice is to get something that can go a little beyond those expectations. This way, you have the option of taking your golf cart further than you originally planned. 2. Gas vs electric

What kind of maintenance does a golf cart need?

Oil, filters, spark plugs, and gaskets will all have to be replaced from time to time to keep your golf cart in proper operating order. It should be noted that the maintenance costs will be drastically lower than that of a car, however.

What can I do with my old golf cart?

There’s so much you can do with your golf cart to personalize it. You can even think about painting it or adding golf cart wraps with your favorite colors. Many people like to change out the seat covers or add a flag to the roof.

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How do you upgrade an old golf cart?

5 Ways to Upgrade Your Golf CartHeavy Duty Tires. Most stock golf carts come with what are called street tires. ... More Speed. Do you want to go into the spring with more power and more speed? ... Install Lights. ... Install a Cooler. ... Install Extra Seating.

Can I upgrade my golf cart motor?

Upgrading The Motor The larger coil allows for a larger magnetic field generation. This can hold the armature much more securely, which in turn creates more torque. This will only upgrade your torque, so if you're looking for more top speed then you'll want to choose a motor with higher RPMs, which we touch on next.

Will a higher amp controller make a golf cart faster?

All of this information may be confusing, at first, but there is a simple rule here: the more voltage and amperage your battery provides, the faster your cart will drive.

How can I improve the performance of my golf cart?

6 Ways You Can Make a Golf Cart FasterAdd More Torque to Your Golf Cart.Upgrade Your Golf Cart's Motor.Improve the High-Speed Controller of the Cart.Add Better Golf Cart Tires.Use a Higher Powered Golf Cart Battery.Watch the Weight in Your Golf Cart.

How can I make my electric golf cart go faster without upgrading?

How to Make an Electric Golf Cart Faster Without UpgradesWash Your Cart Properly. ... Inspect the Batteries. ... Refill the Battery Water. ... Check the Gas Pedal and Linkage. ... Measure the Tire Pressure. ... Charge Up Your Battery Unit. ... Lighten Up Your Cart's Weight.

Can you convert a 36V golf cart to a 48V?

It all depends on your battery bank used with this 36V to 48V conversion. can only be accomplished through installing a 48V motor capable of higher torque, or installing a 48V controller with a higher current limit (amperage).

Should I leave my golf cart plugged in all the time?

Manufacturers suggest leaving your golf cart plugged in all of the time while using an auto battery charger, as it will keep the batteries fully charged and always available. If batteries are not charged for prolonged storage, they may damage over time and deliver less capacity.

Which is better AC or DC golf carts?

When comparing DC and AC motors, AC motors have a higher RPM rate. This means the cart can reach faster top speeds. Even if you are not looking for the fastest golf carts, one with a higher speed range has more benefits.

How fast does a 48V golf cart go?

12MPHStandard 36V and 48V golf carts are capable of the same top-end speed (12MPH). You can, however, make your golf cart go faster by doing a couple of things: Larger Tires - You can purchase larger tires. The larger the diameter of the wheels, the faster your golf cart will go.

What makes a golf cart go faster?

If you're looking for ways to make your golf cart more powerful, one option is to upgrade the motor. A bigger motor will increase torque, which will allow your cart to handle more weight and travel at higher speeds. This can be especially helpful if you frequently transport heavy loads or travel on hilly terrain.

How do you make a golf cart go 35 mph?

15:0521:34How To Make Golf Cart Run 35 MPH | Navitas 5kw AC ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOnce you reboot the application the motor map settings is installed. Next thing we're gonna go toMoreOnce you reboot the application the motor map settings is installed. Next thing we're gonna go to settings to the tire diameter we're gonna put in the overall height for our tire diameter - 23.

How can I get more power out of my 48v golf cart?

Change the Speed ControllerThe Speed Controller regulates the electric output of the motor; a higher voltage equals more RPM, and the faster your cart will travel. When you change the speed controller, you can reduce the voltage and increase the amperage of the motor, resulting in increased torque.

When is the best time to upgrade a golf cart?

You may not be riding it as much as in the Spring, Summer or Fall, but now is a great time to plan ahead and upgrade your golf cart to maximize your enjoyment once the warmer months roll in. Fortunately, there are many ways to individualize and customize it!

How to make a golf cart more functional?

Install Extra Seating. Since most golf carts don’t come with extra rear seating, adding a rear seat kit is a great way to bring more people along for the ride. There are a variety of kits that make your cart a party-on-the-go. The extra seating looks great, allows for more passengers and also makes the cart more functional by flipping back ...

What are golf cart tires called?

Most stock golf carts come with what are called street tires . These street tires are 8” golf tires, and as their name suggests, they are great for driving along paved surfaces like asphalt. Street tires are smaller and use less power; however, they are not as versatile as a larger set of tires.

What is stock golf cart?

The stock golf cart is just the beginning of a customized and individualized vehicle that you can use both for work and play. Now is the time to get ready for the Spring! If you have any questions about golf cart customization, don't hesitate to give us a call or contact us online.

Can you drive a golf cart at night?

Laws for driving your golf cart at night vary from county to county so be sure to check your local laws before taking your golf cart out for a night on the town.

Can you put coolers on a golf cart?

You can mount one to your dashboard or you can install one at the back of the cart via a hitch.

What Size Battery Do I Need?

The first thing to look for when upgrading to lithium is that you’re choosing a drop-in replacement size battery. The most common lead-acid golf cart battery is a group-size GC2/GC8 battery.

How Do I Determine My State Of Charge?

Consider installing a Fuel Gauge so you’re always able to view your state of charge. Over time, we’ve learned that voltage-based gauges are not accurate when measuring lithium-based chemistry.

How Do I Charge My Lithium Battery?

Another item you will want to have when upgrading your vehicle to lithium batteries is a charger. Before we mention the battery chargers we recommend, there are a few things you need to confirm when selecting a charger for your setup.

Do I Need Battery Spacers?

Yes, if you’ve chosen a lithium drop-in solution that is the same GC2 size as your lead-acid batteries, you may want to consider battery spacers. Battery spacers are used to fill the empty battery slots when installing true drop-in replacement batteries, such as RELiON’s InSight 48V batteries.

How does a golf cart's gear ratio affect the performance?

Keep in mind that bigger tires and added weight adversely affect the golf carts performance. A change in tire size equals a change in final gear ratio. Gear ratio changes directly influence the amount of load put on the motor and drive system. A 20% increase in gear ratio will equal a 20% loss of torque or power.

How many wires are in a golf cart?

These carts have a run / tow switch which cuts power to the controller. There are 10-26 small wires connected to the speed controller. Keep in mind that bigger tires and added weight adversely affect the golf carts performance.

What is a series drive golf cart?

All golf carts made prior to 1995 are series drive. The series drive carts are known as the workhorses of the golf cart world. Series carts produce more torque and less speed than their Sepex drive cousins. They are the first choice for off-road use and towing.

How to make a golf cart go faster?

The best way to make your golf cart go faster is by upgrading to larger tires, increasing the RPM, or by using speed chips and magnets. Most golf carts today are used for not just the game alone, but also activities like farming, racing, camping, hunting and a lot more. These activities require the carts ...

Why is my speed magnet not working on my golf cart?

One reason that the speed magnet may not be working on the golf cart is that it has been turned the wrong way. Another reason is that it could be functioning as a standard magnet . This can be confirmed by checking it with another magnet to determine the number of poles it has.

What is a golf cart speed chip?

As the name indicates, golf cart speed chips increase the speed of the cart. They help the cart to go at a speed faster than its pre-programmed speed limit set in the electronic system. These speed chips can be used with only certain cart models and can be installed easily without any tool.

What is the speed chip on a 2000 golf cart?

The EZ-Go speed chip or freedom chip can be used with 2000 model golf carts or later with electric power drive systems. This helps to increase the speed of the cart from 13.5mph to 19mph.

Why is my Club Car DS not giving the desired speed?

The Club Car DS may not give the desired speed with a new speed magnet because may be faulty. There could also be a loose cable connection in the motor or elsewhere. Ensure that the magnet is inserted so that the indentations face towards the motor.

How to raise rpm on electric cart?

One option is to change the motor with a motor of higher rpm, especially if you have a torque motor. Another option is to retain the current motor but increase its voltage rating. Replace the present battery with high power battery.

Is the Taylormade M4 driver adjustable?

Is the TaylorMade M4 driver adjustable? Yes, the TaylorMade M4 driver is adjustable. It’s possible to have twelve different options for the loft, lie angle and face angle, including the standard...

How to get more speed out of golf cart?

Upgrading tires and increasing your tire size is by far one of the most economical and easiest ways to get more speed out of your golf cart. Equally applied, this is a great solution for both gas and electric golf carts. If you install a tire with a larger diameter on your golf cart, the end result is a higher top speed.

How does a new battery work on a golf cart?

Simply put, most types of golf carts are designed to work with a range of different batteries. A new battery will increase a golf cart’s motor output. The result of the motor output increase is higher speed. Purchasing new batteries with a higher voltage maximum will increase your golf cart’s speed dramatically.

How fast can a golf cart go?

Most new and used golf carts are made to go a top speed of around 15 miles per hour . Although that is the perfect speed for most folks, there is an equal amount (if not more) of folks out there who are looking to increase their golf cart top speed and go faster than 20 MPH let's say.

Is there a catch all solution to increasing golf cart speed?

A golf-cart weighed down by unnecessary clutter and debris is not a happy golf-cart! In closing, something to keep in mind is: There is no "catch-all" solution to increasing golf cart speed / golf cart power. There are many factors to consider such as, how the parts, pieces and changes interact with your golf cart.

Can you install a torque motor in an electric golf cart?

Essentially, installing a torque motor or speed motor may not be the end solution. With that said, something that you will want to keep in mind as you are upgrading, are the two main/major electrical components within your electric golf cart, that play a huge role in your golf carts system:

Do you need a lift kit for a golf cart?

Note: Depending on the size of the tire and the make/model of your golf cart, some golf carts will require a lift kit to accommodate the size of the new tires. If you are unsure whether you need a lift kit for your golf cart before replacing them, we have an excellent Resource that discusses this topic in more depth.

Why are golf cart wheels so popular?

Golf cart wheels are becoming more popular in the custom golf cart industry, and for good reason. They make the golf cart stand out, and add a level of awesomeness that turns heads when it rolls down the road.

What does it mean when a golf cart tire is DOT approved?

DOT Approved. If your tires are DOT approved, this means that they are certified through the Department of Transportation. The treads are designed for road use, and will come in sizes such as 8”, 10”, 12” and 14” for your golf cart wheels.

How long do golf cart tires last?

Depending on the amount of use they get, and how hard you ride, tires will last anywhere between 2 and 4 years.

What is a golf cart tire?

The golf cart Tire is pretty much what you’d expect. It’s a big piece of black rubber that is shaped around the silver metal that supports the tire. That silver metal part is called the wheel. A rim is just another name for a wheel. So if you’re confused about the difference between rim and wheel, there is none.

What size tires do you need for a club car?

You can find High Profile tires in sizes such as 8, 10, 12, and 14 inches. If you own a Club Car, EZGO, or Yamaha, you’ll be able to get away with an 8” all terrain tire without a lift kit. As you can see, the type of tire you purchase can directly affect whether you’re going to need a lift kit.

Can you put low profile tires on a golf cart?

Low Profile tires are going to be thinner, and more versatile when it comes to fitting your golf cart. Chances are, you’ll be able to fit most low profile tires on your golf cart without a lift kit.

Can you ride a golf cart on the fairways?

If you have meaty tires on your cart, chances are the golf course won’t approve.

How much does it cost to fix a golf cart?

Of course, if you’re a good mechanic you can usually find a golf cart out of repair for less than $2000 and fix it up, but if you want a road ready golf cart, don’t go much lower than $2000. In the $5000-$7000 range, a lot can be found.

How far can a golf cart go?

These are meant for short, leisure distances, so don’t think you’ll be able to go very far with your golf cart. If you choose the gas version, you’ll be able to go about 250 miles (with usually a 6 gallon tank). And with a fully charged set of batteries for the electric version, you can expect 25-40 miles.

Can you drive a golf cart on the trails?

Always check your community’s/city’s regulations before driving your golf cart on streets or in parks, but if you plan on only using your golf cart on the course or on the trails for hunting and fishing, then there isn’t much to worry about. Please use your golf cart responsibly on trails, however.

Can you drive a golf cart in your neighborhood?

Check where the golf cart can be driven in your neighborhood. If your golf cart could be your grocery getter and daily driver for in-town trips, then it may be good for your car and wallet to go ahead and get that golf cart. Maybe you just want to use it on your land as a tool.

Is it better to buy a golf cart or a car?

Golf Cart vs Car. This is an important consideration regarding the purchase of a golf cart. There are a lot of places a golf cart can go that a car cannot, and if living in a community, it is often easier and more economical to use a golf cart than a car. This again depends on you.

Can you customize a golf cart?

You can customize your golf cart. As with adding a music system, you can also add lights, enclosures, extended trailer system in the back. There’s so much you can do with your golf cart to personalize it. You can even think about painting it or adding golf cart wraps with your favorite colors.

Can you tow a golf cart to the beach?

You’ll likely want to tow the golf cart to the beach or the music festival, so you’ll need to make sure you have a vehicle that can tow it or a truck that you can fit the golf cart inside the bed.

How much horsepower does a golf cart need?

These vehicles will have motors with 5 to 10 horsepower, and controllers that can deliver 300 to 600 AMPS.

What is the most important part of a golf cart?

Even though the speed controller is probably one of the most important parts on your golf cart, not many people understand how they work or what they do. In this guide, we breakdown the speed controller so you have a complete understanding of their functions, and hopefully come out with the knowledge to make an educated decision on the type ...

Can you run a golf cart without a speed controller?

If your golf cart is running an AC or Brushless DC motor , you won’t be going anywhere without a speed controller. In these specific types of motors, electrical signals fire back and forth which reverse in direction at different times. This must stay consistent, and has to be timed precisely with the motors rotation.

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