Golf-FAQ.com

what does a controller do electric golf cart

by Demetris Bednar Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
image

The controller meters out current and voltage on your battery based on user input, whether that be a gas pedal, a throttle, or even pedals on a bicycle. With the controller you are able to control your acceleration and deceleration, as well as the speed at which your vehicle moves.Jan 10, 2020

Full Answer

How do I test an electric golf cart motor?

  • Flip the maintenance switch.
  • Reset the battery cable.
  • Check your connections.
  • Test the solenoid.
  • Check your controller's power output.

What are the most common problems with electric golf carts?

What can go wrong in an electric golf cart?

  • Batteries. Batteries can be one of the most common problems that take places in an electric golf car, however it doesn’t have to be with some proper education.
  • Ignition. When you love to play golf, then you will be regularly visiting golf courses. ...
  • Solenoid. It is one of the essential parts of the golf cart. ...
  • Direction Switch. ...
  • Controller. ...
  • Bottom line. ...

Who rebuilds golf cart controllers?

GolfCarCatalog.com has a rebuild and repair service for many models of electronic speed controllers for golf carts, utility vehicles, forklifts, scissorlifts, and many industrial vehicles. Repairing your speed controller costs a fraction as much as buyng a replacement controller. All of the controllers we rebuild are repaired by a certified rebuilder and have a one year warranty against repair defects.

What is a golf cart controller do?

The working principle of the golf cart controller is simple to understand. It alters the power to the cart’s motor, thus allowing the user to control the speed and torque of their vehicle. The larger the controller, the more current it provides, allowing the cart to generate more power.

image

How do I know if my golf cart controller is bad?

X Common Symptoms of Controller FailureTop Speeds Not Appropriate for Your Cart. Golf carts are designed to reach pretty specific speeds and to not go over them or beneath them. ... Sudden and Unexpected Slowing. ... Shuttering or Shaky Driving. ... Stalling Out and Refusing to Start. ... Surges in Speed When Driving.

What does ezgo controller do?

Known as the heart of the EZGO golf cart, the controller's core objective is to control the speed of the golf cart. It is a needed component in a AC and brushless DC motor. Without the controller, the golf cart will not work.

What controls the speed on an electric golf cart?

Essentially, your golf cart's speed controller sends its current and battery voltage to its motor. This process depends on your golf cart's input device, which includes its throttle. That's how your golf cart's speed controller lets you operate its acceleration rate, as well as its deceleration rate.

How do you test an electric golf cart controller?

How to Test a Club Car Golf Cart Speed Controller? The simplest test to ascertain your golf cart controller's performance is to to watch whether it runs when the batteries are fully charged with a slight push of the pedal. If you hear a distinct clicking noise, then your golf cart is running correctly.

How does a speed controller work on a golf cart?

The golf cart's speed controller sends its current and battery voltage to its motor. This entire process depends on your golf cart's input device, which includes its throttle. That's how the golf cart's speed controller allows you to operate its acceleration rate, as well as its deceleration rate.

How do you make an electric golf cart go faster?

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.

Why is my electric golf cart so slow?

Low Battery Usually, the most common reason golf carts slow down is when they don't get enough power output from the battery. If the battery pack charge is very low and your cart is out of power, your cart will run slow.

How do you bypass a golf cart controller?

2:444:33How to Bypass On Board Computer | Club Car Precedent Golf Cart | OBCYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe can cut it. Real close to the OBC. And then put a ring terminal. As. I think that's a 5/16 holeMoreWe can cut it. Real close to the OBC. And then put a ring terminal. As. I think that's a 5/16 hole in it so it goes right over this tournament either way we've got to get this wire.

How fast can a 48V golf cart go?

The standard 48v golf cart will travel between 12 to 14 mph. However, if you apply modifications to the vehicle you can expect top speeds of 20 to 24mph.

Where is the speed controller located on a Club Car golf cart?

The speed sensor in a Club Car Precedent golf cart is located on the back of the motor. To remove the sensor, unplug the cables behind the motor. You can use a 5/16-inch socket to remove the pigtail connector and pop off the plastic housing that encases the speed sensor.

How do you reset an electric golf cart?

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!

Is there a reset button on a Club Car golf cart?

Electric golf cart motors have a reset button on their chassis which is designed to put your motor back into its original factory state. While it doesn't repair damage that may have occurred to the motor over the years, obviously, it does help to overturn any changes to the operation which may have occurred.

How do I test my EZ GO controller?

Connect the negative probe to the controller's M terminal and positive probe to the B+ terminal. Press the accelerator and watch to see if the voltage increases. It should increase from a reading of 0 to the full voltage of the battery. If the motor is not turning, the problem may be in the directional switch or motor.

What is freedom mode on ezgo golf cart?

Flip the run-tow switch back to "tow" and then "run" to escape the diagnostic setting mode. This enables freedom mode and allows the cart to reach a maximum speed of 19 mph.

How does a Curtis controller work?

The Curtis Model 1222 is an AC induction motor controller for 'steer by wire' electric power steering systems. In these systems, the steering motor functions as an actuator to change the angle of the vehicle's steered wheel(s) and so change the direction of travel.

How do I fix my 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.

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 ...

What does a battery controller do?

With the controller you are able to control your acceleration and deceleration, as well as the speed at which your vehicle moves.

Why is a speed controller important?

The Importance of the Speed Controller. The main objective for the speed controller is, as the name implies, to control the vehicle speed. Let’s say you try to operate that old DC motor without a controller. Any time you apply throttle, the full battery current and voltage is sent to the motor.

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 function of a speed controller?

In addition to controlling the vehicles speed, there are a few other functions that speed controllers can offer, regardless of the motor you are using. Battery Current Limiter: This protects the battery from excessive discharge. This also pulls back the battery current as it depletes, which prevents cell damage.

Can you program a speed controller yourself?

Beyond the already mentioned functions of the speed controller, there are many other features available when programming the controller yourself. If you have a computer or a handheld programmer, then changing the settings on your speed controller is super easy.

Do AC motors require a sensor?

Device Support on SPF ( Speed of Position Feedback): AC motors can require a sensor in order for the controller to operate smoothly and efficiently.

How does an electric golf cart work?

Basically, an electric golf cart works in this process, firstly the electric power goes from the battery to the motor, and then the motor runs the wheels of the cart. The whole thing is about when and what power should be delivered. The battery pack is a really basic thing. It can be 6-48 volts in a golf cart.

What is the purpose of electric resistance in golf carts?

The electric resistance is used to produce a voltage drop with the circuit. This thing basically consumes the electric energy and you can control the golf cart’s motor’s speed. This whole thing is known as a speed controller. This does not sound like a clever name but it is one of the most important parts of the golf cart’s motor.

How does a golf cart battery work?

The battery pack is the thing that provides the energy to make the golf cart going. Battery basically works by changing the chemical energy into electrical energy. Different types of batteries use different types of chemicals. But most of the parts are the same.

What is the solenoid on a golf cart?

For that reason, an electric golf cart has a speed controller and a solenoid. In a simple word, a solenoid is a switch but technically it is a relay. That helps to use one circuit to control another.

How to make a golf cart faster?

How can I make my golf cart faster? 1 Adding more torque to your golf cart 2 You may upgrade your golf cart motor 3 Improving the high-speed controller of your golf cart 4 Adding the better golf cart tires 5 Using the high-powered golf cart batteries 6 Try to make your golf cart lighter in weight

What is an inductive throttle sensor?

That means when you are pushing the pedal for acceleration, that time you are actually through the inductive sensor coil by pushing a rod. The sensor basically says to the speed controller that how much voltage has to consume.

What is a golf buggy?

A golf buggy is a motorized vehicle that is used in a golf course to transport the golf equipment and bags. The golf buggy is also called a golf cart in the United States. The golf buggy also means golf push cart and sometimes only the golf bags.

How does a golf cart controller work?

It alters the power to the cart’s motor, thus allowing the user to control the speed and torque of their vehicle. The larger the controller, the more current it provides, allowing the cart to generate more power. While this does make the cart go faster, ...

What is the role of a golf cart controller?

The controller on your golf cart plays a very crucial role in its working. It controls the acceleration, torque and speed of your golf cart. So, without a working controller, your golf cart will drive unpredictably, and it will not maintain a constant speed. Despite it being so vital to the golf cart, not many people know much about how this device ...

Why is a speed controller important in a golf cart?

Not only does it give you more acceleration and torque, but it can help maintain a constant speed and regulate the current to the motor to avoid whiplash from violent takeoffs.

What is Alltrax controller?

Alltrax has been one of the top go-to companies for controllers and electric vehicle systems for quite a while now and is known to have exceptional research, development and engineering.

Can a golf cart controller cause stress?

In addition, over-speeding can add extreme stress to the components of the cart. Golf cart controllers present you with several options, and each one can generate different output levels according to input voltages. The choice of the controller suitable to you depends entirely on the intended usage of the cart.

Does a controller make a cart go faster?

While this does make the cart go faster, the controller serves more than just this purpose. Regulating the speed prevents excess current and voltage from going to the motor, which otherwise can result in violent takeoff and whiplash. In addition, over-speeding can add extreme stress to the components of the cart.

What is the purpose of a golf cart controller?

Golf cart controllers play an important part in which its main job is to control the speed of a golf cart. However, many times, the controller tends to act up or simply stops working. This is when it is very important to troubleshoot the problem immediately. Known as the heart of the EZGO golf cart, the controller’s core objective is to control ...

What is the controller on an EZGO golf cart?

Known as the heart of the EZGO golf cart, the controller’s core objective is to control the speed of the golf cart. It is a needed component in a AC and brushless DC motor. Without the controller, the golf cart will not work. The speed controller is not present in the DC motor vehicles, which is why they do not have varying speeds.

What is the purpose of the speed controller on an EZGO cart?

Major functions of the speed controller of the EZGO cart are: Acceleration: The controller controls the speed of the vehicle. It also regulates the speed when you apply full throttle to the cart. Battery health maintenance : The controller makes sure that the battery is working well and is not overloaded.

How to check the output of a controller?

To check the controller output, follow these steps: Press the pedal of the cart until the solenoid clicks. Keep watching the voltmeter and see if it is showing the battery voltage. Now again, keep pressing the pedal and see if the voltage is going down or not.

What is the 2005 Ezgo cart?

2005 EZGO TXT cart is one of the popular ones since it has some of the best features. The features include handles on the top, the plastic front bumper is not there, and the seatback is connected.

Why does EZGO have different speeds?

However, a vehicle with a speed controller will have different speeds as it will change the voltage and current input based on user input. This is why EZGO with controllers can be accelerated and decelerated and the rate ...

Why is my cart not moving forward?

If the cart is not moving forward or the speed is not getting regulated or there is a problem in controlling the speed, then the chances are that the controller is being erratic. Then, it is very important to troubleshoot the problem as soon as possible.

Why is a golf cart controller important?

From being able to change your golf cart's speed to manage all the electrical components perfectly, the controller is an important element of your cart. You could say the controller is the heart of your cart. A properly selected and maintained controller will allow the vehicle to operate smoothly and safely. Learn more about your Club Car speed ...

What is the function of a speed controller on a golf cart?

Following are some of the primary functions of the speed controller: Limiting Motor Current – Protects the motor and controller from damage in case of stalling and overloading. Limiting Battery Current Managing current drawn from the battery ...

Why won't my golf cart run?

If your controller is damaged, your cart won't run. However, a few other reasons could lead your vehicle to stop running. Since the speed controller is the heart of your electric golf cart, you need to make sure that the problem is not something else first. Following is a list of things to check before you troubleshoot the speed controller.

What to do if your golf cart doesn't start?

If the cart doesn't start, check the solenoid. If the solenoid is working fine and allowing power to flow, then you can begin inspecting the controller. Learn more about symptoms of a bad golf cart solenoid. If all the components are working well, the next step is to check the speed controller.

How to start a golf cart when it's dead?

Start with batteries and make sure they are working properly. If your batteries are dead, your golf cart will not start. Charge your batteries completely, and then try to drive the cart.

What is a club car controller?

The Club Car controller is also known as a speed controller, and the best thing about the controller is that it works as a brain and speed control system for the golf cart.

What is a programmable controller?

Programmable Controller. The programmable controller can easily be configured for the needs of your cart. This controller's most significant and important advantage is that programmable controllers produce 60% less heat than other controllers.

How does a golf cart speed controller work?

The golf cart's speed controller sends its current and battery voltage to its motor. This entire process depends on your golf cart's input device, which includes its throttle. That's how the golf cart's speed controller allows you to operate its acceleration rate, as well as its deceleration rate.

Why replace club car speed controller?

There are several reasons why you might want to replace or repair your Club Car speed controller, including customization of Club Car, adjustment or upgrade of the motor, or upgrading Club Car controller to better fit your needs.

Why is a speed controller important?

Why Club Car Speed Controllers are Important. The basic function of a speed controller is, as the name implies, to control and manage the cart's speed. If your golf cart is working on a Brushless DC or AC motor, you will not be going anywhere without a speed controller.

How to control a cart's speed?

In addition to controlling the cart’s speed, there are a few other functions that speed controllers can offer. Limit the current to the motor to protect both engine and controller in case of overloading. Determine the battery current so that battery is protected from excessive discharging. Monitor battery health and charge.

What does it mean when there is no controller?

When there is no controller, it means battery drainage is at its peak, as motors can operate independently at their high speed, which increases stress on the mechanical and electrical components. A speed controller notes the battery voltage and current to the motor based on operator input types like the throttle, twist grip, or pedal force.

Is a speed controller always fully understood?

Even though it is one of the essential parts of any electric vehicle, the speed controller is not always completely understood. Here's everything you should know about Club Car's speed controller and its adjustment.

Can you program a speed controller yourself?

There are many other features available while programming the controller yourself. Most modern speed controllers are easy to program by a computer or a handheld programmer. This allows users to manage various controller settings and enables you to tune the controller's performance to match with the motor.

What is the function of a motor controller?

Following are some of the main functions of the controller, irrespective of the type of the motor: Limiting the current to the motor so that both motor and the controller could be protected in case of motor stalling and overloading.

How to troubleshoot a golf cart?

GOLF CART CONTROLLER TROUBLESHOOTING 1 Make sure it isn’t your batteries! If your batteries are old and dead, then your golf cart will not operate. Charge them fully first and attempt to drive the unit. 2 If your batteries are fully charged and your vehicle won’t run, when you press on the accelerator pedal, then you should hear a clicking sound which will indicate the solenoid is engaging and allowing power to flow to your controller. If there is no distinct clicking sound, then check your solenoid. Also, it could have to do with something in the accelerator device as well. But, we can eliminate the controller as being defective. 3 If your batteries are fully charged and you get a clicking sound ensuring the solenoid is allowing power to flow to the controller, then you can begin inspecting the controller 4 Check all the wiring and signs of disconnection or damage. Also, most controllers will have an operation light that will begin to flash a morse code that will unveil the secrets of the problem. If that is the case and all of the above have been eliminated, then you are getting closer to determining it is the controller.

Why won't my club car run?

Due to their expense, you want to be sure your controller is the major reason and problem with your Club Car. First off, if your controller is bad, your vehicle won’t run. However, there are other reasons that could lead to your vehicle not running. Here are a few quick troubleshooting tips.

What does it mean when there is no controller?

When there is no controller, it means batteries drainage is at its peak, as motors can operate independently at their high speed, which would gradually increase stress on the mechanical and electrical components and let motors and batteries degrade quicker.

Does a golf cart controller degrade?

As a controller in the Club Car or golf cart is made up of electrical and electronics components, it degrades gradually over time with the frequency of usage. But usage is not the only factor, controllers and the Club Car parts may also degrade in case of non-usage. For example, if a golf cart is left for no use for a longer period, ...

Can you trust aftermarket controllers?

price difference. Generally, Club Cars are made with highly precise and quality ensured engineering practices, so you can easily trust the aftermarket controllers if you don’t want to spend much.

Do golf carts have solenoids?

In the old days of golf carts, a series of solenoids were used which was not an efficient means for battery management. As today’s technology does not use full-on DC Motors, instead there exist Brushless DC Motors and AC Motors by way of which operators have the option to drive the Club Car at varying speeds.

image

The Importance of The Speed Controller

Speed Controller Functions

  • In addition to controlling the vehicles speed, there are a few other functions that speed controllers can offer, regardless of the motor you are using. 1. Battery Current Limiter:This protects the battery from excessive discharge. This also pulls back the battery current as it depletes, which prevents cell damage. 2. Motor Current Limiter:This can ...
See more on golfcarts.org

Programming Your Speed Controller

  • Beyond the already mentioned functions of the speed controller, there are many other features available when programming the controller yourself. If you have a computer or a handheld programmer, then changing the settings on your speed controller is super easy. Easily access settings for your controller in order to customize the operation. You can even tune the performa…
See more on golfcarts.org

Determining Your Power Rating Needed

  • After you have figured out your motor type and battery voltage, consider looking deeper into the current and power rating of your speed controller. This will be based on multiple aspects including the weight and size of the vehicle (load included), your average vehicle speed, and the environment in which your vehicle will be riding in. The power provided by the controller will obvi…
See more on golfcarts.org

Choosing The Right Controller

  • Like I previously stated, you need to make sure you know what your vehicle is going to be used for! If your golf cart is going to be used for transporting 2 people or light loads on flat ground, and smooth roads, a small 200-300 AMP controller with a 2-5 horsepower motor should adequately perform. You’ll find that most vehicles in this category run with 24 to 36 Volt battery packs. If yo…
See more on golfcarts.org

Final Thoughts

  • As you can see, the speed controller is the center of your golf cart, and most of the other modern day electric vehicles. Making sure you choose the right controller for your new custom cart makes all the difference in the vehicle running safely, and smoothly. When upgrading your controller for your golf cart, we suggest working with manufacturers that have spent the time building controll…
See more on golfcarts.org

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9