The speed controller measures out current and battery voltage to the electric vehicles’ motor to raise and lower speed on the golf cart. It monitors the state of the motor and generates signals to match the alternating currents.
Full Answer
What does a golf cart controller do?
From being able to modify your golf cart speed, to managing all of the electrical components in perfect harmony, the controller really is the “heart” of your golf cart.
Where is the speed controller on an electric golf cart?
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.
Is it dangerous to ride a golf cart with a speed controller?
Be very careful when messing with the controller settings, any small mistake can make your golf cart dangerous to ride. Before you program your new speed controller, you must first decide the best speed controller for your vehicle. This choice can be based on numerous factors, and should begin with your motor type.
What is the camber on a golf cart?
The camber is the angle of the wheels of a golf cart The camber is extremely important for maintaining the balance of the tyres on a golf cart. Golf cart owners need a good camber adjustment to ensure a smooth jerk-free ride.
How do you test a capacitor on a golf cart charger?
To check a capacitor use an ohm meter. Touch the red meter probe to one of the capacitor terminals & the black meter probe to the other capacitor terminal. Now reverse the probes such that they are now touching the opposite capacitor terminals. The meter should display a read out and then quickly return to no read out.
What causes an electric golf cart to lose power?
If the coach goes without charge for a long time, the battery may lack the minimum voltage required to restart. Batteries also lose their efficiency with age. Golf Carts will run for approximately five years before the battery needs to be replaced or the charger will need replacement.
What happens when electric golf cart solenoid goes bad?
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 causes a golf cart to keep running?
Yamaha golf carts can keep running and not stop for many reasons. It's usually loose wiring, a sticking accelerator stop switch, a sticking solenoid or issues with the engine stop relay or the voltage regulator.
How do you check electric problems on a golf cart?
Look for a small red button located near the main power supply. Press the button and put your cart back together before hooking it up to charge. In many cases, this will solve the problem. If it doesn't, try removing the motor and testing it with a separate, fully charged battery.
Where is the reset button on a golf cart motor?
The reset button acts as a mini circuit breaker for the motor, so it will correct any minor errors. Expose the motor (you'll probably need a screwdriver to remove the cover), and look for a red button. It is usually near the main power source, where most of the wires are connected.
What does a bad solenoid do in a golf cart?
What Happens To Your Golf Cart When The Solenoid Goes Bad? The large contacts in a gas golf cart may refuse to release, causing the starter to run even after turning off the ignition.
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.
Can a solenoid click and still be bad?
A single “click” sound comes from the engine compartment or from under the car. This could mean that the solenoid is trying to engage but that the internal components are stuck and unable to work properly. Repeated “clicking” sounds usually indicate a dead battery.
What would cause a golf cart not to charge?
If your batteries aren't hooked up correctly, or the connections between them are weak or frayed, this can quickly lead to a loss of power and cause your charger to fail. Make sure you check each battery terminal for corrosion; any buildup will impede the flow of electricity, and could likewise cause problems.
Is there a reset button on an electric 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.
Why is my golf cart so slow with new batteries?
If the cart takes off at normal speed and slows down even if it has new batteries, there may be a malfunctioning bearing encoder. Replacing the old one with a new encoder can serve as a fix to the problem. The golf cart might have a bad ITS that is indicated by a low battery pack voltage.
How long do electric golf cart motors last?
Golf Cart Motor Just like solenoids (mentioned above), your golf cart motor works HARD. When properly taken care of, the typical gas or electric golf cart motor can last many, many years (20 to 30+).
Why is my golf cart losing power up hills?
The Reason Your Electric Golf Cart Goes Slow Uphill? Your electric golf cart can struggle on inclines for a variety of reasons. Weak batteries, incorrect tires, and wear and tear to the motor and wiring are all potential causes of your cart's slow speed.
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.
Where is the speed sensor 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 does an electric golf cart work?
How Does a Golf Cart Work. In the most basic sense, your electric golf cart works by providing electric power from a battery pack to a motor that turns your wheels. Everything else involved is just a way of controlling when and how much of that power is being delivered. The battery pack is pretty basic.
How do golf cart batteries work?
Batteries work by changing chemical energy into electrical energy. Different types of batteries use different types of chemical reactions to do this, but for the most part they’re all very similar. We did a whole article on golf cart batteries ...
What is a golf cart solenoid?
We did a write up on golf cart solenoids if you want to get deeper knowledge, or learn how to test them. Like I said before, a solenoid is basically a switch, but more specifically, it’s a relay, meaning that it’s a switch that uses one circuit to control another.
What is an inductive throttle sensor?
What that really means is when you push down your electric golf cart accelerator, you’re actually pushing a rod through an inductive sensor coil. The sensor coil uses this to tell the speed controller how much voltage to consume.
How many volts does a golf cart battery pack have?
The battery pack is pretty basic. It could be anywhere from 6 to 48 volts, but it’s usually 36 or 48 volts on most newer electric golf carts. The battery pack’s power is routed to the motor, but along the way, it is changed by a solenoid and a speed controller to give you only the power you’re asking for and only when you’re asking for it.
What is a speed controller?
The speed controller is essentially a variable resistor. You have them in most electrical systems. They’re a pretty simple concept. Depending on some type of input, the variable resistor will consume different amounts of energy. In the case of your golf cart speed controller, the input is the signal from your accelerator pedal.
How long have electric golf carts been around?
Electric motors have been around for a couple hundred years, and honestly after around the 1890s, not a whole lot has changed.
How does a golf cart work?
On a golf cart, pressing the accelerator pedal down does two things…first, a microswitch energizes the system by activating a powered solenoid. Second, the linkage either operates a potentiometer or a plunger that passes through a Throttle Position Sensor. This sends a variable electrical signal to the controller. This signal, based on the strength it sends, tells the speed controller what level current to send to the motor.
What does a speed controller do in golf carts?
As the name implies, the speed controller will change the golf cart speed to the golf cart driver’s preference, but because of advances in technology, it does much more. The speed controller can offer the following functions: A controlled ramp up to speed if the full throttle is applied suddenly. From a standing start, AKA locked armature, ...
How to check if a golf cart has a solenoid?
THIS IS NOT a function of the speed controller. It is a separate component that turns the speed controller on. If there is no click, this check should include the microswitch at the pedal as well as the connections going to the solenoid. If you need to do in-depth testing of the solenoid, refer to the article “Bad Solenoid In Your Golf Cart? Here’s How To Test And Fix It”.
What does a golf cart controller light mean?
Most controllers will have a small light that will begin to flash a code sequence that can be compared to the golf cart manual. If the code indicates the source voltage is incorrect, then you will need to go back over the previous steps. If the code indicates a controller fault, then the controller will need a reset, repair, or a replacement order.
What is club car power drive?
Club Car’s Power Drive is a Series Motor System, on the market from 1990 and up. On the golf carts built in the years 1990 – 1994, the controller used a 0 to 5K potentiometer (36 Volt). In the years 1995 and up, they used 5K to 0 potentiometers (48 Volt).
How to control speed?
The speed controller can offer the following functions: 1 A controlled ramp up to speed if the full throttle is applied suddenly. From a standing start, AKA locked armature, a motor can initially take up to 20 times its normal operating current. This must not last more than a second or two to avoid damage to the system. 2 Protection from ground faults caused by accidental shorts. 3 Safely reversing the motor by taking the motor to a stop, then reversing polarity. 4 An overheating protection thermal shutoff to protect the controller from damage. 5 Battery voltage monitoring to prevent the complete drain of the charge. 6 Overcurrent limiting to protect the motor and electrical components from damage.
What happens if you push the pedal on a golf cart?
If you pressed the pedal, the golf cart would jackrabbit jump to full throttle.
How do electric golf carts work?
Electric carts use golf cart batteries voltage to turn the electric motor and it begins moving on its own. The batteries for these carts are charged from a battery charger using household outlets or solar panels energy and they do not need gasoline as fuel.
What is a golf cart?
The term “cart”, in its purest sense, refers to a vehicle that does not travel under its own power. Golf cars, however, are most commonly referred to as golf carts. A golf cart is a type of vehicle that has been used on golf courses for many years. Golf carts are not allowed to use public roads unless they are converted to comply ...
What Is The Difference Between The Gas And Electric Type Of Golf Cart?
A gasoline-powered cart uses a battery to actuate a solenoid switch that causes a starter to turn the engine over until the ignition begins. Push the gas pedal and the vehicle moves on its own. The alternator/generator recharges the battery for the next time it is needed and provides power for the lights and other golf cart accessories.
How long does a gas golf cart last?
An electric cart has an average life of 5 to 7 years for deep cycle batteries, and the deep-cycle type of battery is expensive. While gas carts have their own maintenance ...
Which is better, electric or gas golf cart?
The electric-powered golf carts may be better when it comes to environmental impact, but they will not always have as much power as a gas engine and can cost more upfront.
Can you use a golf cart on a public road?
A golf cart is a type of vehicle that has been used on golf courses for many years. Golf carts are not allowed to use public roads unless they are converted to comply with local ordinances governing speed and safety equipment.
Do electric golf carts need to be maintained?
While gas carts have their own maintenance points, electric carts must have the golf cart batteries’ water levels checked and maintained. Electrical components such as the golf cart speed controller, inductive sensor coil, and electric golf cart motor are not cheap either. These components and cable connections are not common issues you have ...
Why are golf carts important?
Golf carts can improve access and generate revenue, but they can also have negative impacts on turf health and playing conditions. (Green Section) Golf carts play an important role at many golf facilities. They provide a revenue source and increase accessibility, allowing golfers who might not otherwise be able to walk the course to enjoy playing.
How does cart traffic affect golf?
Many factors influence how cart traffic affects a golf course. Certain grasses are more vulnerable to traffic injury and may require special cart policies. Areas with heavy soils and poor drainage face a greater risk of compaction and other traffic issues. Even the time of year plays a role. When grasses are growing slowly, they are more vulnerable to the cumulative effects of cart traffic. For all these reasons, cart policies vary from course to course, hole to hole and even day to day.
Why do golf carts need to be shared?
Walking or sharing a cart goes a long way toward reducing cart traffic and improving turf health. This helps courses conserve resources and provide better playing conditions for everyone.
Why do golf courses use ropes?
Golf facilities use ropes, stakes, signs and many other traffic control measures to minimize the negative impacts of cart use; but ultimately, they depend on golfers to be mindful of where and how they drive.
Why are grasses more vulnerable to cart traffic?
Even the time of year plays a role. When grasses are growing slowly , they are more vulnerable to the cumulative effects of cart traffic. For all these reasons, cart policies vary from course to course, hole to hole and even day to day. 2. Wet conditions and cart traffic do not mix.
Does driving a golf cart hurt grass?
A single golf cart driving down a fairway has little to no effect on turf health or playing conditions. It is the cumulative effect of many carts that eventually takes a toll on the grass. This is why cart damage is most obvious in areas where traffic is concentrated, like the ends of cart paths.
Do cart traffic and wet conditions mix?
2. Wet conditions and cart traffic do not mix.
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 is the center of a golf cart?
As you can see, the speed controller is the center of your golf cart, and most of the other modern day electric vehicles.
How many volts does a golf cart need?
You’ll find that most vehicles in this category run with 24 to 36 Volt battery packs.
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.
When upgrading your golf cart controller, do you suggest working with manufacturers that have spent the time building controllers for your specific?
When upgrading your controller for your golf cart, we suggest working with manufacturers that have spent the time building controllers for your specific brand.
What is a battery current limiter?
Battery Current Limiter: This protects the battery from excessive discharge. This also pulls back the battery current as it depletes, which prevents cell damage.
What can a controller do?
With the controller you are able to control your acceleration and deceleration, as well as the speed at which your vehicle moves.
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.
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.
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 many amps does a club car need?
If the cart is mainly used to transport 1 to 2 people or light loads on smooth roads, a small 2-5 horsepower and lower controller around 200-300 Amps will work best.
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.
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 limit current to motor?
Limit the current to the motor to protect both engine and controller in case of overloading.
What does a Camber do on a golf cart?
The camber is the angle of the wheels of a golf cart The camber is extremely important for maintaining the balance of the tyres on a golf cart . Golf cart owners need a good camber adjustment to ensure a smooth jerk-free ride.
Why do golf cart wheels wear out?
The golf cart’s wheels get wearied away over time due to regular rides over rough terrain, potholes and other uneven ground, to fix which , camber needs to be adjusted.
Why is my Yamaha G-16 camber displaced?
Highly displaced camber: This normally happens if your cart is too old and the control arm bushings of your spindle lift kit are heavily worn out. The best bet is to replace the bushings with new ones or simply switch to 6” double A arm lift kit. You can also adjust the toe to fix camber problems that might arise. This happens with the Yamaha G-16.
Why is my Yamaha G9 camber bad?
Worn out or incorrect struts are a key cause of camber problems in a Yamaha G9 golf cart. Often, this, combined with excessive positive camber can wear away your tires very easily. The positive camber can be a result of worn out shocks.
What size arm lift kit for Yamaha golf cart?
One can opt for a 6’ double A arm to avoid such a problem. A rollover or crashing golf cart: A six inch A arm lift kit that suits the Yamaha Drive model can cause reduced control over your golf cart if you don’t adjust the camber of its front wheels properly.
How to jack up a car with a heim joint?
Use the parking brakes to jack up your car. Then loosen the lower heim joint by loosening the nut of the lower control arm. You must adjust the nuts to bring them closer to or farther from the frame of the car if the camber is out or in respectively. Lower the car and check the camber. Repeat the steps if needed.
How to position leaf springs?
Position the leaf springs so that the axle and frame are square to each other.
Drive
The drive, or primary, clutch is found on the crankshaft of the engine. A thick, heavy ‘drive’ belt is wrapped around it and links it to the driven clutch, on the differential. At rest, the drive clutch sheaves (or pulley halves) are separated enough that the drive belt rests in between the sheaves & against the center shaft of this clutch.
Driven
The other half of this system is the driven, or secondary, clutch. At rest the driven clutch sheaves are spring loaded together, so the belt sits up at the outer edge of this clutch, NOT down toward the center shaft. It, too, spins around and has a sheave that sides in & out along it’s main shaft but this clutch has no flyweights.
Belt Operation
As the drive belt forces the driven clutch sheaves to separate, the PULLING ratio of the engine changes from maximum (when the belt is at the outer edge of the driven unit) to minimum PULLING power, or top cruising speed (when the sheaves are completely apart).
Driven Issues
The driven clutch can misbehave in many ways. It has one main shaft and the sliding sheave has an internal bushing that will wear, and it has several inclined metal ramps (usually aluminum) with small plastic buttons that protect the ramps as they glide against one another.
Buttons
OK picture this: The engine revs up and the drive belt starts to ride down into the pulley faces of the driven clutch forcing them to separate. The inboard pulley half begins to slide along the main shaft compressing the spring and bringing the funky cup ends and their respective ramps up against one another.
Driven Spring
While we are on the Yamaha driven clutch another failure that occurs is almost impossible to detect but it also impairs the hill pulling power of the car. Keep looking inboard to where the funky spring cap butts up against the differential housing. The spring cap doesn’t actually touch the differential case.