How does a golf cart solenoid work?
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. This creates an electric current which moves the cart.
How do I know if my electric golf cart solenoid is bad?
In an electric cart, one of the key signs of a faulty solenoid is when you turn your cart’s ignition on, and find no electricity is being transferred to the controller from the solenoid. When this occurs the usual solenoid click on and off associated with the ignition switch will not take place.
What can go wrong with an electric golf cart?
There are quite a few common things that can go wrong with an electric golf cart. These common issues include rapidly depleted batteries, worn machinery behind ignition, damaged ignition switch, blocked motor just to name a few. Read on to find out the twenty most common things that can go wrong with your electric golf cart.
How do you troubleshoot an EZ GO golf cart solenoid?
EZ Go golf Cart Solenoid Troubleshooting. Try out the steps listed below to help troubleshoot the solenoid found in your EZ Go golf cart: Check to confirm if all the cable connections and wires are in place, as well as secure and tight. You must disconnect the negative battery cable before taking off the controller cover.
How do I know if my electric golf cart solenoid is bad?
Press on the accelerator while the key is turned on and the cart is in forward.The solenoid needs to be replaced IF the voltmeter shows a full battery voltage without a click.If your voltmeter stays at 0, the problem stems from somewhere else in your cart.
How do you bypass the solenoid on a EZ Go golf cart?
Steps to bypass the solenoid in EZGO golf cart:Take the controller cover after disconnecting the negative terminals of the battery.Now, disconnect the larger wires from the solenoid.After this, connect the high side wires and large wires terminals bypassing the solenoid.Try starting the cart.More items...
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!
What would cause an electric golf cart not to move?
Solenoid Wear When there is a disruption in the flow of the electrical current, your cart will not operate. A common reason for current disruption is solenoid wear. Each time the solenoid activates as you press down on the gas pedal, the solenoid compounds down onto a thin metal contact plate.
Can you run a golf cart 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 I know if my EZGO golf cart solenoid is bad?
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. If it jumps and displays full voltage, then the solenoid is the problem and should be replaced with a new one.
Where is the reset button on an electric Club Car golf cart?
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. Once you've pressed the button to reset the motor, reassemble the cart, charge up the batteries, and give it a test run.
Do all electric golf carts have a reset button?
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.
What would cause a golf cart not to start?
As the main source of power to your electric golf cart, the batteries are commonly the cause for why your electric golf cart won't start. Acid-based batteries are typically used for electric golf carts and must be recharged in order to work properly.
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 do you do if your golf cart won't move?
The problem could be with either the Run/Tow switch or Forward/Reverse switch or both. Check the switches to ensure that they aren't stuck midway. If they are, getting them released should help. However, if they show signs of wear and tear, you must get them replaced.
How do you fix a golf cart that won't move?
When the cart won't move, you have to be sure that the batteries are sending sufficient power to the circuit. You must check the fuse. Use the voltmeter to check the voltage at the key switch. In a cart with batteries rated at 48V, it must show 48V at the key switch.
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.
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 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 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 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.
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.
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 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 check if a battery is low?
First, follow these steps: Step 1 – Check the battery voltage from the positive connection to the battery negative. A solenoid uses 12-18volts and low voltage will not activate the solenoid. Step 2 – If the voltage is low, check the cable ends for corrosion. Clean and charge the battery.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
What does it mean when your car doesn't start?
If the cart does not start, then it is a clear sign that your solenoid does not have a problem. However, if it does, this does not indicate that the solenoid is the cause of the problem. You will have to check out the complete ignition system.
How does a golf cart solenoid work?
The golf cart speed controller and solenoid are both controlled by the accelerator. The pedal is connected to the potentiometer. That means when you are pressing the pedal for acceleration, you are actually going through the potentiometer by pushing a rod. The potentiometer works as a communicator and tells the speed controller how much voltage it ...
What happens if your golf cart doesn't accelerate?
Bad Solenoid. If your golf cart does not accelerate, there is a possibility of the damaged solenoid. The solenoid is basically an electrical switch that enables the battery's flow from the battery into the motor. Check out the signs of the bad solenoid.
Why is my golf cart speed controller not working?
There are many reasons behind a speed controller malfunction. The most common problem that happens in the controller has aged due to infrequent use. These are just some of the issues that could be affecting your vehicle's acceleration. If you have trouble finding the issue of your golf cart accelerator, don't be afraid to take it to the mechanic.
How does a potentiometer work?
The potentiometer works as a communicator and tells the speed controller how much voltage it has to consume. The more voltage means the more speed and vice versa (Check out our resource on golf cart speed ).
Why is my golf cart not accelerating?
When your electric golf cart does not accelerate, the first thing you need to keep in mind is that it is not a regular vehicle like your car . That's why the methods and solutions you use to get your car to start are not the same as the solutions you can apply to your cart.
What is a speed controller?
Speed Controller. The speed controller manages the speed of the golf cart. There are some situations when the speed controller fails, but the cart will still start and move ahead. But, as it runs for a while, it will start malfunctioning.
Why do electric golf carts fail?
These carts can start to show signs of wear and may fail just like any other vehicle over time.
What are the problems with electric golf carts?
These carts can start to show signs of wear and may fail just like any other vehicle over time. Learn about some of the more common issues associated with electric golf carts. 1. Solenoid Wear. The solenoid is the primary electrical switch in your golf cart and is designed to ensure the current from the battery flows into the motor. ...
What is the controller on a golf cart?
An electric golf carts' controller is known as the heart of the operation and closely resembles and operates much like the motherboard in a computer. So a problem with the controller will have rippling effects throughout the cart. A common function of the speed controller is to control the speed of the golf cart.
Why does my gas cart not work?
When you press down on the gas pedal and hear a tapping-like sound, this is the sound of the solenoid activating. When there is a disruption in the flow of the electrical current , your cart will not operate. A common reason for current disruption is solenoid wear.
What happens if your cart doesn't move?
If the cart doesn't move in either direction, both switches have failed. Diagnosing a problem with the direction switches isn't a complicated matter, but repairing the switch is more complex, especially if the switches are built into the speed controller.
How does a solenoid work?
Each time the solenoid activates as you press down on the gas pedal, the solenoid compounds down onto a thin metal contact plate. Over time, the force of this pressure creates tiny electric arcs on the plates' surface. These arcs eventually create a resistance that prevents the current from properly flowing.
Why won't my sped controller accelerate?
Problems with the sped controller occur for a variety of reasons, but most often the cause is degradation due to age or lack of use.
Golf Cart General Introduction
The popular definition for a golf cart is that it is a small vehicle designed to carry two or more golfers and their equipment around the golf course or desert pathways to avoid walking effort.
Electric Golf Carts
The two main types of golf carts driven at the golf courses are gasoline and electric golf carts. Both of them function on the principle of a regular, less powerful gasoline or electric car, with some insignificant differences. Electric golf cars are popular with their environmentally friendly mode of operation.
Common Things That Can Go Wrong With An Electric Golf Cart
Buying and driving an electric golf cart, you should be aware that, just like other cars, it has a lifespan, and its parts also wear out. Some golfers perceive their carts as small, funny vehicles that can drive them around the golf course forever.
How To Avoid Or Mitigate The Issues
The key to avoiding or mitigating possible electrical golf carts malfunctioning is, as already mentioned a few times above, proper and regular maintenance. Golf cart owners should perceive their small electric vehicles as regular cars with a more restricted use range.
The Elite Of The Electrical Golf Carts
Pointing out so many common issues with the electrical golf carts may leave you with the wrong impression that they are pretty problematic vehicles. Let’s clarify that technical issues are typical for the used carts but are quite unusual for new carts with a warranty.
Electric Golf Carts FAQ
To determine whether your electric golf cart motor is bad or not, you need to test it first. Sometimes the problem is easy to detect, but sometimes you need to check the entire electrical system.
Sources
Wikipedia, “Golf Cart.” Wikimedia Foundation, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf_cart Assessed June 8, 2021
What is the solenoid on a golf cart?
The solenoid is a cylindrical coil of wire that works as the magnet carrying an electric current. Basically, when you start up your golf cart, the solenoid is the reason for the clicking sound you hear when engaging the acceleration pedal. This sound is a good thing!
Why won't my electric golf cart start?
Today, we'll look at the most common problems with electric golf carts, and how you can prevent or repair them. 1. Batteries That Break Down or Lose Charge. If your golf cart won't start, the first thing we suggest it checking your battery! Electric golf cart batteries need to be charged and have water added regularly.
Why is my golf cart ignition not working?
If your ignition has problems, it's almost certainly due to wear and tear or the age of your golf cart. Wires can become loose and lose the connection between the switch and the battery, or they may require replacement when they wear out or break over time.
What is a direction switch on a golf cart?
Direction Switch. The direction switch simply lets you control whether your golf cart is in forward or reverse. One of the most frequently used parts on a golf cart, it's heavily prone to wear and tear and breaking down over time.
Do electric golf carts run quietly?
They generally run more quietly than gasoline-powered golf carts and ATVs do, and keeping them moving is as simple as keeping up with preventative maintenance and maintaining a full charge. However, electric golf carts do have their share of unique concerns and potential issues that you'll want to keep an eye out for.
Do you need to replace a golf cart battery?
If you purchase a preowned electric golf cart, be sure to ask about the age of the battery before you buy. You may not need to replace your battery for a long time, but the older a golf cart is, the more prone it may be to corrosion.