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what is a controller on a golf cart?

by Stanley Ritchie V Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Some of the main functions of a Golf Cart Controller are:

  • Limiting the amount of current generated from the battery to prevent overcharging and harm to the battery’s cells.
  • Monitoring the health and status of the battery.
  • The controller is protected from overheating by thermal protection.
  • Protection against ground faults induced by unintentional short circuits.

More items...

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 to properly drive a golf cart?

  • When you go for your backswing, you should shift your weight backward. This will give your swing more power.
  • A lot of times your instinct might be to have a fast backswing thinking that it will give you more power to crush the ball. ...
  • Stay flat. ...
  • Take a steady backswing and pause at the top to reset before begin your downswing. ...

How to modify golf cart?

  • Fraction of power per weight compared to gas
  • Possibility of fires or explosions if overcharged or overheated
  • Can take hours to charge

How do you replace coil on club cart golf cart?

Three things can indicate that your golf cart clutch is going bad:

  • Your cart’s initial acceleration is jerky
  • It feels as if power is slipping while your cart is climbing incline terrain/hills
  • Your cart has varying top-end speed (alternating between fast and slow)

Which golf cart is better?

Gas Powered Golf Carts: The Pros

  1. Can Handle Heavy Loads. Gas-powered golf carts can handle much heavier loads than electric golf carts. ...
  2. Have Faster Speeds. Gas-powered golf carts can reach their top speed much faster than electric models. ...
  3. Can Go Further on a Single Tank of Gas. Gasoline lasts longer than the batteries found in electric golf carts. ...
  4. Easier to Find Spare Parts. ...

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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 a controller do 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.

How do you test a golf cart 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 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.

How do you test a motor controller?

How to Test an Ebike Controller at HomeStep 1: Connect your controller to the battery.Step 2: Set the multimeter reading. ... Step 3: To test for continuity, set your multimeter to continuum. ... Step 4: Test every line that comes out of the controller. ... Step 5: Set your multimeter to resistance mode to test for resistance.More items...•

How do you bypass a golf cart controller?

1:594:09electric golf cart, simple Motor and controller bypass key hotwire direct ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo let's just go ahead and bypass the solenoid by putting one alligator clip on that bolt.MoreSo let's just go ahead and bypass the solenoid by putting one alligator clip on that bolt.

How do you reset a golf cart controller?

Easily Reset the Club Car Golf Cart OBCKey switch to off.Set forward/reverse to neutral.Put tow/run switch to tow.Disconnect the negative battery terminal from the battery pack.Put the tow/run switch to run.Put forward/reverse switch to reverse.Put key switch to on.More items...

Where is the reset button on an electric golf cart motor?

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!

Where is the reset button on a Club Car golf cart?

Identify your main battery supply (usually the largest battery) on your motor. Check around this supply for a small red button that may or may not be labeled “Reset”. Press and hold this button for a few moments and then release it to reset the motor.

Can a golf cart controller be repaired?

Considering the price of hiring someone to troubleshoot your golf cart's motor controller, it is far cheaper for you to do the repair work on your own. Fortunately, replacing the motor controller on a golf cart is fairly straightforward.

How do you test a Club Car DS controller?

2:5915:0248 Volt Club Car Diagnostics - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOut of the key switch. And into this micro switch. Now to make sure this micro switch is working.MoreOut of the key switch. And into this micro switch. Now to make sure this micro switch is working. Now this will also give us light even if it's not at 4-4 or reverse it's in neutral it gets light as

Why does my ezgo golf cart not move?

The main reason why a EZGO gas golf cart will not go forward is because of a locked up brake, or a faulty solenoid and accelerator. A defective Run/Tow or Forward/Reverse switch can also cause a EZGO to not move forward.

How do I test my EZGO PDS controller?

PDS TEST AT THE 10 PIN CONNECTOR OF THE CONTROLLER Place the (+) probe on the black wire terminal of the connector. The reading should be slightly above 14 volts but LESS than 16 volts. If the voltage is below 14 volts, the Throttle Sensor MAY be faulty. Above 16 volts, the controller MAY be faulty.

Where is the reset button on a ezgo golf cart motor?

Locate the motor Remove the panel so the electric motor is visible. Electric motors usually include reset buttons that can perform similar to circuit breakers. Look in the area where several electrical wires enter the motor and locate a small red button. This is the reset button.

How can I make my EZ Go golf cart faster?

One way to increase the speed of EZ Go golf carts is to incorporate an octane booster when you fill the tank. The cart will have more pick-up, and it could gain as much as 5 mph. A different approach is to take out the throttle linkage governor on the carburetor.

How do you adjust the governor on a EZ Go golf cart?

1:065:06How to Adjust an E Z Go Golf Cart Governor - WikiVideo - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you are curious this is your carts carburetor loosen the small nut and tighten the larger nut.MoreIf you are curious this is your carts carburetor loosen the small nut and tighten the larger nut. The more you tighten the larger nut the faster your cart will.

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, ...

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.

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”.

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 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.

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 ...

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 best controller for a golf cart?

Different controllers offer you varying levels of output and performance. However, regardless of your requirements and the cart model you drive, we have handpicked the three best golf cart controllers for you: Navitas TSX3.0 , the Alltrax XCT-48500-IQ, and the Curtis 1205M-5603. Pick the one that best suits your needs!

What is throttle fault protection?

Throttle fault protection circuitry that disables the controller if throttle wires break or open.

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.

How fast is a golf cart controller?

The controller comes stock at 25 miles per hour in the four direction, 4500 rpm, Robbie Steen said 6500 for the Bandit. Hit accept and it’s good for 35 miles per hour. You can save changes and make sure to turn the golf cart off and back on the key switch to fully save it. For reverse you can give it more speed or less speed.

How long does it take for a golf cart to load?

It usually takes about five minutes to fully load and it’s ready to go. We need to change our tire size and choose the type. Once selected click “Save Changes” and turn the golf cart key off and turn it back on so it saves the setting.

What is the Navitas dash controller?

This is the Navitas dash controller. This is the cable that goes from the controller to the stock harness on the golf cart. Since we went with the Plum Quick Motor, we decided to go with the DC motor controller on here.

How to remove a controller from a panel?

To remove the controller away from the panel, we’re using a 3/8 socket. The top bolt does not have to come out, it just slides off. To install the new controller, we just slide the top into that bolt and the holes are already there for the existing bolts. I’m using an impact to tighten the controller to the mounting plate, but you do not want to use an impact to tighten the wires to the controller, only for removing off the old one.

How to clean a controller before mounting?

Before we mount the controller, we’re going to take some rubbing alcohol and clean it up. We want to have this free and clean of any kind of chemicals, so the double-sided tape will stick the best.

Can you change the speed on a golf cart?

However, if the switch is in the lock position these settings cannot be changed .

Can you lock and unlock an on the fly controller?

The lock and unlock adjustability for the on-the-fly controller is perfect for families with kids or companies with employees. You can set this how you want it so no one can modify the settings while it’s in the lock position. Now, with this being said the top speed can also be limited in the app regardless of the on-the-fly position.

What Does a Controller Do On A Golf Cart?

Golf cart controllers play an important part in which its main job is to control the speed of a golf cart.

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 Do You Test The EZGO Speed Controller?

Before troubleshooting an EZGO cart controller, it is crucial to test the controller. The very first part of it is first to identify the cart drive system. This can be found out from the cart manual book (flow chart identification).

How Do You Repair The EZGO Controller?

If your EZGO controller is found to be damaged or is not working, two things can be done. Either the controller can be repaired or replaced.

How Do You Upgrade The EZGO RXV Controller?

This is one of the best unrivaled EZGO carts out there. It comes with AC drivetrain and makes the driving smooth with IntelliBrake technology. However, to make the cart even more efficient, you can upgrade its features.

What is a parameter setup on an EZGO cart?

Parameter setup: The controller operates the EZGO cart as efficiently as it controls the speed parameters.

Why is my EZGO controller getting hot?

In general, if the EZGO controller is getting hotter, it’s due to steep rise and driving on higher roads. Then the reason will simply be that the load on the engine and motor is also causing the controller to get hot.

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 club car controller work?

In this way, today’s modern speed controller’s meters out the battery voltage and current to the Club Car motors on the basis of numerous input parameters such as; throttle, brakes and twist grips. Hence, the operator of the Club Car would be able to control the speed at which Club Car is moving by the way of acceleration and deceleration cycles. Following are some of the main functions of the controller, irrespective of the type of the motor:

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.

What is the advantage of a programmable controller?

The key advantage of this controller is that; programmable controllers produces 60% less heat than other controllers. Programmable controllers are epoxy potted or in other words Club Car controller troubleshooting, which let controller failure due to the vibration and water corrosion get easily eliminate.

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.

Why limit current to motor?

Limiting the current to the motor so that both motor and the controller could be protected in case of motor stalling and overloading.

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.

How to tell if a controller is bad?

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.

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The Importance of The Speed Controller

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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. Doing this would cause violent take-offs, bad enough your neck would snapback. …
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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 protect your vehicle controller and moto…
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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…
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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…
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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…
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