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what is a speed controller for a golf cart

by Mr. Kobe Larkin Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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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.Jan 7, 2021

Full Answer

How can I increase the speed of my golf cart?

  • Remove any unnecessary additions, racks or parts on your golf cart. Club racks, roofs, windshields, decorations or additional seats can make your cart heavier and slower.
  • Power-wash your cart.
  • Check the shaft under the ignition pedal.
  • Put larger tires on the cart.

How to jumpstart a golf cart?

How to Start a Golf Cart

  • Check for flat tires before you begin operating the vehicle. ...
  • Decide if you want the vehicle to move forward or backward and switch the driver select lever accordingly.
  • Put on the seatbelt. ...
  • Golf carts, like most vehicles, are operated using a key. ...
  • If you notice that the vehicle’s engine is cold, engage the choke knob by pulling it out. ...

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How to build a fast golf cart?

One of the easiest ways of building your own golf cart is by using old beat-up golf carts lying around in some yard waiting for rust to do its thing. Virtually, you can recreate something beautiful from an old forgotten, and immobile golf cart. Finding a rundown unusable golf cart is the first step.

How to increase the speed of electric club car golf cart?

How to Make an Electric Club Car Golf Cart Go Faster

  1. Use a soapy solution to wash the cart, including the tires. Be sure to remove all of the dirt and debris between the wheels.
  2. Remove the seat of your cart and be sure that all internal wires are plugged in tightly and securely so that they are running and operating at their ...
  3. Be sure that no connections are limiting the movement of the gas pedal. ...

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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.

How does a golf cart speed controller work?

We can get you any golf cart speed controller you need. A controller works like a dimmer switch for a light. It varies “power” by modulating voltage. By using a controller, it allows the user to vary the current to the motor thus adjusting the speed of the vehicle.

Why is a larger controller needed?

A larger controller is capable of providing more current thus allowing the motor to produce more torque. • Changing the controller only on a series motor will not increase the speed of the vehicle but it will slightly increase the torque.

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 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.

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.

Why limit current to motor?

Limit the current to the motor to protect both engine and controller in case of overloading.

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 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 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.

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 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 ...

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.

What are Golf Cart Speed Chips?

As the name indicates, golf cart speed chips increase the speed of the cart. They help the cart to go at a speed faster than its pre-programmed speed limit set in the electronic system.

What is the speed chip on a 2000 golf cart?

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

Does a Golf Cart Speed Magnet Really Work?

A golf cart speed sensor magnet increases the speed by up to 21mph on a 48V Precedent IQ and Club Car DS golf carts that use ADC motors without any loss of torque. With a slight reduction in torque, the speed can be increased further up to 28mph.

How to make a golf cart go faster?

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

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

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

How fast does a club car DS go?

When the cart is programmed to Speed Code 4 setting, the motor of the golf cart will move at 19.6mph.

How long does it take to replace a speed sensor magnet?

The speed sensor magnet can be replaced easily in the speed sensor. It can be installed in five to ten minutes without any adjustment to the controller or other parts.

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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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