The vast majority of golf cart potentiometers send a resistance signal measured in ohms to the controller. Some of the more common output signals are 0-5K ohms, 5K-0 ohms, and 0-1K ohms. For those of you not familiar with this vernacular, The “K” in the notation represents “times 1,000”, thus 5K is equal to 5,000.
What kind of power does a golf cart controller use?
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 test a golf cart motor for a short?
How To Test Your Golf Cart Motor For A Short Begin by labeling the cables going to your electric motor and put a corresponding label on the motor itself if it does not already have one. Assuming that we’re using a multimeter and not just a continuity tester, set your tester to the continuity setting and if it doesn’t have one, set it for ohms.
How do I know if my golf cart controller is bad?
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 should the voltage be on an EZ GO electric golf cart?
If your golf cart is an EZ-Go with an ITS (Inductive Throttle Sensor) check the voltage reading with a multimeter. On a DCS – After the solenoid engages, the reading should be .04-.06 through 1.5-1.7 volts at full pedal.
How do you test a golf cart motor 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 do I know if my EZ GO controller is bad?
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. If there is no voltage, the controller is bad and must be replaced.
How many ohms should a golf cart solenoid have?
0 to 0.4 ohmsA measurement of 0 to 0.4 ohms should be obtained. If you get a reading higher than this, you need to replace your solenoid.
How do you test a club cart 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
How do I know if my club car 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.
How do you test a 36 volt golf cart controller?
This can Also be tested by putting a test lead on each small terminal and pressing the gas pedal. The meter should read 36 V when the gas is pressed. If this voltage does exist when the gas pedal is pressed then the solenoid should click and engage.
Should a solenoid have continuity?
While the solenoid coil would be defective if it were electrically open (NO continuity), just having continuity doesn't necessarily mean the component is good. The solenoid's armature could be seized in place and unable to move at all or whatever that armature is connected to could be faulty as well.
How do you check if a solenoid is working?
0:441:43How to use a Multimeter: Solenoid Testing - Purkeys - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipShould not get a reading so the coal resistance is inspect and also it is not a grounded coil so IMoreShould not get a reading so the coal resistance is inspect and also it is not a grounded coil so I know that part of this max which is good why is important he's a multimeter if you use a multimeter.
How do you test a solenoid on a golf cart with a multimeter?
Set your voltmeter to the ohms reading, and connect its probe to each one of the big terminals. Of course, the reading should be zero. Next, move the cart's switch to forward, turn it on, and accelerate slowly. Your solenoid should click.
How do I know if my speed controller is bad on my golf cart?
When your golf cart's speed controller isn't operating correctly, your cart will show it by running erratically or failing to drive at one constant speed. If your cart starts showing these symptoms, the first thing you should look at is your speed controller.
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...
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 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 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.
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.
What is the amperage of a golf cart?
Golf Cart Battery Amps. Amperage can be considered akin to the fuel in a gas-powered engine. Similar to a tank of gas, the amount of amperage will dictate how far you can drive your cart on a single electric charge.
How many volts does a golf cart have?
There is a major difference between 36 volt up to 48 volt systems, impacting both performance and potential upkeep and maintenance costs. Hint: some batteries are much more expensive ...
What does voltage mean in a battery pack?
Voltage represents how much power your system will be delivered, resulting in increased ability to tow, carry more weight, and accelerate faster.
Does a golf cart battery need to be recharged?
In this regard, a higher voltage (although more powerful) often comes at a cost. That cost is that it can burn through more amps faster, draining the golf cart battery quicker, and requiring you to recharge more frequently.
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 to check if electric golf cart is running?
It sounds absurd, but if your electric golf cart is not running, the very first thing I would check is the reset button on the side of the motor, if your cart is so equipped. Check around the outside of the motor and see if you can find a small button to press. This is usually a safeguard against overheating.
What is wrong with my electric golf cart?
Electric golf carts are usually trouble-free and do their job efficiently and with no fuss, but sometimes you suspect your golf cart is experiencing a problem. If the speed seems to be off, or your cart gives off a burning wire smell, your golf cart motor might have a problem. Using a multimeter, a jumper wire, and a 12-24 volt power source, ...
What is a series motor?
A series motor has field and armature windings that have the power fed to them from the same source, either in series or parallel. A SePex motor, as the name indicates, is a motor that has a separately excited field and armature windings. These two motor functions are sent to the PDS or DCS giving greater control over the motor.
Why is it important to test a motor before replacing a controller?
This is an important test to do on your motor before replacing the controller because a short could damage the new controller irreparably. Please note that this test will not find a short in the armature. Note that continuity testing is not directional, so it doesn’t matter if the red and black are reversed.
When did golf carts start having separate excited motors?
In 1999, some golf cart manufacturers started offering Separately Excited Motors. Sepex (Regenerative) Motor carts have a toggle switch F&R device as opposed to the lever-action. In addition to this identifier, they have a tow/run or tow/maintenance switch which cuts power to the controller. Most of the modern-day carts are equipped ...
What is a golf cart?
Golf carts are also known as golf cars. 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... link to Club Car DS Wiring Diagrams 1981 To 2002.
What to do if battery is too low?
If your batteries are too low for the charger to detect and it will not switch on, you’ll need to individually charge the batteries with a standard 12-volt battery charger. Once the batteries are at the minimum that the charger needs to see, there should be no problem charging them normally.
How to tell if a golf cart is bad?
Club Car golf cart bad MCOR symptoms 1 However, if there are erratic movements, say like 20%, then 60%, and then 15%, and likewise despite keeping the pedal pressed with uniform pressure, the MCOR is giving trouble. It will never reach 100%. 2 If it takes too much time for the MCOR reading to move up, the MCOR is malfunctioning. 3 The cart will not get enough speed as the motor will not move as per requirement and movement hiccups of the cart indicate that the motor is not getting enough or erratic power signals. It is a sign of a bad motor controller output regulator or the MCOR.
What does it mean when a club cart is bad?
The club cart bad MCOR symptoms are commonly diagnosed as a erratic throttle jump. While pressing the pedal, if the club cart’s throttle moves smoothly from 0% to 100%, then the MCOR is ok.
What is the difference between MCOR and Club Car Precedent?
There is not much difference between installing MCOR on Club car DS and Club car Precedent. Club cart DS has MCOR1 or Carryall type controller, and the mounting is a bit different. However, this model of MCOR is not available anymore or sparingly available. Other types of MCOR are used while charging, and it needs to change ...
What is a MCOR in a club car?
What is an MCOR in a club car? The throttle device of any club cart is known as MCOR or motor controller output regulator. As the foot pedal is pressed, the impulse is read by the electric motor and works accordingly.
What happens if you don't press the accelerator on a MCOR?
However, if the desired speed is not reached despite pressing the accelerator, the MCOR causes problems. One needs to change or repair the MCOR if no other trouble is detected for the cart’s power loss. The MCOR may have corroded over time and require replacement.
Why does my cart not get enough speed?
The cart will not get enough speed as the motor will not move as per requirement and movement hiccups of the cart indicate that the motor is not getting enough or erratic power signals. It is a sign of a bad motor controller output regulator or the MCOR.
Can you change the MOCR of a club class?
It is best to change the MOCR of the club class in this type of situation, and it only needs a screwdriver and a solder to fit the replacement because the broken side will never work if it touches the NC terminal.
How many ohms are slot cars?
Slot cars gauge the motors different then the rest of the motor world. they say a motor is 15 ohms or 25 ohms. the correct way to talk about a motor is how many turns the motor has and the thickness of the wire. is it a 13 turn double wind or a 44 turn single wind.
What is the difference between a high and low ohm controller?
ohms are steps of resistance. low ohms have low resistance, so low ohm armature should spin faster than a high ohm armature given everything else is equal. a high ohm controller will have more range and allow better handling. most controllers have a wire wrapped around a piece of ceramic. when one begins to pull the trigger the button touches ...
How many turns does a high ohm motor have?
a high ohm motor may have 60 turns on each coil, and a low ohm motor may have 40 turns with a thicker wire. the difference is more turns or higher ohms means more Torque less rpms. more rpms means lower torque with a low ohm motor.
Why do old brass cars need resistors?
by comparison a old brass car that will roll by breathing on it will require a huge ohms resistor because just touching the trigger will send it off down the track like a rocket ship. again it gets your finger on the trigger into a comfortable range of motion to maintain mid throttle control and drive the car.
Is 90 OHM good for a T jet?
that is a basic controller and there are many more that control the power different ways. it is said that a high OHM controller, 90+ OHMs is good for t-jets. each person learns to drive a little differently, so their choice of controller might be different. other, easier explanations due real soon!
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 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.
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.
The Importance of The Speed Controller
Speed Controller Functions
Programming Your Speed Controller
Determining Your Power Rating Needed
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...
Final Thoughts