Your ignition is a circuit, and the ignition switch is kind of like a light switch that closes that circuit, allowing ignition to take place. By jumping, or bypassing, that switch you’re making an always closed (or hot, hence hot-wired) circuit. Get it? Good. So, for safety, you’ll want to turn of the power switch if possible first.
Full Answer
Why won't my golf cart start when turned on?
If the switch is partially set in between modes, it can result in your cart failing to start correctly. Locate the ignition wire on your golf cart. This wire goes from the golf cart key switch assembly to your cart's starter. Visually inspect the solenoid area of the starter, where the key switch wire plugs into the cart.
Can you replace the ignition switch on a Club Car CART?
Although the basic working and mechanism of most of the carts are the same, there still are minor differences in the internal workings. So, if you are looking to replace the ignition switch of a Club Car golf cart, the steps that you followed for the E-Z-GO may not help.
Where is the ignition wire on a golf cart starter?
Locate the ignition wire on your golf cart. This wire goes from the golf cart key switch assembly to your cart's starter. Visually inspect the solenoid area of the starter, where the key switch wire plugs into the cart. On some cart models, this end of the key switch wire can become dislodged during use on rough terrain.
What should I do if my golf cart key switch is loose?
If you see that the wire plug is hanging free from the starter assembly or appears dislodged, plug it back into the solenoid or re-seat the plug and attempt to restart your golf cart. Replace the golf cart key switch wire if the connector to the key switch or solenoid is significantly frayed or corroded.
What does igniter on club car do?
The ignitor boosts the signal and sends it to the ignition coil. The coil then creates the large spark that goes to the spark plug and fires the gas mixture in the cylinder. Ignitors can be the cause of a weak spark or they may fail completely and then the coil cannot create any spark at all.
How do you start a Club Car golf cart without a key?
Quick Screwdriver Method:Insert the tip of your screwdriver in the ignition switch's slot.Move the screwdriver up and down gently but firmly until you can turn the tool around the same way you would turn a key.This should fire up the cart. ... Another method would be hot-wiring which involves working the wires.
How do you test a club car ignition switch?
Testing a Club Car Ignition SwitchFind the back and red wires on the back of your battery pack.Connect the black wire to the negative terminal and the red to the positive.Keep the cart turned off while you work on it.Check the wires with a probe meter while the cart is off – only one wire should have a charge.More items...
How do you hotwire a golf cart ignition?
InstructionsEnsure that power to the cart is turned on.Locate the two wires connected to the cart's ignition. ... Cut the wires and strip the ends.Touch the ends of the wires together to force the engine to turn over without turning the ignition.Secure the wires together with electrical tape.
How do you bypass the ignition switch on a club car?
This process includes these steps:Turn off the ignition switch to minimize your risk of electrocution. ... Locate the wires for your cart's ignition switch. ... Use wire snips to cut these wires away from their connectors. ... Touch the engines together carefully to bypass the ignition switch and send power to your engine.More items...
How do you hotwire a club car?
1:164:28How To Start A Golf Cart Without A Key - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI'm going to use a paperclip. And a small screwdriver to try this one it involves just moving theMoreI'm going to use a paperclip. And a small screwdriver to try this one it involves just moving the tumblers up while you're applying pressure to the cylinder.
How can you tell if the ignition switch is bad?
Keep reading to see all of the common signs of a faulty ignition switch.Car Won't Start. If you turn your key and the car attempts to start, but fails, then you might have a broken ignition switch. ... Key Won't Turn. ... Car Stalls. ... No Noise From The Starter. ... Dashboard Lights Flicker.
How do you troubleshoot an ignition switch?
2:183:51How to diagnose a No Start Condition - Ignition Switch - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLet's go ahead and check as simple as it may sound your problem can be just as simple as a worn outMoreLet's go ahead and check as simple as it may sound your problem can be just as simple as a worn out key or some keys actually have anti-theft. Built into them which could be bad.
What would cause a gas golf cart not to fire?
First, try this: turn the key switch on, hit the accelerator, and check for a clicking noise. If you don't hear clicking, it's time to take a look at your cart's batteries. Make sure the battery is fully charged and the terminals are cleaned and secure. Next, see how the water level in the battery is holding up.
Do golf carts have universal keys?
A key will not work on all golf carts. Instead, they are limited to the vehicles manufactured by that company. For example, if you lost the keys to your E-Z-Go TXT Elite, you would not be able to use a Clubcar cart key. Therefore, in most cases, golf cart keys are universal relative to the manufacturer.
How do you bypass a solenoid on a golf cart?
Bypassing Golf Cart Solenoid Method If you do decide to bypass the solenoid, this is what you need to do: Take the two larger wires that connect to the solenoid and connect them directly (keeping all safety precautions in place). This should do the trick and if it does not work then the solenoid is not the problem.
How do you start a Club Car golf cart?
0:112:14How To Start a Golf Cart - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipForward neutral and reverse okay so what we do is we take the key. We move it to on we don't goMoreForward neutral and reverse okay so what we do is we take the key. We move it to on we don't go anywhere we're actually on a slight hill.
What does it mean when your car sounds like it has a bad ground?
it sounds like a bad ground somewhere or broken wire that reconnects when its moved. make sure the grounds from the engine and ignitor are good, if a replacement part fails and the original part solves the problem tells me that the problem is in the wiring harness or connectors.
What is the pulser coil on a flywheel?
the pulser coil from the flywheel tells the ignitor when to send power to fire the coil. the ignitor replaced the points and condenser that was in the older engines.
How many wires should an ignition switch have?
Also, the ignition switch should only have the two wires going to it anyway. If there are three, then don’t use the black one. If there are more than three, then a wiring diagram may help, but trial and error will eventually find the right pair.
Can you use a friend's key on a golf cart?
Use a friend’s key. Maybe your friend is with you and they have a golf cart from the same brand. Whether it’s E-Z-GO, Yamaha, or Club Car golf carts, as long as the brand is the same, the key is usually the same, too. Hopefully, you can just use their golf cart key and not have to worry about it. This is also a fun way to pull a prank, ...
Can you trick a golf cart into starting?
It will eventually become inconvenient having to figure a way to trick your golf cart into starting. Of course, if you’re already going to have to wait for a key, you might as well order a new, key specific ignition switch to make your golf cart more secure.
Can you hot wire a golf cart?
Whether you do this by simply replacing the key, installing a new ignition switch, or any other method, it’s essential that you only hot wire your golf cart for only as long as absolutely necessary, since it causes undue stress on the wires and battery. This can void your warranty and cause other issues down the line.
Is it easier to start a golf cart than a car?
Fortunately, golf carts are a lot easier to start than a traditional car. Whether you have an E-Z-GO, Yamaha, Club Car, or any other type of golf cart, the process is very similar, and this article will walk you through it. The issue with having the right key can come up, especially if you bought a used golf cart and didn’t get a second set of keys.
Can you start a golf cart without a key?
So, you need to start your golf cart without a key. There are two ways to accomplish this, one is really easy, but only works sometimes, and the other is a little complicated, but will work every time without fail if you do it right. Generally speaking, you’re gonna want to start with the first method, and only approach the second if ...
Is an ignition switch a circuit?
Your ignition is a circuit, and the ignition switch is kind of like a light switch that closes that circuit, allowing ignition to take place. By jumping, or bypassing, that switch you’re making an always closed (or hot, hence hot-wired) circuit.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
Why does my gas cart not turn over?
In a gas cart, a bad solenoid prevents the starter from being engaged and therefore results in the engine not turning over.
Solenoid – why do golf players use it?
Before explaining what are symptoms of a bad solenoid on a golf cart, let’s clarify its definition and purpose for golf players.
What are the symptoms of a bad solenoid on a golf cart?
There are a few signs that a golf cart has problems because of a bad solenoid. You may have even one of these signs detected to become worried. Don’t ignore the following symptoms of a bad solenoid! Ignoring these issues will only make them worse and worse. For instance, a bad solenoid may result in buying a new starter.
How to check solenoid if you own a gas golf cart?
If you suspect the symptoms of the bad solenoid on a gas golf cart, the major problem is usually related to the failure of large contacts. The starter may continue working, even with the ignition turned off. Make sure to check the spring – it shouldn’t be worn down, to pull the pinion back to the neutral position.
How to check solenoid if you own an electric golf cart?
There are certain symptoms of the bad solenoid on an electric golf cart. The lack of any clicking noise when starting the cart’s ignition. The clicks must be heard each time when you switch on and off the ignition. If you don’t hear any clicks, then the solenoid may no longer send electric power to the golf cart.
A step-by-step guide to check a golf cart for a bad solenoid
GolfProfy.com is a website where I post articles for golf players. Every review is supported not just by experience but also includes the tips and opinions of my friends who specialize in golf equipment or techniques. For instance, my friend who is a golf cart technician for a few years wrote this instruction for checking a bad solenoid:
The simplest way to bypass solenoid on a golf cart
If you don’t have a voltmeter and you don’t intend to invest in it, there is another way how to bypass solenoid on a golf cart. Just attempt connecting two large wires of terminals of the solenoid. Then attempt to operate the cart. If it doesn’t work, the solenoid is not your problem. Test the entire ignition system.
Final thoughts
Remember that solenoid is one of the cheapest parts for replacement. Though, without checking and replacing it you risk having a malfunctioning or completely broken golf cart. Make sure to consult experts on how to bypass solenoid on a golf cart before trying it on your own.
Why does my golf cart solenoid not move?
It could be faulty, worn out, or have a loose connection. The contacts could have overheated which not only causes problems and damage but is also a potential danger. If you find that the golf cart solenoid just clicks but does not move it could be one of several issues and more diagnostics will be necessary.
Why does my gas cart not engage?
This is often the result of the contacts not releasing. What it does is cause the starter to operate continuously, even when the ignition is in the off position.
What is a solenoid on a golf cart?
The solenoid on a golf cart, be it gas or electric, is a simple yet critical component, It is often appropriately referred to as the heart of the golf cart. Without getting too complicated, at this stage, it is responsible for transferring power to the vehicle.
Why is a golf cart important?
A golf cart makes the game more enjoyable and speeds up play. It also allows older people to enjoy the game even if they do not have the fitness to walk the distance. One of the most important components of the cart is the solenoid. It also happens to be the part most likely to give you issues. We take a look at the importance ...
Can a golf solenoid cause a golf cart to not work?
It is important to look out for these symptoms and take corrective action when necessary. A faulty solenoid could not only leave you without a functioning golf cart but poses a safety risk.
Do electric golf carts have solenoid issues?
Electric golf carts are also prone to solenoid issues although they are slightly less prevalent than with gas models. When you use the ignition, you expect to hear a click sound. If you do not hear this sound when using the ignition, it is quite likely to be an issue with the solenoid.
Can you bypass a solenoid?
As an emergency hack or last resort, you can bypass the solenoid. Only do this if you do not have access to multimeter or voltmeter and only in an emergency. It can be a useful practice but there it does pose some danger to you as well as the other components in the golf cart.
Why replace the key wire on a golf cart?
Replace the golf cart key switch wire if the connector to the key switch or solenoid is significantly frayed or corroded. Over time, corrosion will build up on the ends of the wire due to exposure to damp weather. Significant corrosion build-up can prevent your cart from starting consistently and ultimately result in the cart failing to start.
What direction does a golf cart transmission selector go?
Confirm that your golf cart transmission selector switch is set fully to the forward, reverse or park direction , depending on your model of golf cart. If the switch is partially set in between modes, it can result in your cart failing to start correctly.
What is a golf cart go switch?
On your golf cart, this high powered circuit is either your ignition on a gas golf cart or your electrical motor power circuit for an electric golf cart. Basically it’s your golf cart’s go switch, and it’s absolutely essential to your golf cart’s ability to do its job. Golf cart solenoids are also typically one of the first components ...
Why does my golf cart have no solenoid?
Golf cart solenoids are also typically one of the first components to fail in your golf cart, because they work very hard, turning on and off every time you stop and go in your golf cart. If you have an issue with no start or no go then your solenoid should be pretty high on your list of things to check.
What happens if a solenoid reads infinity?
If it reads infinity or open lead, then the solenoid has an internal fault and requires replacement. Your solenoid should also have a range that it operates in, and if the resistance reads outside of that range, you should replace the solenoid even if it works to avoid damaging other components.
What is a solenoid on a golf cart?
A solenoid, for our purposes, is a type of relay. A relay is a type of switch that uses a low power circuit to operate a high power circuit. A solenoid uses a magnetic coil (the actual solenoid) on a low power circuit to push a rod that closes a high power circuit. On your golf cart, this high powered circuit is either your ignition on ...
What is the most important part of a golf cart?
One of the most important components of your golf cart is the solenoid. It is one of the main components of your golf cart that allows it to move. Whether you have a Yamaha, E-Z-GO, or Club Car golf cart, and no matter if it is an electric or gas golf cart, you need a properly operating solenoid to get anywhere. Contents [ show]
What to do if your solenoid doesn't work?
Before you run out and get a solenoid, you’ll have to test the entire ignition system this way to find out what’s not working, and it is a bit of a pain.
What is a micro switch on a gas pedal?
This switch is what sends the low power to the solenoid. The solenoid uses this to create a circuit between the battery and the starter, thus starting your motor and getting you grooving.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.