HOW TO
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Golf Carts
Golf carts frequently become damaged because of overuse,
improper use or a lack of maintenance. The latter often results
in dead batteries, which can be fixed rather simply. A few other
common problems include flat tires, bent or broken rims and
body damage.
Replace the battery on the golf cart if the cart does not start.
Since nearly all golf carts are electric, the battery often runs
down and when empty the cart will not function at all. Remove
the battery by disconnecting the cables to the battery termi-
nals. Wearing gloves, remove the battery and replace it with a
fresh one. Immediately recharge the old battery by hooking it
up to a battery charger.
Check the battery terminals. If the cart still does not func-
tion with a fresh battery installed (one you are certain is fully
charged), remove the battery cables and clean them by brush-
ing with a wire brush. Inspect the battery case for leaks, cracks
or damage. If the casing is cracked, a fresh battery needs to be
installed.
Inspect the tires on the golf cart. They should be fully inflated
and there should be no sags around the bottom of the tires.
Each tire will indicate the air pressure rating on the rim. Using
an air pump, inflate each tire to this proper pressure. This can
correct problems with the steering like constant swerving to
one side.
To fix a flat tire, first attempt to inflate the tire with an electric
air pump. Listen for hissing sounds (air being released) and see
if the tire remains inflated. If not, jack up the golf cart on a car
jack. Remove the lug nuts that secure the tire to the axle and
remove the entire wheel rim and tire. Replace the complete
wheel rim and tire with a new one.
Accelerator issues are another common golf cart problem. To
fix an accelerator issue, inspect the accelerator pad. On EZGO
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golf carts these include a lever
mechanism. Using a matching
socket wrench, tighten the bolts
which secure the pad lever to the
accelerator rod. Inspect the lever
mechanism to ensure it is not
stuck. Apply grease, or remove the
pad by loosening the attaching
screw at the base. Sand away rust
and clean, then paint the pad with
automotive grade spray paint and
replace the pad.