the golf cart will start up and
possibly take off, without
hesitation. And as you travel,
no matter how firmly you press
on the gas pedal, the cart will
not accelerate - even if it does
momentarily, you won’t be able
to maintain that level of accel-
eration.
Problems with the sped con-
troller occur for a variety of
reasons, but most often the
cause is degradation due to
age or lack of use. When you
replace the speed controller,
since this device works so
closely with the solenoid, it’s
typically best to replace them
at the same time, even if the
solenoid is not showing signs
of distress.
3. Direction Switches Wear
The direction switches some-
times referred to as the for-
ward and reverse switches,
may also wear and fail over
time. As the name suggests,
the direction switches manage
the cart’s ability to move back-
ward and forwards and operate
similarly to a transmission.
A key indication of a direction
switch failure is when the cart
powers on and operates nor-
mally, but will only move in
one direction, such as back-
ward but not forward. In this
instance, this means that only
one of the switches is failing. If
the cart doesn’t move in either
direction, both switches have
failed.
Diagnosing a problem with the
direction switches isn’t a com-
plicated matter, but repairing
the switch is more complex,
especially if the switches are
built into the speed controller.
In some instances, it’s more
efficient to replace the switch
rather than attempt to perform
the repair.
To avoid these common prob-
lems with your electric golf
carts, commit to regular ser-
vice, as a technician will be
able to spot signs of wear long
before the switches fail.
Don’t let an issue with your
electric golf cart keep you from
the greens. As with other me-
chanical issues, the sooner you
tackle the problem, the sooner
you can get your cart up and
running efficiently again.
Do you have an interesting golf
cart related article or repair tip?
Send it to us at info@golfcarop-
tions.com and we will place it in
an upcoming issue, giving you, or
your business full credit.
DECEMBER 2018
13