Golf Cart Guru
• When an electric golf cart stops working
we start by looking at the batteries,
checking cables doing voltage tests, maybe
even a load test of the batteries.
In previous articles, I’ve talked about
“voltage flow” and several ways to test
various motor controllers. I’ve written
about why the solenoid might not be
activating and how to test the throttle.
This time I’ll talk about test running a
motor. Many times when we’re diagnosing
a non-functioning cart we completely
overlook the motor. Obviously, the motor
is a vital component of the drive system.
To test run a Regen, Shunt wound motor:
• Remove all cables from the motor
• Connect a jumper from A1 to F1 and a
jumper from A2 to F2
• Connect 12 to 24 volts; positive at A 1/F1
and negative at A2/F2
• Swap F1 and F2 to change rotation
direction
The
Is your golf car making a funny
sound? Do you have a repair
question? Need to know
how to install something?
Ask the Golf Car Guru.
NOTE: Some motors are labeled S1 and S2
in place of F1 and F2
CAUTION
Allowing a motor to spin at high ROM can cause
catastrophic failure! •
To perform any of these tests the motor
must remain mounted to the differential
for support. When not mounted to the
differential the armature is only supported
on one end by an internal bearing.
If you put voltage into the motor and spin
it while un-mounted the armature will
destroy itself as it bangs around inside the
motor case.
Obviously, don’t try to spin the motor with
the tires on the ground... the cart will move
rather abruptly. be sure to have at least
the rear supported on jack-stands.
Test Run A Motor
To test run a series motor:
• Remove all cables from the motor
• Connect a jumper from A1 to S1
• Connect 12 to 24 volts; positive at A2 and
negative at S2
• Swap S1 and S2 to change rotation
direction
Have a question? Send it to Tim at: [email protected]
MAY 2018
19