DIY Maintenance For Gas Golf Carts
Nowadays, golf carts are common enough sights even if you don’t ever go golfing. The reason for this popularity is how easy and convenient an addition they can be to your daily life. An increasing number of Americans now use their golf carts for running errands, visiting neighbors, landscaping, and many other errands. As fun as they are to own, taking some basic care of your vehicle will ensure it lasts longer.
As your leading golf cart dealer in Prescott Valley, Arizona Ranch & Resort Cars is here to help you perform some simple cart maintenance steps. Read through our guide below and, when you need professional golf cart service and repair near Flagstaff or Surprise, contact our friendly service team for more help!
The Engine
A gas golf cart has an ‘on-demand’ engine. This means the engine works only when you step on the gas pedal and shuts off as soon as you take your foot off. This helps save gas, keep noise levels down and reduce emissions. To keep your engine in good shape, check fuel levels and fix any leaks regularly. Ensure the battery cables aren’t frayed and are tightly connected. If the distributor cap has any moisture, dry it out completely. Check the spark plugs and the air filter. Also, inspect the fuel lines and fix any cracks or leaks.
The Solenoid
The wire that acts as a magnet when carrying an electric current is called the solenoid. It’s a crucial part of your golf cart as it’s responsible for starting your engine. To inspect the solenoid, you need to get a voltmeter, which checks the voltage of a circuit and then moves a pointer across a scale. In short, a voltmeter shows you how much electricity is flowing from the ignition to the engine. A weak result means you’ll have weak start-ups, which destroy your battery over time. You should ideally check the solenoid every two months to make sure it’s working properly.
The Brakes
Check the brake pedal to ensure the pivots move easily and the springs are clean and well-lubricated. Remove the drum (the big part the wheel is attached to) and check the internal components. The shoes should have at least 1mm of material and an even wear pattern. Use a brake cleaner on the bracket system and springs. If there’s any squeaking, clean the drum properly (remember squeaking sounds in the rain are usually normal). If there’s any grinding, it’s either a part problem or the shoes have worn down; replace whatever is causing the problem.
The Tires
Tires are the main buffer between your golf cart and the road, so pay attention to them. If you over-inflate them, it lowers traction by reducing the amount of contact made with the road, and it lowers the tire’s life too. Under-inflated tires have to work harder to move, thereby increasing fuel consumption. Always inflate the tires to the recommended level. Also check the tread to ensure it’s not too low or completely bald. Such tires can blow up, sometimes leading to injury by causing loss of control.
The Lights & Mirrors
When you ride a street legal golf cart, you can’t ignore the lights and mirrors on your vehicle. Turn signals, headlights and brake lights should all be functioning well. Replace any burnt-out bulb or socket. If the lights don't work, you may have to replace the 12-volt fuse. You probably drive your golf cart in areas with little to no traffic so you may think mirrors aren’t important but it’s actually illegal to drive without functioning mirrors. Take care of the side mirrors and wing mirrors on the windshield by making sure there are no obstructions and that all thumb screws are tight.
We hope these tips help your golf cart last for yeast to come! If you need more information or are looking for expert golf cart repair and service in Prescott Valley, contact the trained technicians at Arizona Ranch & Resort Cars and we’ll have your vehicle running smoothly in no time! We’re proud to be the leading golf cart dealer for Flagstaff and Surprise, AZ!