It's the 1st of the month so that means it's time for another "how to" video for you DIY golfers out there. Many of our customers own gas golf carts. Every week we take calls from people that are having a hard time getting their carts to run. Sometimes they run intermittently. One minute the cart runs great, they other they can’t get the engine to turn over.

Lots of times people will mistake this for a dead battery; they will replace it and still have the same issue. Many times when this is a problem the brushes in your starter are worn out and need to be replaced.

This is a really common problem and an extremely easy fix! In this video we will show you how to troubleshoot and replace the starter generator brushes in your gas powered golf cart!

There doesn't seem to be a day that goes by at RMI Golf Carts that we don't receive phone calls or emails on the topic of battery chargers. Many times folks ask "do you guys sell chargers"? The answer is of course "yes"! But like we tell everyone that calls, more than likely you don't need to buy a new charger. Many people are shocked to know that most of the time they can be repaired.

Once this has been established, the next question is “How do I determine if it’s bad”, and "I’m pretty handy, what parts do I need"!!

So, we’ve decided to put together a "How to" video on repairing the E-Z-GO Powerwise Charger. This is the charger that works on all E-Z-GO PDS 36 volt carts. It seems to be the most popular charger out, and it’s the one we see the most.

Items you will need to repair and troubleshoot your E-Z-Go Powerwise Charger

Tools Needed	Parts You May Need
Philips head screw driver	Diode Stud Type - 2010
Needle nose pliers	E-Z-Go Powerwise Control Board
7/16 wrench	Powerwise 50 Amp Fuse
Voltage meter with buzzer

E-Z-Go Powerwise Charger troubleshooting quick guide

Did you check the end of the Powerwise charger handle?

More often than not the issue is with the charger handle. Inside the charger handle there's a little clip. These clips wear and get pushed out of place. Pull the clip back out, so that it is grounded to the post.

Did you check the charger cord?

People have a tendency to yank the cord out when they’re done charging, this can damage it. With power supply plugged in, lift up on the cord rotate it different directions to see if the charger comes on. If the charger doesn’t come on, then you have a bad connection somewhere else.

Did you check the fuse on the Powerwise charger?

Unplug the charger. Use the voltmeter and ground it to the screw next to the fuse, and press the other end to the opposite side of the fuss. If it was a bad fuse you voltmeter wouldn’t buzz or beep. If you have a bad fuse, here is the part number for the E-Z-Go Powerwise charger: replacement 50 amp fuse part number is 2810601G01

Did you check the diodes on the charger?

Ground the heatsink board. With the other wand, touch each diode separately. If any of the diodes beep or buzz, then all of the diodes need to be replaced. The part number for the Powerwise replacement diodes is 18488G1.

Did you take a look at the motherboard of the Powerwise charger?

If the charger comes on by pressing a screwdriver to the black connector, you know it’s bad (see video for details). The replacement part number for the Powerwise charger motherboard is 28667G01.

Did you check for current continuity along the charger handle and cord?

Use your voltmeter to test the positive end of the charger handle. Press the other end to the negative line coming in (near the fuse). This is just one last check to be sure, since often the handle of the E-Z-Go Powerwise Charger is where people tend to have issues.

Choosing a Golf Cart: Gas versus Electric Power

If you're in the market for a golf cart, one of the first decisions that you'll need to make is the choice between gas and electric power. While both models will get you across the green, one may suit your style or budget more than the other, so you'll need to consider the pros and cons of each type to make a fully-informed purchase decision.

But what if you've never bought a golf cart before? How can you be sure which features are better or cheaper than others? What should you look for in terms of power, performance and precision?

If you're new and confused in the world of golf carts, consider this your comprehensive guide to gas versus electric power.

How do golf carts work?

Gas-powered golf carts run on combustion engines. These engines are usually four-stroke, but older models might use two-stroke instead. They're fueled with regular gas like any car or truck.

Electric golf carts run on battery cells. Most of them are 36-volt or 48-volt. The batteries need to be regularly recharged to keep the cart going.

Price difference between electric and gas golf carts

It's difficult to give a price range for golf carts since there are so many factors that go into their cost, but speaking very generally, used gas-powered carts are more expensive than electric ones. They're also harder to find good used gas carts since there are fewer of them coming back in on trades.

On the flip side, electric carts can be cheaper depending on the condition of the batteries. At RMI Golf Carts, we sell every used golf cart with a set of brand new batteries. We are unique in that aspect. Many of our competitors will sell used carts with used batteries. That’s something to be mindful of when shopping.

Think carefully about your budget before you decide on your chosen golf cart. The decision that you make today could have a big impact on your expenses tomorrow.

Strength and durability of each golf cart

This too also depends on make and model. The common thought with most first time buyers is gas carts are more powerful than electrics. This can be true when looking at the older 36v carts, however the newer 48v carts, specifically the Yamaha and EZGO AC Electric carts have a ton of power and will actually pull hills just as well, or even better than many gas carts.

Pollution from golf carts

Gas-powered golf carts run on traditional fuel and produce carbon monoxide emissions. They do have a “gas smell” especially in confined area like a garage or shed. A lot of the newer gas models do a better job of routing exhaust and minimizing the gas smell.

Electric golf carts, on the other hand, produce no fumes or emissions. They run on rechargeable batteries that don't harm the surrounding environment. They're the "green" option for buyers concerned about their carbon footprint. When it comes to eco-friendliness, electric golf carts have a clear edge over gas ones.

Noise level of each golf cart

Electric golf carts accelerate quickly and quietly. They make very little noise on the green, so they're an attractive option for golfers who don't like to announce their presence on every hole.

Gas-powered golf carts are relatively noisy. Newer models are better in this regard than older ones, but even a high-tech gas vehicle can only muffle so much of the combustion engine's natural rumble. If noise level is an important concern of yours, you'll probably want to avoid a gas-powered golf cart.

Golf cart maintenance

All golf carts require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly, but the type and duration of this upkeep will vary depending on your cart's model, brand, size and power source.

Gas-powered golf carts need things like oil changes and replacement parts. You might need to repair anything from a spark plug to a starter belt, and if you aren't able to DIY it, you'll be on the hook for both labor and material costs. Gas carts also require a steady stream of fuel, and that will cost you every time that you're at the pump.

Electric golf carts require charging. Golf Carts need to be charged after every single use. If the cart is not being used regularly then they should be charged every few weeks. We normally don’t like going over a month without a good charge on the batteries. All electric carts do come with a charger. However, batteries will need replacing at some point. Again, this varies on usage and maintenance. Most of our customers get on average 4-5 years out of a set of batteries before they will need to be replaced. Finally the most important thing for maintenance on an electric cart is checking the water on the batteries. It’s a good habit to check the water level in the batteries once per month. Do this year around if possible! Doing this will significantly increase the life on the battery pack!

 

Golf cart considerations

Gas-powered golf carts can come with a fuel gauge that will let you know when you're running on empty. Electric carts don't always offer a battery gauge like this, though they can be purchased and installed as an extra.

Some electric golf carts are "street legal." They can be driven on roads and boulevards with speed limits less than 30-35 miles per hour.

With the purchase of any golf cart, it's important to look at their features and functions to ensure that you're making the right choice. How many passengers can sit comfortably? How much storage space do you have for your clubs? Does the cart's aesthetic match your personality?

Finding the right golf cart for you

Gas-powered golf carts are strong, steady operators. Electric golf carts are more convenient to use and better for the environment. There's no right or wrong answer when deciding which of these sounds more appealing to you; it all depends on your personal needs and preferences. No matter what you're looking for in a golf cart, just make sure that you give the matter plenty of thought before pulling out your credit card! 

 

Please feel free to reach out to us anytime with any questions!

Owning an E-Z-GO has never been more affordable!

E-Z-GO has partnered with Sheffield Financial to provide fixed, straight, installment loans for purchases of E-Z-GO vehicles. Sheffield offerings valid through May 31st include:

• • 0% interest rate for 48 months
• • 1.99% interest rate for 36 months
• • 5.99% interest rate for 60 months ($4,000 Min)

 

 

 

This is a cool video demonstrating some of the new and great features for the 2017 Yamaha QuieTech Golf Car. Stop by the showroom to test drive yourself. We have them in stock!

ELECTRIC GOLF CARS AND LEAD-ACID BATTERY CARE

A short check-list of how to take care of your electric golf car and its batteries, prepared by RMI Golf Carts, Olathe, Kansas.

Batteries: “RMI’s Rules of Battery Maintenance”

Rule #1: “Keep’ em Clean”  Keep the top of the battery cases clean and dry.  Sprinkle some baking soda on the cases and rinse them off when dirty with hose water; clean the green corrosion off the battery posts and cables with a wire brush whenever corrosion starts to form.  Treat the posts with spray terminal protector, not “AXLE GREASE”. 

Battery Cables:  It is very important to remove corrosion and keep the cable connections tight and a clean terminal with a tight connection is critical to the efficient and safe operation of your golf cart.  You should check the battery cable connections on the top of the batteries each month when you water your batteries.  Remove any corrosion, replace any damaged cables, and tighten the nuts on the cable terminals.

Rule #2: “Keep’ em Watered”   Although they need significantly less maintenance than automobiles, golf carts still require a certain amount of upkeep.  You may not realize it, but your golf cart batteries require maintenance throughout their life to keep them running reliably.  One integral aspect of this maintenance is battery watering. Unless you have a sealed battery, you should check the water level of your battery at regular intervals, usually about once a month, to ensure it is within the recommended range.  DO NOT let the electrolyte level fall below the top of the “plates” inside the cell!

Use distilled or reverse-osmosis filtered water if at all possible, to remove harmful minerals from the water you put into the batteries.  Using non-distilled water results in a buildup of minerals in the batteries that can negatively affect performance and lifespan.  Do your final water level check after the batteries are charged, and only fill to 1/8” below the bottom of the neck of the filler cap opening.  Over-filling causes the electrolyte to be ejected through the battery caps on to the top of the battery case. Throughout their lives, electric vehicle batteries may use up to a full 16 quarts of water.  Also, to avoid corrosion keep the plates from being exposed to the air.  For best results, clean all vent caps before replacing them.  Be sure they are tightly secured into place.  Under normal conditions you will never need to add acid. 

Rule #3: “Don’t let em Freeze”   This means keeping the batteries charged.  A fully-charged set won’t freeze until the temp falls to -92F.  A discharged set will freeze at 19F above.  The best care for an electric golf car is to play at least one round of golf every month.  If you cannot take your golf car out in the winter, check you charger every 30 days for a “green light”, and force a charge cycle by unplugging the charger from the car and plugging it back in.  Make sure your “run-tow switch” is on tow whenever the car is not in use. 

Charging Frequency:  “Charge your car Three Times!”  With modern fully-automatic chargers, your batteries like to be charged, and there is little danger of over-charging your batteries.  Charge your electric car three times:  “SOON, OFTEN… and at EVERY OPPORTUNITY!”  Lead-acid batteries do NOT have a “memory!”.  When you get a chance, “double charge” your batteries – run a second charge cycle before using your car.  Manufacturers call it “equalization charging,” and it forces a full charge on every cell. (Normally the charger shuts down when the battery pack meets specifications, and one or more cells are left under-charged).  If you can “equalize” once every month, you are “getting it done!” 

Undercharging – Leaving the golf car inactive for over 2 months will reduce the battery life.  Continually operating the battery in a partial state of charge, or storing the battery in a discharged state result in the formation of lead sulfate compounds on the plates.  Sulfating reduces the battery’s performance and may cause premature battery failure.

Under-Watering – In a deep cycle lead acid battery, water is lost during the charging process.  If the electrolyte (water/acid) level drops below the top of the plates, irreparable damage may occur, as the plates will get hot, warp and crack leaving the battery weak and inefficient.  Water levels should be checked and maintained routinely. 

Over-Watering - Excessive watering of a battery results in dilution of the electrolyte, overflow, reduced battery performance, and unnecessary maintenance which may be messy and damage the floor.

New Batteries: “Season” with care! – New batteries like to be “seasoned” if possible.  If you can, just play nine holes before charging.  Repeat for several days.  (We know this will be a hardship)  And then play no more than 18 before charging, for as many times as possible.  Always charge your batteries after play.  The batteries will get better and better “run time” capacity for the first 50-100 charge cycles.  Finally, remember to bring your golf car in at least every two years for a “discharge test”, which will often detect a faulty battery before you have to replace the full battery set.

 

E-Z-GO is now offering an extended warranty program on New Freedom Gas RXV and TXT Models. Freedom's come with a standard 36 month warranty. Now, you can purchase a 12 month extended warranty for a cost of $499. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty cover? A. The E-Z-GO Extended Warranty covers the repair or replacement of factory-installed drive train parts, including engine, CVT drive system, and transaxle.

2. When does coverage begin? A. Coverage under the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty begins when manufacturer’s warranty term has expired. For example, on a Valor, manufacturer’s warranty is 12 months from vehicle registration. With a 12 month E-Z-GO Extended Warranty, coverage begins in the 13th month and lasts through the 24th month from vehicle registration.

3. What happens if a customer sells or trades their vehicle? A. The E-Z-GO Extended Warranty is not transferable to a new owner.

4. If modifications are made to the vehicle, will the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty still cover the vehicle? A. Any modifications or alterations made to the vehicle that go beyond any E-Z-GO Genuine Parts and Pro-Fit® accessories are not covered under the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty.

5. Is the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty accepted at all dealerships? A. Yes, all E-Z-GO authorized dealers will accept the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty.

6. When can the E-Z-GO Extended Warranty be purchased? A. The E-Z-GO Extended Warranty can only be purchased within 30 days of vehicle registration.

7. Can this be sold in commercial applications? A. No. The E-Z-GO Extended Warranty is not for commercial customers.

 

Upgrade the unmatched performance of the Freedom® RXV® with unmatched style and class. This vehicle offers the ultimate package with a luxury automotive paint scheme and premium, two tone vinyl seats. Top it off with a sleek, 12” wheel, fold-down windshield and black sun canopy, and you’ve got the envy of the neighborhood. Of course, what’s on the inside counts too. This limited edition vehicle comes equipped with the Smart Link™ golf car monitoring system making this the smartest, most stylish vehicle on the market.

We only have 6 available so get yours while they last! Remember, there is  financing available on all New E-Z-GO Units!