Maintaining Your Gas Golf Cart

Golf carts are no longer just for golfing greens; they’re used by a wide cross-section of people for a number of purposes, such as landscaping, event management, and even traveling across campuses or neighborhoods. While it’s pretty easy to care for these machines, following some basic maintenance steps will work out for you in the long run.

At Van Wert Carts we want your gas golf cart to last you a long time, so we’ve compiled this list of ways you can care for it at home. To check out E-Z-GO® TXT® gas golf carts and Yamaha golf-car gas fleet, come to our dealership in Van Wert, Ohio. We welcome all our patrons from Decatur and Fort Wayne, IN. 

Engine

The engine in your gas golf cart is an ‘on-demand’ one, which means that it works only when you step on the gas pedal and switches off as soon as you take your foot off. This helps reduce emissions, save gas and keep noise levels low. Regularly check the engine fuel levels and fix any leaks. Battery cables should be tightly connected and unfrayed. 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. 

Solenoid

Your gas golf cart uses a solenoid, which is a wire that becomes magnetic when carrying an electric current. Without it, your engine wouldn’t even start. You need to get a voltmeter (which checks the voltage of a circuit and then moves a pointer across a scale) to check the solenoid. This will show you exactly how much electricity is flowing from the ignition to the engine. If you get a weak result, it’ll lead to weak start-ups, which will eventually destroy the battery. You should ideally check the solenoid every two months to make sure it’s working properly.

Brakes

When you check the brake pedal, ensure the pivots can move freely and that the springs are well-lubricated and clean. The big part your gas golf cart’s wheel is attached to is called the ‘drum’; remove it and check the components inside. 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. 

Tires

Tires are often overlooked during the DIY maintenance process but they shouldn’t be because they’re the main buffer between your gas golf car and the road. If you over-inflate your tires, it’ll reduce the amount of contact made with the road and, therefore, reduce traction. This lowers the tire’s life. When under-inflated, tires have to work harder to move, which increases fuel consumption. Check your owner’s manual and inflate it according to the recommended levels. 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. 

We hope these tips will help you keep your gas golf cart in great shape for years to come. For professional service and repair, come to Van Wert Carts and we’ll whip your vehicle into shape in no time! If you’re looking for golf carts for sale in Decatur and Fort Wayne, IN, we have a wide selection of E-Z-GO® TXT® gas golf carts and the Yamaha Golf-Car gas fleet for you to choose from, so get in touch with us today.