How to Make a Golf Cart Faster? [Top Tips and Modifications]
Golf carts are essential to the golfing experience, allowing golfers to navigate the course quickly and comfortably. However, if you want to take your golfing game to the next level, you might want to make your golf cart faster.
Increasing the speed of your golf cart can make a significant difference in your game, allowing you to get to your ball quicker and shave off valuable seconds from your competition.
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks to make a golf cart faster while ensuring safety and keeping the legal limits in mind.
How To Make A Golf Cart Faster?
If you want to make your golf cart faster, you can make a few modifications. However, it is essential to note that modifying your golf cart may void its warranty, and some changes may be illegal in your area.
Always check your local laws and regulations before modifying your golf cart. Here are some steps you can take to make your golf cart faster:
#1- Upgrade the Motor
Upgrading the golf cart motor can improve its speed and overall performance. However, it is crucial to remember that modifying the motor can also affect the lifespan of the golf cart and may void its warranty. Here are some steps to consider when upgrading the golf cart motor:
- Determine the type of motor that is currently installed in the golf cart. This information can be found in the owner’s manual or by contacting the manufacturer.
- Research the different types of motors available for golf carts. There are many aftermarket motors available that can provide more power and speed.
- Consider the voltage and amperage of the new motor. The motor’s voltage must match the golf cart’s battery system, and the amperage must be compatible with the controller.
- Choose a reputable motor supplier and ensure the motor comes with a warranty.
- Install the new motor following the manufacturer’s instructions or have it installed by a professional mechanic.
- Test the golf cart to ensure the new motor is functioning correctly.
- Consider upgrading other components, such as the controller and batteries, to optimize the performance of the upgraded motor.
Overall, upgrading the golf cart motor can be a great way to improve its performance. Still, it’s essential to do thorough research and consider all of the potential implications before making any modifications.
#2- Install a High-Speed Gear Set
A high-speed gear set can increase your golf cart’s speed by changing the gear ratio. This modification can be relatively simple and significantly improve your golf cart’s acceleration and top speed.
The process for changing gears on a golf cart can vary depending on its specific make and model and the type of transmission it uses. However, here are some general steps that may apply to many golf carts:
- Ensure the golf cart is at a complete stop before shifting gears.
- Locate the gear selector lever or switch on the golf cart. This may be located on the dashboard or console, a lever, or a series of buttons.
- Determine which gear you need to shift into. Most golf carts have standard forward and reverse gears, but some may also have additional gears for different speeds or terrain.
- Press the brake pedal down fully to disengage the cart’s motor and transmission.
- Move the gear selector lever or switch to the desired gear. This may involve pushing or pulling the lever or pressing a button. Refer to the golf cart’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to shift gears.
- Release the brake pedal slowly and gradually press the accelerator pedal to move the golf cart to the selected gear.
- Pay attention to any warning lights or sounds that may indicate a problem with the gear selection or transmission. If you experience any issues, stop the cart immediately and seek professional assistance.
#3- Upgrade the Controller
The controller regulates the amount of power sent to the motor. Upgrading to a high-performance controller can improve your golf cart’s acceleration and speed. Here are the steps to upgrade the controller of a golf cart:
- Identify the type of controller your golf cart has
The first step in upgrading the controller of your golf cart is to identify the type of controller it currently has. Several types of controllers are available, such as Series, Sepex, and PMDC.
- Determine the type of upgrade you need
Once you have identified the current controller, determine the type of upgrade you need. Do you want to increase your golf cart’s speed, torque, or efficiency? Depending on your requirements, you can choose an appropriate controller.
- Choose a compatible controller
Select a controller that is compatible with your golf cart’s motor, battery pack, and wiring. Make sure to check the specifications and compatibility of the controller before purchasing it.
- Install the new controller
Once you have the new controller, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it. This may involve disconnecting the old controller, mounting the new one, and connecting the wiring.
- Test the golf cart
After installing the new controller, test your golf cart to ensure it works correctly. Check the speed, acceleration, and efficiency to ensure the upgrade is successful.
#4- Install Larger Tires
Larger tires can increase your golf cart’s ground clearance, which can be useful for off-road driving.
They can also improve your golf cart’s top speed as they cover more ground with each revolution. Here are the steps to install larger tires on a golf cart:
- Determine the size of the new tires that you want to install. The new tire size should be compatible with the existing wheels and should not exceed the maximum size allowed by the golf cart manufacturer.
- Remove the old tires and wheels from the golf cart. This can be done by lifting the golf cart and removing the lug nuts that hold the tires in place.
- Install the new tires onto the wheels. Make sure that the new tires are correctly inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Mount the new wheels and tires onto the golf cart. This can be done by placing the wheels on the hub and tightening the lug nuts.
- Test the golf cart to ensure the larger tires are correctly installed and the handling and speed are not negatively impacted.
- Finally, it is essential to check the alignment and suspension of the golf cart after installing larger tires to ensure there are no issues with the steering or handling of the vehicle.
#5- Add a Lift Kit
A lift kit can raise your golf cart’s suspension, allowing you to install larger tires and improve its off-road capabilities.
It can also improve your golf cart’s top speed, reducing the drag caused by the ground. Here are the steps you can take to add a lift kit to your golf cart:
- Determine the type of lift kit you need
Lift kits come in different types and sizes, and you need to choose the one compatible with your golf cart. Make sure to research and select equipment specifically designed for your golf cart model.
- Gather the necessary tools
You will need essential hand tools such as sockets, wrenches, and pliers, as well as a jack, jack stands, and a torque wrench.
- Lift the golf cart
Use the jack to lift the golf cart off the ground and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheels
Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels. This will allow you to access the suspension system.
- Install the lift kit
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the lift kit onto your golf cart. This typically involves replacing the existing suspension components with new ones with additional height.
- Reinstall the wheels
Once the lift kit is installed, put the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
- Lower the golf cart
Use the jack to lower the golf cart back onto the ground and remove the jack stands.
- Test the golf cart
Take your golf cart for a test drive to ensure that the lift kit has been installed correctly and that the golf cart is operating smoothly.
Safety considerations to keep in mind when trying to make a golf cart faster
here are some safety considerations to keep in mind if you choose to modify a golf cart to make it faster:
- Ensure you have the knowledge and experience to modify a golf cart safely.
- Ensure you follow all local laws and regulations regarding golf cart modifications and usage.
- Upgrade the brakes to ensure they can handle the increased speed.
- Install seat belts and roll cages to provide additional safety in an accident.
- Replace the stock tires with high-performance tires that can handle the increased speed.
- Ensure the suspension and steering system is upgraded to handle the additional speed.
- Upgrade the electrical system to handle the increased power demands.
- Use high-quality components that are designed for performance and durability.
- Have a professional mechanic inspect the modified golf cart to ensure it is safe and roadworthy before driving it.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet and safety glasses, when operating a modified golf cart.