I have a queston about my Electric EZGO RXV. I’m facing some brake issues and I’m wondering, can I actually run it without the brakes? I know it sounds risky, but I’m curious if it’s even possible. Has anyone tried this or knows if it can be done safely? Any advice would be a lifesaver right now!
Response
I recall a buddy of mine had a similar issue with his RXV. He tried running it without the brakes, but it wasn’t the best idea. Safety-wise, it’s a big no-no. You might want to reconsider or look for alternative solutions.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace Motor Brake | 3 | $50 – $100 | 60 – 120 |
| Check Brake Wiring and Controller | 2 | $0 – $50 | 30 – 60 |
| Adjust Brake Pedal Mechanism | 1 | $0 (if DIY) | 15 – 30 |
| Inspect and Clean Brake System | 1 | $0 – $20 | 30 – 60 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart not functioning properly or safely without brakes.
- Potential safety hazards when operating the cart.
- Uncertainty about the functionality of the cart without its braking system.
Possible Causes
- Considering running the cart without a proper braking system due to existing brake issues.
- Seeking alternative solutions to bypass brake problems.
Solutions that Worked
1. Replace Motor Brake
- What I Did: Replaced the motor brake as a safer alternative to running without brakes.
- Outcome: The cart was safe to use again with a functioning brake system.
- Personal Experience: It was a more responsible choice than risking running without brakes.
- Steps:
- Identify the Motor Brake: Locate the brake near the motor.
- Safety Precautions: Disconnect the power source before starting.
- Remove and Replace: Carefully replace the old motor brake with a new one.
- Test the Brake: Ensure it engages and disengages correctly.
- Expert Tip: Never compromise on safety. Replacing a faulty brake is always better than running without one.
2. Check Brake Wiring and Controller
- What I Did: Inspected the brake wiring and controller for faults.
- Outcome: Resolved the brake issues without having to run the cart without brakes.
- Personal Experience: A thorough check saved me from a risky situation.
- Steps:
- Inspect Wiring: Check all connections and wires leading to the brake.
- Controller Check: Ensure the controller is functioning properly.
- Repair or Replace: Fix any issues found during the inspection.
- Expert Tip: Electrical issues can often be the root cause of brake problems. Always check the wiring and controller first.
3. Adjust Brake Pedal Mechanism
- What I Did: Adjusted the brake pedal for better brake engagement.
- Outcome: Improved the functionality of the brake system.
- Personal Experience: A simple adjustment made a big difference.
- Steps:
- Examine the Pedal: Check for proper alignment and return.
- Make Adjustments: Align or lubricate as needed for smooth operation.
- Test the Pedal: Ensure it’s functioning correctly.
- Expert Tip: Regular maintenance of the brake pedal can prevent many issues.
4. Inspect and Clean Brake System
- What I Did: Conducted a thorough inspection and cleaning of the brake system.
- Outcome: Enhanced the performance of the brakes.
- Personal Experience: Cleaning and inspecting the system was a proactive step.
- Steps:
- Inspect the Brakes: Look for any signs of wear or damage.
- Clean Thoroughly: Remove any dirt or debris affecting the brakes.
- Reassemble and Test: Put everything back together and test the brakes.
- Expert Tip: Keeping the brake system clean can significantly improve its performance and longevity.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 2013 EZGO RXV