I’m experiencing power wissues with my EZGO golf cart. It’s been losing power and starting off really slow. I’m suspecting the motor brushes might be the culprit. Has anyone faced this before? How did you fix it? I’m desperate for some solid advice!
Response
I had a similar issue with my 2000 EZGO TXT. After some digging around, I found out the motor brushes were worn out. Replacing them and giving the motor a thorough clean did the trick for me. It’s a bit of work, but your cart will thank you for it!
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace Motor Brushes | 3 | $30 – $60 | 45 – 90 |
| Clean and Dress the Commutator | 2 | $0 – $20 (if DIY) | 30 – 60 |
| Check and Tighten Connections | 1 | $0 (if DIY) | 15 – 30 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart starts slow and loses power.
- Possible unusual noises or reduced efficiency.
Possible Causes
- Worn motor brushes leading to poor contact with the armature.
- Dirty or damaged commutator.
- Loose electrical connections affecting motor performance.
Solutions that Worked
- Replace Motor Brushes
- What I Did: Replaced the worn-out brushes in the motor.
- Outcome: The cart regained its normal speed and power.
- Personal Experience: Noticed an immediate improvement in performance after the replacement.
- Steps:
- Identify and access the motor brushes. This usually involves removing a cover on the motor.
- Safely disconnect the power source to avoid any electrical hazards.
- Carefully remove the old brushes. Note their orientation for correct installation of new ones.
- Install new brushes, ensuring they are properly seated and aligned.
- Reassemble any removed parts and reconnect the power.
- Expert Tip: Regular inspection of brushes is key. Worn brushes can lead to more significant motor issues. Also, consider using high-quality brushes for longer life.
- Clean and Dress the Commutator
- What I Did: Cleaned the commutator and removed any debris or buildup.
- Outcome: Improved electrical contact and motor efficiency.
- Personal Experience: The motor ran smoother after cleaning.
- Steps:
- Locate the commutator inside the motor. It’s the part that the brushes make contact with.
- Clean it thoroughly, removing any dirt or carbon buildup. A soft cloth or brush can be used.
- If there are any rough spots, lightly sand them to ensure a smooth surface.
- After cleaning, ensure no debris is left inside the motor.
- Expert Tip: Keeping the commutator clean is crucial for the longevity of the motor and brushes. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the commutator.
- Check and Tighten Connections
- What I Did: Inspected and tightened all electrical connections related to the motor.
- Outcome: Resolved intermittent power issues.
- Personal Experience: Simple yet effective, especially for older carts.
- Steps:
- Check all connections for looseness or corrosion. This includes battery terminals and motor connections.
- Tighten and clean connections as needed. A wire brush can be used for cleaning.
- Test the cart for consistent performance. Pay attention to any changes in speed or power.
- Expert Tip: Loose connections can mimic more serious problems. Regular checks can prevent unnecessary repairs. Also, ensure that the connections are not overtightened, as this can lead to damage.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 2000 EZGO TXT
- Various EZGO models (specific years not mentioned)