Help needed. My golf cart starter engages but it won’t move

Can someone please tell why my EZGO starter engages, but the golf cart just refuses to move?

Response

I had th same frustration with my golf cart last year. For me, it was all about the drive clutch. I found it was just spinning without engaging. A quick check and a bolt tightening did the trick. Might be worth trying!

Solutions That Worked for Users

Solution	Users Who Found Success	Approx. Cost (USD)	Approx. Time Needed (Minutes)
Inspect Drive Clutch	5	$0-50	30-60
Check Motor Movement	3	$0	15-30
Battery and Cable Inspection	2	$0-30	20-40
Remove the Belt and Test	1	$0	15-30

Note: The user numbers are approximations based on the forum threads.

Symptoms

• Golf cart starter engages, but the cart remains immobile.
• Starter sounds normal, but there’s no movement from the cart.

Possible Causes

• Drive clutch issues, such as not engaging properly.
• Motor problems, including inability to turn.
• Electrical issues, like poor battery connections or damaged cables.
• Belt-related problems preventing power transmission.

Expanded Solutions with Detailed Steps and Tips

1. Inspect Drive Clutch

• What I Did: Checked the drive clutch for free spinning or attachment issues.
• Outcome: Tightening the loose clutch bolt solved the problem.
• Personal Experience: Realized the clutch was freely spinning, indicating a loose bolt.
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Locate the drive clutch, usually near the engine.
  2. Check if it’s spinning freely or is firmly attached. Use gloves for safety.
  3. If it’s spinning freely, inspect for a loose or missing clutch bolt.
  4. Tighten or replace the bolt using appropriate tools. Ensure it’s secured properly.
  5. Test the cart for movement after the adjustment.
• Expert Tip: Regularly lubricate the clutch and check for wear and tear. A well-maintained clutch can prevent many issues.

2. Check Motor Movement

• What I Did: Verified if the motor could be turned manually.
• Outcome: Confirmed the motor wasn’t locked up, aiding in troubleshooting.
• Personal Experience: Manually turning the motor indicated no internal obstructions.
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Locate and access the motor, ensuring the cart is off and secure.
  2. Attempt to manually turn the motor. Wear protective gloves for this step.
  3. If it doesn’t move, investigate further for causes like seized bearings or internal damage.
  4. If necessary, consult a professional for a deeper inspection.
• Expert Tip: Regularly check the motor for signs of rust or corrosion, and keep it clean to ensure smooth operation.

3. Battery and Cable Inspection

• What I Did: Checked the battery condition and cable connections.
• Outcome: Resolving connection issues improved cart performance.
• Personal Experience: Replacing corroded cable ends was key.
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Inspect the battery for charge level and overall health. Use a multimeter for accurate readings.
  2. Examine all cables, especially ground cables, for signs of corrosion, wear, or damage.
  3. Clean battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush.
  4. Replace or repair any faulty components. Ensure all connections are tight and secure.
• Expert Tip: Use dielectric grease on battery terminals and cable ends to prevent corrosion.

4. Remove the Belt and Test

• What I Did: Removed the belt to isolate the issue.
• Outcome: Clarified that the belt was not the source of the problem.
• Personal Experience: Belt removal was a simple but effective diagnostic step.
• Detailed Steps:
  1. Locate and remove the drive belt. Ensure the cart is off and stable.
  2. Inspect the belt for wear, cracks, or stretching.
  3. With the belt off, try starting the cart to see if the issue persists.
  4. If the cart moves, the problem likely lies with the belt or pulleys.
• Expert Tip: Regularly inspect the belt for signs of wear and replace it as needed. A healthy belt is crucial for smooth operation.