I’ve got a 2018 EZGO L6 72v that’s solid but just too slow for my liking. I’m aiming for a boost in both speed and torque, especially for those hilly areas in my neighborhood. Has anyone successfully managed to do this without compromising the cart’s integrity? I’m looking for detailed steps and any expert tips you might have!
Response:
I totally understand your situation. I had a similar challenge with my EZGO. I managed to tweak the controller settings, and it made a noticeable difference. It’s a bit technical, but with patience and the right tools, you can achieve it. Just be cautious and understand each step to avoid any mishaps.
Solutions that Worked for Users:
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adjust Controller Settings | 5 | $0 – $150 (if DIY) | 60 – 120 |
| Upgrade Motor | 3 | $200 – $600 | 120 – 240 |
| Install High-Speed Gears | 2 | $150 – $400 | 180 – 300 |
| Increase Battery Voltage | 1 | $500 – $1000 | 240 – 480 |
Symptoms:
- Golf cart not exceeding 17 mph.
- Lack of torque, especially on inclines.
- Desire for higher performance without compromising safety.
Possible Causes:
- Factory settings limiting speed and torque.
- Inadequate motor power for desired performance.
- Gear ratios not optimized for speed.
Solutions that Worked:
- Adjust Controller Settings
- What I Did: Accessed the controller settings to adjust speed parameters.
- Outcome: Increased top speed to around 25 mph.
- Personal Experience: It took some time to understand the settings, but the adjustment made a significant difference.
- Steps:
- Locate the controller and access its programming port.
- Use a programmer (like Curtis 1313) to adjust speed settings.
- Test the cart for improved speed and performance.
- Make further adjustments as needed for optimal results.
- Expert Tip: Always back up the original settings before making changes. This ensures you can revert back in case of errors.
- Handy Tip: Familiarize yourself with the controller manual or online resources for specific instructions related to your model.
- Upgrade Motor
- What I Did: Replaced the existing motor with a high-performance one.
- Outcome: Noticeable increase in speed and torque.
- Personal Experience: The upgrade was more costly but worth it for the performance boost.
- Steps:
- Choose a compatible high-performance motor.
- Safely remove the old motor and install the new one.
- Ensure all connections are secure.
- Test the cart to evaluate the improvement.
- Expert Tip: Ensure the new motor is compatible with your cart’s model and battery voltage.
- Handy Tip: Consider consulting a professional for motor selection and installation to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Install High-Speed Gears
- What I Did: Replaced the standard gears with high-speed ones.
- Outcome: Improved top speed, especially on flat terrain.
- Personal Experience: The installation was challenging but rewarding.
- Steps:
- Select suitable high-speed gears for your model.
- Carefully replace the old gears, following safety procedures.
- Test the cart to check for any issues.
- Adjust if necessary for smooth operation.
- Expert Tip: High-speed gears may reduce torque, so consider this if you frequently drive on hilly areas.
- Handy Tip: Regular maintenance and lubrication of the new gears can prolong their life and ensure smooth operation.
- Increase Battery Voltage
- What I Did: Upgraded the battery system to a higher voltage.
- Outcome: Significant increase in both speed and torque.
- Personal Experience: This was the most expensive and time-consuming solution but had the most dramatic effect.
- Steps:
- Choose a compatible higher-voltage battery system.
- Install the new batteries, ensuring all connections are correct.
- Adjust the controller settings to accommodate the new voltage.
- Test extensively to ensure safety and performance.
- Expert Tip: Upgrading voltage requires careful consideration of all electrical components to ensure compatibility and safety.
- Handy Tip: Keep an eye on the overall weight of the cart after the battery upgrade, as it can affect handling and performance.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked:
- 2018 EZGO L6 72v
- Various EZGO models with similar configurations