How do I connect a voltage reducer to my EZGO’s key switch?

I’m struggling big time with my EZGO golf cart. I’ve been trying to hook up a voltage reducer to the key switch, but it’s just not working out. The cart itself runs fine, but I can’t for the life of me figure out how to get the reducer to operate only when the key is on. It’s crucial for powering my cart’s accessories. Has anyone tackled this successfully and can offer some step-by-step guidance?

Response

I faced a similar challenge with my 1998 EZGO Workhorse. My workaround was to connect the reducer directly to the battery’s main positive terminal. It’s constantly on, but it saved me the hassle of adding extra switches.

Solutions that Worked for Users

Solution	Users Who Found Success	Approx. Cost (USD)	Approx. Time Needed (Minutes)
Splice to Main Positive Battery Terminal	1	$0 – $10	30 – 60
Connect to Key Switch Side with Voltage When On	1	$0 – $20	30 – 60
Hook Reducer to Controller Side of Solenoid	1	$0 – $20	30 – 60

Symptoms

• Difficulty in connecting a voltage reducer to the key switch.
• Reducer not functioning when the key switch is turned on.

Possible Causes

• Incorrect wiring or connection points.
• Complexity in the cart’s electrical system, especially in older or specific models like the 1998 EZGO Workhorse or 2010 EzGo RXV.

Detailed Solutions that Worked

1. Splice to Main Positive Battery Terminal
   • What I Did: Connected the reducer directly to the battery’s main positive terminal.
   • Outcome: The reducer remained constantly on, avoiding the need for additional switches.
   • Personal Experience: This solution was straightforward and effective, though it meant the reducer was always on.
   • Detailed Steps:
     1. Locate the Battery: Identify the main positive terminal of the battery. Ensure the cart is off and keys are removed.
     2. Prepare the Reducer: Unpack the voltage reducer and locate the power input wire.
     3. Splice the Wire: Carefully splice the reducer’s power wire to the battery’s main positive terminal. Use wire strippers for a clean cut and wire connectors for a secure splice.
     4. Insulate the Connection: Use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to insulate the spliced connection thoroughly.
     5. Test the Setup: Reconnect the battery, turn on the cart, and check if the reducer is functioning correctly.
   • Expert Tip: Regularly inspect the splice for signs of wear or corrosion. A loose or corroded connection can lead to electrical failures.
2. Connect to Key Switch Side with Voltage When On
   • What I Did: Found the side of the key switch that only had voltage when the key was in the on position.
   • Outcome: The reducer functioned correctly, turning on and off with the key switch.
   • Personal Experience: Required some trial and error to find the correct wire.
   • Detailed Steps:
     1. Access the Key Switch: Locate the key switch, typically under the dashboard.
     2. Use a Multimeter: Set a multimeter to the voltage setting. Test each terminal on the key switch to find the one that shows voltage only when the key is on.
     3. Connect the Reducer: Attach the reducer’s trigger wire to the identified terminal. Ensure the connection is secure.
     4. Insulate and Secure: Properly insulate the connection and secure any loose wiring.
     5. Test the Functionality: Turn on the key switch and verify that the reducer operates as intended.
   • Expert Tip: Be cautious when working with the electrical system. A wrong connection can cause shorts or damage the cart’s electrical components.
3. Hook Reducer to Controller Side of Solenoid
   • What I Did: Connected the reducer’s trigger wire to the controller side of the solenoid.
   • Outcome: The reducer turned off with the key, avoiding constant power draw.
   • Personal Experience: This solution was effective but required careful identification of the solenoid’s controller side.
   • Detailed Steps:
     1. Identify the Solenoid: Locate the solenoid in your cart, which is typically near the controller.
     2. Determine the Controller Side: Identify the controller side of the solenoid. This is usually the side that connects to the cart’s main controller.
     3. Connect the Reducer: Attach the reducer’s trigger wire to the controller side of the solenoid.
     4. Secure the Connection: Ensure the connection is tight and well insulated.
     5. Test the Setup: Turn on the cart and check if the reducer turns off with the key.
   • Expert Tip: Be aware of the solenoid’s operation. Incorrect wiring here can lead to malfunction or damage. If unsure, consult a professional.

Golf Cart Models Where This Worked

• 1998 EZGO Workhorse
• 2010 EzGo RXV