My EZGO golf cart is showing signs of worn axle splines. It’s affecting the performance, and I’m worried about potential damage or even a breakdown. Has anyone dealt with this before?
Response
I’ve been in your shoes. When my EZGO had similar symptoms, I found that replacing the axle and upgrading to heavy-duty hubs made a huge difference. It might seem like a big step, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind and improved performance.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace Axle and Use Heavy Duty Hubs | Multiple | $200-$300 | 60-120 |
| Tighten Hubs Properly | Multiple | $0 (if DIY) | 15-30 |
| Check and Replace Battery | Multiple | $100-$200 (per battery) | 30-60 |
| Use EZGO Parts and Proper Torque | Multiple | $50-$150 | 30-60 |
| Apply Red Loctite to Axle and Hub | Multiple | $10-$20 | 15-30 |
Symptoms and Causes
- Symptoms: Axle spline wear or stripping, unusual noises, inconsistent wheel movement.
- Possible Causes: Heavy usage, large tires, incorrect installation, lack of maintenance.
Detailed Solutions and Steps
- Replace Axle and Use Heavy Duty Hubs
- Steps:
- Identify the Correct Axle and Hub: Ensure you have the right model for your EZGO cart.
- Remove the Old Axle: Carefully disassemble the affected area, keeping track of all parts.
- Install the New Axle: Align the new axle correctly, ensuring it fits snugly.
- Install Heavy Duty Hubs: These are crucial for carts with larger tires or heavy usage.
- Test the Cart: After reassembly, test the cart to ensure everything is working smoothly.
- Handy Tips: Always double-check the compatibility of the axle and hubs with your cart model. Consider using a torque wrench for precise installation.
- Unique Info: Heavy-duty hubs are designed to withstand greater stress, reducing the likelihood of future spline stripping.
- Steps:
- Tighten Hubs Properly
- Steps:
- Locate the Hub Nut: Find the hub nut that secures the wheel to the axle.
- Use a Torque Wrench: Tighten the hub nut to the manufacturer’s recommended torque setting.
- Recheck After Use: After a few rides, recheck the torque to ensure it hasn’t loosened.
- Handy Tips: Regularly checking the torque on your hubs can prevent many common issues.
- Unique Info: Over-tightening can be just as harmful as under-tightening. Always follow the specified torque settings.
- Steps:
- Check and Replace Battery
- Steps:
- Test Each Battery: Use a multimeter to check the voltage and load capacity.
- Identify Faulty Batteries: Look for any that don’t meet the necessary specifications.
- Replace if Necessary: Swap out any batteries that are underperforming.
- Ensure Proper Connection: Check all cables and connections for proper fit and no corrosion.
- Handy Tips: Keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion for optimal performance.
- Unique Info: Sometimes, issues that seem mechanical can actually be electrical, stemming from battery problems.
- Steps:
- Use EZGO Parts and Proper Torque
- Steps:
- Purchase Genuine Parts: Ensure you’re using EZGO parts for replacements.
- Install with Care: Follow the installation guide carefully, ensuring all parts are aligned.
- Torque to Specification: Use a torque wrench to tighten to the recommended 90 ft-lbs.
- Handy Tips: Using OEM parts ensures better compatibility and often results in longer-lasting repairs.
- Unique Info: Incorrect torque can lead to premature wear and failure of the parts.
- Steps:
- Apply Red Loctite to Axle and Hub
- Steps:
- Clean the Surfaces: Make sure the axle and hub are free of dirt and grease.
- Apply Loctite: Apply a thin layer of Red Loctite to the mating surfaces.
- Assemble Parts: Put the axle and hub together and allow the Loctite to cure as per instructions.
- Handy Tips: Red Loctite is perfect for permanent assemblies but ensure you don’t need to disassemble these parts frequently.
- Unique Info: Loctite not only prevents loosening but also helps in sealing the parts against moisture and corrosion.
- Steps:
Golf cart models where solutions worked
- EZGO TXT
- 2001 EZ-GO
- 1998 EZ-GO Medalist