I have a bit of a problem here. I recently upgraded to some fancy new wheels for my golf cart, but I’ve hit a snag. The studs on the cart are too short for these wheels, and I’m worried about the safety of driving it like this. Has anyone else run into this problem?
Response
I faced your issue with my EZGO TXT after switching to larger wheels. The solution for me was to replace the original studs with longer ones from an auto parts store. It took a bit of effort to find the right size, but it was worth it for the peace of mind.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replace with Longer Studs | 2 | $10 – $30 | 30 – 60 |
| Use Screw-In Wheel Studs | 1 | $15 – $40 | 45 – 90 |
| Use a Small Spacer | 1 | $20 – $50 | 20 – 40 |
Symptoms
- Inadequate stud length for securing new, aftermarket wheels.
- Concerns about wheel stability and safety due to poor thread engagement.
Possible Causes
- Aftermarket wheels often have different requirements than stock wheels, leading to compatibility issues with existing studs.
- Original studs may not accommodate the thickness or design of new wheels.
Solutions that Worked
1. Replace with Longer Studs
- What I Did: Searched for and purchased longer studs that matched the thread size and length needed for the new wheels.
- Outcome: Successfully secured the new wheels with adequate thread engagement.
- Personal Experience: Finding the right studs took some time, but the installation process was straightforward.
- Steps:
- Measure Stud Requirements: Determine the necessary length and thread size for the new wheels.
- Purchase New Studs: Find studs that match these measurements at an auto parts store.
- Remove Old Studs: Carefully remove the existing studs from the golf cart’s hubs.
- Install New Studs: Fit the new studs into the hub, ensuring they are fully seated and secure.
- Expert Tip: Use a thread pitch gauge to accurately measure the thread size. Also, consider applying a thread locker to the new studs for added security.
2. Use Screw-In Wheel Studs
- What I Did: Opted for longer, screw-in wheel studs as a replacement.
- Outcome: The new studs provided a secure fit for the wheels.
- Personal Experience: Required some research to find the right fit, but they offered a solid solution.
- Steps:
- Identify Correct Studs: Determine the size and thread pitch needed for your golf cart.
- Remove Existing Studs: Take out the old studs from the hubs.
- Install New Screw-In Studs: Carefully screw in the new studs, ensuring they are tight and properly aligned.
- Expert Tip: Check for stud compatibility with both the hub and the wheel. A mismatch can lead to safety issues or damage to the hub.
3. Use a Small Spacer
- What I Did: Installed a small spacer to extend the effective length of the existing studs.
- Outcome: The spacer provided enough length for a secure wheel fit.
- Personal Experience: An easy and quick fix, though it slightly altered the wheel alignment.
- Steps:
- Select Appropriate Spacer: Choose a spacer with the right thickness to compensate for the short studs.
- Install Spacer: Place the spacer between the wheel and the hub.
- Secure the Wheel: Attach the wheel using the existing studs.
- Expert Tip: Be aware that spacers can affect wheel alignment and stability. It’s crucial to choose a high-quality spacer and consider getting a professional alignment check afterward.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- Various models of EZGO and Club Car, especially those upgraded with aftermarket wheels.