Recently, my golf cart has been struggling with hills and rough terrains. I’ve heard that a shorter drive belt could help, but I’m not sure. Any advice?
Response
I had the same issue with my golf cart lacking torque, especially on hills. After some research and trial and error, I found that installing a shorter drive belt really did the trick. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it worked for me and many others.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installing Gates Sportline 6098 | 2 | Increased torque, but hard to install | $22 | 30-60 |
| Using Dayco HP3004 Belt | 2 | Improved power on hills | $25 | 30-60 |
Symptoms
- Lack of torque on hills
- Slow acceleration
- Struggling on rough terrains
Possible Causes
- Inadequate belt size
- Worn-out drive belt
- Clutch issues
Solutions that Worked
1. Installing Gates Sportline 6098
What I Did:
Installed a Gates Sportline 6098 belt for higher torque.
Outcome:
Increased torque, especially beneficial for steep hills.
Personal Experience:
The belt was a bit challenging to install, but once it was in, the torque improvement was noticeable.
Estimated Cost:
$22
Time Needed:
30-60 minutes
Steps:
- Preparation: Gather all the necessary tools, including wrenches and screwdrivers.
- Safety First: Make sure to disconnect the battery before starting.
- Remove the Old Belt: Carefully remove the old drive belt from the pulleys.
- Inspect the Clutch: While the belt is off, it’s a good time to inspect the clutch for any wear or damage.
- Install the New Belt: Place the Gates Sportline 6098 belt on the pulleys.
- Adjust Tension: Make sure the belt is properly tensioned.
- Test Drive: Take the cart for a test drive on various terrains to ensure the belt is functioning properly.
Expert Tip:
Make sure to go for reliable brands or OEM parts for better performance and consistency. Also, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands during the installation.
2. Using Dayco HP3004 Belt
What I Did:
Installed a Dayco HP3004 belt.
Outcome:
Increased power on hills but experienced a braking sensation when coming down.
Personal Experience:
The belt provided a noticeable increase in power on hills, but there was a braking sensation when coming down.
Estimated Cost:
$25
Time Needed:
30-60 minutes
Steps:
- Preparation: Assemble all required tools.
- Safety Measures: Disconnect the battery for safety.
- Old Belt Removal: Take off the old belt.
- Clutch Inspection: Check the clutch for any issues.
- New Belt Installation: Install the Dayco HP3004 belt.
- Tension Adjustment: Adjust the belt tension as needed.
- Test: Test the cart, especially on hills, to make sure the new belt is effective.
Expert Tip:
If you experience a braking sensation, give the belt some time to break in. Also, keep an eye on the belt during the break-in period.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 2000 EZGO Workhorse 1200LX
- 2003 EZGO TXT
- 1987 EZGO
- 1984 EZGO
- 1988 EZGO
Safety info:
- Always disconnect the battery before starting any work on your golf cart.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands during the installation process.
- Consider doing a test drive in a safe, controlled environment before taking the cart out on the course or road.
Extra tips:
- Some belts may require a break-in period for optimal performance.
- Aftermarket belts may vary in size, so it’s crucial to go for reliable brands or OEM parts.
- Bad engine mounts can cause issues, especially when installing a shorter belt.