Does anybody know why my EZGO RXV golf cart has been giving off this concerning burning smell. I’m worried something serious might be wrong. What can I do about it?
Response
As someone who’s been through this, I understand your concern. I had the same issue with my EZGO RXV. After some research and a bit of elbow grease, I found that replacing the brake assembly was the golden ticket.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Personal Experience | Estimated Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replace the Brake Assembly | 1 | Smell is gone after replacing the brake assembly | $100-$200 | 30-60 |
| Check the Motor | 1 | Motor was the culprit | $200-$400 | 60-120 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart emits a burning smell
- Brake or motor feels hot to touch
- Cart may stop moving suddenly
Possible Causes
- Faulty brake assembly
- Motor issues
- Electrical wiring problems
Solutions that Worked
1. Replace the Brake Assembly
What I Did:
Replaced the brake assembly with a new one.
Outcome:
The burning smell disappeared, and the cart started functioning normally.
Personal Experience:
After replacing the brake assembly, the cart was back to normal, and that awful burning smell was gone.
Estimated Cost:
$100-$200
Time Needed:
30-60 minutes
Steps:
- Put the cart in tow mode and switch off the key.
- Remove the rear wheels using a lug wrench.
- Locate the brake assembly behind the wheels.
- Unbolt the old brake assembly using the appropriate tools.
- Clean the area where the old brake assembly was mounted.
- Install the new brake assembly, ensuring it is aligned correctly.
- Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Reattach the wheels and lower the cart from any jack stands.
- Test the cart to ensure the issue is resolved.
Expert Tip:
When installing a new brake assembly, make sure to tighten the bolts evenly and to the correct torque specifications to ensure optimal performance. Also, consider applying a thin layer of anti-seize compound to the bolts for easier future removal.
2. Check the Motor
What I Did:
Inspected the motor for any signs of damage or overheating.
Outcome:
Found that the motor was the source of the burning smell. Replaced it, and the issue was resolved.
Personal Experience:
Initially, I thought the brake was the issue, but upon closer inspection, I found that the motor was actually the culprit.
Estimated Cost:
$200-$400
Time Needed:
60-120 minutes
Steps:
- Disconnect the battery to ensure your safety.
- Remove any covers or shields that are blocking access to the motor.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the motor for signs of damage or overheating.
- If you notice any burnt areas or frayed wires, it’s a sign that the motor needs replacement.
- Remove the old motor by disconnecting its wiring and unbolting it from its mount.
- Install the new motor, making sure to connect all the wiring correctly.
- Reattach any covers or shields.
- Reconnect the battery and test the cart.
Expert Tip:
Always double-check the wiring when you’re experiencing issues like a burning smell. A simple frayed wire can cause significant problems and is often overlooked. Also, use a multimeter to check for any electrical issues that might not be visible to the naked eye.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- 2014 EZGO RXV
- 2013 EZGO RXV
- 2010 EZGO
- 2008 RXV
- 1991 EZGO Marathon
Final Thoughts
If you’re experiencing a burning smell in your EZGO RXV golf cart, it’s crucial to act quickly to identify the source of the problem. Ignoring it could lead to more severe issues down the line. Always remember, safety first. Disconnect the battery before doing any work and consult your cart’s manual for any model-specific guidelines.