My golf cart’s clutch drive belt keeps shredding and snapping more often than I can keep count. It’s like a bad joke at this point. Has anyone else been through this?
Response
Oh man, I’ve been in that boat, and it’s no fun. I tried a bunch of stuff, but what finally worked for me was this belt dressing – Comet GP-730A. It’s like a magic potion for the belt. It’s not a cure-all, but it’s a solid part of the puzzle. Give it a try.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Helped | Approx. Cost (USD) | Time Needed (Minutes) | Handy Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use Belt Dressing | 2 | $14 | 10 | Ensure belt is tensioned correctly before application. |
| Check the Rollers | 1 | $0 (if self-checked) | 30 | Use a caliper for precise measurement. |
| Shim the Clutch Spring | 1 | $5 – $10 | 60 | Do not over-shim; it can cause as much damage as a loose belt. |
| Avoid Forcing Kart Up Steep Hills | 1 | $0 | Immediate | Adjust driving habits gradually. |
Solutions
1. Use Belt Dressing
- Users Helped: 2
- Approx. Cost: $14
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
Steps:
- Identify the type of belt your golf cart uses and confirm that Comet GP-730A is compatible.
- Clean the belt thoroughly with a mild detergent and a brush to remove any debris or oil.
- Dry the belt completely before applying the dressing.
- Apply the belt dressing sparingly along the inner surface of the belt, where it contacts the pulleys.
- Allow the dressing to penetrate and dry for the recommended time on the product label.
- Start the golf cart and let it idle, allowing the belt to rotate and distribute the dressing evenly.
Handy Tips:
- Apply the dressing in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
- Check the belt tension after application; a too-tight or too-loose belt can negate the benefits of the dressing.
2. Check the Rollers
- Users Helped: 1
- Approx. Cost: $0 (if self-checked)
- Time Needed: 30 minutes
Steps:
- Access the clutch assembly according to your golf cart’s service manual.
- Inspect each roller for wear, flat spots, or any signs of damage.
- Use a caliper to measure the diameter of the rollers to ensure they are within the manufacturer’s specifications.
- If any rollers are damaged, replace them with OEM parts for best results.
- Lubricate the rollers with a suitable non-greasy lubricant if recommended by the manufacturer.
- Reassemble the clutch assembly, ensuring all parts are secure and properly aligned.
Handy Tips:
- Mark the position of the rollers before removal to ensure correct reinstallation.
- Consider upgrading to high-performance rollers if you frequently drive in demanding conditions.
3. Shim the Clutch Spring
- Users Helped: 1
- Approx. Cost: $5 – $10 for shims
- Time Needed: 60 minutes
Steps:
- Disassemble the clutch to expose the spring mechanism, taking care to note the order of disassembly.
- Add shims to the spring to increase its tension, which will improve the belt’s grip.
- Reassemble the clutch, testing the tension before complete reassembly.
- Test drive the golf cart at low speed to ensure the clutch engages smoothly.
- Listen for any unusual noises that could indicate too much tension and adjust if necessary.
Handy Tips:
- Keep track of the number of shims used and the resulting tension to create a reference for future adjustments.
- If shimming doesn’t solve the problem, consider consulting a professional as the issue may lie elsewhere.
4. Avoid Forcing Kart Up Steep Hills
- Users Helped: 1
- Approx. Cost: $0
- Time Needed: Immediate
Steps:
- Plan your route to minimize steep inclines whenever possible.
- If an incline is unavoidable, approach it with enough speed to help carry the cart up the hill.
- Avoid stopping or starting abruptly on a hill, which can place extra strain on the belt.
- Regularly monitor the performance of your cart on inclines to detect any signs of belt strain early.
Handy Tips:
- Regularly check your cart’s tire pressure; under-inflated tires can make inclines more challenging and strain the belt.
- If you live in a hilly area, consider a cart with a more robust drive system designed for such terrain.