Recently, I’ve been dealing with a frustrating issue with my golf cart. Every time I take my foot off the accelerator, there’s this annoying rattling noise coming from the back. I’m really hoping someone here has dealt with this and can offer some advice!
Response
I had the same noise on my Yamaha G22. After adjusting the axle nuts, the rattling noise went away.
Solutions that worked for users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torquing Axle Nuts | 1 | $0 (if you have the tools) | 30 |
| Changing Input Shaft Bearings | 1 | $50 – $100 | 60 – 120 |
| Replacing Commutator Bearing and Grommet | 1 | $30 – $60 | 60 – 120 |
Symptoms
- Rattling noise from the back when foot is taken off the accelerator
- Noise may vary in intensity
Possible Causes
- Worn motor couplers
- Loose axle nuts
- Bad bearings in the motor or input shaft
Solutions that Worked
1. Torquing Axle Nuts
What I Did: Checked and torqued the axle nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Outcome: The rattling noise stopped.
Personal Experience: After tightening the axle nuts to 75ft pounds, the annoying sound was gone.
Estimated Cost: $0 (if you have the tools)
Time Needed: 30 minutes
Steps:
- Locate the axle nuts on your golf cart.
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the nuts to 75ft pounds. Expert Tip: Regularly check the torque on your axle nuts, as they can loosen over time and cause rattling noises.
2. Changing Input Shaft Bearings
What I Did: Replaced the worn input shaft bearings.
Outcome: The grinding noise when letting off the pedal was resolved.
Personal Experience: Changing these bearings was a bit of a project, but it fixed the issue.
Estimated Cost: $50 – $100
Time Needed: 60 – 120 minutes
Steps:
- Remove the input shaft from the golf cart.
- Replace the old bearings with new ones. Expert Tip: If you’re not comfortable with mechanical work, consider getting a professional to do this job.
3. Replacing Commutator Bearing and Grommet
What I Did: Replaced the commutator bearing and a worn grommet in the spline.
Outcome: The grinding noise disappeared.
Personal Experience: Finding the right grommet was tricky, but replacing it along with the bearing solved the problem.
Estimated Cost: $30 – $60
Time Needed: 60 – 120 minutes
Steps:
- Remove the motor to access the commutator bearing.
- Replace the bearing and the grommet.
Expert Tip: While you’re at it, inspect and possibly replace the brushes and polish the commutator.
Golf cart models where this worked
- 2002 36 volt EZ-GO TXT
- 2003 EZGO TXT 36v
- 2008 Yamaha Golf Cart (48V)
- 1999 EZ-GO Electric
- 2012 Yamaha G29 48v
- 2009 Yamaha G29