I’m stumped and need some help. My EZ-GO golf cart’s motor is spinning, but the cart just won’t budge. It’s like it’s glued to the ground. This is really throwing a wrench in my daily work on the farm. Has anyone faced something like this? Any advice would really help me out there.
Response
I totally get your frustration. I had a similar scare with my 2003 EZGO. It turned out to be a corroded battery cable. Once I replaced it, the cart was back to normal. Before you dive into complex repairs, it might be worth giving your battery connections a once-over.
Solutions that Worked for Users
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Replacement or Repair | 5 | $100 – $200 | 30 – 60 |
| Stripped Hub or Brake Drum/Axle Connection | 3 | $50 – $150 | 45 – 90 |
| Electrical Issue (Cable or Connection) | 2 | $0 – $50 | 15 – 30 |
| Input Shaft or Motor Coupling Issue | 1 | $100 – $300 | 60 – 120 |
Symptoms
- Golf cart motor runs but the cart doesn’t move.
- Possible slipping noise or no response when the accelerator is pressed.
Possible Causes
- Mechanical failures like stripped hubs or damaged motor couplings.
- Electrical issues such as corroded cables or poor battery connections.
Solutions that Worked
1. Battery Replacement or Repair
- What I Did: Replaced the batteries after noticing a significant voltage drop under load.
- Outcome: The cart moved smoothly and regained its power.
- Personal Experience: Initially, I overlooked the batteries, focusing on mechanical parts. The solution was simpler than expected.
- Steps:
- Test each battery under load with a voltmeter. Look for any significant drop in voltage which indicates a failing battery.
- Identify and replace any failing batteries. Ensure you choose the right type and size for your golf cart.
- Ensure all connections are clean and secure. Corrosion or loose connections can cause similar issues.
- Test the cart for proper operation. Make sure the cart moves smoothly and responds well to the accelerator.
- Expert Tip: Regular battery maintenance is key. Even one bad battery can affect the entire system. Also, consider using a battery maintainer during off-seasons to extend battery life.
2. Stripped Hub or Brake Drum/Axle Connection
- What I Did: Inspected and replaced the stripped hub.
- Outcome: Restored the connection between the motor and wheels, fixing the movement issue.
- Personal Experience: The cart made a slipping noise, leading me to discover the stripped hub.
- Steps:
- Inspect the hubs and axle connections for stripping. Look for worn-out splines or teeth.
- Replace any stripped components. Make sure to get quality replacements that match your cart’s specifications.
- Ensure proper torque on reassembly. This is crucial to prevent future stripping.
- Test the cart for movement. Ensure that the cart moves smoothly without any slipping noise.
- Expert Tip: Regularly inspect these components, especially in older carts. Applying a thread locker can prevent loosening due to vibration.
3. Electrical Issue (Cable or Connection)
- What I Did: Replaced a corroded battery cable.
- Outcome: Resolved the power transmission issue to the motor.
- Personal Experience: A simple visual inspection revealed the corroded cable.
- Steps:
- Inspect all battery cables and connections. Look for signs of corrosion or wear.
- Replace any damaged cables. Ensure the new cables are of the correct gauge and length.
- Test the cart for proper electrical function. Check for smooth acceleration and consistent power.
- Expert Tip: Don’t overlook the basics; often, the simplest solutions are the most effective. Regularly clean and tighten all electrical connections to prevent issues.
4. Input Shaft or Motor Coupling Issue
- What I Did: Inspected and repaired the motor coupling.
- Outcome: The motor’s power was successfully transmitted to the wheels.
- Personal Experience: The issue was more complex but solvable with some mechanical know-how.
- Steps:
- Inspect the motor coupling and input shaft. Look for signs of wear or damage.
- Repair or replace any faulty components. This might require some mechanical skills or professional help.
- Reassemble and test the cart. Ensure that the power is being effectively transmitted to the wheels.
- Expert Tip: Familiarize yourself with your cart’s drivetrain components for easier diagnostics. Regular lubrication of these parts can prevent wear and tear.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked
- Various models of EZ GO golf carts, primarily older models (1999-2003).