My Club Car golf cart’s engine is just not what it used to be. It’s making these weird noises, and the performance has dropped significantly. I think the valves might be worn out, but I’m not sure how to tackle this. Has anyone dealt with something similar? I need my cart running smoothly for my weekend rounds.
Response
I had this happen with my cart’s engine. It turned out the valves were indeed worn. I fixed it by lapping the valves and replacing the rocker arm support. It made a world of difference. Maybe you should check that out.
Solutions that Worked for Users:
| Solution | Users Who Found Success | Approx. Cost (USD) | Approx. Time Needed (Minutes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lapping the Valves and Replacing Rocker Arm Support | 1 | $20 – $100 | 60 – 120 |
| Shimming the Rocker Arm Support | 1 | $10 – $50 | 30 – 60 |
| Correct Installation of Check Valve | 1 | $5 – $30 | 15 – 30 |
Symptoms:
- Engine running roughly, making unusual noises.
- Decreased engine performance and efficiency.
- Visible wear or damage to valve components.
Possible Causes:
- Mechanical wear and tear on valves and rocker arms.
- Inadequate lubrication causing increased friction and wear.
- Incorrect installation or malfunctioning of check valves.
Detailed Solutions and Steps:
1. Lapping the Valves and Replacing Rocker Arm Support:
- What I Did: Lapped the valves and replaced the worn rocker arm support.
- Outcome: The engine ran smoothly, and the noise was gone.
- Personal Experience: The engine’s performance improved significantly.
- Detailed Steps:
- Remove the Valve Cover: Carefully remove the valve cover to access the valves and rocker arm.
- Inspect for Wear: Check the valves and rocker arm support for signs of wear or damage.
- Lap the Valves: Apply valve lapping compound on the valve’s surface. Use a lapping tool to grind the valve into the seat, creating a tight seal.
- Replace Rocker Arm Support: If the rocker arm support is worn, replace it with a new one to ensure proper valve movement.
- Reassemble and Test: Put everything back together and start the engine to test if the issue is resolved.
- Expert Tip: When lapping valves, ensure a consistent circular motion for an even seal. Also, check the valve clearance after reassembly.
2. Shimming the Rocker Arm Support:
- What I Did: Added a brass shim to compensate for the wear in the rocker arm support.
- Outcome: Restored normal valve operation, improving engine function.
- Personal Experience: A quick and effective temporary fix.
- Detailed Steps:
- Measure the Wear: Determine the extent of wear on the rocker arm support.
- Prepare the Shim: Cut a brass shim to fit the worn area precisely.
- Install the Shim: Place the shim in the worn area to compensate for the gap.
- Reassemble and Test: Put the engine back together and run it to check for improvements.
- Expert Tip: Use a micrometer for accurate measurement. Remember, shimming is a temporary solution; plan for a more permanent repair soon.
3. Correct Installation of Check Valve:
- What I Did: Ensured the check valve was installed correctly for proper oil flow.
- Outcome: Resolved the oil delivery issue to the top of the engine.
- Personal Experience: A simple yet crucial fix.
- Detailed Steps:
- Locate the Check Valve: Find the check valve in the oil delivery system.
- Verify Orientation: Ensure the check valve is installed in the correct direction.
- Test Oil Flow: Run the engine and observe if oil flows properly.
- Reassemble and Confirm: After correcting, reassemble and check the engine’s performance.
- Expert Tip: Regularly inspect and clean the check valve. A clogged or improperly installed valve can lead to significant engine issues.
Golf Cart Models Where This Worked:
- EZGO, Club Car and Yamaha models were discussed
Safety tips
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your golf cart’s engine, especially if you frequently use it in harsh conditions.
- Listen for Signs: Pay attention to any unusual sounds from the engine. Early detection can prevent more severe problems.
- Quality Parts: Use high-quality replacement parts to ensure longevity and reliability.
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re unsure about any steps, consult with a professional mechanic. It’s better to be safe than sorry.