How to Repair an EZ-GO Golf Cart
By Steve Smith
EZ-GO golf carts are a popular model and some common repairs often need to be made. From replacing the battery to fixing a cracked canopy, many repairs are simple for the amateur. More complex problems with the axles, accelerator assemblies and drive mechanism should be handled by a professional.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Check the battery frequently during the off-season and if possible, remove it and connect it to a battery charger set on trickle charge. This prevents the battery from completely draining during the off-season when not in use. A completely drained battery will lose some of its power, and after even just one season it may no longer be able to hold a charge. EZ-GO uses a 36-volt motor, which requires plenty of power, so a drained battery is a common problem.
Clean and service the battery terminals and cables during the year. Clean the terminals with a wire brush and remove all debris. Disconnect the cables from the battery and check them for wear and tear. If there are cracks in the cable sheath, replace the entire cable by disconnecting it from the drive mechanism (consult your EZ-GO manual for its location). Apply battery terminal grease or gel to the battery terminals before you re-attach them.
To fix a crack in the body or canopy, use a fiberglass repair kit. EZ-GO bodies are made completely of fiberglass (on most models), so the repair must be made with fiberglass strips and resin. First sand the damaged area up to two inches around the crack. Then mix up the resin in the fiberglass repair kit and apply your strips over the crack. Paint the resin onto the strips and allow it to harden. Then sand, prime and finish with a layer of gel coat.
Tires on the EZ-GO golf cart are tubeless so they are repaired just like an automotive tire. The fastest way to fix an EZ-GO cart tire is to remove the entire tire and order another from EZ-GO or a vendor that makes matching EZ-GO tires. The tire lug nuts can be removed with a tire iron or ratchet.
Perform regular maintenance on the EZ-GO cart to keep it in prime shape. For the electric models, this includes keeping the tires properly inflated to the listed pressure on the sidewalls, and cleaning the battery terminals frequently. Also, fill the batteries with distilled water by removing the caps and pouring the water into the battery with a funnel. For EZ-GO gas golf carts, service the engine by checking the oil every week and filling with 10W-30 type oil. The EZ-GO filter should be changed every five to 10 years, depending on usage.
About The Author
Steve Smith has published hundreds of articles on a wide range of topics, including cars, travel, lifestyle, business, golf, weddings and careers. His articles, features and news stories have appeared in newspapers, consumer magazines and on various websites, including Trails.com and eHow.com. Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and journalism from University of New Hampshire Durham.
