Emmett Golfcars’
Care Tips
We share our opinions on care based upon 50 years of golf cart experience
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Answer:
How often should I charge my golf cart?
This depends upon your usage. When your golf cart’s State-of-Charge indicator shows the equivalent of ¼ charge left; that would be a good time to do so. A battery’s life is based on “cycles”. This means a “charge-up” and a “run-down”. Just because a cart sits for a few days does not mean it needs a full charge. It’s best to check your meter first. If your cart does not have a meter…use the one on your charger when you plug it in.
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How often should I add water to my batteries?
It is VERY important that you replenish your batteries with DISTILLED water only! The contaminants in tap water can include many chemicals and minerals; which can cause your batteries to wear out sooner.
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Should I clean my batteries?
Yes. One method we prefer is to use a mix of baking soda and distilled water on them and use a gentle brush to wipe clean the terminals. The baking soda will help neutralize any collected debris. You can then rinse again with distilled water. Bear in mind that it is common for stains to collect under the battery compartment so be cautious when and where you maintain them. We recommend a mat, large auto collecting pan, or sand pit whenever possible.
How long do batteries last?
Question:
New batteries can last up to 5 or more years with proper care. There is nothing wrong with getting a golf cart which has used batteries if they have been cared for and are not damaged. Most batteries can be dated by looking on top the battery (usually on a terminal) and finding a code. Such a code usually starts with a Capital Letter followed by a number. Example: F4---this would indicate that the battery was likely made in June of 2014. Battery makers generally do not use the letter “I” since it could confuse the month with the year.
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Should I leave my charger connected over the summer when we are not here?
Question:
NO. For numerous safety reasons, we do not recommend the constant connection of the charger to the cart. It’s really best if you are gone more than 4 months at a stretch to have someone come in and drive the cart a little, check the water, and then charge it as normal. Absent that, we can show you how to disconnect the main battery sequence for better outcomes.
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What else should I do to properly maintain my golf cart?
Question:
We offer an annual service where we come to you and perform our maintenance. However, here are some ideas: Check your battery water levels every two weeks. Check tire pressure every two to three weeks. Check your battery connections to be sure they are tight and secure. Check underneath your cart once per month to notice if there are leaks or excessive stains. As noted earlier…we recommend a mat or auto pan for best protection. Pay attention if your cart starts making noises that it did not make before. Noises from tires, wheels, steering,, brakes, sparking in battery compartment, smoke, even smells can alert you to maintenance needs.
Remember that we offer all types of repairs, maintenance, upgrades, reconditioning and we love to buy used golf carts as well!
Answer:
How long will a charge last?
Question:
In our experience, a golf cart’s charge generally last for 2-3 rounds of 18 hole golf. Which translates to roughly 10 miles. Now this is dependent on the age of the batteries and the terrain of the course (hills vs flat ground). As batteries age, the relative capacity diminishes; for example, a 3-year old battery (while still good) will never reach the capacity it had when new. Likewise, a hilly golf course will require more power from your golf cart than a relatively flat golf course.
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What PSI should I set my tires to?
Question:
Golf cart tire PSI varies with tire size, but as a general rule it should be somewhere between 24 and 30 PSI. A standard 8” golf cart tire operates well at about 24 PSI, while most 10” and 12” tires need slightly more. Always read the side wall of your tire, as each tire manufacturer will print the optimum tire pressure there.
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Question:
Do all golf carts use the same key?
Most Club Car’s use the same key, most Ez-Go’s and most Yamaha’s all use the same respective keys. This aids in the production of fleet carts. However, we can install an uncommon key switch in most golf carts.
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Care and Cleaning of your Golf Cart
When washing your golf cart, be advised that high-pressure washing inside the battery compartment and the dash area can allow water to get into sensitive systems on board such as:
Speed Controller
OBC (On-Board Computer)
Motor
Wiring Harness
Connectors
Solenoids
Forward/Reverse Assembly
Various custom electronics on different carts
Stereo and entertainment equipment
Should such activity occur, it may invalidate certain warranties. Use gentle stream settings and prepare for debris underneath your cart when cleaning. Wipe, rather than spray when possible. Leather chamois’, microfiber and cotton cloths are excellent choices.
Many cleaners are available at your favorite store and same goes for tires, wheels, windshields, carpet and upholstery. Some of the best we have found are the simplest ones.
Check your tire pressure regularly, as well as battery water (distilled only) levels.
If you live in, or are a member of, a country club; check with your cart attendants for service and maintenance options.
With proper care and maintenance, your golf cart should provide years of fun and service!