If you are one of the very few people who have a rich taste of playing golf, you must have ridden a golf cart. While driving it, you may have noticed that a golf cart does not go beyond a certain speed. It is because it comes with a speed limiter that prevents it from going beyond a certain speed.
While this may be useful for safety reasons, it can be frustrating for those who want to enjoy a faster ride. Luckily, there are ways how to remove speed limiter on electric golf cart. The only question that remains is How to do it. Don’t worry, we got you! This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide about removing the governor on a golf cart.
Table of Contents
Understanding The Electric Golf Cart Governor:
As one can tell from its name, a speed limiter is a device that limits the speed of the cart to a certain value. The limit is preset by the manufacturer. This is for the purpose of keeping the rider safe, especially when driving on uneven terrain or steep slopes.
For those who want to go faster, this can be a hindrance. But a little electric golf cart modification can provide the solution. You can remove the speed limiter and enjoy a faster ride. But it comes with a condition that you must have the confidence to drive the cart responsibly.
How much speed is increased by removing/adjusting the speed limiter of a golf cart:
You should keep in mind that the speed increase achieved by removing or adjusting the speed limiter can vary depending on the specific cart and its original speed. For example, if your cart moves at about 5-10 mph, removing the limiter may increase the speed to a maximum of 20 mph.
However, the actual speed increase may differ based on various factors. An EZGO electric golf cart with a 36-volt motor is capable of a top speed of 12 to 14 mph. Adjusting the governor can make an EZGO golf cart go 5-10 mph faster, which means that you might be able to go from 15 mph to 22 mph.
Things to do before removing governor on a golf cart:
Determine the Type of Speed Limiter. Some golf carts have a mechanical speed limiter, while others have an electronic one. Knowing the type of limiter will help you decide which method to use to remove it. Consequently, this will allow the golf cart performance enhancements.
If your golf cart has an electric speed limiter, reprogram the controller. And it would do the trick. This method requires some technical expertise because it involves assessing the programming mode. After assessing this mode, you can change the controller’s settings. If you’re not familiar with this, it’s best to seek the help of a professional.
Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions. Before doing anything, check the manufacturer’s instructions to see if it’s allowed. Some golf carts may have warranties that become void if you remove the speed limiter.
How to remove the governor on a ezgo golf cart
Step 1: You will be gathering the required tools to remove or adjust the governor on your E-Z-GO golf cart. Pull up the seat to make the engine accessible. You will now need the following tools:
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Needle-nose pliers
Step 2: Locate the Governor. To do this, find the thickest-looking cable on the carburetor which is connected at its one end to the gas pedal. Locate the connection of this cable on its other end (on/near the carburetor). You will find the governor on this end. You may need to remove the air filter cover to access the governor.
Step 3: Disconnect the Governor. To remove or adjust the governor, you need to disconnect it from the carburetor. Start by removing the throttle cable from the governor arm using pliers. Next, remove the governor linkage spring from the carburetor and governor arm. You can do this by removing the retaining clip with a screwdriver.
Step 4: Remove the Governor. Now that the governor is disconnected, you can remove it from the engine. Use a wrench to remove the bolts that hold the governor in place. Once the bolts are removed, you can pull the governor off the engine.
Step 5: Adjust the Governor. If you only want to adjust the governor to increase or decrease the speed of your E-Z-GO golf cart, you do not need to remove it from the engine. Instead, you can adjust the governor arm on the carburetor.
Use a wrench to loosen the smaller nut and tighten the bigger arm located on the threaded rod at the same time. The threaded rod basically holds the governor arm in place. Then, adjust the governor arm to increase or decrease the speed of the cart. Once you have adjusted the governor arm, tighten the smaller nut to secure it in place.
Step 6: Reconnect the Governor. After you have adjusted the governor, you need to reconnect it to the engine. Start by placing the governor back onto the engine and tightening the bolts with a wrench. Next, reattach the governor linkage spring to the carburetor and governor arm. Finally, reattach the throttle cable to the governor arm using pliers.
How to Remove the Governor on a Yamaha Golf Cart:
Most Yamaha golf carts yield only a small increase in speed when their governors are removed. To remove the governor, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: You will be gathering the required tools to remove or adjust the governor on your Yamaha golf cart. Pull up the seat to make the engine accessible. You will now need the following tools:
- Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Needle-nose pliers
Step 2: Locate the Governor. To do this, find the thickest-looking cable on the carburetor which is connected at its one end to the gas pedal. Locate the connection of this cable on its other end (on/near the carburetor). You will find the governor on this end. You may need to remove the air filter cover to access the governor.
Step 3: Disconnect the Governor. To remove or adjust the governor, you need to disconnect it from the carburetor. Start by removing the throttle cable from the governor arm using pliers. Next, remove the governor linkage spring from the carburetor and governor arm. You can do this by removing the retaining clip with a screwdriver.
Step 4: Remove the Governor. Now that the governor is disconnected, you can remove it from the engine. Use a wrench to remove the bolts that hold the governor in place. Once the bolts are removed, you can pull the governor off the engine.
Step 5: Adjust the Governor. If you only want to adjust the governor to increase or decrease the speed of your Yamaha golf cart, you do not need to remove it from the engine. Instead, you can adjust the governor arm on the carburetor.
To do this, use a wrench to loosen the smaller nut and tighten the bigger arm located on the threaded rod at the same time. The threaded rod basically holds the governor arm in place. Then, adjust the governor arm to increase or decrease the speed of the cart. Once you have adjusted the governor arm, tighten the smaller nut to secure it in place.
Step 6: Reconnect the Governor. After you have adjusted the governor, you need to reconnect it to the engine. Start by placing the governor back onto the engine and tightening the bolts with a wrench. Next, reattach the governor linkage spring to the carburetor and governor arm. Finally, reattach the throttle cable to the governor arm using pliers.
But what to do if one wants to further increase the speed? Don’t fret, we got you!
You can follow/apply these instructions to further increase the speed of your Yamaha golf cart:
Install a High-Speed Motor
One way to increase the speed of your golf cart is to install a high-speed motor. This is a more expensive option, but it’s also the most effective. As they say, the more sugar, the sweeter it is. A high-speed motor can increase the speed of your golf cart by up to 25 mph, depending on the model.
Install a High-Speed Controller
If you already have a rapid motor installed, then you can install a high-speed controller. It will further increase the speed of your cart. This will allow the motor to run at a higher voltage, resulting in a faster ride.
Install a High-Speed Gear Set
Finally, you can install a high-speed gear set to increase the speed of your golf cart. To do this, replace your existing gears with ones that have a lower ratio. This will allow the golf cart to reach higher speeds.
How to remove governor/speed limiter on club car golf cart:
Step 1: Locate the Governor. The Club Car Governor is usually located near the carburetor, which is in the engine compartment. It is a small, black box with wires and connectors attached to it.
Step 2: Disconnect the Wires. To remove the Governor, you will need to disconnect the wires and connectors attached to it. Use a wrench or pliers to gently remove the wires and connectors from the Governor. Be sure to label them so you know where they go when it is time to reattach them.
Step 3: Remove the Governor. Once the wires and connectors are disconnected, you can remove the Governor itself. It may be held in place by screws or bolts, which you can remove using a socket wrench. Be sure to keep the screws or bolts in a safe place so that you do not lose them.
Step 4: Adjust the Governor (Optional). If you do not want to completely remove the Governor, you can adjust it instead. This can be done by tightening or loosening the governor spring or adjusting the throttle cable. However, we recommend that you consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic before attempting this step.
Step 5: Reassemble the Golf Cart. Once you have removed or adjusted the Governor, it is time to reassemble the golf cart. Reattach the wires and connectors, and make sure that all screws and bolts are tightened securely.
Is speed limiter removal safe:
The safety of removing a speed limiter from a golf cart or any other vehicle depends on several factors:
- Legal Considerations: In many regions, there are regulations that dictate the maximum speed of golf carts and other low-speed vehicles. Removing the speed limiter could put you in violation of local laws and may result in fines or other legal consequences.
- Vehicle Design: Golf carts are typically designed with a speed limiter in place to ensure safe operation and prevent excessive speeds. Removing the limiter might result in the golf cart exceeding its designed capabilities, potentially leading to unsafe driving conditions.
- Insurance and Warranties: Modifying the golf cart by removing the speed limiter may void its warranty and insurance coverage.
- Unintended Consequences: Speed limiters are often implemented to protect the vehicle’s motor and components from excessive strain.
However, there may be some situations where removing a speed limiter could be considered.
Here are a few scenarios where people might consider removing a speed limiter:
Private Property Usage
If the golf cart is strictly limited to private property or closed areas where there are no pedestrians or other vehicles, some individuals might consider removing the speed limiter. This is often done in motorsports or recreational settings like closed tracks or private estates.
Professional or Competitive Use
In certain professional or competitive scenarios where safety measures and regulations are strictly enforced, individuals might explore removing the speed limiter to gain a competitive edge.
Specialized Applications
In cases where there is a need for higher speeds for specialized purposes (e.g., medical support vehicles, security patrols, or large industrial facilities), speed limiters might be adjusted or removed.
Conclusion:
Removing the speed limiter on your electric golf cart can be a great way to enjoy a faster ride. But it’s important to do it cautiously and responsibly. Before removing the speed limiter, make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions and warranty policies. If you’re not mechanically inclined, we would advise you to seek the help of a professional.
FAQs:
Is it legal to remove the speed limiter on an electric golf cart?
It depends on your local laws and regulations. Some states allow it, while others prohibit it. It’s important to check with your local authorities before removing the speed limiter.
Can removing the speed limiter damage my golf cart?
Removing the speed limiter can cause damage to the engine and/or other components of the vehicle. So, we advise that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek the help of a professional.
Will removing the speed limiter affect the battery life of my golf cart?
Removing the speed limiter can increase the load on the battery, which can affect its lifespan. Hence, it’s important to consider the battery’s capacity before increasing the speed of your golf cart.
Can I remove the speed limiter myself?
If you’re mechanically inclined and have experience working on golf carts, you may be able to remove the speed limiter yourself. But if you’re not confident in your skills, it’s best to seek the help of a professional.
How much does it cost to remove the speed limiter on an electric golf cart?
The cost of removing the speed limiter on an electric golf cart can vary depending on the type of speed limiter and its removal method. According to one survey, installing a high-speed motor or controller can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500. While removing a mechanical limiter may only need some simple changes.
How does the governor/speed limiter control the speed?
Governor or speed limiter is a device installed to limit the movement of the throttle. The throttle is an air (fuel) opener regulating the air entering the engine and thus its speed.
Where is the governor on golf cart?
To locate the governor on a golf cart, access the engine and find the thickest-looking cable on the carburetor which is connected at one end to the gas pedal. Locate the connection of this cable on its other end (on/near the carburetor). You will find the governor at this end.
