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ASK THE MECHANIC

ASK THE MECHANIC ASK THE MECHANIC

Q: My battery cable ends seems to be melting or get extremely hot. What’s going on?

A: This could be caused by the cables not being tightened properly and causing an arch and extreme heat. Make sure the connections are cleaned and your cables are tightened down making a solid connection with the battery posts. This could also be caused by faulty or improper gauge cables. You want to make sure these cables are a minimum of 6 gauge (which most stock carts come with), but we recommend 4 gauge or even 2 gauge, especially if you are going to modify anything with the electrical system in the cart.

Q: What is the difference between a golf cart and a LSV (low speed vehicle)?

A: The simple answer is LSVs are registered vehicles with the DMV. In some states an LSV is considered an automobile and must follow most the same rules and regulation as a typical car. LSVs must have the proper safety accessories such as headlights, turn signals, break lights, a horn, DOT approved windshields, seat belts and they must be able to reach a speed of 25mph. LSVs in some states can be driven on the roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. Please check the laws with your state’s DMV for exact information on rules and regulations.

Q: My cart will only move a few feet and then stop. What should I check first?

A: We get this question a lot and the answer could be many different things, but the most common cause is a bad or improperly connected forward / reverse switch. This problem happens very often, and the forward reverse switch is probably the most replaced part on a golf cart. They get used a lot and often times go bad or the connecter on back comes loose. It’s a simple fix and a very inexpensive part for most golf carts, so we recommend checking this first, making sure the connections are solid or replacing it all together.