Beatrice Lang
Electric golf carts are convenient and fun, but what happens when they run out of battery or need repairs? Towing an electric golf cart requires careful preparation and a good understanding of the process to ensure safety and avoid damage. This is a comprehensive guide on how to tow an electric golf cart, covering everything from the equipment you'll need to the precautions you should take. We'll also explore the often-overlooked tow mode and explain why it's essential when towing or storing your golf cart.
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What You'll Learn
Activating tow mode
To activate tow mode, you need to locate the tow-run switch, which is usually found near the battery compartment, under the seat of the golf cart. This switch is typically labelled and may include a diagram indicating which side of the toggle is for "run" and which is for "tow". It could be a toggle switch or a push-button switch. The location of the switch may vary depending on the brand of the golf cart. For instance, in EZGO models, it is on the passenger side, while in Club Car models, it is located in front of or behind the batteries.
Once you have located the tow-run switch, simply switch it to the "tow" position. This action will deactivate the computer, cutting voltage to sensitive electronics and disabling the roll-away function that engages the brakes. It is important to note that activating tow mode will disengage the motor, preventing battery drain during transport or storage.
Remember, activating tow mode is crucial when towing your golf cart to avoid accidental movement and ensure the safety of yourself and others.
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Choosing the right towing vehicle
Firstly, ensure that your chosen towing vehicle has the necessary towing capacity to handle the weight of the golf cart. Different golf carts have varying weights, so it is important to know the specific weight of the cart you intend to tow. Overloading your vehicle can lead to a loss of control and potential accidents.
Secondly, select a vehicle that is compatible with the appropriate towing equipment. You will need a sturdy tow bar or hitch specifically designed for towing golf carts. The tow bar should be able to handle the weight and size of the golf cart to prevent accidents or damage. Additionally, safety chains are essential to secure the golf cart to the towing vehicle and prevent it from swaying or detaching.
The towing vehicle should also have proper lighting and signalling equipment, such as brake lights and turn signals. This ensures that other drivers on the road can clearly see your intentions and anticipate your movements, maintaining safety for everyone.
When choosing the right towing vehicle, consider the distance you plan to travel with the golf cart in tow. Longer distances can impact the temperature of the golf cart's motor, leading to potential issues. As such, it is generally recommended to maintain moderate speeds when towing a golf cart, so a vehicle that can comfortably maintain these speeds is ideal.
Additionally, regular maintenance checks are important. Ensure your chosen towing vehicle has reliable tires, brakes, and lights, and that all equipment is in good working condition. This proactive approach will help prevent unexpected issues during your journey.
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Using the correct equipment
To tow an electric golf cart, you must use the correct equipment to ensure a safe and smooth process. Here is a detailed guide on the equipment you will need:
Firstly, you must have a suitable towing vehicle with sufficient towing capacity to handle the weight of the golf cart. It is crucial to check the weight capacity of the towing vehicle to ensure it can safely accommodate the additional weight of the golf cart. Overloading the vehicle can lead to a loss of control and potential accidents.
Secondly, you need a sturdy tow bar, hitch, or trailer hitch specifically designed for towing golf carts. This equipment should be able to bear the weight and size of the golf cart to prevent accidents or damage during transportation. Ensure that the tow bar or hitch is compatible with your golf cart model and securely attach the cart to the towing vehicle.
Additionally, safety chains are essential to secure the golf cart to the towing vehicle. These chains help prevent the golf cart from swaying or becoming detached while on the road. Proper lighting and signalling equipment, such as brake lights and turn signals, are also crucial. They ensure that other drivers can clearly see you and anticipate your movements, maintaining safety on the road.
Before towing, confirm that the golf cart is in neutral gear and that the parking brake is disengaged. This measure prevents any damage during transportation. Also, ensure that the steering wheel is locked in place to maintain stability while towing.
It is important to maintain a moderate speed when driving with a towed golf cart and to avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. These precautions prevent the golf cart from swaying or becoming unstable, ensuring the safety of both the driver and other motorists. Regularly check the tires, brakes, and lights of both the towing vehicle and the golf cart to ensure they are in good working condition.
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Driving safely
Firstly, ensure your towing vehicle has the necessary capacity to handle the weight of the golf cart. Use a suitable tow bar or trailer hitch designed for towing golf carts, securely attaching the cart to the vehicle. Check that the golf cart is in neutral gear, and disengage the parking brake. Also, remember to lock the steering wheel in place for stability.
When driving, maintain a moderate speed, typically recommended by manufacturers as 25 mph or less. Higher speeds can cause rapid increases in wind resistance, potentially overloading the electric motor and leading to extreme heat buildup. This heat buildup can be devastating to the motor, so keep speeds in check. Take regular breaks on long trips to allow components to cool, and keep towing distances as short as possible.
Avoid sudden stops or sharp turns to prevent the golf cart from swaying or detaching. Use safety chains to secure the golf cart to your vehicle, providing an emergency backup if the primary connection fails. Ensure proper lighting and signalling equipment, such as brake lights and turn signals, are functioning to make your movements predictable to other drivers.
Finally, periodically check your towing equipment and connections throughout the journey to ensure everything remains secure. When you reach your destination, carefully park in a suitable area and secure the trailer wheels with chocks before disconnecting the trailer.
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Storing your golf cart
Choose a Suitable Storage Location
Firstly, decide whether you will store your golf cart in a storage unit, a garage, or outdoors. Renting a storage unit can be an affordable and safe option, providing protection from harsh weather conditions. If you plan on using a storage unit, measure your golf cart to determine the appropriate unit size. Most carts can fit into a 10x10 drive-up storage unit. Alternatively, you can store your cart in a garage or a semi-enclosed area. However, if you choose to store it outdoors, be aware that your cart will be exposed to the elements, including snow, sleet, hail, and rain.
Prepare the Golf Cart
Before storing your golf cart, it is essential to perform a complete maintenance routine, especially if you plan on storing it for an extended period. This includes checking and maintaining the battery, which is crucial for ensuring your cart is functional when you need it. Fully charge the battery and, if applicable, fill the water and electrolyte levels to the recommended amount. Consult your cart's manufacturer guidelines for specific watering and charging instructions. Additionally, check the cords and wires, replacing any damaged ones to prevent further corrosion. If you live in an area with winter weather, consider winterizing your cart to protect it from the harsh conditions.
Finalize Storage Preparations
Before leaving your golf cart in storage, there are a few more crucial steps to take. Firstly, remove the keys and store them in a safe and easily memorable location. Secondly, ensure that the forward/reverse switch is in the neutral position to minimize battery drain and reduce the risk of the cart starting unexpectedly. Finally, if storing your cart outdoors or in a semi-enclosed space, protect it with a secure, waterproof cover. Ensure the cover is securely fastened so that it doesn't blow away in strong winds.
By following these detailed steps, you can effectively store your golf cart, ensuring it remains in good condition and is ready for use when you need it.
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Frequently asked questions
To tow an electric golf cart, first, make sure that the golf cart is in tow mode. Then, ensure that the cart is securely attached to the towing vehicle using a sturdy tow bar or hitch that is specifically designed for towing golf carts. Check that the towing vehicle has the necessary capacity to handle the weight of the golf cart. During transportation, maintain a safe speed and avoid sudden stops or sharp turns to prevent the golf cart from swaying or becoming detached.
Tow mode deactivates the computer, cutting voltage to sensitive electronics and any roll-away function that will enable the brakes for towing. This prevents the current generated by the motor while towing from damaging the electronics of the golf cart.
Before towing, make sure the golf cart is in neutral gear and the parking brake is disengaged. Ensure that the steering wheel is locked in place to maintain stability while towing. It is also important to have proper lighting and signalling equipment, such as brake lights and turn signals, so that other drivers can clearly see you and anticipate your movements.
Yes, you should use the tow mode when performing battery maintenance or working on your solenoid to protect the electronics in case of a short. Additionally, use the tow mode when storing your golf cart for an extended period to prevent unnecessary drain on the battery.
