With spring upon us, it is time to get your golf cart ready for the course by performing the annual maintenance check. Whether you use your cart year-round or only during the warmer months, there is still a need for spring maintenance. While maintenance is usually minimal, there are some specific things to look for that will keep your golf cart running for many seasons to come.

Cleaning the Battery

A secure connection is vital for the operation of the golf cart. Without a proper connection, the cart may fail to operate correctly if it will run at all. In order to ensure that the battery cables are attached correctly, the cables must be disconnected so you can access the battery terminals. Use a battery terminal cleaner or a wire brush to remove corrosion from the terminals, and then reattach the cables. By cleaning the terminals, you are maximizing the amount of electricity that will be conducted.

Check the Battery

If the golf cart is still not running correctly after the battery terminals have been cleaned, then the batteries may need to be recharged or replaced. Look for signs that the battery has a low voltage level, such as the engine cutting out or electronics not functioning properly.

You can use a hydrometer to check the electrolyte level in a battery , and this will tell you the level of charge a battery has. Remember to check the water levels in the batteries prior to charging. If a quick start is needed, the battery can be jumped using jumper cables.

Check the Brakes

To have a golf cart that is in safe operating condition, the brakes must be checked periodically, and spring maintenance is a perfect time to do so. To get at the brake pads, remove each wheel so you can check the thickness of the brake pads. Removing the wheels will also allow you to clean dust from the brake components.

Assessing the rest of the braking system is also very important. Over time, nuts and bolts loosen and may require retightening. Inspect the brake cable to ensure there is no slack in the line that could prevent the brakes from functioning properly.

Check Tire Tread and Pressure

While golf cart tires do not take as much abuse as the tires on your daily driver, they do need to be checked for damage and excessive wear. If the tread on the golf cart tires wears too thin, they could become susceptible to puncture. Tires typically have built-in wear indicator bars that will help you determine when the tires need to be changed.

If you drive you golf cart during the winter months, you may need to swap out your snow tires. Spring maintenance will allow you the time to remove those knobby all-terrain tires and replace them with street tires. You may even want to consider adding custom rims or low-profile tires.

Greasing the Cart

Over time, moisture can wreak havoc on the mechanical parts of a golf cart. Furthermore, water and dirt can cause equipment to malfunction. For these reasons, it is important to grease all of the fittings on the golf cart on a regular basis and, especially, during spring maintenance. Squeaking can be an indicator that a part needs greasing.

Check the Fluids

Keeping fluids at recommended levels is vital for the proper functioning of the golf cart. Always remember to check all fluids, including engine oil, differential fluid, and coolant. Top off the fluids as necessary and check for leaks. If fluids get too low, it could cause overheating, loss of power, and engine failure.

Cleaning the Cart

While cleaning the golf cart may not be the most desirable of spring maintenance tasks, it is as important as any. Giving the cart a thorough scrub-down will remove any built up dirt or grease that could cause parts to function incorrectly. In addition, keeping the cart clean will help prevent corrosion and rust.

Check the Lights

Along with checking the electrical system, spring maintenance should also entail making sure all lights are functioning correctly. If you drive your golf cart at night or on the street, it is especially important that the headlights and taillights are working and any bulbs are replaced, as necessary.

Summary

There are many steps to take during spring maintenance to ensure your golf cart is ready to go during the peak season. Simple things like checking fluids and tire pressure can help minimize the chances of a breakdown, while greasing fittings and replacing worn brake pads will keep the cart functioning for many years to come.