1988 club car solenoid issue

Cjmyers

This is my first time so bear with me. I just bought a 1988 club car 36v and it only runs about 11 mph. Is this normal or should it run faster? I did notice that the first click the cart will not move until the second and if I check that first solenoid with my test light there is no power through the two main post does this mean that it is bad?

BGW

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93yellowclubcar

11 MPH might be a little low, but seems about right for a stock sparky. Onto the solenoids: as you proceed through pushing down on the go pedal: 1st solenoid click, no movement (it's the "master solenoid"). 2nd solenoid click, "first gear." 3rd solenoid click, "second gear." 4th solenoid click, "third gear." 5th and final solenoid click, "fourth gear." If the cart seems to be increasing speed on each click after the first one, the solenoids are probably fine. As to your speed, check that all your batteries are good (load test 'em) and are properly charged. Also, make sure cables between batteries are not corroded, if they're the old original ones you may want to consider upgrading to newer and larger gauge battery cables. When properly maintained, these old 5 solenoid carts are dang near bulletproof and will last forever.

By the way, Welcome to BGW!!

Cjmyers

hay thanks i want to do some up grades to the cart like lift, tires and wheels but at 11mph it will fall on its face fast with bigger tires

scotter

Welcome to BGW! I too have an '88 sparky but with the v-glide. Sounds like your cart is running normal. 11-12 mph is an industry standard. Bigger 4ga battery cables will help a little. They do help deliver the power to the motor better than the stock 6ga. Best economical improvement would be an upgrade to the motor. Plum Quick (site sponsor) can rebuild your motor for increased torque and speed. Bigger tires will add a few mph. Battery age and maintenance is key for best performance. Check tire air pressure, low = slow. Good luck and have fun. Good carting!

93yellowclubcar

Definitely agree with everything scotter said! In addition, if you're interested, one of the most common modifications to these carts is conversion from 18 volt (half speed) reverse to 36 volt reverse. BE FOREWARNED this causes the cart to move as quickly in reverse as it does in forward, and can catch one off-guard - use caution. That being said, here's how it's done: Take the wire from the F/R switch that goes to the + terminal on the third battery in the pack series and move it over to the main pack + terminal (from red to green on the diagram), thus giving reverse a full 36 volts from all the batteries instead of 18 from the three under the driver's butt.

Attached Images

CC_83_87_solenoid_wiring.jpg (107.8 KB, 0 views)

Cjmyers

Thanks for all your feedback what lift does everyone like to use for cc I can build just about anything so I'm going to be making it myself I've also be thinking of doing a front axle swap with the ezgo anyone have any ideas

had

In upgrading your wires do you change out the two wires that move when the forward reverse switch moves. One goes to the solenoid and one goes to the motor. thanks I've replaced the others but not certain on replacing these since they move.

Tim Seawel

Yes you need to replace those as well.