New Alltrax 400 controller install on PDS 36volt - bit intimidated

bighanded

so been reading through the various posts and seem to find enough reasons to be concerned...just purchased my first cart..old 2002 PDS. Original motor and controller, but previous owner did do the "freedom personality chip/jumper" so it'll scoot at 23 mph with the lift kit and tires..but low end torque is pitiful. It does get the wife and I around on our property with no real hill climbs. Local repair shops are backed up for months..so I decided to order the Altrax and HD solenoid direct..it's arrived and I'm getting mentally prepared to take this on...my biggest concern..we are just a couple days away from big halloween campground..and the last thing I want is to screw up a working cart as I try to upgrade...but 2 adults and a six pack of grandkids might leave me walking at the campground for lack of power on the original equipment..
question is - for someone who has never done it (and yes I've watched youtubes)...should I leave well enough alone for this weekend or is it not as initimidating as it appears to do this swap out? thanks guys!

BGW

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Unsoshl

I understand your concerns, but just follow the instructions and take it slow and you will be fine. Upgrading cables to 4 gauge while you are at it? You will be very happy w/the alltrax!

orangeman6

+1 on it being completely doable. Did you get it from Scottyb? If so, follow his directions. They’re a little easier to read than what is in the Alltrax manual. Also, if it’s like my 2001 series, the directions may show it wired a little differently than the original. Just follow the new directions and you’ll be fine. Apparently, sometimes there’s more than one way to skin the cat. Also, it’s really not necessary if you follow the diagram, but take pics, label wires, and maybe even take a few notes. Not because it’s that hard, just to give yourself some piece of mind. Another thing is to replace one thing at a time. You’ll mess with a few of he same wires twice, but it keeps it simple.

No worries, get it done. You’ll regret it your whole trip, if you don’t.

scottyb

This might help > http://www.buggiesgonewild.com/elect...s-upgrade.html

bighanded

many thanks guys...will continue to do my homework, and yes, keep the iphone camera snapping pics, etc...masking tape and marker pen already on hand as well to mark everything.
I had already been through it cleaning up old wiring for lights, radio, etc..new 12volt marine battery to power all 12volt accessories is installed..only the drive is pulling on the bank....the campground we are going to isn't particularly hilly, so my old std setup might be fine..biggest concern will be driving it down to a parking area to pickup guests and shuttle them into our campsite...bit of a hill from the parking lot and could be as many as 3 total adults and 2 5 yr olds on the ride...add back in the 25% boost from the Altrax and I'd be comfy that it'd do it...but the current cart might leave us wondering if it'll make the climb...

orangeman6

Be like nike and just do it! On the slight chance you don’t get it right, you’ll get plenty of help here. Between the supplied diagram and the link Scotty sent you, you’re not going to have any trouble.

Fegarex

Mark the wires, take photos and do it! Scotty has great instructions and it isn't as bad as you think. You will LOVE the results!!!

scottyb

Wait !
No - Don't wait. Just do it !!!!

Sir Nuke

BIGHANDED.....you have a plan, and one thing you have already figured out to do is the label everything, every connection, take pictures and even make your own drawings BEFORE you take anything a part..... doing this will make the job so much easier. I can't tell you how many folks just start taking things apart and get lost. You will be fine. DO IT!

scottyb

That is good advice SN. Our instructions start with this advice and people still email asking where the red wire went.