Cart Options

NEV

I would like to build a NEV (neighborhood electric vehicle). There are really two categories that I could get a converted golf cart under. One is the low speed class 25 MPH top speed gives you access to all roads that are 30 MPH or lower. The second class is the medium speed with a top speed of 35 MPH and allows you access to all roads 40 MPH and under.

I would hope to build something in the second category. The main reason being is that the road right in front of my house is 35 MPH. Now realistically I don't want to kill myself or anything. I really think that I can get to most anything I would use the cart for staying on roads that are 30 MPH through easy going neighborhood roads. I could not imagine being on 40 MPH roadway with a Suburban driving up my butt on a golf cart.

Now just in some basic information I have seen so far these things have pretty small gears in their differentials 13.?:1. With an electric and those speed I figures something like a 7:1 or 8:1 might be better, tires size depending of course. Any of these different brands have stronger differentials then the others, or ones to avoid?

On the tire subject is it possible to get some small car tires on these carts? I saw on thread on here that said Honda rims could work. Is that true? If it is am I getting into something that is more work then it worth? I don't know I think I would just feel more comfortable with car tires but if I have to raise it a lot for front suspension to function properly I might not feel so secure on the road.

I guess since I am talking about safety are there any good brake conversions? Just having drums on the back does not seem like a good idea at 35 MPH. Is there any way to get some on the front? Any disc options?

Sorry I may have been rambling a little bit. Any input, thought or ideas are appreciated.

Thanks,
Jordan


I guess I should add when I asked about tires and brakes are there any carts where these might be better stock and/or for converting for my needs?

BGW

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craig tn

Are you set on using electric cart?
Where are you in TN?

NEV

I am open to buying any type of cart if it has a better platform to start off with but yeah I am kind of set on the electric drive system. I really had figured that the motor, controller, batteries and extras would have to be sourced from some where else then the original cart.

If it seems as though it can be done to meet my goals and with safety I am willing to spend money to accomplish my goal. Believe me I have no delusions of the potential expense of doing something like this type of project.

I live in Maryville, near Knoxville.

craig tn

You going to be using it on the hills too?

NEV

Some hills more like various inclines. Nothing dramatic throughout my neighborhood and prospective driving area.

NEV

I guess when I see stuff like this it just seems possible to do some sort of conversion.

1976-sebring-vanguard-citicar.jpg

An old Vanguard Citicar from the mid 70s.

craig tn

I'm not big on the electric setup , but it can be done ofcourse. I going to be build a big block MSV for myself in the next few months.

buckmanmike

You can get mid 20's mph with a good controller/motor setup. Mid 30's will need a jump in voltage. Jake's makes a lift kit that will fit front disc brakes. Sponsers here will help you out.

hillbillyhangover

Go to ebay jamesparknewport is the seller that has a kit that is bolt on that gives you 4 wheel disk brakes. If you need I have a phone # to him. You can get dot approved tires for the rims on your cart. They do make high speed gears for the diffs. I do not know what ratio is avalable for sparkies, but I have a 8 to 1 high speed set in my gas. Golf cart cataloge is one place that has these items. As far as your electrical side of things im sure some one will chime in that can help you. And welcome to the forum

Nate