94 Ezgo Differential problem??

[ardb]

Friends was told by another person that the gears in his
'94 Ezgo were stripped. Cart would not go. While on jack wheel would turn but when let down they heard a racheting sound.

I went over and tried it in forward and reverse, only to see the motor rocking slightly. I put the charger on for overnight and came home. I later thought that what we may be seeing is the solenoid kicking in and out because of low current from poor 5 yr batteries and causing the motor movement.

I went back this morning and found the batts at only about 50 % and one only a little over 4 volts. I know they need to be replaced. The chatter was a little more rapid with out the pronounced rocking of the motor. Problem is I know these people can not afford batteries and motor/differential.

How to check? Should I use heavy 6 in jumper across the solenoid to eliminate that possible on/off cause of the chatter.

Or can I use jumper cables from my cart batts to add a couple more to the power pack and see if there is any problem in the drive splines anywhere.

Cart owner is celebrating his 90th birthday Saturday and definitely does not have deep pockets.

[Raystar57]

You have a bad battery or possibly all three.
This is a 36 volt cart with three 12V in there correct?
At 50% low they may not move the motor due to age but the one reading 4V has a serious problem with some dead cells.
Test them with a hydrometer. Auto stores have them and are not expensive.
Get one with the glass float to read the cell state of charge.

[ardb]

Thnx Raystar,
I have a hygrometer and understand the one battery is definitely toast.

I have a single seat spare cart with good batteries. I think I will switch out the sets and see if I can get their 2 seat cart to run for the weekend. He wants to take his grandkids for a cart ride while they are here for the birthday party.

Ard

[scottyb]

Originally Posted by ardb

Thnx Raystar,
I have a hygrometer and understand the one battery is definitely toast.

I have a single seat spare cart with good batteries. I think I will switch out the sets and see if I can get their 2 seat cart to run for the weekend. He wants to take his grandkids for a cart ride while they are here for the birthday party.

Ard

Nice work Ard, I think your diagnosis is spot on, wish I was there to help

[dundeebarnbuggy]

Good man! Always nice to see someone helping out our seniors just because it is the right thing to do! Keep it up.

[ardb]

Pulled the batts and cleaned up the rack and some wiring. Put in used batts and the cart runs great.

Saw the gent proudly giving his grand kids a ride around the village this afternoon.