To build or not to build?

[vertigo]

As a Noob to golf carts, we are contemplating getting our first Club Car in the not to distant future from a local reputable dealer.
That being said, I am unsure as to which way I should go.
Being relatively mechanically inclined I am at an impasse as to whether we should purchase the cart already built. I.E. Any paint color we choose ( including metallics ) choice of rims and tires and programming for a decent price.
Of course, the lift kit, java croc seats and colored top would be an up-charge.

On the flip side, I can also buy a std Club Cart for a lesser price and build it the same way.

My conundrum comes into play, when it comes to the needed parts and pricing.

I ask the BGW brain trust, would it be that much cheaper if I purchased s std cart and built it as compared to purchasing 1 already built by the dealer?

Thanks
Pat

[flythatway]

I'm a noob too, but if you get a descent cart to start with, is cheaper and more rewarding to build. I just picked up a stock 95 EZGO 36v Medalist that I'm going to trick out a little.

[scottyb]

The dealer is paying labor & making a profit so there is room for you to buy to build. Will it be less $ ? The answer depends on many factors. Purchase model, price, accessories chosen, price paid etc, etc. The key thing I find almost universally in store built carts is the lack of attention to drive system components. Most of these built bought carts are all show and no go. If you buy knowing you will be upgrading the drive system then go ahead and pick the color and seats you like at the dealer and shop components online.
Or search craigslist for a suitable platform and enjoy the build

[vertigo]

Thanks for the replies.
The carts that the dealer starts with most ( from what I was told ) are 2016 and newer.
For no up-charge, the following is what I was told.
They do a complete strip down to the chassis, acid wash and clean.
Body would be any solid color I wanted, including automotive colors if I wanted it to match the truck or camper.
48V system, reprogram to level4. Whatever that means?
As well as any of the tires and rims ( that they stock ) of my choice. Providing the cart didn't need a lift kit to facilitate the tire and rim choice.
Roughly $4600 or so including charger and full no questions bumper to bumper 1 year warr.

Sound decent?

Not sure how much I would save building my own as I have no idea what I would need. I.E. Lift kit, harness extension, re-programming, paint, etc. etc. etc.

I can do the fabrication and have any machining done for nothing but being new to golf cart's, I don't know what I would need to order and have it done right the first time.
I rather do it right 1 time than have to do things over again till I get it right. If that makes sense?

[scottyb]

We need some more info on what's needed.


What make and year is the cart?
Series or sepex drive system?
What size tires are on the cart?
How many people ride on the cart?
Cargo Box or trailer?
Is the electrical system 36 or 48 volts?
What top speed is desired?
Is the used on or off the road?
Is the terrain hilly? If yes, steep or mild hills?
Is the footing sandy or muddy?

[vertigo]

Originally Posted by scottyb

We need some more info on what's needed.


What make and year is the cart?
Series or sepex drive system?
What size tires are on the cart?
How many people ride on the cart?
Cargo Box or trailer?
Is the electrical system 36 or 48 volts?
What top speed is desired?
Is the used on or off the road?
Is the terrain hilly? If yes, steep or mild hills?
Is the footing sandy or muddy?

2013 and above for year.
Make is Club car.
Have no idea what Series or Sepex is. Unless you mean voltage. 48V 6-8volt batteries.
12" tires
4 people.
was told top speed would be upper teen's possibly 20mph.
Mostly will be used as a neighborhood cruiser and campground cart. Very little if any off-roading.

[scottyb]

Originally Posted by vertigo

2013 and above for year.
Make is Club car.
Have no idea what Series or Sepex is. Unless you mean voltage. 48V 6-8volt batteries.
12" tires
4 people.
was told top speed would be upper teen's possibly 20mph.
Mostly will be used as a neighborhood cruiser and campground cart. Very little if any off-roading.

12" tires? Standard cart tires are 18" tall very big tires are 23" tall.

12" must be a rim size?



Hilly or flat terrain.
soft or hard footing?

[vertigo]

Originally Posted by scottyb

12" tires? Standard cart tires are 18" tall very big tires are 23" tall.

12" must be a rim size?



Hilly or flat terrain.
soft or hard footing?

My apologies, yes, the rims are 12"
Pretty much flat with small hills. South Ms.
Pavement and hard pan soil.
Soft only if I make a mistake and go somewhere I needn't be going.

[jjance]

No mention of lights or street legal. Check the serial number before you buy. Verify the date on the batteries.

[jakesnake27]

I personally get a lot of satisfaction doing things myself, but it really just depends on how you feel. If you don't get much out of the build, buy it built. If you do, build it yourself...