Upgrade path for 2007 YRDE

[HomeMadeSin]

I picked up a used 2007 Yamaha YDRE and it’s been fun so far. It’s clean and looks good and is outfitted nicely albeit just a two seater golf-focused cart.

We have plans to add the flip/back seat but probably not too much else from a feature standpoint. But I’m concerned about a few things after doing some research from other threads here. So here goes...

(1) Hitachi (China) motor. DM430-06, 2.6kW, 6XT on label.
(2) Team rear end with the dreaded white label.
(3) Sure Power Converter, Model 41020C00
(4) Yamaha/Moric? Controller, S/N 4116UN048 with PTV Code 460899 and matching cart serial number.
(5) Trombetta 114-4811-020-07 solenoid (didn’t get a great pic of the label)
(6) Trojan T-875 8v batteries with 5 dated 2018 and one dated 2019.

So, first off I’m concerned about the rear end grenading at a bad time. I did change the oil and what came out was dark with small shiny flakes. Also, I have the common rattle on decel (like marbles rolling around). But when charged she’ll hit 25mph (iPhone Waze) on flat ground. Not much torque however so I’m assuming the 8:1 high speed gear?

Next, I’m not convinced the batteries are in tip-top shape. The first ride went well with a solid 1.5hr and mostly full bore. Seems to be dropping more quickly the last couple rides (dropped 3-4 bars after 1/2hour of mid speed). Keeping an eye on water level and picked up a hydrometer to check sg. Not done that yet but on the list.

Rides rough - as in “is there an actual suspension system?!?” Haven’t delved into that just yet but do have a question as it relates to adding the rear seat: I’ve not seen anyone mention the idea that shocks need upgrading with that kit. Am I reading too much into it?

Anyway, I appreciate any pointers or advice. I generally like to upgrade parts instead of just replacing with OE items, but would like to avoid limiting options later if feasible. Advice?

Thanks,
Troy

[Volt_Ampere]

With the high speed gearing, if you go for a new motor, go with a high torque one. I have 9:1 gears and I went with a D&D High torque motor four years ago. It's still going strong and it made a huge difference off the line. These are good carts. I don't know about the white label Team gearbox but the YDRE is a solid cart IMO. The Hitachi motor is a weak link but the rest is pretty solid.

[HomeMadeSin]

Thanks, I’ve read that the Hitachi doesn’t get much respect. And that’s one of the things I want to be aware of is putting components in place to support a reasonable upgrade (potentially simultaneously with the trans system).

Also, I just came out to inspect the batteries as they were charging and they were definitely “actively venting”. It wasn’t a rolling boil, but what should I be looking/listening for on the charge cycle? I have a DPI 48014-04 charger that blinks twice upon start-up. I think that is correct for Yamaha 48V...

[HomeMadeSin]

Battery level indicator was at ~60-70% when I parked it. Battery pack read 49.9v. Charged it until I heard the “off-gassing” and it read 52.2v.

[Volt_Ampere]

The gassing is perfectly normal during a proper charge cycle! It's actually good for the batteries. Just check the levels after fully charging and add distilled water if needed. Never add water before charging as the level rises significantly during charging.

[CP241]

Once it’s fully charged, disconnect the charger and let it sit fir 12 hours. If they are 50.9 or greater, you’re good.

As for an upgrade path, I’d recommend giving Don plowman a call. Nobody knows these carts better than he does. He can set you with whatever parts you need to make it as mild or wild as you want it to be. https://www.plowmanscarts.com/