Correcting rear tire rub on 97 G16

[bigstik40]

I have been having a problem with my rear tire rubbing on the square frame tube behind the rear tire when carrying passengers. I did lift the rear a couple inches (homemade blocks) when I first installed my rear seat and everything was ok for a while. Recently I had to put another tire on due to leaks and that is when the problem started. It has regular 18" tires and I think the old tire was worn enough to clear, but the new tire is not as worn so it rubs. I tried lowering the air pressure and that helped a little. I only have the problem on one side and only with passengers. I think maybe the cart was rear ended before I got it and the frame tube got pushed in, but not sure. (It did come off of a golf course ).

My question is: How can I fix this? Can I just put a bar inside the tube and bend it back without causing problems elsewhere?? Thanks in advance for any help here!! RAY

[SRDCOMPOSITES]

Hd springs in back or spacer from plowmans on factory spring for softer ride. 18" shouldn't rub unless the axle is not in correct spot. When you lifted it did you put bracket lift on top of rear shocks or did you try the automotive blocks on axle. The correct way is a lift bracket on the top of the shock where it mounts to the cart.

[cgtech]

the lift kit changed the geometry of the panhard bar (which locates the axle & sets its position). look up a pic of the rear of a yamaha with a jakes lift kit. you will see a bracket which drops the panhard bar to its original level. need to figure out a bracket to do the same to yours.

[smallblock450sl]

Sounds like it was hit real hard in the back and actually bent the main frame. I've tried "porta power" units, but never could find good attatching point's. When I was young and less prone to injeries, I'd wrap a chain around the main frame rectangular tube and tie it off to the fork lift ect and "nail" the accelerator. It bends it back pretty easy, but my neck and back no longer will take the shock. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS, it's at your own peril! Dang I should never have posted this

[bigstik40]

Thanks for the responses, guys. My lift is a very minor one, done with blocks at the top of the shocks, and probably 1 1/2" or 2" at the most. The rubbing is directly behind the right rear tire and happens when the cart is loaded. I will have to dig into it a little further to try to determine exactly what the problem is. It is almost like the rear axle is mounted too far back on one side. Not that big of a deal so probably a good fall job after I get the cart back home from the cottage. Thanks again - RAY

[Mike Mac]

I'd get a tape measure and check which one is right, CG or Block, the panhard may be pulling the swing axle over to the left of center, or the hoop over the axle may be bent!!

[bigstik40]

Originally Posted by cgtech

the lift kit changed the geometry of the panhard bar (which locates the axle & sets its position). look up a pic of the rear of a yamaha with a jakes lift kit. you will see a bracket which drops the panhard bar to its original level. need to figure out a bracket to do the same to yours.

After looking at this further, I think that my thoughts that the cart may have been hit is wrong. I was originally skeptical that the panhard length could allow forward and back movement of the tires, as I thought the control arms each had their own separate pivot point and this would put each wheel on its own fixed swing radius. After reviewing the G16 "U" shaped control arm with a single point pivot, I now see how the panhard length will in fact cause front to back (and side to side) movement of the tires and that is my problem. Thanks for making me think for a change !

One other question now: Is there a chance that the pivot bushing on my cart is bad causing both tires to be further back than they should? The clearance there does seem to be pretty small and once the bad side is corrected, the other side will become even smaller.

Again, thank you all for your help. - RAY

[bigstik40]

Finally had a chance to look into this and I find that not only has my lift changed the geometry of the rear suspension, but I also have a significant bend in my panhard bar (I assume it should be straight). Both of these issues have joined forces in causing my tire rub problem. Looks like I have some work to do. Thanks again for the help. - RAY

[Mike Mac]

Good deal Stick!! Straighten out any bends!!