Which one is "first in series" of batteries need clarification for hooking up lights

[newgolfcartchickie]

Hey there, couldn't find this question answered anywhere. 2 things... trying to hook up lights I know that you don't need a voltage reducer when hooking up lights only, but please clarify which is the first in the series. I have an '87 Ezgo and it appears that the first in the series are the 2 in front on the passenger side, is this correct? The reason I'm asking is because when I hit the gas, the voltage meter spikes up to 36v for a second or two before dropping back down to 12. (I have the back end jacked up) So far I've burned out a few sets of lights. Could there be a short somewhere? Wiring is correct, I followed the diagram to a tee (as I recently replaced the resistor coil). AHHHHHH

[dougmcp]

Welcome to the forum!
I assume it's a 36v electric cart. Yes, you could call the first 2 batteries in series the ones you are referring to. Confirm this with a voltage check to keep from burning out bulbs.
The voltmeter should not spike to 36v then go back to 12v. Are you sure these are not grounded to the frame? Nothing electrical gets grounded to the frame in an electric cart.

[miferrel]

To BGW

[lobo]

Welcome to the forum!First find your batteries neg to ground then go over 2 batteries to your pos and that will give you 12 volts.

[scottyb]

ANY 2 batteries wired in series within the pack will yeild 12 volts. As for 'followed the wiring diagram to a Tee' ??? After 2 or 3 sets of lights.... It would be cheaper to buy a voltmeter and check how much voltage you are trying to connect the 12v lights to before you flip the switch and fry another pair.... Check with a voltmeter any 2 batteries that are cabled in series ... they will have a cable from the positive on one to the negative on the other then hook your lights to the OTHER pos and neg of these two batts.. In the pic below you can put your lights where it says 12 volt charger.

[newgolfcartchickie]

thanks guys, but have done all that and I can get the 12volts, but as soon as you give it gas, the volt meter spikes to 36volts. So thats the main issue I guess. ???? I thought I had it wrong, but seems right from the input I am getting here. (ScottyB, I've been using a volt meter Also re: diagram thanks ) That's how I had it and also, nothing's connected to the frame (that much I did know). Any other ideas what could be causing the spike?

[scottyb]

What kind and vintage golf cart is it?

[newgolfcartchickie]

1987 Ezgo

[mikesmotortoys]

Sounds like you need to take it to a shop that can diagnose why you're getting a voltage spike...

[newgolfcartchickie]

hmmmm, bummer!