Clutch slams just as it moves

[Bury]

I just got my G1 gas cart running. It doesn't matter if it is in forward or reverse it slams into gear and runs fine until at idle or starting up again. I thought maybe the clutch was sticking so I lubed the engine side of the shaft but no change. I want to fix it before more damage. Any ideas?

[slonomo]

Sounds like the primary clutch might have a bad spring. If it's the original style clutch with the aluminum cover there is a spring that gives resistance when engaging. It sounds like this spring might be broken or missing? You will likely have to remove and disassemble the primary clutch for inspection.

It also could be a problem with the secondary clutch. Check that to see if there are any worn / missing ramp shoes, and look for any worn or broken parts.

[Bury]

Thanks I will check those when I replace the belts.

[sho305]

I'd agree its the primary. Put the cart against a tree/etc and run it with the hood up and just enough gas for a normal takeoff and hold the brake on. If the clutch (primary on engine) bangs shut on the belt fast and it jerks that is your problem. Also note if you are comparing it to newer carts the G1 is not as smooth, but it would not jerk hard either.

[Bury]

Yes, it does exactly that. I ordered both springs from TNT golf cart along with other parts and they notified me that the springs are no longer made. Is there another source? The price was very reasonable, less than $30. For both.

[sho305]

Usually more spring in the primary (actually longer) makes it do that, and not a weaker spring. It may have a shim in it or damaged weights, I'd tear it down and see to be sure. Yamaha stopped using those long ago it may be hard to find parts for, but they are out there.

[DirKell]

Since some of these posts are a bit old, I thought I'd ask this similar question. I have a 2013 Yamaha gas golf cart. When I start out from a complete stop, the cart slams when going forward. If I ease it forward to begin rolling and then apply the gas, it's ok and goes smooth. I've changed the belt. I'm thinking something is going on with the clutch. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[Lochlin]

Just about all "slamming" cart starts are clutch related. That said, although clutches operate pretty much the same from cart to cart how they are constructed differ. You are probably going to post up your specific cart model to get the bet direction. You may just want to start a new post altogether so that no one gets confused as to type of cart you have.