Gas-powered golf carts are a great way to get around the golf course, but many people find that they want to increase the speed of their cart beyond what it is capable of achieving in its current state. Fortunately, there are several upgrades that you can make to your golf cart to increase its speed and overall performance. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to make a gas golf cart go faster, including upgrading the engine, governor, tires, clutch, and suspension.
1. Introduction
Golf carts are popular among golfers and non-golfers alike for their convenience and ease of use. While they may be designed primarily for use on the golf course, many people use them for other purposes as well, such as running errands around town, commuting short distances, or even off-roading. However, the standard speed of a gas golf cart may not be enough for some people’s needs, which is why they seek ways to increase its speed.
In this article, we will discuss various methods to make a gas golf cart go faster. We will provide step-by-step instructions for upgrading different parts of the golf cart to achieve a higher speed. We will also discuss the importance of safety when attempting to increase the speed of your golf cart. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make your gas golf cart go faster!
2. Check the CartΓÇÖs Current Speed
Before attempting any upgrades to your golf cart, it’s essential to know its current speed. To measure the current speed of your gas golf cart, you can use a speedometer app on your smartphone or a handheld GPS device. Another option is to use a stopwatch to time how long it takes for your golf cart to travel a set distance.
Once you have measured the current speed of your golf cart, you can evaluate its performance. If you find that your golf cart is already operating at its maximum speed, you may need to consider more significant upgrades or even purchasing a new golf cart. However, if you find that your golf cart has room for improvement, you can proceed with the upgrades discussed in this article.
When evaluating the performance of your golf cart, it’s essential to consider factors such as acceleration, braking, and stability. A golf cart that can accelerate quickly but has poor braking performance can be dangerous. Similarly, a golf cart that is too unstable at high speeds can also be hazardous. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that your golf cart’s upgrades improve its overall performance, not just its speed.
3. Upgrading the Engine
Upgrading the engine of your golf cart is one of the most effective ways to increase its speed. There are several upgrades you can make to the engine to achieve this, such as replacing the air filter, upgrading the carburetor, upgrading the exhaust system, and installing a high-performance spark plug.
Replacing the air filter can improve the airflow to the engine, which can increase its power output. Upgrading the carburetor can increase the fuel flow to the engine, resulting in improved performance. Similarly, upgrading the exhaust system can reduce the engine’s backpressure, resulting in better performance. Installing a high-performance spark plug can also improve the engine’s combustion, resulting in increased power output.
It’s essential to note that upgrading the engine can be a complicated process and may require professional help. If you’re not confident in your ability to upgrade the engine, it’s best to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic.
4. Upgrading the Governor
The governor is a device that controls the speed of the engine. It’s designed to prevent the engine from exceeding its maximum safe speed. However, upgrading or adjusting the governor can increase the speed of the engine and, consequently, the speed of the golf cart.
Adjusting the governor involves tweaking its settings to allow the engine to reach higher speeds. However, it’s important to note that adjusting the governor can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced mechanics. A safer alternative is to remove the governor altogether, which can allow the engine to reach its maximum potential speed. However, removing the governor can also be dangerous and can lead to engine damage or failure.
Before attempting any governor modifications, it’s crucial to check local laws and regulations. Some states and countries have restrictions on how fast a golf cart can go, and removing or modifying the governor may be illegal. Therefore, it’s essential to research local laws and regulations before making any modifications to your golf cart’s governor.
5. Upgrading the Tires
Upgrading the tires of your golf cart can also improve its speed and performance. Two types of tires are commonly used in golf carts: low-profile tires and larger-diameter tires. Low-profile tires have a shorter sidewall, which can provide better handling and stability at higher speeds. Larger-diameter tires can increase the overall circumference of the tire, resulting in a higher top speed.
When upgrading the tires of your golf cart, it’s essential to ensure that they are compatible with your golf cart’s rims and suspension system. Installing tires that are too large or too small can affect the performance and stability of your golf cart. It’s also crucial to ensure that the new tires are rated for the weight and load capacity of your golf cart.
6. Upgrading the Clutch
Upgrading the clutch of your golf cart can also improve its speed and acceleration. The clutch is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the transmission. Upgrading to a high-performance clutch can improve the power transfer, resulting in improved acceleration and higher top speed.
Replacing the clutch can be a complicated process and may require professional assistance. It’s also essential to ensure that the new clutch is compatible with your golf cart’s engine and transmission. A clutch that is too small or too large can affect the performance of your golf cart.
When upgrading the clutch, it’s also important to consider the type of driving you will be doing. If you plan to use your golf cart for off-roading or other heavy-duty applications, a heavy-duty clutch may be necessary. However, if you only plan to use your golf cart for casual driving, a standard clutch may be sufficient.
Overall, upgrading the clutch can provide significant improvements in your golf cart’s performance. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the new clutch is compatible with your golf cart’s engine and transmission and that it’s suitable for your intended use.
7. Upgrading the Suspension
Upgrading the suspension of your golf cart can also improve its speed and overall performance. A golf cart’s suspension system is responsible for providing a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing shocks and vibrations from the road. Upgrading to a heavy-duty suspension system can improve stability at high speeds and provide better handling.
There are several upgrades you can make to your golf cart’s suspension system, such as replacing the shocks and upgrading to heavy-duty leaf springs. Replacing the shocks can improve the golf cart’s stability and reduce bounce, resulting in a smoother ride. Upgrading to heavy-duty leaf springs can improve the golf cart’s weight capacity and provide better handling.
When upgrading the suspension system, it’s essential to ensure that the new components are compatible with your golf cart’s frame and weight capacity. It’s also important to ensure that the new suspension system does not affect the golf cart’s ground clearance or steering.
8. Safety Considerations
When attempting to increase the speed of your golf cart, it’s essential to consider safety first. Golf carts are not designed for high speeds and can be dangerous if not used responsibly. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind when upgrading your golf cart:
- Always wear a helmet when driving at high speeds.
- Make sure your golf cart is equipped with appropriate safety equipment such as seat belts and roll bars.
- Only upgrade your golf cart if you have the necessary knowledge and experience. If you’re not confident in your abilities, seek the assistance of a professional mechanic.
- Always check local laws and regulations regarding the use of golf carts on public roads and highways.
- Avoid overloading your golf cart, as this can affect its stability and handling.
- Test your golf cart’s performance in a safe and controlled environment before driving at high speeds in public areas.
By keeping these safety considerations in mind, you can enjoy the benefits of a faster golf cart while still ensuring the safety of yourself and others.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to make a gas golf cart go faster, including upgrading the engine, governor, tires, clutch, and suspension. Before attempting any upgrades, it’s important to measure the current speed of your golf cart and evaluate its performance. Upgrading the engine and governor can provide significant improvements in speed, but it’s crucial to ensure that the upgrades are compatible with your golf cart’s specifications and that they don’t violate any local laws and regulations.
Upgrading the tires, clutch, and suspension can also improve the golf cart’s speed and overall performance. However, it’s important to ensure that the new components are compatible with your golf cart’s weight capacity and intended use.
When attempting to increase the speed of your golf cart, it’s crucial to consider safety first. Always wear appropriate safety equipment, avoid overloading your golf cart, and test its performance in a safe and controlled environment before driving at high speeds in public areas.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively increase the speed of your gas golf cart and enjoy a more exciting and efficient driving experience.
