ASK THE MECHANIC

ASK THE MECHANIC ASK THE MECHANIC

Q: What are my options for playing music in my cart?

A: There are several ways to enjoy your favorite tunes while driving your cart. Most easily is by installing a Bluetooth enabled soundbar. There are several well-respected companies that make waterproof sound bars including ECOXGEAR, WET SOUNDS, and JBL. These would mount to your roof supports to which you would purchase or make an aftermarket bracket to fit your cart securely. These soundbars simply need a 12v source for power and then you connect to your phone wirelessly to play music through apps like Pandora or iTunes. Many sound bars also have LED lighting to play with the music as well to add to the fun factor. Alternatively, you can also install an in-vehicle style head unit with added speakers. The speakers can mount directly to the body, or you can purchase speaker pods or custom dash kits that allow for adding speakers. Going this route, you would need to wire everything up individually but make sure you go with a good marine grade head unit and speakers to be trouble free for the long haul. Be sure to install to a voltage reducer and fuse box for added protection.

Q: How involved is it to stretch a golf cart?

A: In the past, stretch kits required welding parts of the frame together, but now there are more kits on the market that allow bolting the stretch kit in place. With that being said, you still have to cut your frame in half so make sure to measure twice (even three times) and cut once. You will need to purchase longer rocker panels or customize ones to fit as well as purchasing an extra seat pod. Wiring will need to be lengthened as well as using longer brake lines as well. This job is best left to a knowledgeable golf cart technician to be done correctly. Even though these kits can cost several thousand dollars, stretching your current cart could end up saving you money rather than purchasing a whole new one.

Q: Should I disconnect the batteries when storing the cart for over three months?

A: There will still be a constant draw on the batteries if left idle for long periods, so it is best to disconnect your main positive and negative leads as well as placing the cart into tow/service mode. Make sure before you fully disconnect, that the batteries are fully charged and topped off with water if they are lead acid types. You could also investigate purchasing a 36 or 48v battery maintainer. You can find these types of trickle chargers through online sites like CartPros.com. Also, if you live in a colder climate, it may be a good idea to insulate the batteries as well so they do not freeze if kept outside.