ASK THE MECHANIC ASK THE MECHANIC

Q: I'm tired of using a manual forward reverse lever. Can I install a switch instead?

A: Yes, you sure can. There is a conversion kit that allows you to eliminate your manual lever style selector to a rocker switch. These kits are made for earlier model years EZGO, Club Car and Yamaha and can be found at online retailers like CartPros. com with part# 5081. This is a straightforward install, but it should be completed by someone that understands electrical schematics and is comfortable with electronics. When the install is complete, you will never strain to put it in forward or reverse as a click of the switch is all it will take.

Q: My E-Z-GO Powerwise Charger is not working. Can I repair it?

A: Yes, the Powerwise chargers are excellent candidates to repair and many parts are available. The culprits causing the problem are either the diodes inside or the relay on the main board as it activates the charger. Both parts are much less expensive than a new charger and are easy to install. There are many YouTube videos on this procedure as well as how to fully test your Powerwise charger to troubleshoot.

Q: My cart has been sitting unused and now the back wheels are locked up. What can I do?

A: I would suspect your rear brake cable is stuck in place and not allowing the shoes to disengage. It could also be corrosion on the side of the drums that are preventing the wheels from turning. Safely jack up the cart from the rear, remove the rear wheels and hit the drums with a hammer all around to try to free the shoes from contacting the drums. Most drums have a hole in them to see inside. If you can find the star adjuster at the bottom you can use a long flathead screwdriver to turn the wheel counterclockwise to release the tension on the drums to remove. Once the drum is removed, clean inside with brake cleaner and lightly scuff the inside of the drum to get off any rust. With the drum back on, apply the brake pedal and inspect to determine that the arms on the underside of the drums are moving to actuate the shoes inside. Your brake cable should be lubed accordingly or replaced as they do stretch out over time. If that doesn't solve your problem and your wheels are still locked up, you may have a rear differential or axle issue.