Golf Carting Magazine Issue 46 March 2024

WE'RE LAUNCHING A REVOLUTION, COME BE A PART OF IT!

STANDARD FEATURES

• PUSH START IGNITION

• LSV READY (AVAILABLE VIN NUMBER)

• NEW 14" TOUCH SCREEN DISPLAY

• BLUETOOTH SOUND SYSTEM

• 5KW AC MOTOR

• ALUMINIUM CHASSIS

• BACKUP CAMERA

• ON BOARD CHARGER

• LED GRILL LIGHT BAR

• BUILT IN COOLER

• BRUSHGUARD

• SIDE STEPS

• NEW COLOR CHANGING HEADLIGHTS

• FLIPDOWN REAR SEAT

• LOCKABLE GLOVE BOXES

• 3-POINT SEATBELTS

• USB PORTS

• WIRELESS CHARGING PAD

• 4-WHEEL HYDRAULIC DISC BRAKES

• AND SO MUCH MORE!

NEW Industry leading 3 year, unlimited mile warranty with LIFETIME battery warranty on all 2024 Carts!

*restrictions apply

BINTELLI NAMED BEST LSV / STREET LEGAL GOLF CART

23 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY AND COUNTING

This cutting-edge electric golf cart will come standard with more high-end features than any other street-legal golf cart in the industry. Available for dealerships starting in April 2024.

Isn’t it time you experienced the best LSV dealership program in the industry?

SCAN

COMING SOON: THE BINTELLI NEXUS (843) 920-6733

bintelli.com/become-a-dealer

A Greener Path Forward: NEVs at the 2024 PGA Show

The 2024 show has once again illuminated the path towards a sustainable future, with the spotlight on the burgeoning sector of Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs). As communities worldwide strive for greener, more efficient modes of transport, the advancements unveiled in the NEV segment promise to redefine urban mobility. This year, the focus was crystal clear: sustainability married with innovation. Manufacturers from across the globe presented their latest NEVs, each designed not just for efficiency and practicality but also keeping the environment at the heart of every innovation.

The array of electric vehicles on display was stunning, both in quantity and quality. The integration of smart technology into NEVs was another a highlight of the show. With features like GPS navigation, real-time traffic updates, and digital diagnostics, these vehicles are not just transport mechanisms; they're smart mobility solutions designed for the modern urbanite. This leap towards connectivity and digital integration represents a significant step forward in making NEVs a more attractive and practical option for everyday use. Customization and comfort have also taken center stage. The latest NEVs are designed to cater to a broad spectrum of user preferences, offering customizable features ranging from adjustable suspension systems to climate-controlled interiors. This focus on personalization and comfort underscores the industry's commitment to not just meeting but exceeding the expectations of today's discerning consumers.

The 2024 PGA Show has clearly demonstrated that the future of urban mobility lies in the hands of NEVs. Through innovative battery technology, the incorporation of renewable

energy, smart connectivity, and a focus on customization, manufacturers are paving the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and enjoyable mode of transportation. As these technologies continue to evolve and gain traction, they promise to transform our neighborhoods into cleaner, greener, and more connected communities. The journey towards a sustainable future is on, and NEVs are leading the way.

It was very rewarding to see many of our advertisers at this year’s show. There are far too many to mention all of them in this brief write-up. We enjoyed spending time with all of them and are grateful for our relationships.

We hope you enjoy this March 2024 edition of Golf Carting Magazine.

Trevor Rose Senior Editor Trevor@golfcarting.com

MAGAZINE

GOLF CARTING // Issue 46 // March 2024

Publisher: GC Media Group, LLC

Senior Editor: Trevor Rose - trevor@golfcarting.com

Creative Director: Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com

Production Director: Christian Amico - chris@golfcarting.com

Staff Writer: Kelly Madden

Staff Writer: Josh Delsota

Staff Writer / Social Media: Tony Benjamin

Golf Carting® is published monthly by GC Media Group, LLC. Reprinting in whole or by any means- electronic, graphic or mechanical, including photocopying or information storage and retrieval systems is forbidden without written permission from the publisher.

Advertising opportunities and inquiries to: chris@golfcarting.com

Editorial contributions are welcomed, but editors recommend that contributors contact us first. Contribution must be accompanied by return postage, and we assume no responsibility for damage or loss of material. Manuscripts must be typewritten, and all photos have to have captions. Photo model releases of all people in photos must accompany manuscript. GOLF CARTING reserves the right to use material, and we reserve the right to edit material to meet publication requirements. E-mail contributions or inquiries to:

trevor@golfcarting.com

WARNING: Certain action photographs depicted in this magazine are potentially dangerous. The drivers and vehicle occupants seen in our photos are experienced professionals. Do not attempt to duplicate any stunts. Wear a helmet and safety restraints while operating a Golf Cart, and never drive beyond your capabilities. Do not drink and drive while operating a Golf Cart. We also encourage you to “Tread Lightly” while respecting the outdoors and other outdoor enthusiasts. Use your head and enjoy the ride!

©2022 GC Media Group, LLC

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FROM BLASTTHEPAST

BY TROY MERRIFIELD

A !

PHOTOS BY TROY MERRIFIELD

RESURFACING MEMORIES: A SNAPSHOT OF A CUSTOM 1000cc CART IN 2006

Y'all know everything in Texas is bigger, so it’s only fitting that we showcase a Texas-sized big block crammed into a Maryland-sized cart. Males are dominant creatures by nature and possess egos substantial enough for five PeeWee Hermantype personalities. To be an "Alpha Male" means being the lead dog with everyone else following suit. Frank Gatlin embodies his own breed of Alpha Male, not due to a dominant nature, but be-cause of his dominant cart.

We've all witnessed carts with snowmobile and motorcycle engines shoehorned into a carcass, cut and mutilated to the point where it's no longer a cart but merely the outer shell of its former self. Heck, I even have a cart with a Yamaha R6 engine, and I'd trade it in a heartbeat for a cart I didn't have to shift. This is what makes Frank's new creation so captivating. The same basic principle applies to this cart as any other stock cart - engine, CVT, and a stock rear transaxle form the heart of a cart.

Our first glimpse of Frank's 1998 E-Z-GO TXT was in Kentucky, and we were immediately impressed by its stance and throaty sound. Our amazement reached new heights when he ignited his cart across a grass field, effortlessly riding on its hindquarters for well over 50 yards. Frank's cart warranted a special trip to Dallas to witness this beast in action on its home turf.

Some say bigger isn’t always better; I say nay. In the ever-growing popularity of 24hp Hondas and 23hp Briggs, which provide ample power for most weekend warriors, Frank decided that anything under 30hp just wouldn't cut it. He started with a base 35hp Briggs, maintaining the stock bore and stroke. He then added forged aluminum pistons to achieve 10-1 compression

(stock compression is 8-1); now, 93-octane fuel would be the minimum. Heavy-duty billet aluminum connecting rods, billet roller rocker arms, a high-rev kit (increasing valve spring tension), HD billet aluminum push rods, and a performance cam ensured smooth acceleration. And why stop there? Add a billet aluminum carb adapter with a K&N filter, an improved throttle lever, remove the choke and anti-backfire solenoid from the carb to enhance airflow, and you're almost set. Throw in custom dual pipes topped off with Super Trapp exhaust, and you have a 1000cc engine that will thrust you back in your seat, as well as your wallet.

Now that the big block was ready, Frank turned his attention to the cart itself. The cart needed robust

suspension to handle the new power plant, so he had a custom front and rear suspension fabricated, complete with four QA-1 Coil-over shocks with compression and rebound adjustability all around to give the cart the added stability it needed. Finished with ITP Type 6 wheels and 27” Bear Claw tires, this setup will give any wolf a run for its money.

Thanks to Frank, a new trend of performance carts is emerging on the trails, maintaining the ease and reliability we're accustomed to in our stock carts. Currently, you can obtain an air-cooled and recently introduced water-cooled version of the Briggs, along with numerous performance upgrades for all models of Briggs and Stratton. So, if you're contemplating being the Alpha Male in your neighborhood, empower your cart with real muscle. Then let your friends follow in your tracks. - CGMAG

PSHOULD I GO LITHIUM OR STAY WITH LEAD ACID BATTERIES?

Perhaps you know me from YouTube with the phrase, “Hey guys, Cory with Palmetto Battery Pros.”

My name is Cory Wilkinson and I have been doing lithium battery unboxing, review, and installation videos on YouTube for our battery retail business for the last 3 years. I really enjoy working in this sub segment of the battery industry and do my best to bring an unbiased voice to the table. I have been fortunate enough to work on the retail, service, and wholesale sides of the lithium golf cart battery space. My goal with this segment is to share everything I have learned about lithium golf cart batteries and help golf cart owners navigate their way through the purchasing process.

We all know that a better battery will improve the electric golf carting experience. The real question is, are lithium golf cart batteries worth the price tag? I would encourage you to do your own research based on your specific needs, budget, and expectations, but if you compare life cycle expectations, we can see the value of going lithium. A set of high-end, namebrand lead acid batteries should expect to see 750 life cycles on average. The most popular lithium golf cart batteries use the prismatic LiFeP04 cells that are rated at 3,500+ lifecycles. If lead acid batteries last 4 years on average and achieve 750 life cycles, then the lithium battery should expect to have a life expectancy of 18+ years. That is a bold claim that no one is making, but the major US brands do feel comfortable offering 8-to-10-year warranties.

The fact of the matter is, no one really knows how long these batteries will last because this product segment is only 5 years old on a mass production level. Even the first batteries to market have not exceeded their original manufacturer’s warranty. That is a scary thought, but the guys that own the companies and have done the R&D believe in the product enough to offer 8-to-10-year warranties. That should tell us

something. I do not believe the major US brands are actively claiming these long warranties to sell some batteries just to turn around and close shop. The brands I have worked with are heavily invested in their US sales and service infrastructure and genuinely want to sell the best product on the market.

I have watched lithium golf cart batteries improve so much in a short amount of time. Less than 5 years ago we were installing battery packs assembled with used EV cells. Today we have amazing batteries that primarily use new LiFeP04 prismatic cells with Battery Management Systems designed specifically for upgraded and stock golf carts. Not to mention all the other bells and whistles we did not know we needed five years ago. Features like Bluetooth, mobile applications, remote diagnostics, and CAN bus communication add a tremendous amount of value to the battery and solve a lot of problems early users were experiencing. The early adapters helped the brands create a product that is now perfect for golf carts, this is a wonderful time to take the lithium leap of faith.

Tens of thousands of people will be pulling their golf carts out of storage this month and hoping their lead acid batteries survived the winter. Unfortunately, many of those golf cart owners will need new batteries and must weigh their options. Should I go lithium or stay with lead acid batteries? For me, the choice is simple, but I do understand the reservations of the golf cart owner. We are asking them to believe in a product that has not been fully proven regarding life expectancy, and at a price point that is 2-3 times higher than the old lead acid batteries. If you are interacting with consumers I highly recommend being as honest as possible and establishing yourself as a valuable source of information within your network. Think of your conversations with golf cart owners as consultations, not sales pitches. Your customers will appreciate it.

2024 PGA SHOW

IS THE ULTIMATE SHOWCASE FOR GOLF CARTING

The golf world was treated to the ultimate in new industry innovations and the hottest new golf products at the PGA Show, held in Orlando on January 23rd-26th.

The PGA Show, formerly the PGA Merchandise Show, now the world’s largest and most influential golf business event, grew from humble beginnings in Dunedin, Fla., in 1954, when a handful of golf merchandisers assembled in the PGA National Golf Club parking lot during a series of PGA

winter tournaments. By 1957, the number of manufacturers’ representatives had become so large, approximately 50 by then, that PGA officials leased a tent.

The 2024 PGA Show at the sprawling Orange County Orlando Convention Center has grown to cover more than 1 million square feet of exhibitor space.

While this huge event is not open to the general public, thousands of golf industry professionals attended this year’s

The market for golf carts and Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) has evolved significantly, with manufacturers beyond the popular big 3 (Club Car, E-Z-GO, and Yamaha) introducing innovative features and designs. The shift towards features like alloy wheels, automotive-style front cowls, LED lighting, premium seats, Bluetooth connectivity, and lithium batteries indicates a focus on providing a more luxurious and connected experience for consumers.

The increased competition and inclusion of these additional features at a fraction of the cost of the big 3 models present

consumers with compelling choices. The appeal of a loaded cart with advanced features may make it challenging for consumers to resist, especially when considering the price advantage compared to traditional models.

This shift in the market reflects a broader trend in various industries, where innovation and competition lead to more choices and enhanced offerings for consumers. It will be interesting to see how these changes continue to shape the golf cart and NEV market in the coming years.

Denago Bentelli

Vivid Honor

LSV

Atlas

event, like club pros, club owners and grounds’ management, fleet managers, golf instructors and coaches, golf media and more. Golf Carting Magazine was well represented at the show, with several key team members attending the giant expo. This premier showcase of golf’s latest products, services and programs is organized by Reed Exhibitions, (RX), in partnership with the Professional Golfers’ Association, and this year boasted over 1,500 exhibitors.

Of course, golf carts and Low Speed Vehicles, (LSVs), represented some of the most popular exhibits at the show, with more than 82 booths representing both long-established cart companies and many new arrivals in the industry displaying their newest products for 2024.

Trevor Rose, Senior Editor of this publication, has made sure this megaevent is on the magazine’s must-attend events. “We met with dozens of cart manufacturers and brands, learning about their hottest new vehicles, batteries, modification parts, accessories and other cart products,” he said. “Any golf industry professional who wants to learn about the most exciting new developments needs to be here.”

If it has anything to do with the golf industry, you can bet you’ll find it at the PGA Show. From tech companies to golf clubs, swing trainers, golf apparel and everything else under the sun, the exhibitors pulled out all the stops to present their products and services.

It was easy to find companies like ECOXGEAR SoundExtreme and www.GolfCarting.com

golfcartshow

Wet Sounds just by following the music coming from their premium audio sound bars and speaker systems. The latest in advanced lithium battery technology could be found at the Allied Battery, Trojan Battery, Relion Battery, Eco Battery, BOLT Energy and many other booths. MODZ made a strong showing with their radical new wheels and other cart modification products.

And the golf cart and LSV markets were a very strong

presence. The latest models were rolled out by Denago EV, Honor LSV, Evolution, Bintelli, Atlas, Voyager EV and several others.

If you haven’t done so already, plan on getting your tickets to the 2025 PGA Show to be held in Orlando on January 21st24th, 2025. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and plan on spending multiple days to take in all of the excitement at this premier golf event. -GCMAG

DENAGO EV

PREMIUM QUALITY AT A REMARKABLE PRICE

With an impressive 20-year track record in the e-bike industry, Denago EV is now a formidable player in the electric vehicle market, offering fully featured models with price points unheard of in the business.

Based in St. Petersburg, Florida, the company also has warehouse facilities in Carrollton TX, Irving TX, and Chino, CA.

Denago EV is owned by their parent manufacturer, TAO Motors®, which allows them to offer such affordable pricing to their dealers and end consumers. The company is backed by several golf cart and NEV, (Neighborhood Electric Vehicle), industry leaders like co-founder Sheng Wang . Another key team member is Albizu “Albi” Moctezuma, the company’s Director of Parts and Service. Albi has a 14-year history in the golf cart industry, starting on the assembly line and working his way up to Parts and Service Manager at Cruise Car, Inc, which was acquired by ICON EV. At ICON, Albi served as their National Parts Manager. There is not a cart brand out there that Albi is not an expert on.

The entire team at Denago reads like a “who’s who” of the golf cart industry, with key members who have impressive histories with manufacturers like TEXTRON Specialized Vehicles®, ICON® and many others.

The company has announced an aggressive, $10M marketing and promotion campaign for 2024, offering maximum visibility and awareness of the brand for their dealers and consumers.

“Denago EV was established to be a total game changer in the EV industry, and we’re very pleased with the reception we’ve received from our 170-plus dealer network and the feedback from our buyers,” said Jennifer Alexender, the company’s Director of Business Development.

Denago EV was founded with a foundation in sustainable, eco-friendly electric transportation provided by state-of-theart, stylish vehicles that are turning heads in the industry. Through continual research and development and innovative technology that rivals that of the automotive industry, Denago

golfcartmanufacturer

EV is poised to set the standard for tomorrow’s NEVs.

Denago Nomad XL

USA TODAY® has said, "Forget the competition, Denago EV’s Nomad XL offers features at a price that's simply unheard of. "

Just a few of the key features of this innovative EV include a 40-mile range on a single charge, a top speed of 25 miles per hour, a 5-year battery warranty and the ability to fully charge the batteries in just 5 hours. The Nomad measures 114-inches long by 51-inches wide and weighs 1,050 pounds.

Other standard features include a 40-mile range, on-board lithium quick charger, 400 Amp Denago controller and a 5kW AC Denago electric motor. This cart’s impressive power comes from the Denago 51.2V 105aH LifePO4 lithium batteries.

Convenience features include the tilt steering wheel, 110V AC outlet, rear-view camera, integrated turn signals, USB/ USB-C PD ports, premium seats and ultra-tough floormats. The Nomad is priced at just $7,995.00.

Denago Rover XL

The Rover is a stylish 4-seater EV with 51.2V lithium

batteries, 400-Amp Denago controller and a 5kW Denago AC electric motor. It measures 118-inches long by 49-inches wide and weighs 1,202 pounds. The rugged Rover can handle inclines of 30 degree grade, has 4-wheel electromagnetic disc brakes on all 4 wheels and rides on DOT-approved aluminum 23x10-14-inch tires. Top speed is 25-mph and the powdercoated aluminum chassis features a 2.5-inch lift.

Other standard features include the 10.1-inch dash display screen, premium audio sound bar and Apple Car Play® and Android Auto®. Both the Rover and Nomad are available in 6 gorgeous body colors. The Rover is available for $9,995.00.

“Because we’re owned by the manufacturer and our EVs are made in our own factory, we’re able to break the price barrier for affordable, premium quality electric vehicles,” Alexander said.

Denago EV was a big hit at the PGA Show held in Orlando in January. “I was thrilled to meet with a lot of our dealers from across the country and hear their positive feedback on our vehicles and aggressive pricing structure,” she said. “It’s clear we are disrupting the industry with our Rover and Nomad EVs, and we were blown away by the turn out and reception our carts received at the show.”

Get Golf Cart insurance from Progressive

Whether you’re headed to the lake or to a friend’s house, when you take your golf cart off your home’s property, you’ll want additional coverage. With Golf Cart insurance from Progressive, you’ll be protected wherever you roam.

You can get comprehensive and collision coverage to cover your belongings, accessories, and more in case of an accident. Drive on over to protect your golf cart today!

Scan to get a golf cart quote.

PROGRESSIVE.COM or 1-800-PROGRESSIVE

2024 BEST GOLF CART GADGETS

ADD A LITTLE PERSONALITY AND FUN TO YOUR CART

Golf is meant to be an enjoyable sport, allowing you to hang out with friends, get some fresh air and practice your game.

The game can be even more fun when you add a little flair with some smart new cart accessories, plus you’ll make your cart more enjoyable and convenient to use.

Let’s take a look at some of the hottest new products

offered to make your cart more user-friendly.

MOUNT UP – There are many products that will allow you to mount different things onto your golf cart instead of letting them roll around in the dash tray.

There are several mounts available for mounting your range finder or GPS unit, or your cell phone, and most are universal to fit a wide variety of different sized units. There are

also mounting products to hold your wireless speaker, and even your cigar to keep your stogie lit while you play.

The ICARMOUNT® cup holder fits securely into your cart’s beverage holder, swivels 360-degrees and can tightly hold a cell phone from 4.7-inches to 6.8-inches wide. The holder has a telescopic arm for height adjustment and the cup diameter can be adjusted to fit into any size holder without wobbling around, allowing it to fit all major cart brands and models. This unit retails for around $25.00 on Amazon.

GET ORGANIZED – Golfers tend to carry a lot of personal items along on their round, and nothing is more inconvenient than blindly fishing around the cart’s storage tray in the dashboard to find what you need.

The KEMIMOTO® folding storage basket requires no drilling or special mounting hardware and will make your round much more convenient and enjoyable. This storage organizer easily fits almost all major cart brands and models with 4 adjustable straps that wrap around the front 2 roof pillars just above the cart’s dashboard. It is made of high quality exterior fabric wrapped around durable polyurethane to keep it rigid. Golfers can store their water bottle, keys and wallet, cell phone, sunglasses, cigars, sunscreen and much more in the 4 large, divided compartments. This handy organizer is available on Amazon for around $55.00.

BRIGHTEN THINGS UP – If you use your cart or LSV to get around your neighborhood or golf community, you may need to drive after dark on your way home from dinner at the club. You can easily add lighting to the interior of your cart with self-adhesive light units to add some illumination to your ride. MADISON GOLF® makes a one-touch LED light powered by 3 AAA batteries. The product comes in a package of 2 for multi passenger vehicles, perfect for carts and people movers used on school campuses, medical facilities, sports venues, or other places that need to transport multiple passengers after dark. These round lights easily

mount to the interior roof of just about any golf cart with strong adhesive tape and sell for around $20.00 per pair on Amazon.

CONTROL

YOUR CLIMATE

– Everyone knows that golfers are a unique breed, and a little thing like cool weather won’t keep them from playing their favorite sport in comfort. Mr. Heater® makes a portable heating unit designed to fit in the cup holder of almost all major cart models and puts out an impressive 4,000 BTUs of radiant heat for around 5 hours at a time. It includes a safety tip-over auto shutoff switch, wind resistant screen, swivels 360-degrees and runs on a 1-pound propane tank. This is also the perfect accessory for those using their ATV or utility cart at their hunting camp or family vacation cabin in the country. The heater sells for around $90.00 on Amazon.

If you play golf or use your LSV in warm climates, you can also get a portable fan to keep you cool. Amacool ®offers a portable fan with a USB rechargeable battery that can run for 48-hours without recharging. It comes with 3 fan speeds and a flexible tripod mounting system that lets you attach it to just about any post or pillar on your cart. This unit is 7-inches in diameter, has 5 fan blades, an LED indicator to tell you how much power is left, and it rotates 360 degrees. It retails for around $50.00.

There are hundreds of products available today to add comfort and convenience to your carting experience and add more enjoyment to your round or community excursions.

Showcase this premier golf cart brand in your dealership, and receive:

Massive Dealer Profits

Turnkey, Ready-to-Sell Inventory

Low First-Time Order Requirement

Standard Cutting Edge Lithium Battery

4-Year Warranty with Stress-Free Support

Showroom Materials Free with First Order + Premade Marketing Materials

Nationwide Dealership Support Network

For Your Customers

Nationwide Advertising To Drive Traffic

To Your Dealership

Premium Captain’s Chairs

10” LCD Touch Screen

14” Aluminum Wheels

GOLF CART THEFT

HOW TO KEEP YOUR CART SAFE FROM THIEVES

Whether you’ve invested in an older golf cart or went all out and purchased a new, high-end NEV, (Neighborhood Electric Vehicle), you need to do everything you can to reduce waking up to an empty space in your yard or carport.

Golf cart theft is unfortunately a rising crime statistic. In places like Charleston and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Peachtree City in Georgia, The Villages and many other communities in Florida, golf carts and other low speed vehicles are widely used for short-trip and community transportation, and thieves are becoming very skilled in figuring out how to steal them. Law enforcement statistics show that around 30,000 carts are stolen each year.

While many are able to keep their cart secure inside an enclosed garage, some owners need to store their cart in an open carport at their mobile home, in their yard of a residential property or in a shared storage lot. Obviously, the more secure the location, the lesser the risk of cart theft.

Here are some things to consider when trying to keep your cart from being a target of thieves.

Older carts often used a “one key” system to operate the cart, meaning a key from one cart brand would likely fit another cart of the same brand. This made it easier for golf courses and country club facilities to store keys for their entire fleet. Today, most newer carts come with a unique key that only works with the cart you purchase. If you have an earlier cart model with a “one key” ignition, you can install a new

aftermarket ignition designed for a unique key. Of course, making sure to remove the key from the ignition while storing your cart or at a shopping plaza while running errands is a primary key to theft prevention.

If you leave your cart unattended when you spend the summers up north or other travel away from home, you can add a tire boot or wheel lock to your cart. Much like the boot used by law enforcement, a sturdy, lockable tire boot can deter thieves from moving your cart from your property or carport.

Many wheel locks are available for $50.00 or less.

Another theft prevention device is a pedal lock which locks your accelerator pedal in place and renders the cart undriveable. David Baynard is the Founder of Black River Tools®, a family owned business in Manning, SC, that makes a variety of outdoor products and accessories including their Cart Lok® device that locks to your depressed parking brake pedal and accelerator pedal to prevent them from being operated. The devices are made of ½-inch solid stainless steel and the company has models designed to fit most major cart brand models. Cart Lok uses an American-made lock with a cutter guard to prevent theft.

“The idea came to me after I had purchased a winter golf cart cover, which was stolen the very next day,” says Baynard. “I was playing golf soon after that and became determined to create a prototype device that would lock the cart’s pedals in

place, and that’s how Cart Lok was created.”

When Baynard reported the theft of his cart cover to the Horry County, SC, sheriff’s department, he asked the responding deputy if golf cart theft was a major problem in the Myrtle Beach area. The officer replied, “in the summer, all I do is chase golf cart thefts down.” He also said most cart thefts occur in broad daylight in public places. Cart Lok retails for around $200.00 - $250.00, depending on the cart model, and come with easy mounting instructions. They can easily be selfinstalled, or your local cart shop can handle installation. The company also offers wholesale pricing to dealers.

Many manufacturers also make a steering wheel lock, a long metal pole that attaches to your steering wheel and extends to the cart’s roof pillars to make it impossible to steer the cart. There are also some steering wheel lock mechanisms that attach to your cart’s roof pillars that are made with a flexible steel, fabric covered strap that will fit on almost all carts.

Going one step further, installing a hidden kill switch to your cart will eliminate the possibility of a crook starting your cart, even with the key in the ignition. This type of switch cuts power to the cart’s batteries and may not work with newer carts that are computer controlled.

A company called Cart Key makes a digital code unit that your dealer or cart maintenance company can install on your dashboard and is connected to your cart’s power source. Unless you know the key code and enter it correctly, your cart will not start, just like the keypad on many car doors.

You may also want to take a hard look at where you store your cart. If it is kept in an open carport where it is visible from the street or in your backyard, motion sensing security lights can be worth the cost. Using a full golf cart cover can also deter lazy thieves who won’t go through the hassle of uncovering it to steal it.

Many newer carts and NEVs are equipped with a GPS system. This alone will not prevent cart theft, but the information it generates can be used via a theft recovery device that will track your cart’s location and assist law enforcement to recover it. There are several tracking recovery systems on the market, and it is a small device that attaches to your vehicle and pinpoints its exact location in real time via cellular tracking and GPS technologies.

For unparalleled security for your cart, harness the power of today's cutting-edge technology by opting for an AirTag from Apple. These state-of-the-art devices redefine the concept of tracking and locating your valuable possessions. Apple offers a diverse range of holders, providing flexibility and customization to suit your specific needs.

Choose from holders that securely screw on, ensuring a robust and durable connection, or opt for those that affix with high-strength adhesive tape, providing a reliable and non-intrusive attachment method. Apple's commitment to innovation and quality shines through in every aspect of their AirTag ecosystem.

With precision engineering and seamless integration with Apple's ecosystem, these AirTags provide real-time tracking through the Find My app, giving you peace of mind knowing

that your belongings are always within reach. Embrace the future of security with Apple's AirTag – where cutting-edge technology meets simplicity for the ultimate protection of what matters most to you.

Taking the necessary precautions will protect your investment and reduce the chance of becoming a victim of golf cart theft. -GCMAG

ASK THE MECHANIC ASK THE MECHANIC

Q: How do I change the steering wheel in my cart?

A: One of the best bangs for the buck in cart modification is to change the steering wheel to a style that matches your carts personality. First, you need to pop off the center plastic cover. Most carts have screws from the backside, and you will see a large nut. Having an impact wrench is helpful to remove it but make sure to leave the nut on with a few threads to avoid getting hit in the face when you pull the steering wheel off. Sometimes the steering wheel will be stubborn so you may have to tap it a few times with a mallet on the side or onto the shaft but make sure you don’t ruin the threads. Spraying the treads with a little penetrating oil can help remove it easier especially with an older cart. When buying a new custom steering wheel, you will need to purchase a steering column adapter for your specific cart to allow a new wheel to be installed. Install in the reverse order, make sure all the screws and the steering nut is tight and that’s it. Enjoy your new updated look!

Q: What are some other custom mods that's simple to do and easy on the wallet?

A: Another eye catching and easy to install accessory are new custom floor mats. One idea would be to change over to a diamond plate design or a full-on custom made one. There are companies like Xtreme or Dekomats that offer cool custom designs. Mats are typically just held in place by the two-side rocker panel trim pieces. Simply remove those, install your new mat, and enjoy your updated look.

Bottom line, the sky is the limit for cart accessorizing. Easier to install low cost mods include mirrors, rear seat armrests, battery powered underbody lighting, tinted windshield, carbon fiber dash cover, updated wheel caps, fitted (no staple) seat covers, all for under a few hundred bucks and that usually takes under 15 minutes to complete. The best part is making your cart how you want it to be and enjoying the process along the way. Happy modding!