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The Unspoken Rules of the Golf Cart Wave
If you've ever cruised through a golf cart-friendly community, you’ve undoubtedly encountered it: The Golf Cart Wave. It’s a subtle yet significant ritual, a nod of mutual respect between drivers that says, “Yes, I too understand the joy of this battery-powered bliss.” But while the gesture seems simple, it’s laden with unspoken rules, a complex code of etiquette only seasoned cart owners truly grasp.
Welcome to the golf cart equivalent of a secret handshake.
THE HAND PLACEMENT HIERARCHY
Hand placement matters. There’s a hierarchy to this, depending on your level of chill. The lowest tier is the "Steering Wheel Tap", a single flick of the fingers while your hand remains firmly gripped on the wheel. It says, “I see you, but I’ve got places to be—or at least, somewhere mildly important like the clubhouse.”
Then there's the "Casual Mid-Wave", where your hand comes up to about chest level, palm forward. This is a bit more relaxed, signaling that you're not in a hurry, but also not looking to make too much of a fuss. It’s the equivalent of saying "Hey" to someone you kind of know, a familiar face you recognize from the grocery store.
Finally, there’s the "Full Commitment", where
your arm extends out of the cart, hand raised high, maybe even a little exaggerated finger waggle if you’re feeling extra friendly. This is the wave of the true cart aficionado—the neighborhood socialite who knows everyone and is probably on their way to organize a community barbecue.
THE EYE CONTACT DILEMMA
Perhaps the most subtle, yet crucial part of the Golf Cart Wave is eye contact. Making brief eye contact during a wave can transform a simple gesture into a shared moment of camaraderie. It’s like saying, “We’re in this golf cart life together.” However, too much eye contact can get awkward—nobody wants to feel like they’re locked into a staring contest while they’re just trying to get to the pool.
A quick glance followed by the wave is perfect. It’s confident yet laid-back. But be warned—"The Stare-andWave" is a move that should be used sparingly. It could send unintended signals, like you're planning to follow them to the next stop or, worse, join them uninvited on their grocery run.
BONUS MOVES: THE "NO-WAVE" AND "THE OVERACHIEVER"
Of course, not every interaction requires a wave. Sometimes, there’s "The No-Wave", reserved for when your hands are full, or you're mid-conversation. It’s totally acceptable but use it sparingly—you don’t want to be known as the snobby cart driver who never waves.
On the flip side, there’s "The Over-Achiever", where you combine the wave with an extra move—maybe a honk, a thumbs-up, or (if you’re feeling fancy) the finger guns. This move is reserved for your close cart-driving friends or when you’re trying to make an impression on a particularly friendly neighbor.
CONCLUSION
The Golf Cart Wave might seem trivial to outsiders, but within the electric vehicle community, it’s a sacred ritual. Whether you’re new to the world of golf carts or a seasoned vet, mastering the wave will ensure you're recognized as a true member of the cart-driving elite. So, next time you’re out for a spin, remember: hand placement, speed, and eye contact. The Golf Cart Wave is more than just a greeting—it’s a way of life.
Trevor Rose Senior Editor Trevor@golfcarting.com
GOLF CARTING // Issue 53 // October 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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WithEco Battery Company’s history of creating some of the most impressive custom cart builds in the industry, it’s no surprise that their latest vehicle is a true showstopper.
After its debut at the 2024 PGA SHOW in Orlando in January, this Bronco-inspired build is still turning heads everywhere it goes.
Cory Osteen is the creator of this modern cart marvel, conceived in collaboration with Eco Battery, the premier manufacturer of lithium cart and LSV batteries and other electronic components.
“I was asked to design and build a custom cart for Eco Battery, to showcase and highlight the newest line of AC motors and controllers, pairing the new product advancements with the proven lithium batteries” Osteen said. The design and manufacturing took about 6 months from concept to completion. Osteen has completed several builds for Eco Battery in the past and his work can be seen online as a core member of Golf Carts Modified.
The EBronco began as a new E-Z-GO® TXT chassis, which was powder coated in black. Partnering with Alec Spooner on the suspension, the two began on the fabrication and geometry next. The radical front suspension started as a kit from Jakes®, and then was highly modified to accommodate the E-Bronco’s aggressive stance and impressive profile. The rear suspension is a custom, 3-link system with coil-over design. The majority of the suspension was expertly powder coated in a beautiful gold finish.
Cory points out that one of the main goals of this build was to create a realistic, accurate representation of the classic Ford® Bronco, and he thinks the results are a home run. “We wanted to replicate a true, era-specific Bronco cart that would honor the classic body design with our own unique custom twists. We displayed the
EBronco at our Eco Battery Host House in Orlando during the show, and people had an overwhelmingly positive response to it.”
This Ford-lover’s dream rides on massive, 30-inch B.F. Goodrich® tires mounted on stunning 14-inch by 10-inch rims from MODZ® Wheels. The custom body work alone required around 100 hours of labor and is crowned by a dazzling custom paint design. Other design and performance features include the 6.5-inch and 8.5inch speakers by JL Audio®, mounted into the customfabricated speaker boxes, and also custom kick panels.
Some of the advanced products used in the EBronco build include the 70V / 105Ah Eco Battery, which provides the watt-hours for the new EB Power 600A AC controller, the powerful 5kW motor, and their new 10inch LCD touchscreen display.
ECO BATTERY – A U.S. BASED LITHIUM LEADER
Chris Jones is Director of Marketing for Eco Battery and is extremely proud of the results of this specialized custom cart.
“The EBronco was used to showcase the latest product expansion from Eco Battery, the new Eco System,” he said. “Debuting soon, the new Eco System includes the all new EB Power family of AC controllers, AC motors, innovative mounting plates and more, creating the most complete AC System available. With unrivaled integration from battery to powertrain, the Eco System allows advanced safety and performance for an incredible driving experience.”
Building world class lithium batteries and backing them with top rated service and support, Eco Battery strives for continued product advancement and
innovation. Quality products and unmatched customer service have led Eco Battery to becoming a favorite lithium choice for these incredible custom builds and the company loves seeing the creativity and craftsmanship that goes into each of these creations.
If you’re in the market for a new cart instead of updating your current one, Eco Battery can also be found in 12 different new cart brands—more than any other lithium battery company in the U.S. Eco Battery is a chosen partner due to its unmatched cart-specific integration, advanced CAN communication, and the cartspecific tuning our engineers create for each of these new carts. Brands like Bintelli®, ICON®, MadJax®, Venom®, Vivid®, Honor LSV®, ACTIVEV®, Voyager®, Epic®, Advanced EV®, Kodiak® and Pilot Car® choose Eco Battery as their factory installed lithium battery provider.
Eco Battery is headquartered in the Southwest, with another warehouse in South Carolina to serve the East. The company has partnered with NIVEL®, and together they distribute their products across the USA via their regional warehouses. The company employs about forty, including an in-house research/development and engineering team and a US based tech support team. There are about 1,000 independent Eco Battery dealers across the country, with international hubs around the world.
To learn more, check out www.ecobattery.com or visit your local Eco Battery dealer. -GCMAG
OPTIMIZING GOLF CART PERFORMANCE: UNDERSTANDING LITHIUM BATTERY DISCHARGE RATES
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When purchasing a lithium battery for a golf cart, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the discharge rates. Understanding the discharge rates, along with the capacity and overall performance of the battery, can significantly impact the cart’s efficiency, longevity, and overall power delivery. In simple terms, the discharge rate is the speed at which a battery releases its stored energy during use. However, this basic definition does not capture its full importance, especially in high-performance applications like golf carts. Analyzing discharge rates before buying a lithium golf cart battery can help optimize performance, extend the lifespan of the battery, and ensure the cart operates reliably under various conditions.
The discharge rate of a battery refers to how quickly a battery can supply power to the load. It is commonly measured as the C-rate, where “C” is the capacity of the battery. A 1C rate means that a battery with a 100 amp-hour (Ah) capacity can discharge 100 amps continuously for one hour. Similarly, a 0.5C rate means that the same battery would discharge at 50 amps and last for two hours. This rate is essential because it dictates how quickly the battery can deliver energy without overloading itself or losing efficiency.
In lithium batteries, which are known for their high energy density and longer life, the discharge rate can affect not only the power delivery but also the durability of the battery. A lithium battery can shut down or fail completely if the discharge rates are exceeded. Therefore, understanding and analyzing the discharge rate is critical to matching the battery’s performance to your golf cart’s requirements.
One of the most direct effects of discharge rate on a lithium golf cart battery is its influence on the cart’s performance. The power needs of a golf cart fluctuate depending on the terrain, speed, and load. For instance, climbing a steep hill or carrying additional passengers places a higher demand on the battery compared to cruising on flat terrain. In such scenarios, a battery with an appropriate discharge rate can provide the necessary power without causing a sudden drop in performance or completely shutting down.
A battery discharging at a high rate consistently will heat up faster, leading to thermal stress that degrades the internal components over time. This heat buildup could reduce the battery’s capacity but may also result in permanent damage, rendering the battery less effective or entirely useless over time.
When considering the longevity of a lithium battery, it is vital to match the discharge rate to the expected use case. For a golf cart, where bursts of power are needed but typically followed by periods of lower energy use, selecting a battery with an appropriate discharge rate can help maintain optimal performance while avoiding thermal overload and unnecessary wear.
Over-discharging a lithium battery occurs when the battery is drained beyond its safe lower voltage threshold. When a battery is consistently over-discharged, it can result in irreversible damage, leading to a significant reduction in its overall capacity. One of the main reasons for over-discharge is using a battery with an inadequate discharge rate. If a battery cannot keep up with the power demands of the cart, it will deplete faster, causing the voltage to drop to unsafe levels.
Moreover, over-discharging can result in a phenomenon called voltage sag, where the battery’s voltage drops under load, causing a noticeable reduction in power. For a golf cart, this could mean reduced speed, poor acceleration, and less efficiency in energy use, particularly under heavy loads. By carefully analyzing discharge rates and choosing a battery that matches the power profile of the cart, voltage sag can be minimized, providing smoother performance and a more consistent energy supply.
The diversity of golf cart applications means that discharge rate requirements can vary widely. For example, a cart used primarily for short trips on flat terrain may not require the same discharge rate as one used for long, hilly courses or heavy transport. Analyzing discharge rates gives you the flexibility to choose a battery that matches your specific needs, rather than opting for a one-size-fits-all solution. This customization ensures that you get the best performance and value for your investment.
In summary, analyzing discharge rates when purchasing a lithium golf cart battery is essential for ensuring that the battery meets your specific performance needs while maintaining longevity and efficiency. It impacts everything from power output and performance to battery health and lifespan. By carefully considering the discharge rate, you can avoid common issues like over-discharge, voltage sag, and thermal degradation, all of which can negatively affect the performance and durability of your golf cart. Ensuring a balance between the battery’s capabilities and the demands of your golf cart is key to maximizing both performance and costefficiency in the long term.
STARFIRE GOLF CART RENTALS PREMIUM RIDES FOR VACATION FUN
There is no better way to discover fun and lifetime family memories than exploring Folly Island, South Carolina, in a beautiful custom golf cart.
Starfire Golf Cart Rentals is located just inland from Folly Beach in Charleston, and has built their business providing premier, multi-passenger LSVs to the thousands of vacationers who plan long summer weekends along the Atlantic shore.
This is a golf cart paradise, with a small town atmosphere and some of the best beaches along the eastern U.S. shore. The island is about 50% residential properties and 50% vacation rental properties numbering around 900 units or so.
Ben Davidson and his partner, Jody Cloud, are the owners of Starfire, and neighbors who decided the island needed a golf cart rental company. Davidson’s wife, Kate, is also a key
component in supplying clients with the ultimate cart rental customer service.
“We got together and determined the need for a premier custom cart rental business on Folly Beach and our business has been very well accepted and is growing at an impressive rate,” Davidson said. Starfire has partnered with several Air BnB and VRBO property management companies to supply LSVs to their vacation tenants, and have developed a separate, Folly Beach location for people who want to rent carts for the day once they get to their vacation home.
The company has about 25 carts in their rental fleet currently with plans for many more in the near future. Most of their business is weekly vacation rentals. The company builds their own brand of carts, ensuring all of the comforts and
features are designed and assembled with precision.
Starfire is preparing to launch a new line of LSVs for sale, with 48v lithium batteries, 105Ah or 150Ah lithium ion batteries and an expanded chassis to enhance passenger space and smooth ride.
NOT YOUR TYPICAL CART RENTAL
Starfire provides the perfect carts for getting around Folly Beach, equipped with all the appointments and features a renter could want. These LSVs are completely street legal, with a 6-inch lifted suspension, comfortable captain’s chair seating, Bluetooth®, Apple Car Play® and Android Auto App® capability, app-controlled lighting features, backup cameras, premium audio soundbars and subwoofers and all of the safety and comfort features a client will need to get their family around the island.
Their carts are built in Charleston and are available in 4
or 6-seat configurations, including a fully forward-facing, limo style design perfect for special events like weddings or other celebrations. Starfire carts come equipped with 48 volt / 105 Ah lithium batteries, meaning no maintenance and a longer range of about 40 miles on a full charge. Folly Beach is about 6 miles long, so clients find that a nightly charge is plenty for another day of fun in the sun.
Other key specs include double wishbone independent front suspension and integral rear bridge with hydraulic dampening in the rear, all riding on 22-inch DOT-rated tires and 14-inch custom rims for a smooth, comfortable ride. Hydraulic disc brakes are on all 4 corners, and the carts also come equipped with a DOT stamped, folding windshield and super high efficiency LED running lights, headlamps, directional signals and brake and clearance lighting. All carts offer a brush guard, running boards for easy access and egress and even a large cooler under the rear seats.
www.starfiregolfcartrental.com
A CART FOR ALL NEEDS
Depending on your needs and the size of your vacation group, Starfire Carts offer delivery and pickup of a variety of street legal, low speed vehicles. Reserving your cart on their website is very similar to booking your accommodations, with delivery and pickup times that match most rental property’s check-in and check-out times. The process is simple, with Starfire verifying all of your required license, insurance coverage and financial information securely and easily. The company utilizes a website and reservation software offered by RidesRental.
Smaller families can opt for the 2024 Starfire 4-Seat LSV, with 2 rear facing back seats and a convenient hand grabrail and safety bar. This lifted beauty features plenty of room and seating comfort for 4 adults and can be driven on any Folly Beach road with a speed limit of below 35-mph, making it perfect for an evening cruise to the beach. This cart can be rented for $125.00 per day. They also offer a 4-seater with 2 forward-facing seats in the rear at the same price.
If you want to take 6 people around Folly Island in style, Starfire offers a 6-passenger lifted cart with all the bells and whistles you’ll need to explore the island. This LSV features 4 forward-facing seats and 2, rear-facing seats. This cart also offers a 10-inch LCD touchscreen, USB and 12v ports, lockable storage, cup holders, full Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple Car Play to keep you totally connected, plus the most comfortable captain’s chair seating you’ll ever experience in a LSV. This smooth riding cart is available for $150.00 per day.
Starfire has several of each model and configuration in stock and ready for delivery to serve Folly Island during the peak summer season.
“We’re registered as a manufacturing company, and we produce a controllable number of street legal vehicles in order to make sure we never lose control over the quality and integrity of our carts,” Davidson says. “We realize there are peak rental seasons here in Folly Beach and wanted to grow Starfire by offering LSV sales for year-round residents in the Charleston and coastal areas during the off season.”
with ActivEV
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For more information, visit activegolfcarts.com
COASTAL CARTS
A SOUTHWEST FLORIDA CART AND LSV SALES, SERVICE LEADER
The minute someone calls Coastal Carts of Southwest Florida, they realize this golf cart and low speed vehicle company is going to provide a satisfying customer experience, whether they are considering purchasing a new vehicle or looking for expert help in servicing their existing cart.
Coastal Carts has a staff of 12 cart specialists, each one expertly trained in offering new cart sales or taking care of keeping your cart running like brand new.
The company, with headquarters in Fort Myers, Florida,
has been in business since 1992, which says a lot about their success and unmatched customer satisfaction. Their service area along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico is well known as a golf cart paradise, with hundreds of residential communities experiencing the explosive growth in people using neighborhood low speed vehicles not just for golf, but for transportation in and near their homes.
The dealership sells Yamaha®, ICON® and Tomberlin® vehicles, along with building their own custom LSVs. They also
sell completely refurbished used carts.
Jerry McTear is the company’s owner and points out that no matter what a potential customer’s budget requirements, Coastal Carts has the perfect vehicle to match their needs. “We have models starting at $6,995.00 all the way up to topof-the-line, custom models with every possible feature and accessory one could hope for,” he said. The company also has a separate cart and LSV rental operation to serve peak seasonal vacationers or “snow birds” who just want a cart for the few months they are in their winter retreat but may not want to be a cart owner.
Their rental company delivers carts to vacationers for weekly rentals along the coast in places like Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Naples, and all points in between, plus dozens of inland gated and country club communities throughout Lee, Collier and Hendry Counties, Florida, where LSVs are the best way to get around.
Jerry’s philosophy is simple when it comes to how he ended up as the owner of Coastal Carts. A former law enforcement officer and banker, he says, “I really just wanted to be in a business that made people happy, after so many years as a banker. A cart is a ‘want’ purchase and not a ‘need’ purchase, for the most part, and helping people select the ideal vehicle is always a fun, happy experience.”
Golf, Street Legal and Commercial/Industrial Vehicles – Coastal Carts Has the Perfect Cart for Everyone.
golfcartcompany
If you’re looking for a premium quality cart to enjoy your time on the golf course, it’s hard to beat the Yamaha Drive 2, with its beautiful body style and endless driver and passenger comforts. Yamaha is a leading manufacturer of consumer golf carts, and Coastal Carts can help you find the perfect configuration to suit your needs and provide the ultimate in performance, value, and durability. These luxury golf carts offer features like QuietTech EFI®, (electronic fuel injection), independent rear suspension, abundant storage space, safety bumpers and much more. The comfort and performance of these Yamaha carts will ensure a lifetime of golfing pleasure.
For cruising the neighborhood in style, Coastal Carts also offers the Yamaha Adventurer Sport 2+2®, with 2 rearfacing passenger seats to accommodate 4 adults total. The Concierge 4® and Concierge 6® models are available in either gas or electric versions and offer spacious seating for 4 or 6 passengers in forward-facing seating. These premium vehicles are perfect for taking the grandkids to the pool or picking up the neighbors for a bite to eat at the country club.
For a step up to completely street legal LSVs, Coastal Carts offers the impressive line of Tomberlin E-Merge® carts with 2, 4, 6 and 8-passenger configurations. These carts are fully equipped with everything needed to travel on roadways with speed limits of 35-mph or less and are the perfect way to run across the street from your community to drop the kids off at school, visit your pharmacy or grocery store or have breakfast at the local café with your neighbors.
These LSVs comes with electric power steering, 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, AC drive motor, 7-inch LCD dash display screen, backup camera and more. The unmatched ride and comfort of these street legal LSVs are sure to please the owner and everyone onboard. (Always check your local municipalities’ requirements and restrictions before purchasing a street legal
LSV or taking it out on
the road.)
For commercial or industrial needs, Costal Carts also offers a complete line of vehicles designed for use at places like university campuses, hotel properties, landscaping and other construction-related businesses, police departments, emergency management entities and much more. These Yamaha workhorses feature many configurations in their UMAX® line, offering rugged, off road capabilities with lifted suspension, large storage and cargo beds, brush guards and your choice of single passenger, 2-seat, 4-seat 2+2 models that can be customized to make the workday easier, more energy efficient and profitable.
Yamaha also offers the Drive 2 commercial line of vehicles, ideal for construction sites, model home and real estate sales properties and dozens of other utility uses.
When it comes to keeping your cart or LSV in peak operating shape, Coastal Carts will come to your location to service your vehicle, or you can bring it to their service facility. The company has an extensive menu of periodic and annual service plans to keep your ride running as it should.
Doug Reynolds is the Service Manager at Coastal Carts and runs the department with the focus on top-tier service to their customers. “About 90% of our cart servicing is either performed at the customer’s location, or we can pick up and deliver their carts for complete servicing at our shop,” he says. Owner Jerry McTear says they will even perform warranty service on any brand of cart, no matter where the customer bought it.
Coastal Carts has a long-established history in the cart and LSV business and is poised to continue to grow, providing Southwest Florida cart enthusiasts with the finest in sales, service, parts, and support. For more information about Coastal Carts visit coastalcartsfl.com or call 239.936.5676.
golfcartingnation
OWNER: Gary Keeling from Paducah, Kentucky
YEAR/MAKE/MODEL: 1990 Club Car DS
HEY GARY! YOU’VE GOT QUITE THE IMPRESSIVE CART HERE. TELL US HOW THIS BUILD CAME TO LIFE. Well, it all started when I stumbled upon a bare aluminum frame that was basically scrap metal. Someone dumped it at the scrapyard, but I saw the potential. I grabbed it and decided to take on the challenge. I spent the winter of 2020 bringing it back to life, and let me tell you, it was one heck of a winter project!
WOW, FROM SCRAP TO SHOWSTOPPER! DID YOU DO ANY CUSTOM FABRICATION OR ADD ANY UNIQUE TOUCHES TO MAKE THIS CART STAND OUT?
Oh, definitely! I had Jim Defew throw down some killer custom flaming on the body. The paint job really sets it off. I built the rear seat myself to make it more practical, but also gave it some style.
SOUNDS LIKE YOU WENT ALL OUT ON THIS! WHAT AFTERMARKET PARTS DID YOU USE TO TAKE THIS BUILD TO THE NEXT LEVEL?
For sure. The heart of the beast is an 18 HP motor I found at Max Tools. I also threw in some A-2-Z seat covers to give it that clean, comfortable feel. This cart isn’t just about looks—it’s got some serious power behind it too.
YOU’VE BEEN BUILDING AND REPAIRING CARTS FOR A WHILE. HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS LINE OF WORK?
I’ve been doing this for about 8 years now. I retired and needed something to keep my hands busy. Building carts became the perfect hobby. It’s challenging but a lot of fun, and it keeps me out of trouble!
SOUNDS LIKE YOU’VE GOT A PASSION FOR IT! WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU—ANY BIG PLANS FOR FUTURE BUILDS?
Honestly, it’s all just for fun! I don’t do it for the money or to start a business—it’s just something I enjoy. If I find another project that catches my eye, I’ll dive right in.
golfcartingnation
OWNER: Ken Deadman from Beachville, Ontario, Canada
YEAR/MAKE/MODEL: 1980s Ezgo (Yeah, it's a classic!)
HEY KEN! SO, YOU'VE GOT A PRETTY COOL RIDE HERE. TELL US ABOUT THIS CUSTOM BUILD—WHAT'S THE STORY BEHIND IT?
Well, I picked this beauty up as a total junker for $200. It was basically begging to be revived! After some elbow grease, a fresh coat of paint, new tires, wheels, a custom upholstered seat, and a steering wheel, I had myself a pretty nice ride. I even did a full tune-up to get it running like a dream. Honestly, it’s unique, and that's what I love about it. You won’t find another like this cruising around—unless, of course, you happen to stumble upon one of my other builds. I've got one in red
that's pretty similar to this green one, but each cart’s got its own style.
SOUNDS LIKE YOU'VE TURNED THIS THING FROM SCRAP TO SUPERSTAR! WHAT'S NEXT ON THE HORIZON—MORE CUSTOM BUILDS?
Oh, for sure! This isn't my first cart. I've already built three Ezgo carts, just for the fun of it. And yeah, I’m always on the lookout for my next $200 junker. If I find one, you bet I’ll be turning it into something epic again!
SEEMS LIKE YOU’VE GOT QUITE THE TALENT, KEN. CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT KIND OF CART YOU TAKE ON NEXT!
PROTECTING YOUR CART AND YOURSELF IS A GOOD POLICY INSURING YOUR CART OR LSV
Insurance is intended to provide peace of mind regarding any vehicle, from theft, damage, or personal injury. The same applies to golf carts and LSVs, (low speed or neighborhood vehicles), and you need to research what type of coverage is required, what it will cover and how to buy it.
Of course, different states may have unique requirements for insuring a cart, so be sure to check your local municipality’s rules and laws before buying a policy. Also, even though your state may not require that your cart be insured, you may live in a residential community with HOA rules requiring it, like a mobile home park, country club development or other gated community.
LSVs that are fully equipped with all of the features and required safety equipment to legally qualify as street legal will likely require insurance coverage that is different than insuring a cart you only use for golf and getting to and from the clubhouse. In general, an LSV that is properly equipped as street legal can travel on
roadways with speed limits of 35-mph or less, so you can imagine that you should be adequately insured in the event that you are struck by a car if you’re crossing from your community to the grocery store across the street. Let’s look at different scenarios around the country.
SOUTH CAROLINA GOLF CART INSURANCE
According to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles:
• The golf cart must be insured, permitted, and registered with SCDMV using the following link, http://scdmvonline.com/Vehicle-Owners/Types-OfVehicles/Golf-Cart.
• The golf cart must remain within 4 miles of an address listed on the SCDMV permit.
• The golf cart may be operated on roads with posted speeds of 35 mph or less.
• The golf cart may be operated during daylight hours only.
• The driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license.
South Carolina golf cart insurance is very much like purchasing a policy for your passenger car. You’ll be required to carry a minimum of $25,000 in liability coverage per person, $50,000 liability per accident and $25,000 in property damage coverage. Just like with your car, you can purchase additional options for things like comprehensive and collision coverage, which protects you against claims on incidents like being struck by another vehicle, theft, natural disaster damage, fire, or flood damage.
Golf cart insurance policies are not as simple as just adding your cart to your existing auto or homeowners’ policy. You may be able to purchase separate coverage under a Utility Vehicle, Motorcycle or Recreational Vehicle policy.
FLORIDA GOLF CART INSURANCE
The sunshine state has a huge and growing population that are using golf carts and LSVs to get around, especially in cart-centric communities like The
Villages in Central Florida. Without proper and adequate insurance coverage, you open yourself up to potential liability and financial hardships.
According to Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) guidelines, golf cart insurance is not mandatory. However, if you modify your older golf cart to be street legal or purchase a low speed vehicle (LSV), that is fully legal for street operation, insurance is mandatory.
Many people think that their cart or LSV will be covered under their homeowner’s policy or auto coverage, but quickly find out that this is not the case. A separate policy covering your golf cart is your best option, and in Florida can be purchased for around $75.00 to $300.00 per year, depending on the level of coverage purchased.
And again, your HOA bylaws in your specific community may require that you carry a minimal policy on your cart, even if it is not street legal.
TEXAS GOLF CART INSURANCE
According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, golf carts fall under the category of “unique
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vehicles,” and they do not require a title for a golf cart. However, you can and should obtain a license plate for your cart if it is properly equipped for street-legal use. If the cart or LSV is used on roads at a speed of 25 mph or less, a golf cart is required to display a slow-moving vehicle emblem.
A cart with a license plate may be operated under the following parameters:
• In a master planned community with a uniform set of restrictive covenants and a county or municipality approved plat
• On a public or private beach that is open to vehicular traffic
• On a highway with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less, during the daytime and not more than two miles from the location where it is usually parked for transportation to and from a golf course
• To cross intersections, including an intersection with a highway that has a posted speed limit of more than 35 mph.
Texas does not require cart owners to carry a liability insurance policy, which means an owner that is found to have caused an accident in their cart could face
some serious consequences. Speaking with a licensed, qualified insurance agent specifically about golf cart insurance options and doing your research can prevent a lot of headaches down the road, and at a minimal cost to cart owners.
ADDITIONAL PEACE OF MIND MAKES SENSE
For golf cart and LSV dealers, offering a warranty policy from EWG, (Electric Warranty Group,) provides another layer of protection against vehicle problems.
EWG has underwritten thousands of warranties through their network of nearly 700 cart dealers nationwide. People purchasing an electric cart or LSV that is covered by an EWG warranty are assured of receiving prompt, expert repair services from their dealer without facing a large financial loss.
Warranty coverage can range between 6 and 36 months, and the cost is often built into the purchase price of your vehicle. This adds an added level of peace of mind for cart buyers.
No matter what type of golf cart or neighborhood vehicle you own, making sure you’re covered by adequate insurance and reading the policy’s fine print on what is specifically covered is key to getting the most from your carting life.
ASK THE MECHANIC
Q: What type of differential is most used in golf carts, and how does it improve handling?
A: Golf carts typically use an open differential, which allows for better handling by enabling wheels to rotate at different speeds during cornering, improving traction.
Q: What is the typical gear ratio in golf carts, and how does it influence performance?
A: Golf carts typically have gear ratios ranging from 10:1 to 12:1. These influence acceleration and top speed; a higher ratio allows for more torque but limits top speed, while a lower ratio improves speed.
Q: How does the controller of an electric golf cart regulate motor speed?
A: The controller manages power flow from the battery to the motor, interprets input from the accelerator pedal, and regulates speed, acceleration, and regenerative braking functions. Most controllers use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) which adjusts the voltage and current supplied to the motor based on the operator's input,
controlling speed and acceleration.
Q: How do modifications to the motor affect the overall efficiency of a golf cart?
A: Upgrading to a high-efficiency motor can improve torque and power output while reducing energy consumption, enhancing the overall performance and range of the golf cart.
Q: What are the benefits of installing an aftermarket performance controller in an electric golf cart?
A: An aftermarket performance controller can enhance hill-climbing capabilities, improve acceleration and top speed, and provide customization options for a tailored driving experience.
Q: What are the key indicators of motor wear or failure in an electric golf cart?
A: Key indicators include unusual noises, reduced power or torque, overheating, erratic performance, and signs of electrical shorts or burnt connections.
