How to Safely Remove Speed Limiter on Electric Golf Carts

If you’ve ever felt your electric golf cart zip around the greens, you know it makes getting from hole to hole a breeze. But sometimes, you might want a bit more oomph and wonder if you can tweak its performance.

Removing the speed limiter can give your cart that extra ride boost, but you need to be aware of the risks involved. Tinkering with the cart’s technical aspects is doable, yet it’s important to follow a detailed guide to do it safely without breaking any rules.

To remove the speed limiter on an electric golf cart, it’s a relatively simple process that involves a few careful steps. Following these steps will help you achieve your desired speed. Just keep in mind that it’s essential not to ignore safety or legal requirements in the process.

So, how do you safely ditch that speed limiter? It’s all about knowing where the speed limiter is located and making slight adjustments to your cart’s settings. With the right approach, you can successfully remove the speed limiter and get your cart running at a faster pace.

Remember, getting your cart to perform better is cool, but keeping it in top shape while keeping everyone safe is the key to making your ride more enjoyable without compromising anything important.

Why Do Electric Golf Carts Have Speed Limiters?

One reason for having Speed limiters also known as Governor on electric golf carts is to keep things safe. Since golf carts are often used in places like parks, golf courses, and residential communities, going at high speeds can be dangerous. With fewer safety features like airbags and seat belts than regular cars, golf carts are more at risk when speeding around.

Another big factor is battery life. When a cart runs at higher speeds, it drains the battery more quickly, meaning less time between charges. By limiting the speed, the battery lasts longer, letting you enjoy longer rides without needing to stop and recharge.

See Article: Best Golf Cart Batteries

Finally, many places have laws that limit how fast electric golf carts can go. These rules help keep both the public and golf cart drivers safe by ensuring that carts don’t go too fast in areas where people are walking or driving other vehicles.

How to Remove Speed Limiter on Electric Golf Carts

First, to start removing the speed limiter, you’ll need to locate the governor on your golf cart. It is typically located near the motor and is connected to the throttle cable. Once you’ve found the governor, you will need to disconnect the throttle cable from it. This is usually done by loosening the screws that hold the cable in place.

After the cable is disconnected, you can then remove the governor from the golf cart. Once the governor has been taken out, you will need to adjust the throttle cable to set the desired speed. This can be done by adjusting the tension on the cable.

Finally, you will need to reconnect the throttle cable to the motor and test the golf cart to make sure the governor has been successfully removed and the desired speed is reached.

Step 1: Finding The Speed Limiter 

The governor on an electric golf cart is a key component to adjust. It’s often found in the engine compartment and is typically a small, cylindrical device. This part is usually connected to the motor, and its job is to control the speed of your cart. By managing the speed, the governor ensures that the cart does not exceed its maximum speed limit. Even when the terrain changes, the governor helps keep the speed consistent.

The governor is generally adjustable, which means you can tweak it to set the maximum speed based on your needs or skill level. Make sure to regularly check if it’s functioning properly, as a faulty governor can make the cart move either too fast or too slow, posing potential dangers. To keep everything safe, always ensure the governor is in good working order.

Step 2: Disconnecting the throttle cable from the governor

Disconnecting the throttle cable from the governor is a straightforward task. First, you need to find the throttle cable and the governor itself. The throttle cable is usually connected at the carburetor. Once you locate both parts, it’s time to disconnect the throttle cable from the governor.

To do this, you’ll need to loosen the clamp that holds the cable in place. Once the clamp is loosened, you can easily slide the throttle cable out of the governor. After the cable is disconnected, you can proceed to remove the governor from the carburetor.

Finally, you will need to reconnect the throttle cable to the governor. To complete this step, slide the cable back into the governor and tighten the clamp to secure the cable in place. Following these steps ensures that the throttle cable is properly disconnected from the governor, setting you up for the next part of the process.

Step 3: Adjusting the throttle cable for desired speed

Adjusting the throttle cable for your desired speed is an easy process. First, you need to locate both the throttle cable and the throttle lever. The throttle cable is typically found near the engine, while the throttle lever is usually near the handlebars. Once you find these components, the next step is to loosen the cable clamp.

After loosening the clamp, adjust the throttle cable so that the throttle lever is in the desired position for your ride. Once you have made the necessary adjustments, tighten the cable clamp to secure the cable in place. This ensures that the throttle cable stays in the right position while you drive.

Finally, it’s crucial to test the throttle cable to make sure it is adjusted correctly. If the throttle cable isn’t set right, the engine may not respond properly when you engage the throttle lever. To ensure smooth operation, check that the throttle lever functions without any issues. With the throttle cable adjusted correctly, you should be able to achieve your desired speed easily.

Step 4: Testing Golf Cart After Removing The Speed Limiter

Testing your golf cart after governor removal is a crucial step to make sure your cart is functioning properly. Start by checking the battery to ensure it is fully charged. A weak battery can affect the performance of your cart. Next, inspect all wiring connections to confirm that everything is securely connected. Loose wires can cause problems that you want to avoid before taking your cart out for a ride.

Once you’ve checked the battery and wiring, it’s time to look at the brakes. Make sure they are working well, as safe stopping is essential for any ride. Additionally, check the throttle to ensure it is responding correctly. If everything looks good, you can proceed to take your golf cart for a test drive.

During the test drive, pay close attention to how the cart accelerates and decelerates. It should respond smoothly to your commands. If you notice any issues, such as delayed responses or unusual sounds, address them before using the cart regularly. Testing your golf cart after governor removal is essential to ensure that it operates safely and effectively.

Speed Controller Adjustments for Different Golf Cart Models

1. Electric Club Car Models

The standard speed setting on Electric Club Car models can often feel underwhelming. To improve this, start by locating the speed controller under the seat. Look for the speed setting switch and change it from ‘Tow’ to ‘Run’. After that, using a specialized wrench, carefully turn the adjustment screw clockwise to increase speed. It’s crucial to perform this step cautiously to avoid any potential damage.

2. E-Z-GO Model

For the E-Z-GO model, using an aftermarket speed controller is often the best solution. After installation, take a handheld programmer to customize the speed settings according to your preference. Please note that this process requires some mechanical know-how, so consider seeking professional assistance if you’re unsure about any step.

3. Yamaha Models

For Yamaha model, a sealed controller unit means adjustments to the speed will require an electronic speed upgrade kit. Once the kit is installed, it allows you to modify the controller settings using a compatible device, like a smartphone. This upgrade makes it easy to customize your driving experience to better fit your needs.

Wrapping Up!

Cranking up your golf cart’s speed sounds awesome, but you’ve got to play it safe. Keep it legal and don’t compromise on safety; knowing your cart inside and out is key. To make any changes, you’ll need the right gear and proper tools, along with a solid understanding of your specific cart’s design. It’s wise to chat with pros before you start tinkering. An expert will ensure your need for speed is above board and won’t mess with your ride’s mojo.

The process varies across different models, like Club Car, E-Z-GO and Yamaha may require a certain level of technical expertise. In some cases, professional assistance may be necessary. Above all, remember that safety should be your paramount concern when making such adjustments. So, give your golf cart the speed boost it needs, but do it wisely and responsibly.