Things to Know When Buying a Golf Cart
When you are in the market for a new car or truck, you have an idea of what you are looking for. Your needs are met by industry standards and packages created by the manufacturer to match their end users needs. This isn’t the case when buying a golf cart. While there are many carts built aimed at their specific audience, the majority of golf carts are built to the customers needs. The biggest thing you will have to decide is what you need and what you want. If buying a used golf cart, you can start from the frame color and build it out exactly how you want it.
Basic Golf Cart Needs
First you will have to decide whether you need an electric or gas golf cart. This may be due to usage or location. Some courses require certain color golf carts and specific makes and colors. You may be getting it for your campsite or to roam your property, which would mean a heavier suspension and a lift. The first question is, how will I use this golf cart.
A very basic add-on that most golf carts are including in their build are lights. Having headlights and taillights not only finishes the look of the golf cart, but provides an important safety feature while out on your cart. Not sure how many times you will use your golf cart at night? Get one without lights and you will soon understand. Once the sun goes down and you’re flying around in the dark, only bad things can happen.
To Lift, or Not To Lift
Lift kits have an important role in the golf cart industry. Ground clearance is a big factor when using a golf cart “off the course”. Many trials have elevation changes that could be a nightmare for rear seats with leg stands or your standard golf cart height. The engine of the golf cart is tuck up and safely away from damage and protected by a skid plate. Most likely you would get stuck on something and the motor would be fine. The rear differential is another story. On electric or gas golf carts, the rear axle is very similar if not identical depending on model. The differential houses the gears that make your golf cart move. The protection panel on it can only do so much. Any damage to allow debris inside or leaking could cause for a costly repair. With a lift kit, this is less of a concern as the ground clearance increases dramatically.
On the Road Again…Legally
Another question you need to ask is, do I need it to be street legal? There are communities that require this so always check with your local regulations to decide what is needed. While not everyone needs a street legal package, the pros far outweigh the cons. The only con is it being an additional cost to add. The pros are all based around the safety of you and your passengers. Having turn signals and a horn may not seem to be priority, but seat belts and brake lights may save you from an accident or injury. Electric golf carts are very fast and without brake lights to know the cart in front of you is slowing down, an accident is possible. The brakes are not anti lock so the golf carts will slide as the tires lock up. If they have a brake light, the second they apply the brake, you would be able to respond. It is a safety feature for you, your passengers, and other golf cart drivers. Seat belts are a must have for any child passengers. Golf carts have come a long way in safety, but the bench seat design is not idea on some terrain.
Have any questions about what type of golf cart you will need? Contact us today and we would be happy to help in any way we can. 216-763-2090 and speak to someone in sales.