Hey golf cart enthusiasts! Ready to give your ride a little extra zip? If you’ve ever felt like your golf cart is holding back on the fun, you’re not alone. That little device called the governor is probably the culprit, keeping your speed in check. Whether you’ve got an electric or gas-powered model, removing the governor can unlock some serious performance potential. Don’t worry—I’m here to walk you through it step-by-step in a way that’s easy to follow, even if you’re not a mechanic.
At The Golf Hype, we’re all about making your golf cart experience as exciting as possible. So, grab your tools, and let’s dive into how to take the governor off your golf cart—safely and effectively. We’ll cover everything from what a governor does to the tools you’ll need, detailed steps for both electric and gas models, safety tips, and even some legal stuff to keep in mind. Let’s get rolling!
Understanding the Golf Cart Governor: What It Does
First things first—what’s a governor, anyway? Think of it as the speed police for your golf cart. It’s a built-in device that limits how fast your cart can go, usually capping it at around 12-15 mph for safety and efficiency. On gas golf carts, it’s a mechanical part tied to the engine, while electric models use electronic controllers to keep things tame.
Manufacturers add governors to prevent accidents, protect the motor, and meet regulations for places like golf courses or neighborhoods. But if you’re using your cart on private land or just want a boost for off-course adventures, removing the governor might be your ticket to a faster, more thrilling ride.
Why Remove a Golf Cart Governor? Speed, Performance, and Key Considerations
So, why bother taking the governor off? The biggest reason is speed. Without it, your golf cart could hit 20-25 mph or more, depending on the model. That’s a game-changer for zipping around your property or keeping up with friends on a custom cart. Plus, it can improve performance for towing or climbing hills—less restriction means more power.
But hold up—there are a few things to think about:
- Wear and Tear: Pushing your cart harder can stress the engine or battery.
- Safety: Faster speeds mean you’ll need sharper reflexes and better brakes.
- Legal Stuff: Some areas have rules about golf cart speeds, so check your local laws.
If you’re cool with those trade-offs, let’s move on to the fun part—getting rid of that governor!
Tools You’ll Need to Remove a Golf Cart Governor
Before you start tinkering, gather these basic tools. You probably have most of them lying around:
- Wrench Set: For loosening bolts (sizes vary by cart).
- Screwdrivers: Flathead and Phillips for screws and clips.
- Pliers: Handy for pulling cables or small parts.
- Socket Set: For tighter spots on gas models.
- Voltmeter (Electric Models): To check wiring if needed.
- Safety Gloves and Glasses: Keep your hands and eyes safe.
- Owner’s Manual: Your cart’s bible—trust me, it helps.
Got everything? Great! Now, let’s locate that governor.
Step 1: Locate the Governor on Your Golf Cart (Electric vs. Gas)
The first step is finding the governor, and it’s different depending on your cart type.
Electric Golf Carts
On electric models, the “governor” isn’t a single part—it’s usually part of the speed controller or motor system. Look under the seat or behind the battery compartment. You’ll see a box with wires (the controller) connected to the motor. That’s your target.
Gas Golf Carts
For gas carts, the governor is a mechanical piece near the engine. Pop the hood and look for a small device linked to the throttle cable and carburetor. It’s often a metal arm or spring setup that controls engine RPMs.
Not sure? Check your owner’s manual or snap a quick pic and search online for your model. Once you’ve found it, you’re ready to roll.
Step 2: Disabling the Governor – Detailed Instructions for Electric Models
Electric golf carts rely on electronics, so removing the governor means tweaking the speed controller or swapping parts. Here’s how to do it:
1. Power Down: Turn off the cart and disconnect the battery. Safety first!
2. Access the Controller: Remove the seat or panel to reach the speed controller.
3. Check the Setup: Some carts have adjustable controllers with a dial or switch. If yours does, turn it up to increase speed—no removal needed!
4. Bypass the Limit: If there’s no dial, you might need a programmer tool (specific to your brand, like Club Car or EZ-GO) to tweak the settings. Plug it in, follow the instructions, and crank up the speed limit.
5. Upgrade Option: For max speed, swap the controller for a high-performance one. This costs more (around $100-$300) but gives you total control.
Pro Tip: Take pics as you go—you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to reassemble.
Step 3: Bypassing the Governor on Gas-Powered Golf Carts
Gas carts are more hands-on, but it’s straightforward. Here’s the step-by-step:
1. Shut It Off: Turn off the engine and let it cool down.
2. Find the Governor: It’s near the carburetor, connected by a throttle cable.
3. Disconnect the Cable: Use pliers to detach the cable from the governor arm. It’s thin, like a straw.
4. Adjust or Remove: Loosen the governor arm bolt with a wrench and either slide it to a less restrictive spot or remove it entirely. Some folks tie the throttle wide open, but that’s risky—more on safety later.
5. Secure Everything: Tighten any loose bolts and tuck the cable away.
Done! Your gas cart should feel a lot peppier now.
How to Take the Governor Off an Electric Golf Cart
Let’s zoom in on electric carts for a sec. Besides tweaking the controller, some models have a physical limiter tied to the throttle. Here’s a deeper dive:
- Locate the Throttle Sensor: It’s near the pedal assembly. Look for a small box or wire setup.
- Adjust or Disconnect: Some sensors have a screw to loosen for more throttle range. Others need a bypass—check online forums for your model.
- Test Carefully: Reconnect the battery and test in a safe spot. If it’s too fast, dial it back with the controller.
Need a visual? Check out this quick video:
How to Take the Governor Off a Gas Golf Cart
For gas fans, it’s all about that engine tweak. Here’s a recap with extra detail:
- Carburetor Trick: After disconnecting the throttle cable, you can adjust the carburetor screw to let more air in. This boosts RPMs.
- Spring Swap: Some governors use a tension spring. Swap it for a weaker one to reduce resistance.
- Full Removal: If you’re all-in, unbolt the governor completely and cap any open spots to avoid leaks.
Here’s a pic to help:
Step-by-Step Process to Remove Your Golf Cart Governor
Let’s tie it all together with a universal checklist:
1. Prep: Gather tools, power off the cart, and find the governor.
2. Disassemble: Remove panels or hoods to access it.
3. Adjust or Remove: Tweak the controller (electric) or disconnect the arm (gas).
4. Test: Start the cart and check the speed.
5. Fine-Tune: Adjust as needed for your desired pace.
Simple, right? Now, let’s talk safety.
Safety Tips for Governor Removal on Golf Carts
Speed is fun, but don’t skip these precautions:
- Wear Gear: Gloves and glasses protect you from sharp edges or sparks.
- Test Slow: Try it out in an open area away from people or obstacles.
- Check Brakes: Faster carts need strong brakes—upgrade if they’re weak.
- Avoid Overload: Don’t push the motor too hard, or it’ll burn out.
Safety isn’t just smart—it keeps the fun going longer.
Testing Your Golf Cart After Taking the Governor Off
Once the governor’s gone, take it for a spin:
1. Start Slow: Ease into the throttle to feel the difference.
2. Listen Up: Weird noises? Stop and check.
3. Measure Speed: Use a GPS app to clock your new top speed.
4. Tweak if Needed: Too fast? Revisit the controller or throttle settings.
Here’s a test run in action:
Legal Considerations When Removing a Golf Cart Governor
Before you hit the streets, know this: removing the governor might not be legal everywhere. Golf carts are often classified as low-speed vehicles (LSVs) with a max of 25 mph. Go faster, and you could face fines or need to register it differently. On private property? You’re usually fine. Check your local laws to avoid headaches.
Alternatives to Taking the Governor Off Your Golf Cart
Not ready to ditch the governor? Try these:
- Tire Upgrade: Bigger tires increase speed without touching the governor.
- Battery Boost: For electric carts, add voltage (e.g., 48V to 72V) if compatible.
- Tune-Up: Clean the carburetor or motor for a natural performance lift.
These keep things legal and safe while still upping the fun.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Cart Governor Removal
Where Is the Governor on an Electric Golf Cart?
It’s in the speed controller, under the seat or near the batteries. Look for a wired box tied to the motor.
How Do I Disconnect the Throttle Cable from the Governor?
For gas carts, use pliers to unclip the cable from the governor arm near the carburetor. It’s quick and easy.
How Do I Adjust the Throttle Cable for Desired Speed?
After disconnecting, tighten or loosen the cable adjuster (a small nut or screw) to control throttle range. Test and tweak until it’s just right.
How Do I Test the Golf Cart After Governor Removal?
Take it to a flat, open space. Start slow, ramp up speed, and listen for issues. Use a phone app to track your new max speed.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a full guide to taking the governor off your golf cart, whether it’s electric or gas. At The Golf Hype, we’re all about unlocking the full potential of your ride. Just remember to stay safe, check your local rules, and enjoy the extra speed responsibly. Got questions or a cool mod story? Drop us a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!
Happy cruising, and see you on the fast track!