A COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING ELECTRIC CARTS
GOLFCARTING.COM
Nov. 2020 Issue 6
HOW TO INSTALL A BAZOOKA PARTY BAR
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE 16
CONTENTS ISSUE 6 NOVEMBER 2020
FEATURES
16 GOLF CARTS OF CYPRESS 26 EWG WARRANTY GROUP - COMPANY PROFILE 28 NAVITAS TAC2 PRODUCT REVIEW 34 HOW TO INSTALL A BAZOOKA PARTY BAR 38 A COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING ELECTRIC CARTS 46 ASK THE MECHANIC DEPARTMENTS
12 INDUSTRY NEWS 36 LET'S GET SOCIAL 44 GOLF CART PRODUCTS 48 READER'S RIDES 6 GOLFCARTING.COM
The Titans of Custom Carts – Golf Carts of Cypress in Cypress, Texas In this issue’s cover story we feature the new EV Titan sold by Golf Carts of Cypress. I spent some time with Jose Fuentes who is one of the owners of Golf Carts of Cypress. Located just outside of Houston in Cypress, TX, Golf Carts of Cypress is doing some pretty amazing work and changing the game in building custom carts. Their custom rebuilds are some of the most impressive I’ve seen. Most of their rebuilds are built from two-year-old Club Car Precedent frames and are loaded with accessories but they also customize 2020 models as well. They also rebuild Club Car Onwards and Tempos. Basic, 4-passenger carts start at around $7,000 and have some nice options and some of the higher-end carts can run as high as $16,000 and have every option you can dream of. Golf Carts of Cypress recently began selling the EV Titan. The EV Titan is a head-turner. EV Titan has its own aluminum frame and unique body style. These EV Titans come loaded. I pulled a 2020 EV Titan EV-T4 up on their website and here is what you get for $12,500… A six inch lift-kit with 14 inch wheels and 23 inch allterrain tires. It even has custom ignition keys. It comes with an armor front bumper, side steps and brand new LED lights, including daytime LED lights. It’s equipped with turn signals, hazard lights, brake lights, horn and side mirrors with led signal lights built in. It comes with a 6.8HP high-speed AC 5KW motor and advertises a top speed of 25mph. Equipped with back-up camera, Bluetooth stereo and hydraulic disc brakes. These EV Titans have been around for about a year and although currently they are only available through Golf Carts of Cypress, however, distribution expansion is currently in the works of the electric carts through dealers across the country. For more information on Golf Carts of Cypress and the new EV Titan, go to their website www.golfcartscypress.com. We hope you enjoy this November issue of Golf Carting magazine!
Trevor Rose Senior Editor Trevor@golfcarting.com 8 GOLFCARTING.COM
GolfCarting M
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GOLF CARTING // Issue 6 // November 2020
Publisher: Senior Editor: Creative Director: Production Director: Staff Writer: Staff Photographer:
GC Media Group, LLC Trevor Rose - trevor@golfcarting.com Troy Merrifield - troy@golfcarting.com Christian Amico - chris@golfcarting.com Chris Anderson Chris Anderson
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. ©2020 GC Media Group, LLC
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latestindustrynews SILVERWOLF VEHICLES INC. ANNOUNCES NEW REAR WHEEL DRIVE (RWD) PLUG ‘N PLAY POWER KIT PROVIDING GOLF CAR ENTHUSIASTS WITH INCREASED PERFORMANCE WITHOUT SACRIFICING BATTERY LIFE. The new kit, branded TEEKON, brings greater range, power and speed to stock DC electric motor golf cars. This high performance motor kit bundles an AC Permanent Magnet 12 HP motor, 840 Amp Controller, Plug ‘n Play wiring harness and powerful smartphone app. Designed to bolster the explosive growth of golf car utility vehicles by delivering 20% greater range, 60% less weight than other kits while still offering 56% more speed and acceleration. This kit is not intended for the faint of heart. However, safety was not left out of the equation. It comes with a built in safety locking hill hold and a rider profile smartphone app to protect younger or less experienced drivers. Superior ease of installation and end user customization is built right into its DNA. The Plug ‘n Play wiring harness connects directly to the OEM wiring, while the slick, Bluetooth® smartphone app facilitates on-the-fly performance customizations. CEO, Bill Jager, states “We have listened to the marketplace….. Users want to be able to use their golf car as an agricultural utility vehicle, an outdoor sports vehicle or even a personal transport vehicle. So, we designed TEEKON for greater range, speed and torque. They want to go further, faster and into more challenging terrain on just one charge. We have met the challenge with the TEEKON power kit by
SPREAD THE LOVE Tiger Woods announced an auction of 21 items to benefit his TGR Foundation earlier this week and you won’t believe how much some items sold for. For instance, the most expensive item, a Full Swing Pro Series Simulator, which went for a whopping $41,000. Two of the next three most expensive items were predictably the golf trips to Diamante Cabo San Lucas and TGR Design’s Bluejack National in Texas, which sold for $17,000 and $14,000, respectively. Sandwiched right between the two trips was one of the most exclusive items you’ll see in a golf auction: a replica golf cart from last May’s The Match: Champions For Charity event at Medalist Golf Club that saw Woods and Peyton Manning take down Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson. Tiger Woods rides in his cart during The Match: Champions For Charity at Medalist Golf Club on May 24, 2020 in Hobe Sound, Florida Tiger Woods rides in his cart during The Match: Champions For Charity at Medalist Golf Club on May 24, 2020 in Hobe Sound, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images for The Match) The Tiger-customized cart, an E-Z-GO Freedom RXV 12 GOLFCARTING.COM
SilverWolf.” TEEKON is the second in a line of aftermarket ruggedizing electric motor kits from SilverWolf™, who launched a geared 4WD motor kit back in 2014 and who are launching a new, fully reversing powerhouse kit in early 2021. What really defies expectations is the fact that this kit will not break the bank, coming in at a slim MSRP of $ 1,938.00 USD*; this kit is affordable to everyone harbouring the desire to go further, faster and into more challenging terrain. Check out their website at:www.silverwolfmotors.com * Dealer pricing available
EliTE, sold for $16,500. In total, the 21 items sold for more than $130,000. Woods has been a busy cat since missing the cut at the U.S. Open last month. The 15-time major champion recently unveiled his new course at Big Cedar Lodge by winning the inaugural Payne’s Valley Cup with teammate Justin Thomas, defeating Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose. He also confirmed he’ll defend his Zozo Championship title later this fall at one of his favorite courses, Sherwood Country Club.
latestindustrynews THE PGA MERCHANDISE SHOW SHIFTS TO AN ALL-VIRTUAL FORMAT FOR 2021 NORWALK, Conn. (Oct. 21, 2020) – PGA Golf Exhibitions, in partnership with the PGA of America, announced today the shift to an all-virtual format for the 2021 PGA Merchandise Show, to be held January 26-29, 2021. Prioritizing the health and well-being of the global golf community during the ongoing pandemic, the decision was made with guidance and feedback from exhibitors, attendees, PGA Professionals, the PGA of America, key industry associations, vendor partners and additional event stakeholders. The PGA Merchandise Show, the world’s largest annual gathering of the golf industry, traditionally hosts nearly 40,000 golf industry professionals from around the world to discover the newest trends and technology from some 1,000 exhibiting golf companies and brands. In 2021, the 68th edition of the PGA Merchandise Show will instead drive business, education and networking through a cutting-edge, highly-interactive virtual experience and marketplace – which will feature new product launch events, dynamic exhibitor showrooms, commerce applications, education sessions, industry presentations, one-to-one meetings, group networking, special events, and special golf celebrity and influencer engagement programs. “We are thankful to the PGA of America, exhibiting companies, attendees, PGA Professionals and industry partners for their strong support and guidance that has allowed us to develop this exciting reimagination of the 2021 PGA Merchandise Show,” said PGA Golf Exhibitions Event Vice President Marc Simon. “This year’s virtual PGA Show will offer unparalleled online engagement, connecting our industry to drive business and grow the game. Technology has brought us together in amazing new ways during the pandemic, and we plan to capitalize on these innovative solutions to make the PGA Show even better moving forward. Recognizing the increased interest in the game and potential growth in 2021 and beyond, we are excited to return to Orlando in 2022 to combine the best of technology advancements with the invaluable experience of face-to-face connections. Together, we are evolving and have the opportunity to emerge stronger and better connected than ever before.” “Working in partnership with the PGA Show team, we are pleased to continue the longstanding tradition of connecting PGA Professionals and the global golf community with a new virtual PGA Merchandise Show experience and marketplace in 2021,” said PGA President Suzy Whaley. “The interactive virtual format will allow even greater participation from all corners of the U.S. and around the world and, together, we can collectively make the most of the surging interest in the game. We share an optimistic outlook for the future of the sport and look forward to an exciting industry reunion when we all can meet face-to-face at the 2022 PGA Merchandise Show.” PGA Professionals, golf retailers, industry leaders and manufacturers from around the globe will be able to attend 14 GOLFCARTING.COM
the show from the safety of their homes, facilities or offices, and actively reconnect with the industry to drive substantial business results. The easy-to-use platform will become available for appointment scheduling in mid-December, with full content provided live during PGA Show Week, January 26-29, 2021, and available on-demand for an extended period of time after the Show concludes. The exhibitor marketplace will remain open on an ongoing basis to help exhibiting companies and buyers drive commerce throughout 2021. Complimentary industry attendee registration details will be announced shortly. Working closely with exhibiting companies, key industry associations and event stakeholders in the decision-making process, PGA Golf Exhibitions and the PGA of America experienced strong support for the 2021 decision and ongoing event support for 2022 and beyond. "These are extraordinary times that have required all of us as an industry to rapidly evolve and innovate the way we do things,” said Peter Broome, SVP Brand Management & Industry Relations for Acushnet. “The decision by the PGA of America and PGA Golf Exhibitions to shift to a Virtual Show in 2021 is the right one, made in the best interest, health and safety of everyone involved. While we look forward to getting back on the show floor in Orlando in 2022, our teams at Titleist and FootJoy are now focused on creating the most valuable and educational virtual experiences for PGA Professionals and our partners, as we work together in carrying our game's momentum into next season." “We commend the PGA of America and PGA Golf Exhibitions for moving to a virtual PGA Show in 2021,” said Callaway Executive Vice President, Glenn Hickey. “While we will miss interacting with our trade partners in person, we are excited to work towards an outstanding Callaway virtual presence for all attendees that will help showcase our impressive 2021 product line. We look forward to the PGA Show returning to Orlando in 2022.” “I applaud PGA Golf Exhibitions and the PGA of America for their decision to prioritize health and safety of attendees by pivoting to an all virtual experience for the 2021 PGA Show,” said Anne Broholm, CEO of AHEAD, LLC. “I’m confident that they will put together an amazing virtual gathering for PGA Professionals, exhibitors and the industry to attend. We look forward to participating, and also look forward to a fantastic 2022 PGA Show in Orlando when we can all hopefully gather in person once again.” “We strongly support the decision for an all-virtual PGA Show in 2021 and appreciate the PGA of America and PGA Show team’s ongoing dialogue with us and other industry stakeholders to determine the best path forward,” said Peter Millar Golf President Todd Martin. “We look forward to when we can all be together again in person in Orlando at the 2022 PGA Merchandise Show.”
COVER STORY
GOLF CARTS OF CYPRESS Introducing Golf Carts of Cypress in Cypress, TX. What started as a quick interview for our “Dealer Profile” feature in this month’s edition evolved into our cover article. The quick explanation for this is I opened up a zip file and took a peak at the new EV Titan electric cart that is sold by Golf Carts of Cypress (GCOC). I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. I talked to the team and we decided that this cart needed to be on our cover. We got a chance to meet with co-owner of Golf Carts of
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Cypress, Jose Fuentes, who opened up his doors to show us his unique dealership just outside of Houston, Texas -- and Golf Carts of Cypress is certainly unique. GCMAG: Jose, thank you for taking the time to share with us about Golf Carts of Cypress. I have to be honest, when I first went to your website and looked at your custom rebuilds and your luxury carts, I was blown away. Tell us what you guys do.
Jose: We specialize in custom golf cart builds, golf cart sales, golf cart rentals and golf carts servicing. We really do it all. GCMAG: It sounds like it. Who are the owner(s)? Jose: My name is Jose Fuentes and my partner Federico Nell. GCMAG: What is your company background? How and when did your company start?
Jose: Our company started 4 years ago customizing golf carts. We noticed that there were a lot of golf cart dealers, but not a lot that do complete and in depth customization. Our neighborhood has a significant amount of people who use their golf carts to navigate their neighborhoods and don't necessarily want them for the golf course. We found that these customers enjoy having a golf cart that is unique to their own style and carts that really stand out in a crowd. At that GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 17
moment, Golf Carts of Cypress was born. We fully customize golf carts from lift kits and more aggressive tires and wheels, brush guards, multiple aftermarket body styles, clay baskets, windshields (tinted and non-tinted), street legal kits (lighted side mirrors with turn signals, brake and hazard lights, horn), upgraded custom seats, dash kits, keyless entry systems, custom floor mats, rearview cameras, electric winches, Bluetooth sound systems, underbody lighting, and more. We build 4-seater and 6-seater limo style carts that can fit the whole family. GCMAG: It sounds like you do it all. Where are you guys located? Jose: Our showroom is located at 16518 House & Hahl Rd Cypress, Texas 77433. We also have billing and service locations and plan to open more showrooms in the future. GCMAG: That’s great Jose. Can you tell us about your employees? Jose: We have 15 employees that include service staff, sales staff, and billing staff. GCMAG: Fifteen employees is a lot, especially for a four-yearold company. It sounds like you’ve really grown fast. How do you promote or advertise your business? Online? Social Media? Jose: We mainly promote online and through social media. GCMAG: I was browsing through your Facebook page and your custom cart pictures really pop and it looks like you are getting a ton of engagement. It’s no wonder that social media is working well for you. What is the most important business lesson you've learned? Jose: We feel that the most important component to success 18 GOLFCARTING.COM
is the customer's satisfaction and allowing them the ability to express their style through their cart is our number one priority. GCMAG: That’s critically important. Looking through your inventory, it’s apparent that you guys really have a good sense for style and design. Your color combos, body styles, seats, wheel combinations, they are really impressive. What are your future plans for your company? Jose: Our goal is to become the number one custom golf cart builder in the United States with multiple locations that create stylish upgraded carts that are so completely unique in style they can only be found with us. We just recently became the authorized dealer for Texas of a brand new electric vehicle, called the EV Titan.. We feel it’ll make a big splash in the industry. Not only are they beautiful but they perform very well. The EV Titan comes with 6.8 HP and a 400 amp controller and can hit 25mph. GCMAG: The EV Titan is an incredibly good looking cart. We’ll go through the specs on this cart a little later. Good for you for thinking big. I want to say thank you for spending some time with us and letting us learn more about your dealership. I’m a big fan of what you are building and I have no doubts that you guys will flourish. Continued success! DEALER INFORMATION: Dealer Name: Golf Carts of Cypress Dealer Location: 16518 House & Hahl Rd, Cypress, TX 77433 Phone Number: (281) 369-8332 Owners: Jose Fuentes and Federico Nell Website: golfcartscypress.com
The EV Titan was born out of a collaboration with Golf Carts of Cypress from their years of experience perfecting custom rebuilds. It comes loaded with options that are aftermarket upgrades for most of its competitors. The EV Titan comes with an aviation grade aluminum alloy frame that is light weight and rust resistant. It delivers more power and torque with a 48-Volt AC motor with a 6.8 HP output rating and a 400 AMP AC Controller. Club Car Onward, EZGO TXT and Yamaha Drive range from 3.5 HP – 4.4 HP with 235 AMP – 270 AMP Controllers. The EV Titan boasts a max speed of 25 mph which is on average 6 mph more than its main competitors. EV Titan developed their own sleek body that is injection molded with automotive color and coat finish. It comes with 20 GOLFCARTING.COM
rear hydraulic disk brakes braking system and helical rack and pinion steering. The EV Titan is longer at just under 117 inches and has broad shoulders being almost 51 inches wide. The total height is 78.8 inches and the wheel base is 66.9 inches. It’s a bigger cart in general but only weighs around 900 lbs. It also has ground clearance of 5.5 inches. Standard features are plentiful. It comes stock with 23x10 -14 all terrain tires. Other standard features are seat belts, underbody lights, USB charger, foldable tinted windshield, extended longtop roof. It has a beautiful LCD display dash, lighted side mirrors, street legal turn signals and optional lithium batteries. If that wasn't enough, the EV Titian also comes with bluetooth speaker systems, rear view camera, daytime running lights, upgraded seats, front adjustable off road lift kits and the EV Titian is already street legal in most communities. The rear flip seat conceals a nifty little cooler as well. Currently, the EV Titan is available only through Golf Carts of Cypress. However, distribution expansion is currently in the works of the electric carts through dealers across the country. For more information on Golf Carts of Cypress visit them online at www.golfcartscypress.com or stop by their dealership or give them a call at (281) 369-8332. 22 GOLFCARTING.COM
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Thank you Sponsors! For our Upcoming Golf Cart Build
companyprofile
DEALERS: 1. ADD REVENUE 2. BOOST CONFIDENCE 3. REDUCE EXPOSURE
EWG WARRANTY GROUP In this issue’s Company Profile we feature Electric Warranty Group (EWG), a company that delivers limited warranty programs to the electric and gas cart, LSV and NEV marketplace. They have built a nationwide authorized dealer network who provide these warranties to their customers and who handle the repairs on warrantied carts. Greg Lewis is the COO of EWG and he recently conducted an interview with Golf Carting Magazine. Company Name: Electric Warranty Group (EWG) Company Website: www.ewgcorp.com Company Headquarters: Charleston, SC GCMAG: Hey Greg, it’s great to spend time with you and learn more about Electric Warranty Group. EWG has been a loyal sponsor of this publication and we appreciate your loyalty. Can you give us some background on EWG? Greg: I’d love to. Electric Warranty Group (EWG) is currently the only extended warranty provider for new and used electric and gas carts nationwide. In 2016 the owner of a warranty provider for the automobile industry felt that the golf cart industry was ripe for an extended warranty company because of the tremendous rise in used and refurbished golf cart sales. Their research found that virtually no one was offering extended warranties on custom rebuild and used carts. After starting the company, EWG really took off and then in the Spring of 2019, EWG was purchased by PT Ventures LLC, a venture capital firm whose portfolio includes other golf-related companies. The company 26 GOLFCARTING.COM
has continued to enjoy tremendous growth.
GCMAG: Greg, can you tell us more about your warranties? Greg: Of course. EWG provides extended warranties on new and used electric and gas golf carts and our company really “pioneered” the golf cart and electric vehicle warranty marketplace. We have warrantied many thousands of carts and continue to add more and more dealers to our network. Our dealer network is really the life blood of EWG. As you are well aware, being a magazine that covers custom golf carts, more and more cart dealers are building and selling NEVs (Neighborhood Electric Vehicles) and LSVs (Low Speed Vehicles). More and more, these NEV’s are being custom built from 2-4 year old Club Cars and EZ-GOs and Yamahas and being sold as “new” rebuilds. The manufacturer warranty has already expired and so there is a real need to offer an extended warranty. EWG provides limited warranty programs for golf carts, NEVs and LSVs and this really meets the needs of the dealers who sell these carts. It provides a lot of peace of mind for their customers and helps dramatically reduce their risk of having to pay for repairs. EWG warranties start at 6-months and go up to 48-months. Dealers can choose to mark-up these warranties to add profit or often times they will sell it at their cost because it really provides a lot of value to them and increases their cart sales. GCMAG: How many employees do you have? Tell us about your team.
Greg: We have around 8 people on our team who handle sales and claims servicing and dealer support.
selling warranties in Canada and the Caribbean and have plans for Western Europe very soon.
GCMAG: So it sounds like your customer is really the golf cart dealers. Is that correct? Greg: For the most part that is correct. As I mentioned earlier, the dealers are by far our largest group who purchase our warranties. We do work with a few select OEMs as well. We warranty all their new carts.
GCMAG: That’s really exciting Greg. Is there anything else you’d like to share with us? Greg: Often times, dealer owners ask us “What’s in it for me?” There are numerous benefits of adding an EWG warranty to a golf cart. Some of these are… We increase dealer sales because we build confidence in people purchasing a custom rebuilt cart. Also, many dealers mark-up the cost of the warranties and increase their profits. We minimize the risk for dealers if there are costly problems with a cart they sell because we pay for the repairs and labor and even pay for the cost of pick-up and delivery. We also help dealers increase service revenue if they become an authorized service center for us. So there’s numerous benefits for dealers who offer our warranties.
We have what we refer to as an authorized dealer network who we have built relationships with and who provide all the servicing of warrantied carts. Many of these dealers are buying our warranties for their carts and also providing the service on carts that have a claim. It has really helped increase their service revenue. GCMAG: What’s the future for EWG? Greg: EWG is growing rapidly. When dealers find out who we are and the value we can bring to them they immediately realize that it’s a “no brainer”. Especially, those that sell custom rebuilds and used carts. We work with these dealers closely to help them integrate the warranty program and once they realize how easy it is to sell, they jump all over it. So, our future goals are simply to expand our dealer network. We are also beginning to work with dealers outside of the U.S. We are now
GCMAG: Greg this has been great. We appreciate you sharing with us. EWG make a lot of sense and with the explosive growth of this industry, I’m sure you guys will be around for a long time. For more information on on EWG or to become a registered dealer, visit their website at EWGCorp.com. You can also give them a call at 833-EWG-CORP.
LATEST GOLF CART
productsreviewed
NAVITAS
TAC2 AC Induction System
RATED Go to: www.navitasvs.com
Navitas Vehicle Systems has been in business for 30+ years designing and manufacturing electric vehicle controllers, motors and components for the industrial material handling and golf cart marketplace. Navitas is now the leader in aftermarket DC and AC replacement performance controllers and motors for the golf cart industry. Navitas Vehicle Systems is located in Waterloo, ON Canada and has 25-50 employees. Navitas plans to continue to grow the aftermarket DC to AC conversion kits as well as expand their footprint with the small to medium size OEM marketplace.
to unleash your golf cart’s potential by generating more speed and more efficiency and it won’t break the bank.
The following is a review of the Navitas TAC2 AC Induction System.
Easy to Install • You don’t need to cut or modify your mounting plate with this low profile controller that installs quickly and easily
TAC2 AC INDUCTION SYSTEM The Navitas TAC2 AC Induction system will help you 28 GOLFCARTING.COM
Generate More Speed • The new Navitas DC to AC conversion kits will allow you to bypass the OEM codes Greater Efficiency • With the 440 and 600 Amp compact AC systems you will get more miles per charge and better performance
FEATURES • 440A state of the art Mosfet technology • Compact size and low weight: TAC 2 Controller footprint is 35% smaller than the TAC 1.0 Controller • Regenerative braking • Molex waterproof connector • Thermal protection • Sensor less motor thermal protection • Under voltage protection • Fully sealed IP5X • A/B speed sensor inputs • OEM multi-platform mounting options • Plug & Play installation for major OEM golf cars • Rollback protection • Speed-limiting (w/optional speed sensor) • Compatible with Navitas On-The-Fly (OTF) programmer (optional) APPLICATIONS • Golf cars • Low Speed Vehicles (LSV) • Utility Vehicles (UTV) • Hunting Buggies OUTPUT CAPABILITY • Up to 440A BATTERY VOLTAGE • 48 to 72 Volt BONUS FEATURES BLUETOOTH® • Live Bluetooth® Telemetry • Downloadable on iOS & Android • BlueTooth Lockout Enabled • Monitor "Live" Battery Status • Battery Watering Reminders • Error Messages emailed to Dealer • Technician & Cart Owner Apps
REBOUND
OPTIONAL AC MOTOR (Required for TXT® and Precedent® models) • Powerful 5 kW AC Motor • Increased Speed and Torque • Make your vehicle feel new again!
topfacebookgroups
This page is to encourage golf cart owners to make modifications to their carts and make the carts their own. There are a lot of good builders and strong users on here. Post up pics of your work and show it off. Also ask any tech questions you made need. Feel free to give advice or your suggestions to help each other complete our builds.
This group is for Club Car Carts ONLY. Buy and sell ONLY Club Car and Parts for ONLY Club Car. Do not list or speak of any other cart brands on this page. If you list a item for sale it must state in the listing "For Club Car"...Talk about and ask questions for Club Car ONLY. All post or comments that are not Club Car related will be deleted and member will be blocked from this page with no exceptions 30 GOLFCARTING.COM
This's a place where people can talk about problems,Solutions and selling golf carts and anything about golf carts.
This group was created for all those who like or would like to create a custom cart. Please don't bash others on this site everybody's ideas are not the same. If you are drawing a blank maybe you can get some ideas or insight to a problem your having.
Custom over-the-top golf cart pictures, news, videos, information and more brought to you by Golf Carting Magazine.
Ez go golf cart parts, buy sell or barter. Dedicated to the Club Car DS and Carryall, this group was formed to share photos and ideas, solve problems and support the model DS community. Buying, selling and trading is welcome, but do so at your own risk. Spam and members who post it will be removed. GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 31
SAVE $500 ON ANY CLUB CAR ONWARD FREE DELIVERY Call us for more information Financing Available • Free Estimates • Pick up/Delivery •Full Service Shop • Scheduled Maintenance • Trades Welcome • New & Used Parts, Carts and Accessories
1720 W Elliot Road • Gilbert AZ, 85233 • 480-272-8418
doityourself
How to Install a Bazooka Party Bar Ryan Fenters is the founder of the popular YouTube Channel called Fentertainment. Ryan creates DIY videos of, in his own words… “dedicated to making, painting, building, modifying and fixing things…” His golf-cart-related DIY videos are very informative and we thought it would be a good idea to transcribe them for you. This is the fifth video in an ongoing series where Ryan transforms a 2014 Club Car Precedent. Ryan shows us step-bystep how to install a Bazooka Bluetooth Party Bar. Ryan Fenters: Previously on the Fentertainment channel, we took the motor out of our club car precedent. We sent it off to plumb quick and they did the bandit upgrade before we re-installed it. The golf cart went from 12 miles per hour stock to 23 miles per hour. The next video in this series, with the help from golfcarttiresupply.com we added an all sports six-inch lift-kit to the golf cart and we added some 14-inch wheels with 23-inch all-terrain tires. That took our speed from 23 mph to 27 mph. After the lift and tires, we then added a Navitas TSX 3.0 DC torque controller. It gave us 3 mph more speed and it gave us a 34 GOLFCARTING.COM
lot more torque while providing security. After these upgrades we installed a 48 to 12 volt DC Converter so we can start adding accessories. In today’s video we are going to install the Bluetooth Party Bar G2 by Bazooka.
Now once you have your Party Bar out of the box, you’ll notice you have four mid-range speakers and two tweeters.
Around both tweeters you’ll find LED lights and on each end of the party bar you will find sub-woofers. On the front of the Party Bar you have a double LED strip.
On the very top of the Party Bar you will see seven integrated mounting nuts and on the bottom of the bar you will see a USB input which is a 2.1 amp that can charge your phone and you can even use a thumb drive to play music. You also have two auxiliary ports… one input and one output. The Party Bar also includes two connectors; the red one is your power input connector and the black one is your power output connector. You will notice that there are some buttons on the front of the Party Bar where you can control everything manually or you can control it with the remote control that is included. The remote can control the volume, the lights and any added accessories.
The Party Bar also comes with two metal mounting legs, mounting bolts and anti-vibration pads as well as an allen wrench. You also get a 6 foot power wire that includes a 15 amp fuse. An accessory power wire is included as well. Bazooka includes 6 mounting bolts: a pair of 2 inch, a pair of 1.25 inch and a pair of ½ inch bolts along with locking nuts, washers and another allen wrench. Bazooka allows you four different ways of controlling your Party Bar. First, you have the party bar itself using the buttons on the front. Secondly, you have the remote control. Third, you can download an app and use your smartphone. Lastly,
you have a wireless remote. However, this wireless remote does have wires on it. The wireless reference means there’s no connective wires to the remote to the Party Bar. There is a power and ground wire that powers the backlight on the remote.
We’ll go ahead and power up the Party Bar and synch the Bluetooth on the Party Bar to the smartphone. Once the Bluetooth is paired we open the application and we will see that there are options for Bluetooth, USB Mode, Auxiliary, LED and a Switch. Select Bluetooth and you can play music from your phone and you can control the audio from your phone, the handheld remote control, the Party Bar itself or the wireless remote.
You can control the LED lights from your phone as well. You can control all the colors, the gradient brightness, fade speeds and more. To synch the wireless remote to the Party Bar’s Bluetooth you need to disconnect power from the Party Bar. Next, hit the ACC button on the top while pushing the Play/Pause on the bottom of the wireless remote until you see the word “Connect” show on the screen. Then power up the Party Bar again. You should see on the wireless remote screen “Match Ok”. Turn on the Bazooka and it should automatically pair with the wireless remote and audibly confirm when the pairing is complete. You are now ready to control your music straight GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 35
doityourself You can run the power wires down the frame tube of the golf cart if you have a DC convertor and you can mount the wireless remote straight to the dash of the golf cart. Link to the YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/ZfjY0LjsGoc
from the wireless remote. The Bazooka Party Bar comes in 24 inch and 36 inch models. For more sound you would want to go with the 36 inch. Some people get two bars and synch them together which is not difficult to do.
So I have two soundbars, the 24 inch and the 36 inch. I was aiming for the 36 inch to go up front and the 24 inch in the back but the windshield preventing me from doing so. The 24 inch fits in the front perfectly.
I put some tape on the roof of the cart and added two mounting pieces. I center the Party Bar and make some marks on the tape with a marker. I want to use the anti-vibration pads and so I put them up on the roof and will use the marker to mark where I need to drill the holes. I then drill the holes and use the mounting brackets with the anti-vibration pads to install the Party Bar. The large locking washers go on top and the small washers on the bottom. You can use the allen wrench to tighten from the top. You can rotate the Party Bar to where you think it will look and sound the best before tightening down the hardware. 36 GOLFCARTING.COM
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CDK's Golf Carts Lighting up the night.
With so many custom bodies out there, it's hard to keep up. This is the first Rover we have seen.
Ride Modz is now making their Tower Tops for E-Z-GO.
We love beach themed carts. It's 5 o'clock somewhere! Caddy Shack themed cart is on point. If you are a hunter then you need this Quick Draw Vertical Gunrack. 38 GOLFCARTING.COM
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YOU MIGHT SEE YOUR POST IN THE NEXT ISSUE!
Probably not cheap, but they are some sexy wheels. Want a cart that can handle some speed. Check out Pinhead Fabrication's chassis'.
A clean Club Car with perfectly placed LED lights.
Ride Modz Tower tops for Club Car carts.
Great tire and wheel combo from our friends at Arisun Tire.
The paint job and color scheme makes this cart super coooool!
GOLF CARTING MAGAZINE 39
golfcartguide
A COMPLETE GUIDE TO BUYING ELECTRIC CARTS
T
he golf cart is growing up. More and more, electric carts are being used as neighborhood electric vehicles and low speed vehicles (NEVs and LSVs). They are becoming a secondary means of transportation around the neighborhood and short distance jaunts on roads 35mph or less. Some communities are being built to accommodate electric vehicles on a mass scale with specific cart trails that exclude automobiles. They are very reasonably priced, easy to maintain and there are many different options to satisfy a variety of needs and budgets. Gas powered carts have their place but the electric cart market is growing rapidly in part because of their eco-friendly nature as well as being quieter and more affordable. Electronic carts can get up to 50+ miles on a single charge and electricity is far cheaper than gas. Let’s talk about everything you need to know about purchasing an electric cart. THREE TYPES OF CARTS TO CONSIDER There are three types of electric carts. These are golf carts, 40 GOLFCARTING.COM
neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) and low-speed vehicles (LSVs). ELECTRIC GOLF CARTS A golf cart is generally a very basic electric, two-seat Club Car or EZ-GO that is primarily made for golf course transportation. They can be used for general transportation as an NEV but are specifically made by the manufacturer for use on a golf course. Some golf carts or more like golf cars and come fully enclosed for added protection and to enable use in bad weather. NEIGHBORHOOD ELECTRIC VEHICLES (NEVS) NEVs are essentially a golf cart that generally have a rear-facing two seat bench that replaces the golf bag holders in the rear of the cart. Technically-speaking, they are classified as LSVs but they are generally just glorified golf carts that usually don’t have all the things necessary to be street legal. These carts are driven on neighborhood streets, often by children, and simply a means of transportation in the
neighborhood. Going to and from the community pool or to visit a friend or to drop kids off at the neighborhood school and so on. They are often reasonably priced but in recent years, affluent communities are demanding expensive, aftermarketaccessory-loaded, custom rebuilt carts that can cost as much as $20,000 or more. It’s almost becoming a competition as to who can have the coolest, most tricked-out NEV. But generally speaking, an attractive mid-range NEV will cost between $7,000 - $10,000. And one can certainly spend less than that buying used vehicles. All over the country, cart-friendly communities are being built and the popularity of the NEV will continue to rise. LOW SPEED VEHICLES (LSVS) Low-speed vehicles include a wide range of vehicles that typically travel no faster than 25 to 35 mph. LSVs are similar to NEVs but they can travel beyond the borders of the neighborhood and drive on any roads with speed limits of 35mph or less. There are legal classification differences between LSVs and other electric vehicles. Federal law states that an LSV must weigh less than 3,000 pounds and only be driven on roads with a maximum speed limit of 35 miles per hour. In many states, they also must have safety equipment like rearview mirrors, brake lights, turn signals and more depending on the state laws. LSVs are also required to have a VIN number whereas golf carts and NEVs do not. A SHORT PEEK AT THE HISTORY OF THE GOLF CART Merle Williams is believed to have invented the first electric golf cart in 1951 in Redlands, CA. His motivation stemmed from the gasoline rations imposed during WWII. Immediately, numerous manufacturers started to compete in the electric cart market including, Cushman, EZ-GO and in the late 1950’s Club Car. Building carts for alternative uses other than golfing is not a new thing. Club Car built the first utility vehicle in the 1970’s and Yamaha built the first NEV in the 1980’s. Today, electric carts are big business. Large corporate giants have acquired both Club Car and EZ-GO, Ingersoll Rand and Textron and the Yamaha Motor Company employs over 50,000 people globally. Today there are numerous electric cart manufacturers but “the big three”, Yamaha, EZ-GO and Club Car still dominate. WHICH CART IS THE BEST? There are a variety of factors to take into account when choosing a golf cart. Most importantly, what will the cart be used for? If you live in a golf community that allows you to use your own cart on the course, a simple golf cart is what you would probably want. If you live in a golf-cart friendly community then you would want a NEV or LSV. Or if you want an alternative to an automobile for short-distance travel you’d want to go with a street-legal LSV.
There is an argument to be made that each of the big three is the “best” cart. They are all excellent, well-built vehicles. It becomes a matter of personal preference. BUY NEW OR BUY USED Anytime you buy a new vehicle you feel confident that you are not inheriting any mechanical issues. And, the vehicle comes with a manufacturer warranty. But you pay for the privilege. New carts are obviously more expensive than used carts. A new golf cart can cost $5,000 - $8,000. A new NEV can cost $6,000 - $15,000+. A new LSV can cost $10,000 - $17,000+. The depreciation rate of electric carts is not nearly as significant as it is with automobiles. You can expect a depreciation rate of around 8%-10% per year on an electric cart, whereas, it can be over double that depreciation rate with an automobile. Therefore, you are better off buying a new electric cart than you would be a new car but you will still experience depreciation. Used carts are cheaper than new ones and basic ones can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 and those that have more aftermarket accessories will cost more. Many dealers selling used carts offer extended warranties on them. A growing number of golf cart owners and even dealerships are opting to buy used electric carts and then strip them down to the frames and performing a complete custom rebuild of the cart. These modification options include adding extra seats, adding audio systems, lifting the cart, custom wheels and tires and installing premium LED lights on the cart. These carts are becoming extremely popular and consequently, the aftermarket parts and accessory industry is enjoying rapid growth.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WITH USED CARTS You’ll want to find out the age of the used cart and can confirm that with the serial number. You’ll want to check the entire cart for signs of rust, scratches, and dents. Check the batteries for corrosion and signs of leaks. Also confirm the age of the batteries and whether they can hold a charge. Test-drive the cart and make sure it is aligned properly and that it rides
golfcartguide smoothly. Club Car is the only cart that uses aluminum frames and this is significant because they do not rust like steel frames will. This is especially important in areas near the ocean as saltwater will expedite rust on steel. Many of the custom rebuilds are made from Club Car frames for this reason. Used carts can be found the same way used automobiles are found. Look on eBay, local classifieds, Facebook Marketplace, etc. Many dealers will also accept trade ins and will sell used carts as well. You can find custom rebuilds at most dealers nowadays and make sure you trust the dealer and look for Google and Facebook reviews before purchasing. Also, make sure you ask if they provide an extended warranty. WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CUSTOM REBUILD CART As discussed earlier both a used cart and a custom rebuilt cart are technically used but there is a fundamental difference. A used cart is simply that. A custom rebuild is a cart that is stripped down to the frame and rebuilt using brand new parts and for all practical purposes, is a new cart. Many of these also come with an optional extended warranty. Custom rebuilds are far more expensive than a basic used electric cart. You can literally spend thousands of dollars bolting an untold number of accessories to your cart. If you can dream it you can build it. WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A NEW CART Buying a new cart is much simpler. Determine what you will be using the cart for and then do your research and determine which brand you feel comfortable with. Outside of “The Big Three� (Yamaha, Club Car and EZ-GO) there are a number of other reputable cart manufacturers, like Tomberlin and Star EV,
for example. If you live in larger, more populated areas, you will have a variety of dealerships to choose from. Manufacturers assign territorial areas to their authorized dealers. So, if there are 3-4 dealerships in your area, one may be an authorized Club Car dealer, while another will have EZ-GO and another Yamaha. New electric cars come with warranties but you should still check online ratings for the dealerships to make sure you are working with an honest reputable dealer. Ask about the warranties and what they cover and if the dealer offers pick up and delivery. Also check with other dealers in your area to see if the price is competitive. Electric carts are fun and regardless of what kind of electric cart you are purchasing, they will bring you a lot of good times. Just do your research and make sure you are picking the right cart for your needs.
golfcartproducts ECOXGEAR
SOUNDEXTREME The SoundExtreme is100% waterproof and rugged outdoor audio soundbar. The MSRP is $399.99 and is available now. The SoundExtreme is the perfect soundbar for Golf carts, UTVs, ATVs, Marine and RV markets. Like the entire ECOXGEAR rugged and waterproof audio line, The SoundExtreme is packed with market-leading features and technology such as: • 100% waterproof, dust proof, and mud proof • 500 watts power 8 marine grade speakers: 2 tweeters, 4 mids, and 2 side facing woofers • Control audio and light functions via the speaker or included remote control • ECOCAST: wirelessly connect up to 50 ECOXGEAR soundbars and speakers • LED lights: back lit speakers and rear facing light bar. The speakers’ backlights and light bar operate independently and can synch to the music, display solid color, or remain off (default).
Go to: www.ecoxgear.com
LIFETIME GOLF CART COVERS GOLF CART COVER
UV TREATED, WATER, DIRT, FROST AND DUST PROOF DESCRIPTION: • Designed to prevent rain, snow, sunlight, bird droppings, sap and dirt from damaging your golf cart. • Heavy-Duty UV treatment protects your golf cart from sun damage and faded colors. • Handy Rear Zipper makes for an easy and quick onand-off experience. • Made of top quality 210D Oxford fabric that is treated for maximum water resistance and repellency with a urethane polymer coating. • Elasticized chord along the bottom hem creates a tight and custom looking fit. Now available in Black and Silver.
Go to: www.lifetimegolfcartcovers.com 44 GOLFCARTING.COM
White and Red Lightbar
GOLFCARTPRODUCTS
RIDE MODZ
The MODZ Max48 for Club Car48 Volt Golf Carts The innovative Modz Max48 is one of the only golf cart chargers that works with onboard computer (obc) and non-onboard Club Car models with six 8v batteries. The Max48 also works with nononboard computer models with four 12v batteries. Never worry again about finding dead batteries after prolonged storage. The Max48 features innovative, plug and forget smart float technology allowing you to plug in your golf cart and leave it plugged in without fear of damaging your batteries over extended periods of time a common issue with many chargers. At only 7 pounds, the Max48 is more than 50% lighter than most OEM and aftermarket golf cart battery chargers, but don’t let the weight fool you. The Max48 is constructed with a rugged, yet lightweight aluminum casing providing exception durability. In addition, to being lightweight the MODZ Max48 leaves a relatively small footprint and can easily transported with the convenient carry handle.
Go to: www.ridemodz.com
askthemechanic
ASK THE MECHANIC Q: What’s The Proper Way to Water My Golf Cart Batteries? A:Watering your golf cart batteries is an important task and when done correctly, it is the best way to prolong the life of the battery. It can damage the batteries when done incorrectly. Batteries have metal plates inside and a good rule to follow is to never let the water level dip below the top of these plates. When adding water fill to about ½ inch above these plates. The best time to water your batteries is after a full charge. If you fill the water before a charge it can cause the acid bubbling that could potentially destroy your batteries. We suggest checking them once a month with normal use.
Q: Should I Purchase A Gas or Electric Golf Cart? A: This decision will primarily be based on how you intend to use the cart. A gas-powered golf cart can generally provide you with more power, speed and 46 GOLFCARTING.COM
range. Most gas golf carts are sold to customers with large properties or those in need of more power. Electric golf carts are quiet and generally less expensive to maintain then gas powered golf carts. They are easier to use as long as you remember to charge them daily. There are far less parts in an electric cart so there are far fewer things that can break.
Q: How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries last? A: Batteries can range in their life cycle, depending on a few factors. The biggest factor would be how they are maintained and making sure the water is properly filled. We have seen customers get 6-7 years out of a set of batteries with normal use. If you use your golf cart more often, the average range should be 4-5 years. Another factor would be the type of battery, the lower cost options won’t have the best lifespan. Stick with Trojan, Crown or US Battery and you can’t go wrong.
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