Club Car Drive Clutch Removal Process

The Club Car drive clutch is an essential component of the golf cart’s transmission system, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Over time, the drive clutch may become worn or damaged and require removal for repair or replacement. This guide outlines the step-by-step process for removing a Club Car drive clutch. Remember to consult your owner’s manual for any specific details related to your golf cart model.

Rangefinder on Discount

Tools and Materials:

  1. Socket wrench set
  2. Flathead screwdriver
  3. Clutch puller tool (specific to Club Car models)
  4. Protective gloves
  5. Safety glasses
  6. Clean cloth or rag

Step-by-Step Club Car Drive Clutch Removal Process:

  1. Prepare the golf cart: Park the golf cart on a flat, level surface and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake and remove the key from the ignition.
  2. Allow the engine to cool: If the engine has been running recently, wait for it to cool down completely before proceeding.
  3. Disconnect the battery: To avoid any accidental electrical issues, disconnect the battery by removing the negative cable first, followed by the positive cable.
  4. Access the drive clutch: Remove any covers or guards that may be obstructing access to the drive clutch. This may involve removing the seat or other body components, depending on your specific model.
  5. Inspect the drive belt: Before proceeding with the removal of the drive clutch, inspect the drive belt for wear or damage. If it shows signs of wear, consider replacing it along with the drive clutch.
  6. Remove the drive belt: Loosen the drive belt tension by either loosening the tensioner bolt or, if your model does not have a tensioner, sliding the driven clutch towards the engine. Once the belt is loose, slide it off the drive clutch.
  7. Remove the clutch bolt: Using the appropriate socket wrench, remove the bolt securing the drive clutch to the engine crankshaft.
  8. Install the clutch puller: Thread the clutch puller tool into the drive clutch’s threaded hole, ensuring it is firmly seated and properly aligned with the crankshaft.
  9. Remove the drive clutch: Using a socket wrench, turn the clutch puller tool clockwise to apply pressure on the crankshaft. This will force the drive clutch to separate from the crankshaft. Be patient, as it may take some effort to break the clutch free. Always wear safety glasses and gloves while performing this step.
  10. Clean the crankshaft: Once the drive clutch is removed, clean any debris, dirt, or grease from the crankshaft using a clean cloth or rag.

Required Tools

Tool NameSizeQuantityPurpose
Socket Wrench9/16 inch1To remove bolts on clutch cover
Torque Wrench50 ft-lbs1To tighten bolts after reinstallation
Clutch PullerN/A1To remove drive clutch from shaft
Snap Ring PliersN/A1To remove snap ring from shaft
Flathead ScrewdriverN/A1To remove cover screws

Clutch Cover Removal Steps

Step NumberStep Description
1Turn off engine and place vehicle in neutral.
2Remove the four bolts securing the clutch cover using a socket wrench.
3Pry off the clutch cover using a flathead screwdriver.
4Set the clutch cover aside in a safe place.

Drive Clutch Removal Steps

Step NumberStep Description
1Remove snap ring from shaft using snap ring pliers.
2Screw the clutch puller onto the end of the drive clutch.
3Tighten the clutch puller until the drive clutch comes loose.
4Remove the drive clutch from the shaft.

Drive Clutch Inspection

Inspection ItemAcceptable RangeInspection Procedure
Clutch Shoe Wear0.125 in – 0.5 inMeasure thickness of each clutch shoe. Replace if outside range.
Clutch Spring Tension110 – 120 lbsUse a spring compression tool to measure tension. Replace if outside range.
Clutch Sheave Runout0.003 in or lessUse a dial indicator to measure runout. Replace if outside range.
Clutch Shoe Hub Wear0.125 in or lessMeasure thickness of each clutch shoe hub. Replace if outside range.
Clutch Roller Wear0.125 in or lessMeasure thickness of each clutch roller. Replace if outside range.

Clutch Reinstallation Steps

Step NumberStep Description
1Clean the clutch shaft and clutch threads with a rag.
2Apply a thin layer of anti-seize lubricant to the clutch shaft threads.
3Place the drive clutch onto the clutch shaft.
4Tighten the drive clutch onto the clutch shaft with a torque wrench to 50 ft-lbs.
5Install the snap ring onto the clutch shaft.
6Install the clutch cover and tighten the bolts with a socket wrench.
7Start the engine and test the clutch operation.

Drive Clutch Torque Specifications

Bolt TypeTorque Specification
Clutch Retaining Bolt55-65 ft-lbs
Clutch Cover Bolt20-25 in-lbs
Snap RingN/A

Symptoms of a Faulty Drive Clutch

SymptomPossible Cause
Sluggish accelerationWorn clutch shoes or springs
High RPMs but low speedWorn clutch sheave or rollers
Burning smellOverheated clutch
Clutch slippingWorn or damaged clutch
Loud or grinding noiseWorn or damaged clutch or sheave

Safety Precautions

Safety PrecautionDescription
Wear glovesTo protect hands from sharp edges or hot parts
Disconnect batteryTo prevent accidental starting of the engine
Block wheelsTo prevent vehicle from rolling
Use jack standsTo secure the vehicle while working underneath
Work in a well-ventilated areaTo avoid inhaling harmful fumes

Conclusion:

With the Club Car drive clutch removed, you can now proceed with repairs or replacement as needed. When reinstalling the drive clutch or any other components, be sure to consult your owner’s manual for torque specifications and proper installation procedures. Regular maintenance and inspection of your golf cart’s drive system will help ensure its longevity and optimal performance.

Author

  • Ray Barnes

    Ray Barnes, our Senior Staff Writer and a Golf Analyst with a PhD in Sports Analytics, is a beacon of insight in the golfing world. With a deep understanding of the sport's nuances, statistical analysis, and a talent for demystifying complexities, he provides in-depth analysis and captivating narratives that engage golf enthusiasts worldwide.

    Ray@thegolfmine.com Ray Barnes

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