The EZ-GO golf cart is a popular choice for golf courses, communities, and personal use. Like any motorized vehicle, the engine’s timing is crucial for optimal performance. The timing ensures that the spark plug fires at the correct moment for smooth operation and acceleration. This guide will walk you through the process of setting the timing on your EZ-GO golf cart.
Note: This guide is intended for EZ-GO golf carts with a gasoline engine. Electric models do not require timing adjustments.
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Timing light
- Socket wrench set
- Flathead screwdriver
- Chalk or white marker (optional)
Step-by-step Instructions:
- Park the cart on a level surface: Ensure that the golf cart is parked on a level surface and turned off. Engage the parking brake for safety.
- Locate the engine: Open the engine compartment to access the engine. The engine is usually located beneath the seat or at the rear of the cart, depending on the model.
- Identify the timing marks: Find the timing marks on the engine’s flywheel and crankcase. The flywheel is a large, round metal disc that is connected to the crankshaft. The timing marks will be notches or marks on the flywheel and crankcase that need to be aligned during the timing process.
- Clean and mark the timing marks: Clean the timing marks on the flywheel and crankcase using a cloth or brush. To make the marks more visible, you can use chalk or a white marker to highlight them.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire: Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent the engine from starting during the timing process.
- Connect the timing light: Attach the timing light to the battery terminals (positive to positive, negative to negative) and clamp the pickup lead onto the number one spark plug wire.
- Turn on the golf cart: Turn on the ignition switch without starting the engine. This will power the timing light.
- Check the timing: Point the timing light at the timing marks on the flywheel and crankcase. The flashing light will make the marks appear stationary. Observe the alignment of the marks. If they are not aligned, you’ll need to adjust the timing.
- Adjust the timing: To adjust the timing, locate the distributor (the round component with spark plug wires attached to it). Loosen the distributor’s hold-down bolt using a socket wrench. Gently rotate the distributor clockwise or counterclockwise to align the timing marks on the flywheel and crankcase. Once the marks are aligned, tighten the hold-down bolt to secure the distributor in place.
- Recheck the timing: Use the timing light to verify that the marks are still aligned after tightening the distributor. If necessary, repeat steps 9 and 10 until the timing is correct.
- Reconnect the spark plug wire: Once the timing is set, reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
- Test the golf cart: Start the engine and take the golf cart for a test drive. You should notice improved performance and smoother acceleration.
Basic Information on EZ GO Golf Cart Timing
| Model | Year | Engine Type | Ignition Type | Timing Setting |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TXT | 1996 | 295cc | Points | 2° BTDC |
| TXT | 2001 | 295cc | Electronic | 4° BTDC |
| RXV | 2008 | 350cc | Electronic | 5° BTDC |
| RXV | 2010 | 401cc | Electronic | 6° BTDC |
| Medalist | 1994 | 295cc | Points | 2° BTDC |
| Medalist | 1999 | 295cc | Electronic | 4° BTDC |
| Marathon | 1992 | 295cc | Points | 2° BTDC |
| Marathon | 1998 | 295cc | Electronic | 4° BTDC |
| ST 350 | 2006 | 350cc | Electronic | 5° BTDC |
| ST 400 | 2012 | 401cc | Electronic | 6° BTDC |
Tools Required for EZ GO Golf Cart Timing
| Tool Name | Purpose | Size/Type | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timing Light | Check and adjust ignition timing | Standard | 1 |
| Spark Plug Wrench | Remove and install spark plug | Appropriate for model | 1 |
| Tachometer | Measure engine RPM | Digital | 1 |
| Feeler Gauge | Check and adjust point gap (if needed) | .020″ | 1 |
| Socket Wrench Set | Loosen and tighten bolts | Metric | 1 set |
EZ GO Golf Cart Timing – Preparation Steps
| Step # | Description | Tool(s) Needed | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Park the golf cart on a flat surface | None | 1 min |
| 2 | Turn off the engine and remove the key | None | 1 min |
| 3 | Disconnect the spark plug wire | None | 1 min |
| 4 | Remove the spark plug | Spark Plug Wrench | 2 mins |
| 5 | Gain access to the engine and flywheel | Socket Wrench Set | 5 mins |
EZ GO Golf Cart Timing – Adjustment Steps
| Step # | Description | Tool(s) Needed | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Attach timing light to battery and spark plug wire | Timing Light | 2 mins |
| 2 | Start the engine | None | 1 min |
| 3 | Set the engine to the specified RPM | Tachometer | 2 mins |
| 4 | Check the timing marks on the flywheel | Timing Light | 1 min |
Conclusion:
Setting the timing on your EZ-GO golf cart is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance. By following this guide, you can ensure that your golf cart runs smoothly and efficiently. Remember to perform regular maintenance on your golf cart, including checking and adjusting the timing as needed, to extend its life and improve overall performance.
