How to Set Timing on EZGO Golf Cart

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:

1. Timing light
2. Socket wrench set
3. Flathead screwdriver
4. Chalk or white marker (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Disconnect the spark plug wire: Remove the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent the engine from starting during the timing process.
6. 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.
7. Turn on the golf cart: Turn on the ignition switch without starting the engine. This will power the timing light.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
11. Reconnect the spark plug wire: Once the timing is set, reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
12. 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.