Yamaha is the go-to brand for most golf lovers and enthusiasts. The Yamaha electric golf cart offers the convenience of not having to carry one ‘s golf clubs around the golf course. The electric drive system powered by the 48V power system offers the energy needed by the electric motor to drive the wheels and propel the Yamaha golf cart in the desired direction, forward or backwards. In order to control the speed at which the golf cart travels at, a controller is used. The controller takes input from the accelerator pedal to determine the required speed. The golf cart controller is an essential component of the golf cart and often needs troubleshooting to ensure it functions as intended.
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Yamaha Golf Cart Controller Working Principle
The Yamaha golf cart controller is used to measure and control the current and voltage that is outputted to the golf cart’s electric motor from the battery. It also monitors the state of the motor and generates electrical signals to match the motor’s rotation. The controller generates the exact timed electrical signals the motor requires to function. The controller is important because without it, the motor would only be either on or off without any variation in rotational speed. The Yamaha golf cart would jackrabbit jump from zero rotational speed to full throttle, 15mp/h (24km/h), in an instant. The controller receives the speed setting required from the depressing of the foot on the accelerator pedal which either uses a pedal-driven resistor or a throttle inductance coil. The controller is also used to limit over and under current to protect the motor and the electrical components from damage. It also monitors the battery voltage to prevent complete drainage of charge from the battery. The Yamaha controller also allows the golf cart to safely reverse by taking the motor to a complete stop, then reversing polarity. Due to the crucial functions of the Yamaha golf cart controller, it is important to carry out regular troubleshooting on it to ensure it is functioning properly.
Safety First
Whenever troubleshooting and carrying out maintenance on the Yamaha golf cart controller, safety is of the uttermost importance. This is because the golf cart components use electricity hence to prevent electrocution or shorting an electrical circuitry it is important to wear personal protective (PPE) equipment like safety googles, insulating gloves and using insulated tools.
It is also important to ensure the Yamaha golf cart is stationary (parking brake is engaged) and is not powered, or alternatively it is advisable to jack up the golf cart of the ground to ensure it can’t suddenly move away. Also disconnect the battery to ensure there is no current flowing.
Testing The Yamaha Golf Cart Controller
It is important when troubleshooting to test whether the Yamaha golf cart controller is delivering sufficient voltage. This done by testing the speed control from the accelerator. Press down the accelerator pedal and initially the output voltage reading from the controller should be zero. When you press the accelerator, the voltage should increase and reach the voltage limit of the batteries. If the voltage does not increase, then there is a defect in the controller and it may need to be replaced with the manufacturer recommended controller. It is also important to note that the Yamaha golf cart controller can get hot because of over use hence ensure the golf cart is reasonably used.
Battery Voltage Troubleshooting
The Yamaha golf cart controller has a certain voltage range that it operates under, as such when troubleshooting the controller, it is imperative to check the supply battery voltage. Ensure the battery voltage is not too low or too high. The ideal battery voltage range is usually between 12V to 48V, anything outside this range can severely damage the Yamaha golf cart controller. The battery voltage can be inspected using a voltmeter. Also ensure that the battery charger is connected properly as it affects the voltage that is delivered to the battery. Ensure there are on loose battery connections. It is also important when troubleshooting to inspect the battery terminals to ensure there are not vice versed and also that they are clean as this can affect the voltage delivered.
Solenoid Malfunction
The solenoid is a crucial component of the electric drive system in the Yamaha golf cart. It allows for the flow of electricity between the batteries and the motor. If the solenoid does not function well, the golf cart controller will be severely damaged and could die hence troubleshoot the solenoid to ensure it is functioning as intended. This is done by pressing down on the accelerator pedal, after that a clicking sound should be heard. If there is no clicking sound it means there is a problem and the contacts failed to connect hence no electricity is being received by the Yamaha golf cart motor.
Alternatively, to troubleshoot the solenoid especially that of the Yamaha G16, examine the positive probe of the solenoid. Place it on the post, next to the battery. The voltage of this probe should be the same as that of the battery, if not there is a wiring problem that needs to be addressed. After this, connect the positive probe of the solenoid to the other post and take the voltage reading. Compare the voltage readings obtained with the battery voltage. There should be a difference of 3 volts between the two readings. If there is no difference there is a problem with the solenoid and it should be repaired or replaced.
Defective Controller Wires
When troubleshooting the Yamaha golf cart controller, it is also imperative to manually inspect all the wires to ensure they are not damaged, frayed or corroded as these could cause shorting and sparking which may affect the functioning of the controller. Also look out for loose connections as this could disrupt power flow in the Yamaha golf cart controller and the Yamaha golf cart motor will fail to receive power to spin the wheels. If damaged or broken wires are noticed during the troubleshooting process ensure these are replaced. It is recommended that this is done by a trained professional.
Defective Controller
A defective Yamaha golf cart controller can cause electrical hazards and stop the functioning of the electric motor hence it is important to troubleshoot the controller to ensure it is not defective. In the troubleshooting process examine the Yamaha golf cart controller for any black marks, cracks and scratches. If there are any black marks found on the controller, this is a significant sign of a defect hence the controller should either be repaired or replaced. However replacing might be the better option especially if the controller is severely damaged.
