Electric vs Gas

[JimJohnson]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

[thelegges]

The Yamaha quiet tech makes a huge difference

[JimJohnson]

The Yamaha quiet tech makes a huge difference

Yes it does; however, it’s still jerky still smells and is still noisy. They are an improvement at the smell and noise problem over the carburetor version.

[Two Bills]

IMHO The Villages missed a golden opportunity from the get go, and should have ruled electric carts only.
Gas stinks.

[Topspinmo]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.


The jerkiness you experience are from carburetor old carts or inexperience. Fuel injected carts don’t jerk unless you induce it. Glad you are happy with the electric cart. Pros and cons with both styles. Gas carts engines can run for ever if the operator has any clue of preventive maintenance. You will be buying 1k plus batteries in few years. While my gas cart will still be running fine when I’m in the grave. I’ve had both, both worked fine for my needs, but I like gas better.

[Vikingjunior]

I think the electric carts are too quiet. I like to hear what’s around me.

[vintageogauge]

I've had both, mostly electric. When I moved down here full time I read a lot of the pros and cons and although I was for electric I bought a new Yamaha. I really like it, it's quiet, rides great, can drive forever on a tank of gas, does not have exhaust odors but most of all I don't smell battery acid nor do I have to worry about over filling the batteries and getting acid on my garage floor. I'm sold, gas from now on.

[dewilson58]

I've had both, mostly electric. When I moved down here full time I read a lot of the pros and cons and although I was for electric I bought a new Yamaha. I really like it, it's quiet, rides great, can drive forever on a tank of gas, does not have exhaust odors but most of all I don't smell battery acid nor do I have to worry about over filling the batteries and getting acid on my garage floor. I'm sold, gas from now on.
:clap2:

[collie1228]

I've had a Club Car electric cart for the eight years I've lived here, and it has been great. Only twice in eight years has it failed me, once due to my own inattention and the other caused by a bad charger. Two weeks ago I bit the bullet and bought a 2021 Yamaha gas cart, and I love it. It is quiet (not as quiet as my mostly silent Club Car, but quiet enough to have a conversation while underway without having to shout), it's not jerky nor does it vibrate. I get why people like electric carts, but with the new quiet technology, I'm sold on the Yamaha. The electric cart was limited to 19.5 MPH and I was getting tired of being tailgated and passed all the time, and the new cart goes just fast enough to stay ahead of all but the crazy fast carts out there. I'm very happy with the new Yamaha.

[tophcfa]

To each his or her own. I am not a fan of electric. We drive gas carts because I can’t find a manufacturer that makes a diesel.

[Tyrone Shoelaces]

What? No mention of lithium?
It's a game changer.

[coffeebean]

Yes it does; however, it’s still jerky still smells and is still noisy. They are an improvement at the smell and noise problem over the carburetor version.
When I bring my Yamaha electric cart in for annual maintenance, The Villages Golf cars gives me a Yamaha Quiet Tech cart as a loaner. I thought it was me not knowing how to drive a gas cart with the way it jerks when I first press the gas pedal. I tried so hard to make a smooth start but no go. I much prefer my electric cart. Smooth as silk, quiet as all get out and no gas odor at all.

[coffeebean]

I've had both, mostly electric. When I moved down here full time I read a lot of the pros and cons and although I was for electric I bought a new Yamaha. I really like it, it's quiet, rides great, can drive forever on a tank of gas, does not have exhaust odors but most of all I don't smell battery acid nor do I have to worry about over filling the batteries and getting acid on my garage floor. I'm sold, gas from now on.

I've never smelled battery acid from our electric cart.

The amount of mileage I can get from my electric cart will never ever be driven in one day by hubby or me. That is a LONG way to go in a golf cart.

When we purchased our electric cart, we purchased an automatic water fill gizmo that fills the batteries perfectly every time. No worry about over filling. The water stops when the batteries are filled.

When we purchased our electric cart, we purchased a mat specifically for the garage floor so the floor is protected.

I'm sold. Electric is the way to go for hubby and me.

[Topspinmo]

When I bring my Yamaha electric cart in for annual maintenance, The Villages Golf cars gives me a Yamaha Quiet Tech cart as a loaner. I thought it was me not knowing how to drive a gas cart with the way it jerks when I first press the gas pedal. I tried so hard to make a smooth start but no go. I much prefer my electric cart. Smooth as silk, quiet as all get out and no gas odor at all.


It was you. You engaged the clutch to hard.

[coffeebean]

I've had a Club Car electric cart for the eight years I've lived here, and it has been great. Only twice in eight years has it failed me, once due to my own inattention and the other caused by a bad charger. Two weeks ago I bit the bullet and bought a 2021 Yamaha gas cart, and I love it. It is quiet (not as quiet as my mostly silent Club Car, but quiet enough to have a conversation while underway without having to shout), it's not jerky nor does it vibrate. I get why people like electric carts, but with the new quiet technology, I'm sold on the Yamaha. The electric cart was limited to 19.5 MPH and I was getting tired of being tailgated and passed all the time, and the new cart goes just fast enough to stay ahead of all but the crazy fast carts out there. I'm very happy with the new Yamaha.

The one thing I would like to change about my electric cart would be to make it go just a bit faster. I'd be happy with 22 MPH. I certainly don't want to speed like I see some of those gas carts can do. I've seen electric carts go much faster than the legal 20 MPH so there must be some way to make them go faster. I haven't looked into it though.

[coffeebean]

The jerkiness you experience are from carburetor old carts or inexperience. Fuel injected carts don’t jerk unless you induce it. Glad you are happy with the electric cart. Pros and cons with both styles. Gas carts engines can run for ever if the operator has any clue of preventive maintenance. You will be buying 1k plus batteries in few years. While my gas cart will still be running fine when I’m in the grave. I’ve had both, both worked fine for my needs, but I like gas better.

You must be right about the inexperience. It must be "operator error" when I try to drive a Quiet Tech smoothly.

[JoMar]

Two electrics, 6 years, one set at 21MPH and the other slightly higher. Did the 16.8 mile Brownwood Bridge run and used about 1/4 of available battery. We will test the range again after Water Lily opens but not sure how much time we will spend in the southern 400 after the novelty wears off. :)

[dadspet]

I've put a higher speed motor in our 2007 Club Car (in 2007) and it will go about 21/22mph which is as fast I would like to go in a golf cart. No smell, no noise, smooth, (no battery acid smell on the garage floor - but didn't hear that one before ) I can drive it as far and long as I want to travel in a golf cart. Every time we take out one of those new "quite"/"no jerky" / "no smell" (I guess that smell in the tunnels is my imagination or a new vapor to help me breathe) new gas cart we are amazed how loud/jerky they are compared to our old electric cart.

I can't help wonder why more and more auto manufactures are introducing more electric models each year - perhaps they didn't get the bulletin from The Villages about how smooth, quiet, and pollution-free the NEW golf cart gas engines are.

I hate to admit it but I probably drive one of the most gas-guzzling cars in The Villages and love it, but our next golf cart will clearly be lithium battery powered.

[vintageogauge]

Two electrics, 6 years, one set at 21MPH and the other slightly higher. Did the 16.8 mile Brownwood Bridge run and used about 1/4 of available battery. We will test the range again after Water Lily opens but not sure how much time we will spend in the southern 400 after the novelty wears off. :)

We are all hoping the novelty wears off quickly.

[giorgio1948]

The Yamaha quiet tech makes a huge difference
I bought one...a bit quieter but not that much IMHO

[red tail]

The one thing I would like to change about my electric cart would be to make it go just a bit faster. I'd be happy with 22 MPH. I certainly don't want to speed like I see some of those gas carts can do. I've seen electric carts go much faster than the legal 20 MPH so there must be some way to make them go faster. I haven't looked into it though.

You tube

[Topspinmo]

You must be right about the inexperience. It must be "operator error" when I try to drive a Quiet Tech smoothly.

Yes, there learning curve, if you push the gas pedal too far down it rev’s the engine too high and the clutch snaps in. Some older electric carts can do same thing especially in reverse.

[Neils]

IMHO The Villages missed a golden opportunity from the get go, and should have ruled electric carts only.
Gas stinks.

Yes. We need more regulations and control in our lives

[village dreamer]

my ezgo ele. will do 22.5 mph

[EdFNJ]

What? No mention of lithium?
It's a game changer.
Yea, I have a lithium Atomic. Get solid 60 up to 65 miles on a charge normally and 40-50 with the air conditioner or heater running continuously which I rarely use anyway. Cart and batteries are 27 months old with over 8000 miles and I haven't lost a mile through battery degradation yet thanks to lithium and do keep a mileage record each charge. It charges with a small plug on the side so an external charger isn't needed. I plug it in once a week before I go to bed whether it needs it or not. No hassle. :D 65 miles should get me end to end here in TV if I wanted to make the trip.

What I can't understand about the regular electrics running around here that have been UPGRADED to (not factory designed for) lithium is the fact like 200++ lbs of ballast is lost which doesn't seem very safe regarding tip overs relative to the C.O.G. In any case, if you buy a NEW electric factory lithium is the only way to go.

[Topspinmo]

my ezgo ele. will do 22.5 mph

No where near the par car going up B/V at 38 plus. But it was LSV plated at 25 MPH max.

[vinricci]

And if the carts in front of you and behind you are gas, you can smell their's.

[Scott O]

Yea, I have a lithium Atomic. Get solid 60 up to 65 miles on a charge normally and 40-50 with the air conditioner or heater running continuously which I rarely use anyway. Cart and batteries are 27 months old with over 8000 miles and I haven't lost a mile through battery degradation yet thanks to lithium and do keep a mileage record each charge. It charges with a small plug on the side so an external charger isn't needed. I plug it in once a week before I go to bed whether it needs it or not. No hassle. :D 65 miles should get me end to end here in TV if I wanted to make the trip.

What I can't understand about the regular electrics running around here that have been UPGRADED to (not factory designed for) lithium is the fact like 200++ lbs of ballast is lost which doesn't seem very safe regarding tip overs relative to the C.O.G. In any case, if you buy a NEW electric factory lithium is the only way to go.
And what will be the replacement costs for lithium? Does anyone know? Just curious..

[tsmall22204]

Good for you. Gas carts are also polluting the air. Florida does not care about pollution but I do. I do have a zero emissions car but all garden tools are battery including my golf cart.

[DrBrutyle109]

Gas is by far better. The next time you accidentally run out of “electricity” in your cart, let me know how they bring you some. At least if I’m absent minded and run out of gas, they can bring me some. The new quiet tech is sweet.

[DrBrutyle109]

Good for you. Gas carts are also polluting the air. Florida does not care about pollution but I do. I do have a zero emissions car but all garden tools are battery including my golf cart.
I think the bazillions of cars on the road each day might be a little bigger issue that carts.

[Rwirish]

Not good IMO, gas is the way to go.

[Alinewilkins]

What? No mention of lithium?
It's a game changer.

Converted my lead acid battery cart to lithium several months ago and absolutely love it. It’s definitely more expensive than lead acid batteries, but no dealing with water and acid spills. Maintenance free. Plus they’re supposed to last up to 10 years. Check back with me in 10 years lol. Oh and the range before recharge is amazing. If I did nothing but drive the cart all day I think I still would have power left when I got home.

[csricksdds]

How many garage fires has a gas caused verses the electric?

[mrrmauu]

Good for you. Gas carts are also polluting the air. Florida does not care about pollution but I do. I do have a zero emissions car but all garden tools are battery including my golf cart.

If you think electric is good for the environment, I suggest you research how electricity is generated. It’s anything but clean.

[graciegirl]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

That's nice. We'll stick to Gas.

[Trynforpar]

I’m a big fan of gas engines in golf carts. I only wish I could fit a V8 into it. Now that would be loads of fun.

[Garwood1]

There a kit out there that will get electric up to and over 30 but it does reduce distance - I’m representing a company that makes a light weight solar unit that attaches to roof and will help charge a cart up to 100 watts-designed to extend battery life

[oxfordreb52@gmail.com]

Just had a tuneup last month in my 2018 Yamaha. It had never had a tune up from the previous owner and it has the quiet ride technology. It also had a jerk at the startup every time I pressed the gas petal. What caused it was a bad belt that needed to be replaced. Once replaced, no more jerking has taken place and it drives like a dream. It is a great cart.

[richl]

Lithium batteries do not require refilling and some come with a 7-year warranty

[Travelhunter123]

Yea, I have a lithium Atomic. Get solid 60 up to 65 miles on a charge normally and 40-50 with the air conditioner or heater running continuously which I rarely use anyway. Cart and batteries are 27 months old with over 8000 miles and I haven't lost a mile through battery degradation yet thanks to lithium and do keep a mileage record each charge. It charges with a small plug on the side so an external charger isn't needed. I plug it in once a week before I go to bed whether it needs it or not. No hassle. :D 65 miles should get me end to end here in TV if I wanted to make the trip.

What I can't understand about the regular electrics running around here that have been UPGRADED to (not factory designed for) lithium is the fact like 200++ lbs of ballast is lost which doesn't seem very safe regarding tip overs relative to the C.O.G. In any case, if you buy a NEW electric factory lithium is the only way to go.

Just bought an atomic, before I had a 2018 Yamaha
Check them out before you buy
They are so comfortable, air conditioned, heated, SiriusXM, radio and windshield wipers. So much fun to drive

[banjobob]

Quick fix to slow electric carts , install high speed motor.

[Travelhunter123]

There a kit out there that will get electric up to and over 30 but it does reduce distance - I’m representing a company that makes a light weight solar unit that attaches to roof and will help charge a cart up to 100 watts-designed to extend battery life
The Atomic, can do 35 mph without modification
It can be street legal by registering and insuring

[Kgcetm]

Most people seem to think The Villages have enough rules. Freedom of choice is a wonderful thing. Try it sometime.

[allsport]

Most of the fires in the garages in TV are caused by electric carts.

[Topspinmo]

I’m a big fan of gas engines in golf carts. I only wish I could fit a V8 into it. Now that would be loads of fun.

I’d settle for vanguard v-twin with straight pipes.:duck:

[rlcooper70]

It is a pretty easy decision to have an electric cart when you take care of the batteries properly. We live near Seabreeze and have gone up and back to Amberwood with no problem at all ... if you need more than 40 miles then you need gas but other than that .. I can't see it.

[Singerlady]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

Yamaha Quiet Tech is a real improvement. Cost of electric batteries will be more than cost of gas over the life of an electric cart. Friend in the neighborhood has an electric cart. He can’t drive from near Cane Garden to Lopez, play golf and get home on one charge...hmmmm....

[Topspinmo]

Just had a tuneup last month in my 2018 Yamaha. It had never had a tune up from the previous owner and it has the quiet ride technology. It also had a jerk at the startup every time I pressed the gas petal. What caused it was a bad belt that needed to be replaced. Once replaced, no more jerking has taken place and it drives like a dream. It is a great cart.


My belt got 11K Miles on it, (and yes I measured it still within limits) no jerk, unless I slam the gas pedal. the previous owner don’t know how to drive gas cart. They rev’ Ed engine up too much causing the clutch to snap in and burn the belt. There learning curve. No different with golf, tennis, basketball, billiards 🎱, tiddlywinks, or pickleball. Some never get feel for the strokes.

[Footer]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

If your battery gauge dropped below half you were running on fumes. With lead acid batteries the gauge is not linear. You might have had 2-3 miles left.

I installed a Roypow lithium battery in my 2011 EZGO and get 65-70 miles on a tank. Battery gauge is linear. Power cost is a penny a mile. You can top it off every day without degrading your battery.

[ts12755]

I got tired of charging every day. Now I buy gas on average every 4 weeks. My doesn't jerk. I do smell gas cart exhaust fumes when driving in tunnels.

[Topspinmo]

If your battery gauge dropped below half you were running on fumes. With lead acid batteries the gauge is not linear. You might have had 2-3 miles left.

I installed a Roypow lithium battery in my 2011 EZGO and get 65-70 miles on a tank. Battery gauge is linear. Power cost is a penny a mile. You can top it off every day without degrading your battery.

Agree, Lithium batteries will never go completely dead to zero volts. if the do they won’t charge. Example my EGO 56v batteries go dead at 41V, won’t go no lower, the charger charges them back up to 56V, they get hot and have to be ventilated.

[Bay Kid]

I got tired of charging every day. Now I buy gas on average every 4 weeks. My doesn't jerk. I do smell gas cart exhaust fumes when driving in tunnels.

That gas smell is probably from older gas carts. I prefer not to have the battery care everyday.

[jarodrig]

Over 80 % of golf cart sales in The Villages are gas......

There is a reason for that......

[TandHSTAR@AOL.com]

This one will go on and on and one. That's why there is a choice. For the person who experiences a jerky motion when starting off. When coming from a stop with brake locked press on gas pedal one quick press to release brake snd smooth after that.

[Regor]

And what will be the replacement costs for lithium? Does anyone know? Just curious..

I don't know, but will tell you 2029 (Ezgo 8 year warranty) or 2032 (Samsung says they should last 12 years).

Better than replacing the belt on my quiet tech every 2,000 miles.

Two friends of mine have had there clutch on their Quiet Tech Yamaha's go out back in November. Clubs and Carts says they can't get parts till March!! No loaners from that dealer.

[normanleroux@hotmail.com]

You can get a speed engine. Call Willie’s Cart repair. It makes huge difference, so much faster and quick acceleration.

Willies at 352-255-1369

[edschmitz]

Just pushed an electric cart home because it ran out of battery. I did it with my gas cart. No thank you on electric carts.

[BruDon]

I have a tow rope in my gas Yamaha and will offer to tow you home

[sdeikenberry]

The amount of mileage I can get from my electric cart will never ever be driven in one day by hubby or me. That is a LONG way to go in a golf cart. I'm sold. Electric is the way to go for hubby and me.



Well then, I have to wonder how far you go in your cart. Some of us go everywhere several times a day, and electric won't cut it in the long run. Plus in the long run it's more expensive for batteries than gas.

[Craig Vernon]

Do they have charging stations in the squares or out and about for electric carts? I have driven gas and electric the electric slowed down quite a bit after 18 holes on the way home.

[DrPickletickl]

I like the smell mmm

[graciegirl]

Over 80 % of golf cart sales in The Villages are gas......

There is a reason for that......

I was just going to say that. I wanted to say it first. Waaaaa.

Been here for fifteen years, the only golf carts sitting motionless along the paths are electric.

Please when you are older, do not look to be so "green" you are stuck motionless and have to rely on someone driving a gas vehicle to drag your buns home.

[Talk2Pete]

If you make your cart go faster than the 19mph that defines a golf cart, I hope you never have an accident. No reason for modification to be an issue in a law suit or possibly a denied insurance claim.

[OhioBuckeye]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

Yes, they both have there pro’s/con’s.

[Cheapbas]

Electric is better for golfing/ golfers. It doesn’t disturb golfers who are hitting and also You can quietly advance rather then wait, saves a little time.

[merrymini]

Have had an electric cart for six years and have had no problems. The gas carts are big polluters and the villages, for all it’s foresight, missed the boat on electric charging stations for carts. Plug it in when at home and it is always ready to go. Rug under the cart in the garage, never a problem, no odors, no spills. I only have to hold my breath in the tunnels because of the gas carts. Carts are, legally, not suppose to go over 20 miles an hour, except for people who cheat and have their carts “fixed.” Why would I go 40 miles in a cart, which would take two hours, instead of a car, which would take about 35 minutes?

[biker1]

So you would drive around The Villages in your car at almost 80 MPH?

Why would I go 40 miles in a cart, which would take two hours, instead of a car, which would take about 35 minutes?

[biker1]

Big polluters? Do you have any quantitative information to present? Regarding electric charging stations, The Villages didn't miss the boat. They would be impractical because of the slow charging time, many people would have to carry their chargers with them, and the distances in The Villages are not so great that you cannot get back home for charging as long as your battery pack is not on it's last legs.

The gas carts are big polluters and the villages, for all it’s foresight, missed the boat on electric charging stations for carts.

[John41]

We had an electric Club Car for several years then the batteries wouldn't hold a charge so we decided to go with Yamaha quiet tech and were surprised how quiet it was and no gas smell. No more range worries sealed the deal. But I agree electric is better for golfing.

[vintageogauge]

So you would drive around The Villages in your car at almost 80 MPH?

From Fenney to Brownwood it's a 10 minute drive using the back roads. When the Turnpike bridge is open it will take about 30 minutes in a golf car. In many cases, but not all, the distance is much shorter in a car vs a golf cart and can easily take 3 times as long to get to the destination.

[biker1]

Every 2000 miles for a drive belt? Carts and Clubs replaced the belt in my 2014 for no cost because startups weren't as smooth as they should be. The new belt addressed the problem and it as about 20K miles on it. PM me if you want the part number.

I don't know, but will tell you 2029 (Ezgo 8 year warranty) or 2032 (Samsung says they should last 12 years).

Better than replacing the belt on my quiet tech every 2,000 miles.

Two friends of mine have had there clutch on their Quiet Tech Yamaha's go out back in November. Clubs and Carts says they can't get parts till March!! No loaners from that dealer.

[gdennis317]

One of those discussions that have no right or wrong answer.

[biker1]

My rule of thumb is it takes twice as long in a golf cart as a car. The post I was responding to stated that they could go 40 miles in 35 minutes in a car as opposed to 2 hours in a golf cart.

From Fenney to Brownwood it's a 10 minute drive using the back roads. When the Turnpike bridge is open it will take about 30 minutes in a golf car. In many cases, but not all, the distance is much shorter in a car vs a golf cart and can easily take 3 times as long to get to the destination.

[tophcfa]

Electric is better for golfing/ golfers. It doesn’t disturb golfers who are hitting and also You can quietly advance rather then wait, saves a little time.

A couple years ago I was golfing as a single and had to ride with another golfer who insisted on driving his electric cart. His cart ran out of juice in the middle of the round. Fortunately an Ambasador was there and brought be to the clubhouse to get my gas Yamaha so we could finish the round. After the round I towed the electric cart home. That will be the last time I ever get into an electric cart when golfing as a single.

[EdFNJ]

And what will be the replacement costs for lithium? Does anyone know? Just curious..
That would vary I assume depending on many factors however on my Atomic they claim it was $3500 and claim 10 year life which I highly doubt. Like buying a Jaguar over a Honda you don't usually make the decision based only on the cost per mile or per gallon.

[Bilyclub]

From Fenney to Brownwood it's a 10 minute drive using the back roads. When the Turnpike bridge is open it will take about 30 minutes in a golf car. In many cases, but not all, the distance is much shorter in a car vs a golf cart and can easily take 3 times as long to get to the destination.

Considering 301 and Warm Springs are the only way to get over the turnpike I'm wondering what backroads you're taking.

[Mustagotlost]

I think they make 12 volt lithiumion batteries. Expensive. I will try converting when my Trojan 8 volt wear out.

[vintageogauge]

Considering 301 and Warm Springs are the only way to get over the turnpike I'm wondering what backroads you're taking.

301 to the back roads. it's exactly 4-1/2 miles from my house in Fenney.

[Villagesgal]

To each his own. We bought an electric par car when we got here in 2001, it was a lemon, died all the time, in the shop more than in our garage. Then bought a gas Yamaha, 17 years later still own it, no Jerks, no smell and very quiet. Runs and runs, no problems. Regular maintenance once a year, new battery every 3 or 4 years. I'm sold on Yamaha gas carts. If you're light on the gas pedal, it won't jerk start. As I said, to each his own. Enjoy whatever cart you own and let others enjoy theirs.

[Topspinmo]

I don't know, but will tell you 2029 (Ezgo 8 year warranty) or 2032 (Samsung says they should last 12 years).

Better than replacing the belt on my quiet tech every 2,000 miles.

Two friends of mine have had there clutch on their Quiet Tech Yamaha's go out back in November. Clubs and Carts says they can't get parts till March!! No loaners from that dealer.

Should, could, and would. Should be will, shall, last.

You’re friends lack of knowledge or unwilling figure out how centrifugal clutch works caused the clutch/belt failure.

[tophcfa]

Do they have charging stations in the squares or out and about for electric carts? I have driven gas and electric the electric slowed down quite a bit after 18 holes on the way home.

Why is it that people that drive electric vehichles expect free charging stations when their batteries get low, but people that drive gas vehichles don't expect free gas when their tanks get low?

[photo1902]

301 to the back roads. it's exactly 4-1/2 miles from my house in Fenney.

I’m assuming you mean Clay Drain to Signature. Not sure how that’s any more advantageous than taking Meggison. And depending on the time of day you’re on 301 and the Turnpike, the traffic is a pain.

[kathyspear]

Why is it that people that drive electric vehichles expect free charging stations when their batteries get low, but people that drive gas vehichles don't expect free gas when their tanks get low?

Poster didn't ask about FREE charging stations, just "charging stations". The charging stations installed across the country for electric cars were, I believe, free to use when first installed but require payment now.

kathy

[Seve1]

Each to their own,

[J1ceasar]

Do what does it cost to tune gas?

[jojo]

25000 miles on my electric cart and never came close to losing a charge. I am interested in lithium batteries if we get a new cart. Definitely will go with electric - love the quiet smooth starts and stops.

[Garywt]

I am a gas guy, have 2. The new one is great, no jerkiness, no bad smells and goes forever. The older one does have a smell to it but not bad. As for miles, come visit me and see how you do. To go from Mulberry Plaza, down to Brownwood, shoot over to Morse Blvd, over the new bridge, head back op Morse, take a ride on Moyer Loop, make a stop at Target and now through Spanish Springs, zip over to Lowe’s and back again and then to near Mulberry again and see how far you get. Oh and don’t forget you want the entertainment at Brownwood so you are off again. Not going to make it in an electric but I can do it everyday thus the reason I like gas.

[JoMar]

I was just going to say that. I wanted to say it first. Waaaaa.

Been here for fifteen years, the only golf carts sitting motionless along the paths are electric.

Please when you are older, do not look to be so "green" you are stuck motionless and have to rely on someone driving a gas vehicle to drag your buns home.

Now that's not true.......the bulk of the carts picked up by service are gas carts. The Villages Golf carts has free pickup for their carts and a few in our neighborhood need that. More moving parts, more parts for failure in gas carts. Two ladies pulled into our driveway this morning to turn around, couldn't back up. Pushed them back and it went forward fine. There was a cart in the grass near Eisenhower, Yamaha F1, I asked if he needed help, he said no AAA was on their way. Having said that, electrics also break down but gas is not perfect. Most drive gas because of fear.....and those days are over.

[Bilyclub]

This is an argument that will never be settled here. Out on the streets there is no argument. The majority of the carts are gas.

[bmarlo767]

I bought my golf cart in 2008 from grandma and grandpa's on 441, it was the first one they configured with 8 6volt batteries. I have never had a problem with distance with the cart. About 15 months ago I bought new batteries from Battery Boys on 466 and bought their top line batteries.
After a couple months I left my house in Charlotte drove down to Lake Deaton taking side trips into Osceola hills, Then drove Up to Spanish Springs
then to Walmart on 466 near 301. From there home to Charlotte. I still had charge left. I have no interest in buying a gas cart.

[JoMar]

This is an argument that will never be settled here. Out on the streets there is no argument. The majority of the carts are gas.

Never said the fear went away. It still exists.

[UpNorth]

[QUOTE=graciegirl;1877798

Been here for fifteen years, the only golf carts sitting motionless along the paths are electric.



Nice statement. And your source of proof is???

[UpNorth]

Most of the fires in the garages in TV are caused by electric carts.

References?

[Dgizzi]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.
We have no issues with a gas car. We bought a Yamaha 2020 and do not smell gas. We would never buy an electric car for the battery issues. Gas cars will last years and years with little to no maintenance. My husband has had one since 1977 he uses at his camper. But that is why they sell electric and gas. Too each his own. It’s easier to get gas from someone then a plug to charge your golf cart

[Regor]

Every 2000 miles for a drive belt? Carts and Clubs replaced the belt in my 2014 for no cost because startups weren't as smooth as they should be. The new belt addressed the problem and it as about 20K miles on it. PM me if you want the part number.

Well lets see - I bought the 2017 Quiet Tech new. I drove it 7,900 miles and it was on it's 4th belt. Several of the guys in my golf group are having the same problem. Different belt than on the 2014.

I dumped that piece of Japanese junk.

[Regor]

Been here for fifteen years, the only golf carts sitting motionless along the paths are electric.



Been here 23 years and I find it hard to tell the difference between electric and gas if they aren't running. I have owned 5 carts in those years, 3 electric and 2 gas. I've had 2 carts towed home. Want to guess which ones?. Yup the gas.

50 mile range. ZERO matinance. No gas station runs. Time to dump the old and get with the new. Lithium Ion. Plugging it in is a lot easier than lifting the seat, using your credit card, trying not to overfill cause that gas stinks up the garage, checking the oil, etc.

[stanley]

Almost 8,000 miles on my 2018 gas Yamaha, with no problems at all. Bet It's still another 8,000 before I even need new tires

[Topspinmo]

Well lets see - I bought the 2017 Quiet Tech new. I drove it 7,900 miles and it was on it's 4th belt. Several of the guys in my golf group are having the same problem. Different belt than on the 2014.

I dumped that piece of Japanese junk.

Yep , I brought 2012 half supposedly had clutch problem. Got good deal less than half the 13K price with less than 800 miles and only year and half old. 15K miles later and the supposedly bad clutch still working like new.

[Topspinmo]

Been here 23 years and I find it hard to tell the difference between electric and gas if they aren't running. I have owned 5 carts in those years, 3 electric and 2 gas. I've had 2 carts towed home. Want to guess which ones?. Yup the gas.

50 mile range. ZERO matinance. No gas station runs. Time to dump the old and get with the new. Lithium Ion. Plugging it in is a lot easier than lifting the seat, using your credit card, trying not to overfill cause that gas stinks up the garage, checking the oil, etc.


Can’t fill gas tank? You’re kidding right? There no golf cart that don’t need routine maintenance.

[EdFNJ]

This is an argument that will never be settled here. Out on the streets there is no argument. The majority of the carts are gas. That is very true. But contributing to that is that is what the virtual monopoly golf cart dealership in town pushes and carries the largest inventory of. Which came first the demand for gas or big money deals with Yamaha to sell large quantities of a single model for best quantity pricing and highest profits? They are after all the ONLY "on campus" golf cart accessible dealership(s). I'm sure THAT does have some effect on it. It's like Publix vs. a small bodega on a corner somewhere.

[coffeebean]

Two electrics, 6 years, one set at 21MPH and the other slightly higher. Did the 16.8 mile Brownwood Bridge run and used about 1/4 of available battery. We will test the range again after Water Lily opens but not sure how much time we will spend in the southern 400 after the novelty wears off. :)

What has to be done to an electric cart to "set at 21MPH or slightly higher"? Who does this setting of the speed?

[coffeebean]

You tube

Now why didn't I think of that? Seriously, there is no one in my household (hubby and myself) that is mechanically inclined to consider tinkering with the golf cart to make it go faster.

[biker1]

OK, thanks. By the way, they are made in Georgia.

Well lets see - I bought the 2017 Quiet Tech new. I drove it 7,900 miles and it was on it's 4th belt. Several of the guys in my golf group are having the same problem. Different belt than on the 2014.

I dumped that piece of Japanese junk.

[biker1]

If you have the 10" Loadstars, keep them inflated to at least 26 PSI. Mine look like they will last at least 30K miles.

Almost 8,000 miles on my 2018 gas Yamaha, with no problems at all. Bet It's still another 8,000 before I even need new tires

[coffeebean]

Gas is by far better. The next time you accidentally run out of “electricity” in your cart, let me know how they bring you some. At least if I’m absent minded and run out of gas, they can bring me some. The new quiet tech is sweet.

Kart Aide. I haven't had to call them yet but do have that peace of mind.

[coffeebean]

How many garage fires has a gas caused verses the electric?

How many garage fires have been caused by an electric cart?

[coffeebean]

Just had a tuneup last month in my 2018 Yamaha. It had never had a tune up from the previous owner and it has the quiet ride technology. It also had a jerk at the startup every time I pressed the gas petal. What caused it was a bad belt that needed to be replaced. Once replaced, no more jerking has taken place and it drives like a dream. It is a great cart.
You would think The Villages Golf Cars would maintain their loaner carts for folks who bring their carts in for maintenance. Every Quiet Tech Yamaha gas cart I have ever had as a loaner does not drive nearly as smoothly as my Yamaha electric cart. If my loaner Quiet Tech Yamaha drove as smoothly as my electric cart and did not give off a gas odor and drives as quietly as my electric cart, I may consider a Quiet Tech for my next cart. One time I had a Quiet Tech loaner, it left an overwhelming gas odor in my garage. YIKES! I put that cart on the driveway until I had to return it.

So far, I'm not considering a Quiet Tech cart.

[coffeebean]

Quick fix to slow electric carts , install high speed motor.

Is the high speed motor loud or does it run as quiet as the original motor? How much less range does the high speed motor get?

[coffeebean]

Most of the fires in the garages in TV are caused by electric carts.

That is a major concern. We have lived in The Villages full time since 2016 and I haven't heard of a garage fire from an electric cart. I don't doubt that they do happen but wouldn't that be news if it did?

[coffeebean]

I got tired of charging every day. Now I buy gas on average every 4 weeks. My doesn't jerk. I do smell gas cart exhaust fumes when driving in tunnels.

I also smell your gas cart gas fumes when driving in tunnels. Makes me gag. UGH!

[biker1]

It depends on whether you do it yourself or pay someone and the mileage/hours on the cart. Some items should be serviced more frequently than others such as oil changes compared to spark plug changes.

Do what does it cost to tune gas?

[photo1902]

[QUOTE=graciegirl;1877798

Been here for fifteen years, the only golf carts sitting motionless along the paths are electric.



Nice statement. And your source of proof is???

Clearly made that stat up, unless she has some super special power and can tell the carts status just by driving by

[Topspinmo]

I also smell your gas cart gas fumes when driving in tunnels. Makes me gag. UGH!

Get use to it for at least another 20 years. :)

[Topspinmo]

If you have the 10" Loadstars, keep them inflated to at least 26 PSI. Mine look like they will last at least 30K miles.


I agree, had back problems and lowered rear tire pressure to 18 to absorb bumps, especially crossing street gutters. Didn’t take long to start wearing tires. Blow them back up to 25 and no noticeable wear. IMO depends on how much weight you have hanging off back of cart it you go above 26?

[Topspinmo]

That is a concern. We have lived in The Villages full time since 2016 and I haven't heard of a garage fire from an electric cart. I don't doubt that they do happen but wouldn't that be news if it did?

A lady was going down street in old electric cart and batteries blew up throwing her out cart hit curb and turned over about 3 years ago in my area. Electric still require some routine maintenance, especially battery connections, corrosion control, and water level if lead acid. Lithium batteries are still kind of new technology see what problems May develop in few years.
Been several other products with lithium batteries with overheating and fire problems.

[jarodrig]

A lady was going down street in old electric cart and batteries blew up throwing her out cart hit curb and turned over about 3 years ago in my area. Electric still require some routine maintenance, especially battery connections, corrosion control, and water level if lead acid. Lithium batteries are still kind of new technology see what problems May develop in few years.
Been several other products with lithium batteries with overheating and fire problems.

Lithium batteries are NOT new technology...... they have been around for many years and have recently made their way to the electric golf carts.....

Yes, during the “early years” , there were issues with batteries overheating and catching fire mainly due to overcharging or charging improperly.

However, the technology has evolved to the point where it is extremely rare that we hear of any issues today....

[coffeebean]

That gas smell is probably from older gas carts. I prefer not to have the battery care everyday.
I wonder if I'm doing something wrong because I don't do anything to the batteries every day. I add water every two to three weeks in the hot months and every 4-6 weeks in the cooler months. So far the four year old batteries are going strong but we don't drive the cart very far or drive it on a daily basis. I do keep the batteries plugged in all the time the cart is garaged.

[Topspinmo]

Lithium batteries are NOT new technology...... they have been around for many years and have recently made their way to the electric golf carts.....

Yes, during the “early years” , there were issues with batteries overheating and catching fire mainly due to overcharging or charging improperly.

However, the technology has evolved to the point where it is extremely rare that we hear of any issues today....

How can you over charge it if computer controlled?

Why Lithium Batteries Catch Fire (https://www.thoughtco.com/why-lithium-batteries-catch-fire-606814)

[coffeebean]

Over 80 % of golf cart sales in The Villages are gas......

There is a reason for that......
I get it. Most people don't want to worry about having reliability problems to get from the north to the south in The Villages, play a round of golf and still have plenty of range left.

It's folks like me that don't worry about being able to drive long distances. Our cart has very comfortable upgraded bucket seats with padded arm rests but I still would not drive the cart more than 10 miles round trip in one outing. Anything more than that, I take the car. Hubby and I don't play golf so we don't need to worry about driving long distances to get to a course. Our cart is not our main transportation. We use it strictly to go to the closest rec centers and to Lake Sumter Landing. That's not very far at all from where we live in Mallory Square.

[coffeebean]

You can get a speed engine. Call Willie’s Cart repair. It makes huge difference, so much faster and quick acceleration.

Willies at 352-255-1369

The motor on our electric Yamaha is very quiet. Is the speed motor louder than the original motor?

The acceleration on my electric is very fast. One of the problems I had with the loaner Quiet Tech carts was the acceleration is very slow.

[Topspinmo]

I get it. Most people don't want to worry about having reliability problems to get from the north to the south in The Villages, play a round of golf and still have plenty of range left.

It's folks like me that don't worry about being able to drive long distances. Our cart has very comfortable upgraded bucket seats with padded arm rests but I still would not drive the cart more than 10 miles round trip in one outing. Anything more than that, I take the car. Hubby and I don't play golf so we don't need to worry about driving long distances to get to a course. Our cart is not our main transportation. We use it strictly to go to the closest rec centers and to Lake Sumter Landing. That's not very far at all from where we live in Mallory Square.

Nothing wrong with electric carts, some prefer electric and some prefer gas. It’s one that try to push there preference on others. Some have both. Each have there pros and cons. It’s individual choice.

[coffeebean]

Just pushed an electric cart home because it ran out of battery. I did it with my gas cart. No thank you on electric carts.

Just wondering if you left the house with a full charge on the electric cart. I keep our cart plugged in all the time when garaged. I always take it out with a full charge even though I don't drive it more than 10 miles round trip most times.

[vinnytalk]

Remember the batteries in Florida only last about 3-4 years on the average half of the life if you were up north.
The heat kills them faster.
Check the water level every week.
New batteries I can get up to around 75 miles per charge.

[coffeebean]

Well then, I have to wonder how far you go in your cart. Some of us go everywhere several times a day, and electric won't cut it in the long run. Plus in the long run it's more expensive for batteries than gas.

I've already answered that in subsequent posts on this thread. We don't drive the cart more than 10 miles round trip in a day. Anything more than that, we take the car.

[Topspinmo]

The motor on our electric Yamaha is very quiet. Is the speed motor louder than the original motor?

The acceleration on my electric is very fast. One of the problems I had with the loaner Quiet Tech carts was the acceleration is very slow.


Why pay for high speed motor just go little faster, now I can see if you motor going bad. Some carts the speed can be adjusted by computer. Which most responsible dealers will not speed it up pass 20 MPH.

[OhioBuckeye]

Electric is better for golfing/ golfers. It doesn’t disturb golfers who are hitting and also You can quietly advance rather then wait, saves a little time.

That may be true but I would just about bet you if you lived out by Mulberry I would just about bet you your electric golf cart wouldn’t make it all the way out to Grey Fox & back. I bet my gas cart could do that 4 or 5 times. Like I said in a earlier comment, they both have their pro’s & con’s. The newer carts aren’t that loud. But good point!

[jarodrig]

How can you over charge it if computer controlled?

Why Lithium Batteries Catch Fire (https://www.thoughtco.com/why-lithium-batteries-catch-fire-606814)

Equipment failure (has your computer ever crashed ?)
Someone carelessly using a wrong charger ??

Anyone can find an isolated incident involving lithium polymer/Ion batteries but those incidents are few and far between by today’s standards.....

I’ve been using lithium technology in radio controlled aircraft for probably 15 years without a single incident....

[Curtisbwp]

Good

[coffeebean]

Do they have charging stations in the squares or out and about for electric carts? I have driven gas and electric the electric slowed down quite a bit after 18 holes on the way home.

Does the electric cart you speak of have an AC motor? Those motors are not supposed to slow down but maintain speed, even on hills.

[coffeebean]

I was just going to say that. I wanted to say it first. Waaaaa.

Been here for fifteen years, the only golf carts sitting motionless along the paths are electric.

Please when you are older, do not look to be so "green" you are stuck motionless and have to rely on someone driving a gas vehicle to drag your buns home.

Gracie.....there is Kart Aide. That is the golf cart equivalent of AAA for automobiles. I've read nothing but great reviews for them. I haven't needed to call them yet for my electric cart so I don't have first hand experience.

[coffeebean]

From Fenney to Brownwood it's a 10 minute drive using the back roads. When the Turnpike bridge is open it will take about 30 minutes in a golf car. In many cases, but not all, the distance is much shorter in a car vs a golf cart and can easily take 3 times as long to get to the destination.

Many people will tell you half the fun and part of the lifestyle of living in The Villages is that you can get around to just about any restaurant or services you little heart desires. That certainly is one of the appealing draws of The Villages life style. For me and hubby, the summer months are too hot to drive around in a golf cart during the day. There are plenty of folks who only use their golf cart all the time, 12 months of the year. It is a personal decision how comfortable you prefer to travel.

[coffeebean]

Why is it that people that drive electric vehichles expect free charging stations when their batteries get low, but people that drive gas vehichles don't expect free gas when their tanks get low?

No one ever said the charging stations should be free. I would be happy to pay with my credit cart for a quick charge to get me home in the event my cart was running low on a charge.

[coffeebean]

25000 miles on my electric cart and never came close to losing a charge. I am interested in lithium batteries if we get a new cart. Definitely will go with electric - love the quiet smooth starts and stops.

I also find the Quite Tech Yamaha carts vibrate. My body was all sorts of shaken up inside when I rode in my sister's brand new Quiet Tech Yamaha from Caroline to Brownwood. YIKES!

[coffeebean]

A lady was going down street in old electric cart and batteries blew up throwing her out cart hit curb and turned over about 3 years ago in my area. Electric still require some routine maintenance, especially battery connections, corrosion control, and water level if lead acid. Lithium batteries are still kind of new technology see what problems May develop in few years.
Been several other products with lithium batteries with overheating and fire problems.

Oh my. That is just awful for her. I wonder when she last had her cart serviced? Isn't that something that can be prevented with routine maintenance?

[coffeebean]

Why pay for high speed motor just go little faster, now I can see if you motor going bad. Some carts the speed can be adjusted by computer. Which most responsible dealers will not speed it up pass 20 MPH.

Really? There is a way to adjust an electric cart's original motor to go a bit faster with a computer?

[photo1902]

I also find the Quite Tech Yamaha carts vibrate. My body was all sorts of shaken up inside when I rode in my sister's brand new Quiet Tech Yamaha from Caroline to Brownwood. YIKES!

Nonsense. They don’t.

[coffeebean]

Nonsense. They don’t.

The vibration is evident compared to my electric Yamaha. Hubby and I did take our cart out for a spin a few months ago and drove around for an hour and a half. I was not shaken at all after that long (for us) ride. There is a BIG difference between my electric cart and my sister's Quiet Tech regarding vibration.

Also......the Quiet Tech carts that I have been given as loaners are the current model year and they are enough to rattle my teeth. I just assume those loaner carts are not maintained as diligently as someone's personal golf cart so I really shouldn't compare those loaners to my cart.

Bottom line is the choice is up to the individual who is purchasing the cart. Those who want a quiet smooth ride but not looking for long range on a single charge may choose an electric cart. Those who must have a cart with a very long range on a single tank are locked into a gas cart.

[biker1]

:a20::a20:

Yes, I have a gas cart because I routinely ride over 250 miles in a single trip (the range of my gas cart).

Those who must have a cart with a very long range on a single tank are locked into a gas cart.

[Topspinmo]

Oh my. That is just awful for her. I wonder when she last had her cart serviced? Isn't that something that can be prevented with routine maintenance?

Probably, was really old cart and probably nothing was done except charge it?????

[coffeebean]

:a20::a20:

Yes, I have a gas cart because I routinely ride over 250 miles in a single trip (the range of my gas cart).

I think I might have said that incorrectly.

[JerryLBell]

The one thing I would like to change about my electric cart would be to make it go just a bit faster. I'd be happy with 22 MPH. I certainly don't want to speed like I see some of those gas carts can do. I've seen electric carts go much faster than the legal 20 MPH so there must be some way to make them go faster. I haven't looked into it though.
It's a simple adjustment to the governor. However, it's an illegal adjustment and if you ever get caught going over the speed limit (which is just under 20 mph for the entire state, including The Villages) and they find you have adjusted your governor, you are subject to multiple violations and several hundred dollars worth of fines. This is according to an officer I talked to at one of the "meet your government" affairs they hold about yearly here.

The chances of you getting caught are admittedly slim though. I've never seen speed traps for carts in The Villages and too many people just blithely ignore the speed limit in their "adjusted" carts. Just yesterday I was doing the speed limit of 30 mph in my car on Hillsborough and was passed by a golf cart. Now there is somebody I'd like to see get pulled over by the Wildwood PD!

[Garywt]

I got tired of charging every day. Now I buy gas on average every 4 weeks. My doesn't jerk. I do smell gas cart exhaust fumes when driving in tunnels.

I seem to stop for gas twice a week. Not sure if I get back gas mileage or just all the driving I do.

[biker1]

If you have a Yamaha (good guess since they are very popular) with fuel injection, you can get 50 miles to the gallon. The tank is a bit over 5 gallons so a range of 250 miles is certainly possible. I usually fill up before I am down to one gallon left.

I seem to stop for gas twice a week. Not sure if I get back gas mileage or just all the driving I do.

[Garywt]

I've already answered that in subsequent posts on this thread. We don't drive the cart more than 10 miles round trip in a day. Anything more than that, we take the car.

That sounds boring, lol. The only time we take the car is if it is raining hard before we leave the house. Other than that is is always the cart no matter where we are going. Most everything is at least 30 minutes from the house.

[Garywt]

From Fenney to Brownwood it's a 10 minute drive using the back roads. When the Turnpike bridge is open it will take about 30 minutes in a golf car. In many cases, but not all, the distance is much shorter in a car vs a golf cart and can easily take 3 times as long to get to the destination.

And the point is? Always longer in a golf cart because of speed, stop signs and longer routes to cross streets etc but that is where the fun is. Driving the car is old and boring, drive the cart is fun all day long. It takes me an hour to get to Brownwood and now to go over the bridges is even more fun. Waiting to be able to get to Fenney and explore that entire side. Did try to drive to Fenney but could not find it as all the roads said they were closed.

[JimJohnson]

:a20::a20:

Yes, I have a gas cart because I routinely ride over 250 miles in a single trip (the range of my gas cart).

I mean no disrespect, but A trip on a golf cart of 250 miles is a, no, it is not a true statement. 🙄. No one would drive a golf cart straight through for 12 to 14 hours. Maybe you meant 25 miles and that is a long distance and time in a cart.

[biker1]

It was sarcasm.

I mean no disrespect, but A trip on a golf cart of 250 miles is a, no, it is not a true statement. ������. No one would drive a golf cart straight through for 12 to 14 hours. Maybe you meant 25 miles and that is a long distance and time in a cart.

[Topspinmo]

Equipment failure (has your computer ever crashed ?)
Someone carelessly using a wrong charger ??

Anyone can find an isolated incident involving lithium polymer/Ion batteries but those incidents are few and far between by today’s standards.....

I’ve been using lithium technology in radio controlled aircraft for probably 15 years without a single incident....


Those batteries are small and don’t put out the ampere or heat like battery pack. The problem is when cell goes bad and it over heats in high ampere pack. Yes, very small chance anything will happen, but it not zero.

[coffeebean]

It's a simple adjustment to the governor. However, it's an illegal adjustment and if you ever get caught going over the speed limit (which is just under 20 mph for the entire state, including The Villages) and they find you have adjusted your governor, you are subject to multiple violations and several hundred dollars worth of fines. This is according to an officer I talked to at one of the "meet your government" affairs they hold about yearly here.

The chances of you getting caught are admittedly slim though. I've never seen speed traps for carts in The Villages and too many people just blithely ignore the speed limit in their "adjusted" carts. Just yesterday I was doing the speed limit of 30 mph in my car on Hillsborough and was passed by a golf cart. Now there is somebody I'd like to see get pulled over by the Wildwood PD!

If the governor adjustment is illegal, is there any mechanic who will do the adjustment? I know The Villages Golf Cars will not. I have to sign a waiver every time I bring my cart in for routine maintenance that the cart's maximun speed is 20 MPH.

[Kenswing]

If the governor adjustment is illegal, is there any mechanic who will do the adjustment? I know The Villages Golf Cars will not. I have to sign a waiver every time I bring my cart in for routine maintenance that the cart's maximun speed is 20 MPH.
I just bought a cart from them. The purchase order clearly states to set speed to 24mph.

[jarodrig]

If the governor adjustment is illegal, is there any mechanic who will do the adjustment? I know The Villages Golf Cars will not. I have to sign a waiver every time I bring my cart in for routine maintenance that the cart's maximun speed is 20 MPH.

The Villages Golf Carts WILL do the tweak for you as long as you sign that waiver stating that you are aware that the legal speed limit is 20 MPH....

They did it for me when I took my new gas cart bought from them for the first service ... they tweaked it to run at 25 MPH Max .... that was early this year, maybe January ...

That was at the Brownwood location which is where I bought it ....

[Number 10 GI]

References?

And where are the references showing that gas carts are responsible for garage fires?

[Number 10 GI]

That sounds boring, lol. The only time we take the car is if it is raining hard before we leave the house. Other than that is is always the cart no matter where we are going. Most everything is at least 30 minutes from the house.

What is boring to one person is enjoyment to another. I've drove golf carts in TV and I find them to be boring. I much prefer my 370Z when I want to go some place.

[coffeebean]

I just bought a cart from them. The purchase order clearly states to set speed to 24mph.

Is this a gas or electric cart you just purchased?

[Kenswing]

Is this a gas or electric cart you just purchased?
Gas.

[TCNY61]

Lithium batteries are NOT new technology...... they have been around for many years and have recently made their way to the electric golf carts.....

Yes, during the “early years” , there were issues with batteries overheating and catching fire mainly due to overcharging or charging improperly.

However, the technology has evolved to the point where it is extremely rare that we hear of any issues today....

The Tesla that just recently crashed and in the news:

Firefighters spent four hours trying to extinguish the fire and used 32,000 gallons of water because Tesla's lithium-ion batteries kept reigniting.

[JoMar]

Does this thread come under the heading "beating a dead horse"

[vintageogauge]

It's really nice to read how many privileged people there are that don't have to obey the 20 MPH speed limit.

[jarodrig]

It's really nice to read how many privileged people there are that don't have to obey the 20 MPH speed limit.

What you say is true but really nothing to do with the topic......

[MorTech]

The noise, smell, and poor thottle response lets me know Im alive.
I love the smell of incomplete hydrocarbon oxidation in the morning.

[tophcfa]

I think the electric carts are too quiet. I like to hear what’s around me.

My older brother has retinitis pigmentosa and has become totally blind. He absolutely hates electric cars and golf carts because he can not hear them coming and has almost been run over several times. If it wasn't for his wonderful guide dog pulling him out of harms way, he would have been severely injured or killed several times.

[Reiver]

If you think electric is good for the environment, I suggest you research how electricity is generated. It’s anything but clean.
If someone were to look into what is involved in the production and recycling of the materials used in lithium batteries, they would stop trying to claim that they are good for the environment.

[graciegirl]

IMHO The Villages missed a golden opportunity from the get go, and should have ruled electric carts only.
Gas stinks.

Whoa Bill.

It may indeed stink and pollute the environment but it gets you there dependably. When I moved here fifteen years ago it would have been no big deal if I ran out of juice, but now I am not as spry and would not be able to walk home like I used to. (Especially in the intense heat of summer.) This is after all a community of 55 plus and some of us are getting quite plus.

[Road-Runner]

Smells like victory .. over the dinosaurs I guess!

[Marathon Man]

The noise, smell, and poor thottle response lets me know Im alive.
I love the smell of incomplete hydrocarbon oxidation in the morning.

What a great line. Please allow me to add to it.

"Smells like ... retirement."

[Lottoguy]

Once a week drop three bucks into a coffee can. This will help you pay for your batteries when they come due. It won't be cheap.

[Lottoguy]

At 110 doesn't it take a two days to charge up that car? Or did you put in 220 service?

[Ben Franklin]

What? No mention of lithium?
It's a game changer.
When it comes time for me to change batteries, I'm hoping the latest sodium batteries are available.

Future batteries, coming soon: Charge in seconds, last months a (https://www.pocket-lint.com/gadgets/news/130380-future-batteries-coming-soon-charge-in-seconds-last-months-and-power-over-the-air#:~:text=Sodium%2Dion%20batteries,more%20effici ent%20than%20conventional%20batteries).

[tophcfa]

I prefer gas, wait a minute, are we talking about stoves for cooking or golf carts?

[Topspinmo]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

Good for you! But, don’t expect it to change anybodies minds. It’s personal choice.

[Topspinmo]

When it comes time for me to change batteries, I'm hoping the latest sodium batteries are available.

Future batteries, coming soon: Charge in seconds, last months a (https://www.pocket-lint.com/gadgets/news/130380-future-batteries-coming-soon-charge-in-seconds-last-months-and-power-over-the-air#:~:text=Sodium%2Dion%20batteries,more%20effici ent%20than%20conventional%20batteries).


I’m got gold mine with the mother load for sale cheap.

[Topspinmo]

I just bought a cart from them. The purchase order clearly states to set speed to 24mph.

I can take the governor out anytime I want, but why would I? 21 MPH fast enough for me.

[Topspinmo]

Nonsense. They don’t.

She was probably on lumpy road.

[Topspinmo]

The motor on our electric Yamaha is very quiet. Is the speed motor louder than the original motor?

The acceleration on my electric is very fast. One of the problems I had with the loaner Quiet Tech carts was the
acceleration is very slow.

Yes, you can’t go fasTer without making more noise.

[Topspinmo]

I've put a higher speed motor in our 2007 Club Car (in 2007) and it will go about 21/22mph which is as fast I would like to go in a golf cart. No smell, no noise, smooth, (no battery acid smell on the garage floor - but didn't hear that one before ) I can drive it as far and long as I want to travel in a golf cart. Every time we take out one of those new "quite"/"no jerky" / "no smell" (I guess that smell in the tunnels is my imagination or a new vapor to help me breathe) new gas cart we are amazed how loud/jerky they are compared to our old electric cart.

I can't help wonder why more and more auto manufactures are introducing more electric models each year - perhaps they didn't get the bulletin from The Villages about how smooth, quiet, and pollution-free the NEW golf cart gas engines are.

I hate to admit it but I probably drive one of the most gas-guzzling cars in The Villages and love it, but our next golf cart will clearly be lithium battery powered.


I got big spot on my garage floor from 2003 electric club car. Not from me but the previous owners. And yes, when I had electric cart I smelled fumes from charging.

[Bay Kid]

I got big spot on my garage floor from 2003 electric club car. Not from me but the previous owners. And yes, when I had electric cart I smelled fumes from charging.

The protective carpet provided by TV carts don't stop the battery acid leaks. Dad's cart left a big mess under that carpet.

[thesteve685]

1. tv could have been an environmentally exemplary community if went to electric from the gitgo. fat chance that will change EVER!
2. why would anyone want to violate the law just to go 2-3 mph faster?
where is the conscience?

[Ben Franklin]

I’m got gold mine with the mother load for sale cheap.

I bet you had a stone quarry too, when they change from stone wheels to rubber tires.

[Papa_lecki]

1. tv could have been an environmentally exemplary community if went to electric from the gitgo. fat chance that will change EVER!
2. why would anyone want to violate the law just to go 2-3 mph faster?
where is the conscience?

Building the Multi Modal path is extremely environmental, encouraging highly efficient transportation vs a car.

Assume you are saying electric carts are more environmentally friendly than gas, until you have to dispose of the batteries and the fact that electricity to charge the carts is derived from fossil fuels.

I am glad you never go 5 miles over the speed limit on the turnpike.

[graciegirl]

1. tv could have been an environmentally exemplary community if went to electric from the gitgo. fat chance that will change EVER!
2. why would anyone want to violate the law just to go 2-3 mph faster?
where is the conscience?

Six posts so I guess you are new here. You must have heard that sometime soon someone will be to your home to check to see that you are doing everything right; that you are reusing your old clothes, shoes, and furniture and that you have not had to buy new tools to replace the ones you didn't bring with you. They will see that you are hand weeding your foundation planting and that you use glass leftover dishes so as not to waste food. They will check to see that you are reusing the bread bags for leftovers and the coffee cans for small garage items.

However, you ARE allowed and even encouraged to buy gas golf carts because people use them a lot to get where they are going and people are getting older here all of the time and before long you will find that you cannot walk home for as far as your electric cart took you and now you are stranded out back of Konkles Hollow and the damned thing won't start. It is true to be fair that people sometimes run out of gas but they run out of juice from the batteries an awful lot more around these parts. And...I am thinking your views are minority views here too....but you will probably be happier than any place you have ever lived...............

[Topspinmo]

I bet you had a stone quarry too, when they change from stone wheels to rubber tires.

Yes, I use to work at stone quarry. The only thing electric was the conveyor belt motors . That was 45 years ago and guess what still same. All things green made out of fossil fuels and fossil fuels supply the power to mine all metal products. That not going to change for at least next 100 years or more.

[dadspet]

Ok look, this will be a mute discussion in 4 - 5 yrs when most carts and cars will be battery/electric. The real discussion then will be how do I get even get rid of a gas cart since the junk yards will be filled with them and you won't be able to buy gas or parts or sell one. Perhaps I'm overstating the future problem since horses survived after people found gas cars to be a better choice. Don't take me wrong I have to admit I'm very technical and change doesn't bother me as much as some; as proof, I converted from oil lights to electric and bought a TV to replace our family room vacuum tube AM radio console recently. But I have to admit I'm currently seeing a shrink to help we cope with this future gas issue, since I have a car that needs plenty.
To make it worst since I can't sleep at night trying to resolve this issue, my family Dr told me not to take sleeping pills.
:icon_wink:

[JoMar]

Six posts so I guess you are new here. You must have heard that sometime soon someone will be to your home to check to see that you are doing everything right; that you are reusing your old clothes, shoes, and furniture and that you have not had to buy new tools to replace the ones you didn't bring with you. They will see that you are hand weeding your foundation planting and that you use glass leftover dishes so as not to waste food. They will check to see that you are reusing the bread bags for leftovers and the coffee cans for small garage items.

However, you ARE allowed and even encouraged to buy gas golf carts because people use them a lot to get where they are going and people are getting older here all of the time and before long you will find that you cannot walk home for as far as your electric cart took you and now you are stranded out back of Konkles Hollow and the damned thing won't start. It is true to be fair that people sometimes run out of gas but they run out of juice from the batteries an awful lot more around these parts. And...I am thinking your views are minority views here too....but you will probably be happier than any place you have ever lived...............

Been awhile since you had electric hasn't it?

[twoplanekid]

Six posts so I guess you are new here. You must have heard that sometime soon someone will be to your home to check to see that you are doing everything right; that you are reusing your old clothes, shoes, and furniture and that you have not had to buy new tools to replace the ones you didn't bring with you. They will see that you are hand weeding your foundation planting and that you use glass leftover dishes so as not to waste food. They will check to see that you are reusing the bread bags for leftovers and the coffee cans for small garage items.

However, you ARE allowed and even encouraged to buy gas golf carts because people use them a lot to get where they are going and people are getting older here all of the time and before long you will find that you cannot walk home for as far as your electric cart took you and now you are stranded out back of Konkles Hollow and the damned thing won't start. It is true to be fair that people sometimes run out of gas but they run out of juice from the batteries an awful lot more around these parts. And...I am thinking your views are minority views here too....but you will probably be happier than any place you have ever lived...............

As I have only used electric carts in TV for many years with no issues, I guess my vast experience over some newbies would suggest that electric is the way to go with no gas smell, much quieter, and instant power plus convenient recharge at home.

Hi graciegirl :icon_wink:

[DAVES]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.

Endless gossip from some who know and many who do not. Remaining range on a battery based on gauge. First of all it depends on the battery type and what the gauge is measuring as well as the cut off.

Lead acid batteries, the voltage falls off gradually as the battery discharges. The gauge often measures the voltage. You will notice lights dim and speed decreases as the batteries run down in charge.
Lithium Ion batteries have a fairly flat voltage until the end of the useful charge at the end the voltage suddenly drops off.
You should not run either completely down. The reason is what we call the battery is actually several batteries, several cells, wired together to get the 36 or 48 volts or whatever. If, it is 48 volts lead acid, each cell is 2 volts so it is 24 cells. That can be 4 12 volt batteries, 6 8volt or 8 6volt batteries. The voltage is the same. The difference is the quantity of stored electricity. 8 6volt batteries will likely have more ampere hours, a bigger tank of gas if, that makes sense to the way people think.
No matter what all the cells will not perfectly match. When, you run the assembly down too far it damages or destroys the weakest cells. Permanently damaging the assembly.

The endless gas vs electric debate. You should not run a gas cart or your car completely out of gas either. But, in gas if you are running out of gas, you can likely find gas and fill the tank. Electric that is not an option. A short top up charge does not charge all the cells equally.

My background, I used to sell high powered rechargeable photo flashes.

[Pairadocs]

I see this discussion a lot and yesterday did a practical exercise. We took off from our home in Chitty Chatty, drove to Walgreens in Colony Plaza, then drove around our old neighborhood of Duval. Then we proceeded to the Brownwood Square, over the 44 Bridge to Megasen Road, on to Bradford and finally swung East to home in Chitty Chatty. Approx 22 miles and the cart/batteries are 3 years old. The Gauge dropped below half, so my guess would be about 15 miles remains on the batteries. We drive this cart at least once a day, every day, so no replacement is in site for now. For us, we will never buy another gas cart due to the jerkiness, smell and worst of all the noise.


Respect that and I definitely think each person has a set of circumstances to consider, it's like Ford or Chevy, Chicken or steak, lol, always devotees. I would add we've had both for many years before we lived here, electric was not right for us, always run down just when we wanted to use it, but, yes, we lived on several courses in other locations and have had 2 electric and 3 gas. I would only add that my former negatives like "smell", noise", were based on for cars (Yamaha, Club, and yes.... Harley Davidson believe it or not...LOL) but now the new modern gas carts are SO MUCH DIFFERENT, like autos, no fumes and loud noise....but many just prefer electric, like autos and mowers, and hand tools, it's what is right for you that counts !

[DAVES]

Six posts so I guess you are new here. You must have heard that sometime soon someone will be to your home to check to see that you are doing everything right; that you are reusing your old clothes, shoes, and furniture and that you have not had to buy new tools to replace the ones you didn't bring with you. They will see that you are hand weeding your foundation planting and that you use glass leftover dishes so as not to waste food. They will check to see that you are reusing the bread bags for leftovers and the coffee cans for small garage items.

However, you ARE allowed and even encouraged to buy gas golf carts because people use them a lot to get where they are going and people are getting older here all of the time and before long you will find that you cannot walk home for as far as your electric cart took you and now you are stranded out back of Konkles Hollow and the damned thing won't start. It is true to be fair that people sometimes run out of gas but they run out of juice from the batteries an awful lot more around these parts. And...I am thinking your views are minority views here too....but you will probably be happier than any place you have ever lived...............

Wow, I hope I am reading this out of context. Or perhaps, a bad mood. You look down on someone with 6 posts. You show 39,000 posts. Perhaps the person with 6 posts has better things to do.

[Pairadocs]

Endless gossip from some who know and many who do not. Remaining range on a battery based on gauge. First of all it depends on the battery type and what the gauge is measuring as well as the cut off.

Lead acid batteries, the voltage falls off gradually as the battery discharges. The gauge often measures the voltage. You will notice lights dim and speed decreases as the batteries run down in charge.
Lithium Ion batteries have a fairly flat voltage until the end of the useful charge at the end the voltage suddenly drops off.
You should not run either completely down. The reason is what we call the battery is actually several batteries, several cells, wired together to get the 36 or 48 volts or whatever. If, it is 48 volts lead acid, each cell is 2 volts so it is 24 cells. That can be 4 12 volt batteries, 6 8volt or 8 6volt batteries. The voltage is the same. The difference is the quantity of stored electricity. 8 6volt batteries will likely have more ampere hours, a bigger tank of gas if, that makes sense to the way people think.
No matter what all the cells will not perfectly match. When, you run the assembly down too far it damages or destroys the weakest cells. Permanently damaging the assembly.

The endless gas vs electric debate. You should not run a gas cart or your car completely out of gas either. But, in gas if you are running out of gas, you can likely find gas and fill the tank. Electric that is not an option. A short top up charge does not charge all the cells equally.

My background, I used to sell high powered rechargeable photo flashes.

THANK YOU ! That was very interesting and helpful, didn't know any of that, but we've had several electric and several gas. Before moving here, we decided no more electric carts, mowers, or hand tools, they just don't work for our life and life style, but we decided on only gas from now on for the reason gave.... we have friends and neighbors who will bring a spare can of gas in an emergency.... none of them would bring us a jar of spare electricity...and the fact the the gas cart we have now is a far far cry from those of the past, quiet, no fumes, nice ride, good shocks make a nice ride on he course too. Thanks again, now I understand why I will stick with gas... plus hubby can't "fix" electric if it stops, the gas cart is little more than a sophisticated lawn mower to most things pretty easy to fix in a hurry....not much of an electrician though:ohdear:

[Pairadocs]

The jerkiness you experience are from carburetor old carts or inexperience. Fuel injected carts don’t jerk unless you induce it. Glad you are happy with the electric cart. Pros and cons with both styles. Gas carts engines can run for ever if the operator has any clue of preventive maintenance. You will be buying 1k plus batteries in few years. While my gas cart will still be running fine when I’m in the grave. I’ve had both, both worked fine for my needs, but I like gas better.

Same here, same experience, multiples of both gas and electric in former locations, and you are right on with the new gas carts. Never again electric for us, but some love them and it's very nice we have choices like in autos. We bought a number of battery hand tools and other things, the discarding of batteries started to bother us, the cost too kept escalation, and for us the main reason was it limited the usefulness as it was always hooked up JUST when we needed it. But would never try to change anyone's mind, we all have different needs.

[l2ridehd]

Since first buying here I keep a tow rope in my gas cart. I have towed 6 carts for folks broke down and needed help getting home. 5 of the 6 were electric. The one gas had run out of gas. User error. Probably the electric was user error as well. But based on the fact there are probably twice as many gas as electric and in my small sample it was 5 to 1 in favor of gas, it makes me wonder about just how user friendly electric really is.

[villagerjack]

The jerkiness you experience are from carburetor old carts or inexperience. Fuel injected carts don’t jerk unless you induce it. Glad you are happy with the electric cart. Pros and cons with both styles. Gas carts engines can run for ever if the operator has any clue of preventive maintenance. You will be buying 1k plus batteries in few years. While my gas cart will still be running fine when I’m in the grave. I’ve had both, both worked fine for my needs, but I like gas better.

My electric cart is a 1998 EZ Go. . Bought in 1999. Runs fine, clean, reliable and as fast as I need to go. Range is 30-35. We only use it for about 4 months a year and I would probably never sell it even if we bought a new cart which I am not planning to do anytime soon. There is no need for noisy and smelly gas carts especially with the newer longer range batteries.