This is Driving Me CRAZY!

[Stephen13]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

* UPDATE *

- Over the weekend I was able to troubleshoot a little bit. I removed, disassembled, cleaned and reinstalled the stop switch. It was the easiest thing to do because my troubleshooting showed the battery and solenoid were good. I am a bit concerned about the ignition relay because my test showed the switch is good but the coil is bad. I'll retest after giving it a test drive. I'm also bringing the multimeter with me and do some quick tests if it happens again.

- Thursdays are unusually busy for me, so I'll have time to poke around the golf cart tomorrow. Thank you to everyone for your ideas and suggestions. I guess I'm the Tim "The Toolman" Taylor type of guy. I'll figure it out, hopefully before I run out of groceries!

* PROBLEM SOLVED *
I know it's been a few weeks, but I could endure the intermittent problem while I tried to figure it out. My attempts were inexpensive things I could, land wanted to, do. I thoroughly cleaned the carburetor early on, but replacement carburetors are inexpensive, so I took a chance. Nope, that didn't solve the problem. So what's the next logical step? I called Wille's Golf Cart Services.

The problem ended up being the coil. Notice in the last update the coil was a concern, but I really didn't want to guess on that. It's an expensive part (+$125) and a pain to replace. Thanks for all your suggestions and to Willie's Golf Cart Services 352-255-1369.

[GrumpyOldMan]

I know nothing about golf carts, but if it were a lawnmower or an older car, my next guess would be water in the gas tank.

[Bill14564]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

Any chance it is low on oil and being automatically shut off until enough gathers to reset the sensor? (Had two generators act up because of that)

Had an intermittent fuel pump problem on a boat engine before but you said you've already looked into that.

[dsgreen3]

A bad ignition coil will cause the symptoms of your Yamaha cart. Do a search on bad ignition coil and how to test.

[Boffin]

The flashing light oil indicator is also a fault code indicator. The flashes are read as long and short. For example, one long and three shorts is 13, three longs and three shorts is 33. These two fault codes (13 & 33) correspond to intake pressure sensor (13) and ignition system. Here is a chart FYI.90241

[ROCKMUP]

Check your oil level first, this motor uses a splash type system and has a low oil shut off.
Remove the float bowl and clean it.

One of those two are probably your issue, if these don't fix it then check the following
Ignition module, its a magneto system
Low oil pressure switch

Use youtube to find out how to do the things above if you don't know how.

Good luck.

[Stephen13]

It's not the fuel or oil, but the ignition coil is interesting. I was even thinking about the ignition relay. I tested the ohms on it and my multimeter was all over the place. I didn't know about the flashing light. How do you get that to display?

[Fredster]

It's not the fuel or oil, but the ignition coil is interesting. I was even thinking about the ignition relay. I tested the ohms on it and my multimeter was all over the place. I didn't know about the flashing light. How do you get that to display?


I had a friend whose Yamaha cart had the same symptoms as yours,
and it turned out to be a bad ignition coil.
By the way it was also driving her crazy,
because it was intermittent,
but eventually it totally went out
and the cart had to be towed in!

[Boffin]

It's not the fuel or oil, but the ignition coil is interesting. I was even thinking about the ignition relay. I tested the ohms on it and my multimeter was all over the place. I didn't know about the flashing light. How do you get that to display?

1. Turn main switch to on position.
2. Push accelerator pedal down to start engine.
3. The red check engine light will come on for about 2 seconds and then will go out.
4. Release accelerator pedal to stop engine.
5. With the main switch still in the on position, check the engine light. If it is not flashing, then there are not any error codes.
6. If the light is flashing, there are error codes. The light will flash at least one long flash followed by at least one short flash.
7. Long flashes flash for 1 second with a one second pause before the next long flash. Short flashes flash for .5 followed by a .5 second pause.
8. After an error code, the light will pause for 3 seconds and the start over. If there are multiple codes, it will display them right after each other with a 3 second pause in between and then restart the sequence. An error code will always start with a long flash and end with a short flash.

[Gpsma]

Friend had a similar problem...turned out to be a solenoid

[SIRE1]

I know this is an off the wall question, but does the problem when you say it "stops running for no reason" happen only after you have come to a stop or does it happen while you are driving? I had a problem with my cart where it would run great, but occasionally when I came to a stop and the motor shuts off normally, it would not restart when I pressed the gas pedal. That problem was due to a faulty start switch at the gas pedal. I just don't know when your cart "stops running for no reason". If it stops while you are already in motion, that sounds like a fuel or electrical fault.

[Stephen13]

I know this is an off the wall question, but does the problem when you say it "stops running for no reason" happen only after you have come to a stop or does it happen while you are driving? I had a problem with my cart where it would run great, but occasionally when I came to a stop and the motor shuts off normally, it would not restart when I pressed the gas pedal. That problem was due to a faulty start switch at the gas pedal. I just don't know when your cart "stops running for no reason". If it stops while you are already in motion, that sounds like a fuel or electrical fault.

It happens both ways, one no more than the other. I agree about the fuel or electrical statement. This is difficult to figure out. It could be anything, and could become an expensive fix if I take it in somewhere. But I feel like I'm throwing darts at the problem. I don't think a technician can do much more.

[villagetinker]

It happens both ways, one no more than the other. I agree about the fuel or electrical statement. This is difficult to figure out. It could be anything, and could become an expensive fix if I take it in somewhere. But I feel like I'm throwing darts at the problem. I don't think a technician can do much more.

Stephen,
You comment about the ohms reading on the coil is interesting, this should be a steady reading, what you describe sounds like an intermittent problem in the coil. I have equipment that may help confirm this. You sound like a DIY, so use some alligator clips and place a small light bulb or 12 volt LED across the coil on the solenoid, it should stay on while you are driving. When the cart stops, if you have a light, the solenoid is bad, if it goes out you need to look at all of the wiring and connections from the battery to the solenoid. Send me a PM with your phone number and we can discuss further over the phone.

[Annie66]

Now this thread is exactly what this message board is supposed to be. Neighbors helping neighbors.

[Iowatransplant]

I had a similar problem a year ago with a 2012 Yamaha. I called Willey's Golf Cart Repair - they came out and there is a button, solenoid, something or other behind the gas pedal that had corroded and wasn't making full contact. They cleaned that up and I haven't had any problem since!

[Alicat5977]

Did you check the battery? Just like cars, sometimes the battery dies.

[bowlingal]

I'm guessing is doesn't run so great after all

[BlackHarley]

A bad ignition coil will cause the symptoms of your Yamaha cart. Do a search on bad ignition coil and how to test.

My first thought too. I had that happen to several small engines in the past.

[Ziliakx5]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

Try checking any ground wire connections. Make sure the grounds are clean and tight. It potentially could also be a wire that is worn a hole and and making intermittent contact as it warms up and cools. It might be wire fatigue somewhere as well. Good luck

[sabre1100]

I had the same problem with my '08 Street rod and I took it to the dealer they did everything they could think of including everything you did. It ended up being a bad coil when it got hot it broke down and shut off like you turned off the key after that there was no problems at all. Hope this helps.



I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

[Bobby Goldfinger]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

It sounds like The Stop switch . Behind Accelerator pedal. Part number JF7-82817-20 Amazon $50.00. I have replaced many.

[daddys55]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

Replace the battery I know it sounds crazy but it worked for me

[gbs317]

I have a 2017 Yamaha that would be fine driving around but when you stopped and tried to go again it was dead, all intermittently.
Turned out to be the start solenoid/relay. Had that replaced by Willy’s golf cart repairs problem solved.
When your cart fails do you hear any faint buzzing noise when stepping on the gas pedal trying to start.

[banjobob]

Sounds like ignition coil , my club car would do that,get hot ,quit cool down and run . Not all the time, but always left me stranded for a period of time . Cart Fixer diagnosed it.

[noslices1]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

Check your battery cables connected to the battery. If one is a little bit loose it could cause your problem. Any case take them off clean the battery posts and the inside of the cable clamp and reinstall.

[bruce213]

Had the same kind of problem on an electric cart, it turned our my ignition key was shot and would stop making "contact" and would turn off. New ignition problem fixed.

[Dgodin]

Vapor lock? Your gas cap may be defective. Next time is happens remove, then replace the cap. See if that makes a difference.

[pgettinger01]

Try some Seafoam in the gas tank. One ounce per gallon.

[Aqtlow]

Hey Stephen , I’m a back yarder myself , I’ve had two experiences with a carb. One was a bad hose/fitting in the vent line from the carb. to the gas tank, The fix I just ran a piece of tubing from the carb down to the engine cradle open ended Solved the vaper/pressure lock , second the micro switch under the cart was going bad and sometime it would make good contact and sometime it would not. I think it was the brake safety, Just my experience’s Tks. Anthony

[Rem001]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

Ivoltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?

I found an article on golfstorage dot com that appears to address your g29 issue. I tried to send you a link directly to the article, but the administrator of this site is not allowing me to send just the web link.

Go to google and search for “why your golf cart cuts out while driving”
And click on the first item returned.

[brick010207]

Yes it is. Unfortunately it is more often than not hijacked by those who think they know best

[jdgerman]

I had almost identical problem with my boat. It would be running fine and suddenly quit. After 1 to 2 minutes it restart again and run fine. Took it to my trusted mechanic and he checked it out. Check the charging system twice and looked fine. He decided it was the alternator and replaced it. The problem continued.
Finally, he diagnosed it as a short in the battery. When the battery was cold, it was fine. When it heated up, it would expand and short out.
Replaced the battery and problem solved. If you have not replaced your battery in a while, you might try that option.

In any event, I would appreciate knowing when you find the answer. Good luck.

[Dantes]

Vapor lock or fuel pump or fuel filter dirty and pump can’t supply enough fuel

[COLTempleton]

I have a 2007 Yamaha G29 with an intermittent problem. It starts up, drives great, and I might not have any issues. Then again, it might stop running for no reason. The pause may last 1 minute or 1 hour, or anytime in-between. It might happen once, twice, ot three times in a trip. It's a crap shoot with this golf cart.

I changed the fuel filter, the vacuum powered fuel pump, along with a section of fuel line and thoroughly cleaned the carburetor. The problem might get better after an attempted fix but it will return.

I have voltage to the ignition relay and that's where I get lost. Money is a bit tight to at the moment, so I'd like to fix it myself.

Any repair ideas or suggestions?


Check to see if something in your gas tank is blocking the fuel pick-up tube. If there was a leaf of something in your tank, it would be intermittent and occasional. Completely clean out your tank.

[HRDave]

Check your exhaust pipe spark arrestor to see if the arrestor mesh is clogged with carbon.

[Stephen13]

I would say my battery takes an added amount of abuse because the starter is turning the engine so much when I'm stranded. It's regular Sears DieHard Battery Test about every trip.

[Stephen13]

When it's good, it's good, Bowlingal!

[Stephen13]

I have a 2017 Yamaha that would be fine driving around but when you stopped and tried to go again it was dead, all intermittently.
Turned out to be the start solenoid/relay. Had that replaced by Willy’s golf cart repairs problem solved.
When your cart fails do you hear any faint buzzing noise when stepping on the gas pedal trying to start.

No buzzing noises. What about voices?

[Stephen13]

It sounds like The Stop switch . Behind Accelerator pedal. Part number JF7-82817-20 Amazon $50.00. I have replaced many.

I'm beginning to think the same thing, Bobby.

[Stephen13]

Replace the battery I know it sounds crazy but it worked for me

That's probably a good idea anyway.

[ROCKMUP]

Don't be a parts changer, diagnose the system and fix it correctly.
Remember - K.I.S.S. there is a reason for that saying

[Boffin]

Definitely do a trouble shooting routine that, in as much as possible, goes from the most likely to least likely cause of the problem.

[doecats]

make sure the fuel tank vent is open and not blocked, if it is not open it causes a vacuum in the tank preventing the fuel pump from drawing fuel. loosen tank cap and try that .

[joesin]

There is a switch under the gas pedal. It will cause the problem you describe.

[frose]

check the fuel cap to make sue it is still vented..i have seen them clog up and create a vacuum in the tank that stopped the fuel flow.

[dandjonfmk]

I had same problem on same model/year Yamaha cart two years ago. Found it to be the relay solenoid. I measured the voltage drop across the relay coil when problem occurred to be 12 volts but relay did not pick up. I could tap on it with the handle of a screwdriver and the cart would run OK. Ordered one through Amazon ($40) and no problems since. Before I repaired it, it stopped 3 times between Lake Sumter and Charlotte.

[Boffin]

If it turns out to be the ECU, it will have a part number like this: JC0-8591A-02-00 ENGINE CONTROL UNIT ASSY. Cost of part is about $300 - $350.