Adding wheel spacers to your golf cart can be a relatively simple modification that can provide some benefits like increased stability and a wider stance.
Tools and Materials:
- KANDI Wheel Spacer Kit - Lowe’s or Part’s Boss
- Jack and jack stands
- Torque wrench with 19mm Socket
- Breaker Bar
Steps:
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Safety First: Ensure the golf cart is on a flat and stable surface. Engage the parking brake, turn off the ignition, and remove the key to prevent any accidental engagement.
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Loosen the Lug Nuts: Loosen lug nuts about a one-quarter turn before lifting the golf cart.
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Lift the Golf Cart: Use a jack to lift the golf cart off the ground. Be sure to use jack stands to secure it safely before working on the wheels.
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Remove the Wheels: Use a lug wrench or breaker bar with a 19mm socket set to carefully remove the lug nuts from the wheels. Place the lug nuts in a safe location as you’ll need them later.
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Install the Wheel Spacers: Slide the wheel spacers onto the wheel studs. Make sure they fit snugly and align properly.
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Tighten the Lug Nuts: Carefully thread the lug nuts onto the wheel studs and onto the wheel spacers. Hand-tighten them as much as possible.
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Torque the Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. This is important to ensure that the wheels are securely attached and to prevent over-tightening, which can damage the spacers or studs.
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Repeat for All Wheels: Repeat the above steps for all four wheels of the golf cart.
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Check for Clearance: After installing the wheel spacers, carefully lower the golf cart off the jack stands and onto the ground. Turn the steering wheel from side to side and bounce the cart slightly to ensure that the wheels do not rub against any part of the cart’s frame or body. If you notice any rubbing or interference, you may need to adjust or remove the spacers.
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Final Check and Maintenance: Re-torque the lug nuts after a short period of use, typically after the first 100 miles, and periodically thereafter. This helps ensure that they remain properly tightened.
Adding wheel spacers to your golf cart can enhance its stability and appearance, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s specifications and general safety guidelines throughout the installation process. If you’re not comfortable performing this modification yourself, consider having it done by a professional or a golf cart customization shop.