If you would prefer to store your golf cart on your own property rather than in a storage facility, there are several important steps to take to ensure that your golf cart stays in top condition during the off-season or time it’s not in use. Even when you prepare your golf cart for long-term self-storage, there is more to it than simply tucking the cart away in a shed for months at a time. Golf carts still require periodic maintenance when not in use, but following the right guidelines to storing your golf cart will keep it preserved and ready for when it’s time to be brought out again.
Battery Preparation
When preparing your golf cart for storage, you’ll want to first perform some basic battery maintenance. Begin by disconnecting battery cables, and clean any corrosion from the cables and battery by using a mix of baking soda and warm water (or white vinegar and water) – baking soda neutralizes acid corrosion. Fully charge the battery, as batteries will naturally self-discharge when not in use. When disconnecting the battery charger, unplug it from the AC outlet before unplugging it from the cart. Using only distilled water, refill the batteries, making sure the cart has been fully charged. Do not refill the batteries before fully charging your cart, as this can lead to electrolyte overflow.
Turn the key switch off to turn off everything on the cart, and depending on your cart, you’ll have either a Run/Tow switch or a Run/Maintenance switch. Flip this switch to “tow” or “maintenance” in order to reduce battery discharge and fire risks. Finally, disconnect the main positive and negative connections – it’s recommended to tape the connections together in order to not forget where they go.
You’ll want to periodically check in on your charge and water levels – especially in warmer climates, the water levels can slowly decrease due to evaporation, and batteries will self-discharge when left unused for extended periods of time. It’s recommended to return to your cart every 2-4 weeks and check these levels – fully recharge and refill the batteries as needed.
Tire Checks
Before putting the golf cart in storage, you’ll want to inflate your tires as high as possible without over inflating them. When the cart is stationary for long periods of time, the tires naturally deflate from the weight of the cart, possibly causing damage to the tires like flat spots. When checking in on the cart as recommended, inflate the tires every two weeks and move the cart slightly, applying pressure to a different part of the tire.
Another option is storing the golf cart off the ground – raise the cart up onto jack stands, which will take pressure off the tires and ensure that no flat spots will form.
General Cleaning
Even in the best storage, moisture will still be produced. Inspect your cart to make sure there are no rust spots, and if there are, cover them with fresh paint. Rust spots can increase from moisture in the air if left untreated, and any other markings will also worsen with extreme temperatures. Be sure to remove any crumbs that may be on the seats, as they can grow and harbor bacteria in the time the cart is stored, and make sure to clean the flooring and upholstery to prevent any possible molding. Remove any rugs or carpets, cut and polish any scratches, and replace spark plugs if needed. Other things to clean include any dirt or grime, bird or other animal droppings, mirrors, fuel, air, and oil filters, and cables and connectors.
Storage
An important tip to remember is to leave the cart in neutral when storing it, and if storing it on the ground, keep it on a level surface and surround the wheels with bricks or other heavy objects to keep it from rolling. Do not keep the parking brake engaged – this can damage the cart.
Most golf carts will fit in a 10×10 enclosed space – placing the golf cart inside is critical and will prevent any damage that could be caused by harsh weather and below freezing or exceedingly high temperatures. A garage is a good option, although it can take up space that may be needed for cars, so storing it in a small shed is another ideal choice.
Even though the cart is inside, always use a protective cover to keep dust and dirt off the cart. If you don’t have a cover specifically for golf carts, a large canvas cloth will suffice – the most important thing is simply making sure the cart is covered.
Even when not in use, your golf cart still needs periodic maintenance, so it’s important to follow these steps to ensure that you prepare your golf cart for long-term self storage properly. When your cart is prepared for storage and regularly checked in on it’ll still be in top condition when it comes time to use it again.