2006 G22 Bumpy Ride

[06G22]

Just installed a Jake's 3" spindle lift kit, new 22" tires on 10" rims and cart ride is terrible. Checked and set toe out to 1/4- 1/8", still a rough ride like something's out of alignment. What's my next steps in trying to figure this out?

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[golfcartg]

With spindle lifts the lift primarily raises the cart without changing the structure or geometry much, but even small misalignments can add up especially with larger tires and new rims. One common issue after installing is a change in the steering geometry which can cause a rough or unstable ride. In contrast, more complex A-arm lifts tend to require adjustments to camber and can throw off a broader range of angles due to the way they alter the suspension more deeply. But here, let’s focus on checking and refining your spindle lift’s alignment.

You’ll want to check that your toe angle is set just right. It sounds like you’ve adjusted the toe out to be around 1/8" to 1/4", which is a good place to start, but there are a few extra details to confirm. The best way to check this with a tape measure and some chalk, or even string. Start by marking the centerline of each tire, both front and back, and measuring the distance between these lines at the front and rear of the tires. Adjusting the toe further to a setting closer to 1/8" can sometimes help reduce bumpiness with larger tires as it keeps them more directly in line at higher speeds. Make sure your steering wheel is centered before making adjustments, as a misaligned steering wheel can also add to that feeling of “rough” or uneven riding.

Take a close look at your tie rods and the spindle bolts. Spindle lift installs can occasionally lead to these parts loosening slightly over time, which can give you that sense of “wobble” or roughness in the ride. With larger tires and rims, these parts take on more strain, so double check they’re snug and properly secured. Even small adjustments to your spindle bolts can improve stability and smooth out your ride significantly. A simple wrench or socket should be enough to tighten these, though always be cautious not to overtighten..

Check for tire pressure. Larger 22” tires should generally run at a lower PSI than the stock tires, usually around 12-15 PSI, depending on the tire and your preferred feel. Sometimes, the stiffer feel from oversized tires can actually stem from having them inflated too much which makes the ride harsher over rougher ground.

Gently push down on the front of the cart and see how the suspension reacts. If it feels overly stiff or doesn’t return smoothly, you might benefit from checking the shocks to confirm they’re still moving freely. When all the components are aligned and tightened correctly, your cart should feel steady and balanced.

Camber Angle Check

The camber angle is the tilt of the wheels when viewed from the front of the cart. Ideally, the tops of the tires should sit slightly inward. If the tires are tilted too far in or out, this can create roughness and uneven wear. Use a small carpenter’s level held vertically against the outer edge of each front tire. If you see any significant tilt, you might need to shim or adjust the spindle mounting bolts slightly (some kits have camber adjustment bolts for this purpose), or even add washers to achieve a more balanced stance. An even camber angle will distribute weight better improving stability and reducing that rough ride sensation.

Caster Angle Check

The caster angle AKA the forward or backward tilt of the spindle mounting, can affect steering stability of handling. Ideally, the spindle should have a slight tilt toward the rear at the top as this provides smoother more predictable steering. Most spindle lifts don’t come with an adjustable caster, but you can modify it slightly by adjusting the position of your front shocks and bolts. Creating the right caster angle will help your tires track more smoothly over bumps and ruts.

Don't forget to check the steering rack and tie rod ends for play or looseness. Grab each wheel while up on the jack and check for any wiggle or slack, if there’s movement, tightening them up or replacing them can make a big difference in how the cart handles. Solid tie rod ends will reduce "slop" in the steering and making the cart feel more responsive.