Hurricane Helene 2024: Move your golf cart indoors or elevate it, and secure critical parts to protect against water damage.

[Michael Eddie]

Whether you have a gas or electric cart, the goal is to prevent water damage as much as possible, or at the very least, minimize the damage if flooding becomes inevitable. The first thing to understand is that both gas and electric carts have sensitive parts that don’t mix well with water.

For electric golf carts, your primary concern is the battery pack, motor, and controller. If possible, disconnect the main power cables from the battery pack starting with the main pack negative to prevent electrical shorts if the cart gets wet. Cover the battery terminals with plastic or a waterproof tarp to limit exposure. The motor, located under the cart, is especially vulnerable to water damage. Water can seep into the motor housing leading to corrosion and short circuits. A good practice is to elevate the cart or, better yet, move it to higher ground or indoors. If it can't be moved, jack up the cart or put it on blocks and cover the motor and any exposed electrical components with a waterproof covering to provide an extra layer of protection.

For gas golf carts, the engine and fuel system are your key concerns. Water in the fuel tank can lead to contamination and make the cart unusable. Cover the gas cap with a plastic bag secured with a rubber band to prevent water from entering. The carburetor and air intake should also be sealed off as water in these areas will stop the engine from running. Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues as gas carts rely on electric starters and other components.

Ultimately, the best solution is to move your cart indoors and to higher ground if at all possible. Elevating the cart or parking it on a trailer can help avoid water exposure in moderate flooding situations. However, if you anticipate severe flooding and the cart must remain outside, protecting the electrical and fuel systems with waterproof covers is the best you can do. For extra protection, consider removing critical components such as the controller and solenoid from the cart as these are expensive and prone to water damage.

To do this, first be sure to put the cart into tow mode if it’s an electric cart. This will disconnect the batteries from the controller and prevent electrical issues. Take photos of the wiring, especially around the battery pack, controller, and motor, so you have a reference for reassembly. Finally, label any critical wires or components before disconnecting them to make the reinstallation process easier after the storm passes.

Preparing for the worst like a potential flood could save you from major repairs or even needing to replace your cart altogether once the storm passes.

[Michael Eddie]

Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Helene. This is a difficult time for many, and our hearts are with those who have lost so much. In response to the disaster, Club Car has an important update for hurricane relief as part of their ongoing efforts to assist impacted communities.