How to Lift A Golf Cart Without a Kit: DIY Golf Cart Tip

Last Updated on March 19, 2024 by Chuck Wilson

To lift a golf cart without a lift kit can be quite an adventure! This way, you can use different cool ideas instead of the regular lifting kit. One idea is to put on bigger tires, or you could tweak the suspension, or even add some space makers. The best part about these steps is that they don’t cost a lot. Plus, they let you personalize your golf cart in ways that regular kits might not.

But remember, you need to be super careful about your golf cart’s details to make sure it’s safe and works right. We’re going to learn more about these changes. Pretty soon, you’ll see that making your golf cart taller and ready for any kind of ground is a mix of being creative and knowing how stuff works. This will make you see lifting in a whole new way.

Key Takeaways

• Use quality suspension components for safe and effective height increase without a lift kit.
• Prepare a stable workspace and gather essential tools for safe lifting and modification.
• Follow safety protocols, such as using jack stands and engaging the parking brake, to prevent accidents.
• Conduct post-lift checks and adjustments to ensure the golf cart’s performance and safety are maintained.

The Suspension’s Role To Lift a Golf Cart

The golf cart’s suspension system provides a smooth journey. This system, which connects the vehicle to its wheels, is the key to stability and control. It is made of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages, which together take on the bumps and shocks of the road. This makes sure the tires stay grounded, leading to a comfy ride. Various types of suspension systems exist, such as independent front suspension, solid axle suspension, and coil-over shocks. Each has its own advantages.

A lift on a golf cart modifies the suspension, which can elevate ground clearance. This lets the golf cart navigate larger obstacles without any collisions. But lifting a golf cart needs careful handling as it can change the way the golf cart operates and could potentially compromise safety. Hence, safety measures need to be followed while lifting a golf cart.

A thoughtful lift can enhance performance and make the golf cart suited for off-road use. It’s essential to comprehend how the suspension works to make sure the lift is safe and productive. This understanding is the key to maximizing the benefits of a lifted golf cart.

Necessary Tools and Materials

Raising a golf cart in a DIY fashion necessitates the gathering of several essential tools and materials. The aim is to elevate both the front and rear of the cart while ensuring its safety and structural integrity. Having the right equipment ready is pivotal for a successful project.

Here’s a list to consider for achieving that:

1. A floor jack or hydraulic jack: For safely lifting the golf cart.
2. Jack stands: To securely support the lifted front and rear ends.
3. A wrench or ratchet set: Needed for loosening and tightening bolts.
4. A socket set: Essential for removing and installing various components.

Adjustable wrenches are key tools for modifying parts that might not match the standard sizes in your socket set. Don’t forget about a measuring tape, it’s absolutely necessary if you want to ensure your lift height is hit right on target. When you can use these tools the right way, your DIY lift project becomes a smooth, precise, and safe operation.

Becoming a pro at using these tools means your golf cart lift will be done right. This not only boosts its performance but also spruces up its looks.

Preparing Your Workspace

Preparing your workspace to be steady and flat is a requirement for getting ready to elevate your golf cart.

This is important for accuracy and safety while you’re hoisting the cart. Choose a level area where the cart can sit securely. A bumpy or slanted surface could make the cart wobbly, which is risky during a lift. Once you’ve parked the cart, make sure to lock the parking brake tightly. This will stop any accidental movement, making your workspace safe.

Now, it’s time to collect the tools you’ll need, such as a jack and jack stands. You’ll use these to lift and hold the cart in place. Don’t forget a tape measure! You’ll use this to check the golf cart’s height before you lift it and again after. This way, you can make sure you’ve lifted it to the height you wanted.

Safety Measures and Precautions

The first and foremost thing to remember is that safety is paramount. You don’t need a kit to do this, but it’s vital to avoid mishaps and not breach the warranty. Here’s how to do it right.

1. Begin by engaging the parking brake. This ensures your golf cart stays put, creating a safe environment to work.
2. Next, find a level surface for the operation. Stability is the name of the game when it comes to lifting anything, and golf carts are no exception.
3. You will need the right equipment for the job. A basic floor jack or a hydraulic jack should suffice. These are designed for lifting, and will securely raise both the front and rear ends of your golf cart.
4. Raise the front of the golf cart first.
5. Put jack stands under your lifted golf cart. This is an essential step to prevent the cart from falling unintentionally, which could cause injury to you or damage to the golf cart.
6. Repeat this for the back of the golf cart.

Removing the Wheels

Removing the wheels starts by loosening the lug nuts on your golf cart using a wrench or a socket set. This is a vital step if you’re planning to elevate your golf cart. Even though it’s a simple task, it still requires careful attention to avoid any mishaps.

After loosening the lug nuts, it’s vital to ensure your cart is safely supported on jack stands. The importance of this safety step can’t be overstressed since it prevents mishaps and guarantees stability while you’re working on removing the wheels.

With your golf cart securely on jack stands, you can go ahead and take off the lug nuts completely. Remember to keep an eye on all lug nuts and any other hardware because losing any part can make the reassembly process difficult. Once the lug nuts are off, you can gently pull the wheels off the axles. This will expose the axles and suspension parts, making it possible for you to inspect or modify them.

Having the wheels off also provides a chance to check them for any damage or signs of wear. Being proactive in this way helps avoid problems down the line and ensures your cart remains safe and lasts longer. Remember, raising a golf cart without a kit takes careful attention to each detail. It all starts with safely removing the wheels.

Modifying the Suspension

Modifying the suspension of a golf cart enhances ground clearance and ride quality without the need for a lift kit. This approach to a DIY golf cart lift offers a tailored solution for those seeking custom golf cart lifting. By carefully selecting and installing suspension upgrades, you can achieve increased ground clearance while ensuring the golf cart remains stable and comfortable over various terrains.

Install lift blocks or spacers
Getting the desired height for your vehicle can be achieved by putting lift blocks or spacers between the axle and the leaf spring or frame. These lift blocks are usually manufactured from metal or plastic materials and are available in a variety of sizes. Selecting the right lift blocks depends on how much you want to raise your vehicle and the amount of space you have available.

Some DIYers use a small section of I-Beam and drill bolt holes to attach between the frame and the body.

Or… You can Install longer shocks
To boost the performance of your golf cart’s suspension, you might want to think about fitting longer shocks. They would provide added stability and avert possible problems caused by the golf cart’s increased height.

What other ways can be used to lift a golf cart?

1. Heavy Duty Rear Coil Springs – These can help raise the rear end of your golf cart and improve its performance when carrying heavy loads.
2. A-Arm Lift Kits – These lift kits are designed to raise the entire body of your golf cart. They can come in a variety of sizes, usually between 3 to 6 inches.
3. Spindle Lift Kits – These are similar to A-Arm kits, but they raise the golf cart by extending the spindles on the front wheels. These are usually easier to install than A-Arm kits.
4. Drop Axle Lift Kits – These kits can give your golf cart a significant lift, often up to 6 inches. They work by dropping the axle of your golf cart, raising the body in the process.
5. Block Lift Kits – These are simple spacers that are placed on the shocks of your golf cart to give it a slight lift. They are usually the most affordable option, but they also give the smallest lift.
6. Long Travel Lift Kits – These kits can give your golf cart a significant lift and also improve its suspension, making it better suited for off-road use.
7. Larger Wheels – As long as the larger wheels don’t rub the wheel well or contact it when the cart jolts, you can raise the cart several inches this way.

Remember, when considering lifting your golf cart, it’s important to also consider the type of tires you’re using, as larger tires are usually necessary for lifted carts. Also, always be aware of the safety implications of lifting your golf cart, as a higher center of gravity can make the cart more prone to tipping.

When considering a suspension upgrade, keep in mind the following steps:

1. Research Compatible Suspension Components: Not all parts will fit every golf cart model. Ensure the chosen components are compatible.
2. Select Quality Parts: Opt for high-quality suspension parts to ensure longevity and reliability.
3. Understand the Installation Process: Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in installing your new suspension. This may include adjusting existing parts or installing new ones.
4. Test After Modification: Once the suspension has been modified, it’s crucial to test the golf cart to ensure everything is working as intended and to make any necessary adjustments.

Adjusting the Leaf Springs

Adjusting the leaf springs in a golf cart allows for changes in stiffness and height, enhancing stability and ground clearance. Leaf spring adjustment is a crucial step for those wanting to lift a golf cart without using a lifting kit. By increasing the stiffness through adding leaves, you can effectively lift the golf cart while maintaining ride quality. This process supports the golf cart’s stability, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.

Adjustment Type	Effect on Golf Cart	Benefit
Adding Leaves	Increases stiffness	Lifts the golf cart, enhances stability
Removing Leaves	Decreases stiffness	Lowers the golf cart, can improve comfort
Proper Adjustment	Balances stiffness	Maintains ride quality
No Adjustment	No change in stiffness	Might not meet lifting goals
Over Adjustment	Excessive stiffness	Could harm ride quality, reduce stability

Adjusting the leaf springs is a targeted approach to lift a golf cart. It requires precision to ensure that the increase in stiffness does not compromise the golf cart’s stability. By following a well-thought-out plan for leaf spring adjustment, enthusiasts can achieve a lifted appearance while preserving, or even enhancing, the golf cart’s ride quality.

Reassembling the Golf Cart

After lifting your golf cart, it’s crucial to carefully reassemble all parts, ensuring each is properly aligned and secured. This step is fundamental in maintaining the integrity of your golf cart’s performance and safety.

To ensure a successful reassembly, follow these essential steps:

1. Tighten all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications. This will prevent any loosening that could occur during operation.
2. Check the steering components for proper alignment. Misalignment can lead to handling issues and uneven tire wear.
3. Examine the suspension system carefully. A golf cart suspension upgrade requires precision to ensure it functions correctly and improves the cart’s off-road capabilities.
4. Use the correct tools, such as a drill and drill bits, for any adjustments or modifications. This ensures that the components fit perfectly and are securely attached.

It’s important to make sure that all modifications comply with legal considerations and do not void any warranty information. Taking these steps not only guarantees the safety and functionality of your golf cart but also preserves its value and longevity.

Post-Lift Checks and Adjustments

Once a golf cart is lifted, it’s crucial to conduct thorough checks and adjustments to ensure optimal performance and safety. First, focus on the golf cart alignment. This step ensures the wheels point straight, aiding in smooth, straight driving. Poor alignment can lead to difficult handling and uneven tire wear.

Next, adjust the steering system. The golf cart’s higher stance might alter how it handles. Making precise adjustments helps maintain control and responsiveness.

Bolt tightness verification is essential. After lifting, bolts can loosen. Check each one to prevent parts from coming loose, which could cause accidents.

A test drive post-lift is wise. Start slow, feeling for any instability or unusual handling. This trial run helps identify issues that need immediate attention.

Lastly, keep an eye on the suspension. The added height puts extra strain on these components. Watch for signs of wear or damage to prevent sudden failures.

Audio Transcript of This Article

Download A PDF of This Article