How Fast Can a Golf Cart Go Without a Governor

Golf carts are designed for safety and efficiency, with speed limits set by the manufacturer to prevent accidents and damage to the vehicle. Typically, without a governor, a golf cart can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. However, we strongly advise against removing or tampering with the speed limiter, as this can result in dangerous situations and potential damage to the cart. In this article, we’ll discuss how fast a golf cart can go without a governor, how to disable the speed limiter, and whether it’s safe to remove the governor altogether.

How Fast Can a Golf Cart Go Without a Governor?

Typically, a golf cart equipped with a governor (a speed limiter) is restricted to a maximum speed of about 15-25 miles per hour, depending on the model and whether it’s electric or gas-powered. However, if you were to remove the governor, a golf cart could theoretically reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour or more. While this may sound appealing to some, it's important to recognize the risks associated with removing or disabling the governor.

Why Would You Remove the Governor?

Some golf cart owners may want to increase their cart’s speed for various reasons, including the desire for faster performance on the course or to use it on roads where higher speeds are permitted. While removing the governor can achieve this result, it’s important to remember that golf carts are not designed to travel at these higher speeds. The components of the cart, including the tires, suspension, and frame, may not be built to handle speeds above the factory limit, leading to potential safety hazards.

How Do I Turn Off the Speed Limiter on My Golf Cart?

Turning off or disabling the speed limiter on a golf cart is not something that should be done lightly, and it’s important to understand the potential consequences. However, for informational purposes, here’s a general overview of how some owners might attempt to disable the speed limiter:

• Locate the Governor: On most golf carts, the governor is typically found on the engine or the rear axle of the cart. The governor regulates the speed by controlling the flow of fuel or limiting the engine’s RPM (revolutions per minute).
• Remove the Governor Components: Depending on the model, owners may attempt to remove or adjust the governor components. This can include disconnecting the throttle linkage or adjusting the spring that limits the throttle opening.
• Reprogram the Controller (Electric Carts): For electric carts, the speed limiter is often controlled by the motor controller, which can be reprogrammed or modified to increase speed. However, this requires specialized knowledge and tools.

It's important to note that modifying your golf cart in this way can void the warranty, cause premature wear and tear on the vehicle, and create serious safety risks. Always consult with a professional if you’re considering making changes to the speed limiter on your golf cart.

Is It Bad to Take the Governor Off a Golf Cart?

While it may seem tempting to remove the governor to achieve higher speeds, doing so can be detrimental to your golf cart’s performance and safety. Here’s why:

• Increased Wear and Tear: Golf carts are designed to run at specific speeds, and the components of the cart, including the motor, brakes, and suspension, are optimized for these speeds. By removing the governor, you could cause undue stress on these components, leading to faster wear and tear and potential failures.
• Safety Hazards: Golf carts are not designed for high-speed travel, and removing the speed limiter could result in accidents. The cart’s tires, suspension, and frame may not be capable of handling speeds higher than the factory limit, increasing the risk of tipping over, losing control, or damaging the cart.
• Legal Issues: In some areas, golf carts are only allowed to operate within specific speed limits, and removing the governor could make your cart illegal for use on certain roads or in certain locations. Always check local regulations before making modifications to your golf cart.
• Increased Fuel Consumption: When you remove the governor, the cart’s motor may consume more fuel or electricity to achieve higher speeds. This can lead to higher operating costs, particularly for electric carts that may drain their batteries more quickly.

For these reasons, it’s generally advisable to keep the governor intact and operate your golf cart within the speed limits set by the manufacturer. This ensures your safety, preserves the longevity of the cart, and prevents unnecessary repairs.

Alternatives to Removing the Governor

If you’re looking for a faster golf cart, there are safer alternatives to removing the governor:

• Upgrade the Motor: One way to increase the speed of your golf cart without compromising safety is by upgrading the motor. Many golf cart manufacturers offer high-speed motors designed for better performance without removing the governor.
• Install a Higher Voltage System (Electric Carts): For electric carts, upgrading to a higher voltage system (such as a 48V system) can provide more power and increase speed. This can be done while keeping the governor intact.
• Choose a Performance Cart: If you need a faster golf cart, consider purchasing a performance model from a manufacturer. These carts are specifically designed to handle higher speeds and come with the necessary modifications to ensure safe operation at those speeds.

Conclusion

While it’s possible to disable or remove the speed limiter on a golf cart to achieve higher speeds, doing so is not recommended due to the risks and potential damage to the cart. A typical golf cart without a governor can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, but this can strain the vehicle and compromise safety. If you’re seeking more speed, consider upgrading your cart’s motor, electrical system, or purchasing a high-performance model designed for higher speeds.