How Can You Tow A Golf Cart On A Trailer: A Complete Guide

When using a golf cart, situations such as a dead battery, mechanical failure, or running out of fuel can often render it unable to move, making towing a necessary option. However, improper towing can easily damage the motor, drive system, and other components. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the safety steps and equipment selection for towing, helping you to tow safely.

Why Do You Need to Tow a Golf Cart?

During the use of a golf cart, you may encounter various situations where towing is necessary. For example, a dead battery, which is common after prolonged use, can cause the cart to lose power instantly. Mechanical failures, such as transmission system jams or motor malfunctions, can render the cart completely inoperable. Or the fuel may run out, causing the fuel-powered cart to stop immediately. In such cases, towing is often the best option to move the non-functional cart to a safe location or repair shop. Properly towing a golf cart is crucial because it must be done correctly; otherwise, it can easily damage the cart’s components, especially the motor and drive system. Therefore, mastering the correct towing method is essential.

4 Easy Steps for Towing a Golf Cart Safely

Towing a golf cart may seem simple, but to avoid damage, there are some key precautions to follow. Here are the steps to follow when towing a golf cart:

Choose the Right Towing Equipment

The first step in towing a golf cart is selecting the appropriate equipment. Most people use a flatbed trailer or towing dolly to move the cart. These devices keep the golf cart’s wheels off the ground, helping to prevent unnecessary wear on the tires and drive train. For short-distance towing, you can also use a tow bar, connecting it to the front of the golf cart and your towing vehicle. However, it is essential to use high-quality, durable straps and tow hooks to ensure safe towing.

Put the Golf Cart in Tow Mode

Before towing a golf cart, it must be switched to tow mode to disconnect the drive system. Otherwise, it may damage the motor, controller, or other critical components. To switch the golf cart to tow mode, follow these steps: First, turn off the golf cart and ensure it is completely powered down. Next, locate the towing switch, which is typically found beneath the seat or near the battery compartment. This switch is specifically designed to disconnect the motor drive system. Then, flip the switch from “Run” mode to “Tow” mode, preventing motor damage during towing. Finally, confirm that the cart is in tow mode by pushing it gently with your hand. If it moves easily, the cart is in tow mode and ready for transport.

Tow the Golf Cart Carefully

After switching the cart to tow mode, connect it to the towing vehicle and start towing slowly. Drive carefully and avoid sharp turns, as these can put stress on the towing system. Ensure the golf cart is securely fastened and will not shift during transport. If using a flatbed trailer, secure the cart with straps or tie-downs to prevent movement. For short-distance towing, use a tow bar and drive at a moderate speed to avoid unnecessary stress.

Avoid Towing at High Speeds

Never tow a golf cart at high speeds. At high speeds, the force exerted on the towing device increases dramatically, which can easily cause the straps to loosen and the tow hook to deform. Keep your speed below 15 mph to minimize shaking between the cart and the tow vehicle and reduce the risk of damage to the cart or tow vehicle. The purpose of towing is to move the cart safely and smoothly, not to put stress on the drive system or other components, especially when traveling over rough terrain. Driving at low speeds effectively prevents cart components from being damaged by severe vibrations.

What Is the Best Trailer Size for Towing Golf Carts

For standard golf carts, a practical trailer of approximately 5 to 10 feet in length is sufficient. Based on experience, a 5 to 10-foot trailer is the optimal size for towing standard golf carts. If using a smaller trailer, remember to load the cart in reverse, ensuring the rear seat foot area extends to the front of the trailer. If loading the cart into a truck bed, position the cart facing the direction of the towing vehicle, then fold down the windshield and secure it with a rope. Before considering hiring a tow truck, be sure to measure the golf cart’s dimensions and weight.

What Happens if You Tow a Golf Cart in Run Mode

If you are unfamiliar with the tow run switch, towing a golf cart in run mode is extremely dangerous. While towing the cart in run mode may reduce manual labor by avoiding the need to push the cart onto the truck bed, this is only safe if you understand the tow run switch. These switches are also known as towing maintenance switches, and most new models of golf carts are equipped with them. Some golf carts with independent motors may have these switches built-in. These switches help enable regenerative braking and can be found in the battery compartment.

For carts with independent motors and their corresponding controllers, these towing switches are particularly useful. The controller has a logic memory function, similar to the logic memory in a car stereo, meaning it continues to consume a small amount of power even when the golf cart is not in use. Once the switch is activated, you can easily tow the golf cart onto a trailer or truck bed without causing any damage to the vehicle.

How to Tow a Golf Cart with a Roof

If your golf cart has a roof, you may be concerned about speed during towing. However, there is no need to worry about speed. Instead, you can secure the roof with straps. If you are still concerned about roof safety, towing at 60 or 70 miles per hour will not cause any issues. As long as the roof is securely fastened with straps, there is no need for concern. The only thing to watch out for is the windshield, which may shatter during towing, so it is recommended to remove the windshield before towing.

Additional Tips for Towing a Golf Cart

Check Tire Pressure

Before towing, ensure the golf cart’s tire pressure is normal. Insufficient tire pressure can cause dragging or unstable towing, increase the likelihood of tire wear, and even affect the trailer’s balance. Use a tire pressure gauge to check and adjust according to the standard pressure specified in the golf cart’s manual. After towing, it is also recommended to check the tire pressure again to ensure it is in good condition for future use.

Long-Distance Towing Using a Towing Cart

If you need to tow a golf cart over a long distance, it is best to use a towing cart or flatbed trailer. This keeps the cart’s wheels off the ground, preventing wear and tear from prolonged contact with the surface, and also reduces the impact of road bumps on the cart’s internal components. Before departure, conduct a thorough inspection of the tow cart or flatbed trailer, including brakes, lights, and other components, to ensure they are functioning properly. During the journey, stop periodically to check the securing of the golf cart and the condition of the trailer.

Battery Inspection

If the golf cart’s battery is dead, disconnect the battery before towing to prevent damage to the electrical system. For batteries with power, also check the battery’s secure mounting to prevent loosening or leakage due to vibrations during towing. Additionally, ensure that the battery terminals have not oxidized; if oxidation is present, clean them before towing. Upon arrival at the destination, reconnect the battery promptly and verify that it is functioning properly.

Pay Attention to Weather and Road Conditions

When towing, monitor weather conditions and avoid towing during severe weather such as heavy rain, strong winds, or dense fog. Heavy rain may cause slippery roads, affecting driving safety, and may also allow water to enter the golf cart’s interior. Strong winds may disrupt the stability of the tow. Dense fog reduces visibility and increases the risk of traffic accidents. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the road conditions along the route in advance, avoid rugged or uneven roads, and choose flat, open routes to minimize damage to the golf cart from vibrations.

What Is The Cost Of Towing A Golf Cart From Professionals?

Towing a golf cart is not a task everyone can handle. Towing requires specialized equipment and knowledge to ensure the safety of both the driver and the vehicle. Therefore, it is recommended to seek professional towing services, such as specialized golf cart and accessory towing services. The cost of having professionals tow a golf cart may vary depending on factors such as distance, type of towing vehicle, and the provider’s level of expertise. Generally, towing service fees range from $50 to $150.

Properly towing a golf cart requires following the correct steps, selecting appropriate equipment, and implementing necessary precautions. This not only prevents damage to the cart but also ensures the safety of the towing process. When you lack the necessary equipment and experience, it is more reliable to seek professional assistance. Professional towing services can ensure the safe and proper towing of golf carts using their specialized equipment and expertise.