Installing a 2-inch lift on your EZ-GO boosts ground clearance, tire options, and comfort. Use this step-by-step guide to plan, tool up, and finish safely with confidence.
A 2-inch lift kit is a popular upgrade for an EZ-GO because it adds clearance for uneven paths and slightly taller tires without radically changing handling. The exact process depends on the lift format—either spindle lift (new extended spindles up front) or block/riser lift (spacer blocks and brackets between leaf springs and axle). In both cases, you’ll support the chassis, swap front components, add rear risers above the axle, and realign the front end. If you use your golf cart for daily runs or weekend errands, this modest lift strikes a great balance of stance and stability.
What tools are needed to install a 2-inch lift kit on an EZ-GO golf cart?
- Floor jack (low-profile preferred) and 2 sturdy jack stands
- Socket set (metric/SAE), open-end wrenches, and torque wrench
- Breaker bar (for stubborn U-bolts and hub nuts)
- Pry bar or large screwdriver (to help position leaf springs)
- Rubber mallet (seating spindles/blocks without marring)
- Needle-nose pliers (cotter pins, brake spring clips)
- Allen/hex keys (if your kit uses set screws)
- Anti-seize compound and medium threadlocker (where specified)
- Grease (for kingpins/spindle bushings, if applicable)
- Wheel chocks, eye protection, and mechanic’s gloves
Lift kit types (know what you have)
- Spindle lift (front): Replaces stock spindles with taller, re-indexed units. Minimal disassembly—no A-arms—while correcting steering arm location for geometry.
- Block/riser lift (front & rear): Inserts 2″ blocks between the leaf spring and axle pad using longer U-bolts and plates. Simple, economical, very common at 2″ height.
Safety & prep
Work on level ground. Chock the opposite end, set the parking brake, then release it only when instructed during spring/brake work. Loosen lug nuts slightly before lifting. Support the frame with jack stands—never rely on a jack alone.
What steps are involved in installing a lift kit on an EZ-GO golf cart?
Front axle — spindle-style kit
- Lift & support: Raise the front, place stands under the frame rails, and remove both front wheels.
- Disconnect tie rods & hubs: Pull cotter pins and castle nuts, separate tie-rod ends from the spindle arms with a gentle tap. Remove hub/kingpin hardware as your model requires.
- Swap spindles: Transfer the hub/steering hardware to the new extended spindles. Grease bushings/kingpins as you assemble. Install spindles on the axle, aligning steering arms per kit instructions. Apply threadlocker where specified and torque to spec.
- Reconnect tie rods: Seat the tapers, install castle nuts, and add fresh cotter pins. Ensure equal thread engagement on both tie rods so toe adjustment remains centered.
- Reinstall wheels: Hand-tighten lug nuts for now.
Front axle — block/riser kit
- Support the axle: With the front raised and wheels off, place a small jack or block under the axle tube to control height.
- Loosen U-bolts: Remove the U-bolts and spring plate from one side. Keep fingers clear—springs can shift.
- Insert the 2″ block: Ensure the spring’s centering pin locates in the block, and the block’s locating nub seats in the axle pad.
- Install longer U-bolts: Fit the new plate and U-bolts; snug evenly in a cross pattern, then torque to the kit’s spec. Repeat on the other side.
- Reinstall wheels: Hand-tighten lug nuts for now.
Rear axle — block/riser kit
- Lift & support the rear: Chock the front, raise the rear, place stands under the frame, and remove wheels.
- Release spring clamps: Support the axle with a jack. Remove rear U-bolts and the spring plate on one side.
- Add the 2″ block: Align spring pin to block and block nub to the axle pad. Keep the leaf stack centered.
- Install longer U-bolts: Snug in a cross pattern; torque gradually to spec so the block seats flat. Repeat on the other side.
- Final assembly: Reinstall wheels; lower the cart to the ground.
Alignment & torque (don’t skip)
- Torque values: Follow the kit’s chart. As a general habit, tighten U-bolts incrementally, alternating side to side, then re-torque after the first short drive.
- Front toe: For most EZ-GO setups, a slight toe-in (about 1/16″–1/8″ total) helps stability. Center the steering wheel, adjust tie rods equally, and verify the wheel stays straight on a test roll.
- Lug nuts: Torque in a star pattern with the cart on the ground.
Post-install checks
- Cycle the suspension by bouncing each corner; listen for clunks that indicate a loose plate or mis-seated block.
- Verify brake cable routing and free wheel rotation—no rubbing after the lift.
- After your first hour of use, re-torque U-bolts, spindle/kingpin hardware, and lug nuts.
Why choose a 2″ kit?
Two inches delivers real clearance and room for modestly taller tires while keeping geometry close to stock for predictable manners. It’s a great first modification before exploring wheels/tires or performance upgrades.
Quick FAQ
Do I need longer brake cables? Not for a typical 2″ lift, but ensure cables aren’t taut at full droop.
Will I need a camber kit? Spindle kits usually maintain camber; if you notice uneven tire wear, have the front end professionally checked.
Can I do this in a driveway? Yes—use solid jack stands, work methodically, and follow torque specs. Plan 2–3 hours for a first-time install.
Bottom line
To install a 2″ lift on an EZ-GO, lift and support the cart, remove the front wheels, then either replace the front spindles or add riser blocks depending on kit type. In back, set riser blocks on the axle, re-secure the leaf springs with longer U-bolts, then reinstall wheels. Finish with a careful alignment and a re-torque after your shakedown drive. Done right, you’ll enjoy extra clearance and a leveled, confident stance on your upgraded golf cart.