Identifying the engine in your E-Z-GO golf cart is essential for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. Knowing the engine model and size helps you understand the cart’s performance and ensures you select the right parts. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to identify the engine in your E-Z-GO golf cart, including key engine types, their sizes, and how to cross-reference with your cart’s serial number for precise information.
Steps to Identify Your E-Z-GO Golf Cart Engine
Identifying the engine in your E-Z-GO golf cart can be done by locating the engine identification tag or plate, which provides the most accurate information about the engine type and size. If the tag is missing or unreadable, you can use the cart's serial number to determine the engine model. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Locate the Engine Identification Tag
The first step is to locate the identification tag or plate on the engine block itself. This metal tag will have details about the engine, such as its type, model number, and size. Depending on the engine, this tag might be in different locations on the engine block:
- Robin Engines: For older E-Z-GO golf carts with Robin engines, the identification tag is typically located at the bottom of the engine block. This is a metal plate that will list the engine’s model number and size.
- Kawasaki Engines: For E-Z-GO carts with Kawasaki engines, the identification tag may be placed on the cam belt cover or another accessible part of the engine block. Look for a sticker or metal plate that contains the engine specifications.
- E-Z-GO EX1® Engine: For more modern E-Z-GO carts, especially those using the EX1® engine, the identification tag can be located near the engine components, such as the side of the engine block or along the frame. The EX1® is a purpose-built engine designed specifically for golf carts.
2. Read the Tag for the Model and Size
Once you’ve located the engine identification tag, you’ll need to read the information provided. The tag will typically list the engine type and displacement. The engine displacement is the engine’s size and is usually indicated in cubic centimeters (cc). Here are some common sizes for E-Z-GO golf carts:
- Robin Engines: E-Z-GO carts from earlier years often have Robin engines, with displacement sizes such as 295cc and 350cc.
- Kawasaki Engines: More recent models may feature Kawasaki engines, including sizes such as 401cc or 150cc, depending on the specific model and year.
- E-Z-GO EX1® Engine: The modern E-Z-GO EX1® engine is known for its quiet operation and fuel efficiency, often used in newer carts for both gas and electric models.
3. Note the Cart's Serial Number and Model Year
If the engine identification tag is missing or unreadable, don’t worry. You can still determine the engine model by referencing your E-Z-GO cart's serial number. The serial number is typically located under the seat or on the steering column, depending on the model year of your cart.
Write down the serial number and model year, as this information can help you identify the engine type and size. Once you have the serial number, you can cross-reference it with E-Z-GO’s engine specifications to determine which engine was standard for your cart’s model year.
4. Cross-Reference with E-Z-GO Specifications
After obtaining the serial number and model year, visit E-Z-GO's website or consult a parts supplier to find the engine specifications for your specific model. E-Z-GO provides detailed information about the standard engine options for each cart model, so you can easily match the serial number and model year with the corresponding engine.
If you are unable to find the information online, you can also contact your local E-Z-GO dealer. They should be able to assist you in determining the correct engine type and size based on your cart’s serial number and year.
Common E-Z-GO Golf Cart Engines
E-Z-GO has used several types of engines in their golf carts over the years. Here are some of the most common engines found in E-Z-GO carts:
- Robin Engines: E-Z-GO used Robin engines extensively in their older models. The 295cc and 350cc Robin engines are common in carts from the late 1980s and 1990s.
- Kawasaki Engines: From the late 1990s onward, E-Z-GO began using Kawasaki engines in many of their carts. Models like the 401cc and 150cc Kawasaki engines are commonly found in these carts. Kawasaki engines are known for their reliability and efficient performance.
- E-Z-GO EX1® Engine: The EX1® engine is a newer development in E-Z-GO’s engine line-up. It is a purpose-built engine designed for golf carts, offering excellent fuel efficiency, quieter operation, and improved overall performance. This engine is often used in newer carts and is widely praised for its environmental benefits.
What Years Did E-Z-GO Use the Robin Engine?
E-Z-GO used the Robin engine in many of their golf carts from the late 1980s through the 1990s. The Robin 295cc and 350cc engines were common in these years. These engines were known for their reliability, but they were eventually phased out in favor of more modern engines, such as those made by Kawasaki and the EX1® engine.
What Years Did E-Z-GO Use Kawasaki Engines?
E-Z-GO began using Kawasaki engines in their golf carts in the late 1990s. The 401cc and 150cc Kawasaki engines became standard in many of the company’s newer models. These engines are still widely used in E-Z-GO carts today due to their high reliability, fuel efficiency, and performance.
Conclusion
Identifying the engine in your E-Z-GO golf cart is crucial for maintenance, repairs, and performance upgrades. By locating the engine identification tag, reading the model and size, and cross-referencing the serial number, you can easily determine the engine type and size. Whether your cart has a Robin engine, a Kawasaki engine, or the newer EX1® engine, each has unique advantages and characteristics.