I get it–you love your golf cart. It’s small, efficient, and gets the job done without much fuss, but in all honesty, it could use a little more power. So, can you slap a snowmobile engine in a golf cart to give it more oomph?
You can put a snowmobile engine in your golf cart, but it’s not as simple as bolting it in. You’ll need to adjust the drivetrain, suspension, and brakes to get it all working together. If you are feeling adventurous, you could probably finish the project in a few weekends.
This article will give you a few tips on what you need to do to make the swap. But first, let’s look at why you might want to do this in the first place.
Reasons To Swap a Golf Cart Engine for a Snowmobile Engine
One of the main reasons people put snowmobile engines in golf carts is for more power. Snowmobiles are designed to go fast and handle lots of snow, so they need a lot of power to do their job.
You can typically find snowmobiles with engines that range from 250cc to 800cc, while a golf cart typically has an engine that is around 150cc to 300cc. That’s quite a difference in power!
Snowmobile engines are also more reliable than your average golf cart motor. The motors in snowmobile engines are designed to run in cold weather and handle abuse. So if you live in an area with harsh winters, a snowmobile engine might be a good option.
On the other hand, the average golf motor is designed for milder weather and occasional use. It’s not as tough as a snowmobile engine and might not last as long in harsh conditions.
You’ll also get more endurance with a snowmobile engine. Golf carts typically have a maximum speed of around 15 mph (24 kmph), while snowmobiles can go faster. So if you’re looking to zip around the neighborhood or get to your hunting blind a little quicker, a snowmobile engine might be the way to go.
What You Need To Swap a Golf Cart Engine With a Snowmobile Engine
Now that we’ve looked at some of the reasons you might want to swap your golf cart motor for a snowmobile engine, let’s look at what you need to do the swap.
First, you’ll need to remove the golf cart engine. This is a fairly straightforward process that only requires a few basic tools.
Things begin to get tricky when it comes to installing the new snowmobile engine. You’ll have to align the engine with the drivetrain and make sure the parts are mounted properly. This YouTube video breaks down some of the beginning steps.
You might also need to modify the suspension and brakes to accommodate the new engine. This is especially true if you increase the power by a significant amount (think 500cc or more).
Things To Consider Before Swapping a Golf Cart Engine for a Snowmobile Engine
Before you swap your golf cart engine, there are a few things you need to consider.
- Make sure your golf cart can handle the extra power. Older or previously damaged golf carts might not be able to handle a more powerful engine without significant modifications.
- Cost of the swap. A new snowmobile engine can cost several thousand dollars. Be prepared to make that kind of investment.
- Time constraints. This is not a quick or simple process. You’ll need to dedicate several weekends to get the job done right.
- Your local laws and regulations. Some states and municipalities have laws that regulate the maximum speed of golf carts. Make sure you check your local laws before the swap.
- Roll cage or no roll cage. If you’re increasing the power of your golf cart significantly, you might want to consider adding a roll cage. This will help protect you in case of an accident.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you should be ready to make the swap. It can be a fun project if you have the time, money, and skills. It might even come in handy during the winter months!
Choosing the Right Snowmobile Engine for Your Golf Cart
You need to consider a few things when choosing a snowmobile engine for your golf cart. Here are the top three considerations:
Power of the Motor
The power you need will depend on how you plan to use your golf cart. If you want to ride it around the neighborhood, a 250cc motor can get the job done. But if you’re planning to use your golf cart for off-roading or hauling heavy loads, you’ll need a 750cc or bigger motor.
Weight of the Motor
Heavier engines will require firmer suspension and brakes. So if you’re not planning to make any other modifications to your golf cart, you might want to choose a smaller engine. An engine that is too heavy for the golf cart body could be dangerous and may ultimately slow down the vehicle.
Cost of the Engine
Snowmobile engines can be expensive. You need to decide how much you’re willing to spend on your project. If you are looking for an averagely powered ride, a 400cc motor might be good. But if you want a more powerful engine, you’ll need to be prepared to spend the money.
The bottom line is that there is no right or wrong answer when choosing a snowmobile engine for your golf cart. It all depends on your specific needs and preferences. Just take your time and choose the motor that’s right for you.
Some Safety Considerations When Installing a Snowmobile Engine
As with any modification, there are always risks involved. So you need to be aware of the potential dangers before you begin.
- One of the biggest risks is fire. Whenever you’re working with gasoline, there’s always a fire risk. Make sure you take all the necessary precautions. Keep a fire extinguisher handy, and don’t smoke while working.
- Injury is also on the menu. This is a fairly involved project, so there’s a chance you could injure yourself while working. Be careful when using power tools, and don’t take any shortcuts.
Final Thoughts
Putting a snowmobile engine in a golf cart is not a project for the faint of heart. It’s a big job, and it’s not something you should rush into. But if you’re prepared to put in the time and effort, it can be a fun and rewarding project. Just make sure you do your research and take all the necessary safety precautions.
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