How to Wire Lights on a 48 Volt Golf Cart – Do It Like a Pro!

Why do we need to wire the lights on a 48-volt golf cart

It’s important to note that golf carts do not come equipped with lights, but if you plan to drive your cart on public roads, it is required by law to have headlights and taillights. Golf cart light kits are available in kit form and typically include everything you need to get the job done. It should not take more than a day to complete the installation.

However, even with instructions provided in the kit, not all users may have the necessary level of electrical knowledge to install the lights. In this case, it might be necessary to take a basic electrical class to gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete the installation properly.

In addition to the light kit, you will need tools as specified in the kit instructions to ensure that you have everything you need to install the lights on your golf cart. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and to make sure that all connections are secure and properly grounded to prevent any potential electrical hazards.

Let’s know in detail about the importance of having lights on 48-volt golf carts:

Adhering to State Laws

When it comes to driving a golf cart on public roads, it’s important to abide by state laws that require golf carts to have certain safety features such as headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. These laws are applicable in most states across the continental US.

While the installation of these features may seem like a job for a professional, it’s possible for those with basic knowledge of car maintenance to install them themselves with a few simple steps. By doing so, you can ensure that your golf cart is legal to drive on public roads.

Having a clear vision in the darkness

Driving a golf cart in the dark without proper lighting can be challenging and even dangerous. While streetlights may provide some illumination, they do not cover every corner, leaving drivers vulnerable to accidents or collisions with obstacles such as passing animals or uneven terrain.

Installing headlights and sidelights is an effective solution to this problem. They provide clear visibility of the road ahead and make the driver aware of any obstacles, allowing for safe navigation.

Furthermore, lights also alert other drivers or pedestrians of the presence of a golf cart, promoting better traffic flow and reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, animals can also be more aware of a moving vehicle with headlights, thus reducing the chances of collision.

Therefore, installing headlights on your golf cart is essential not just for your own safety, but also for the safety of those around you.

Communication with other vehicles

Proper communication between vehicles is essential to avoid accidents, and installing taillights and brake lights on your golf cart is a simple yet effective way to do this. These lights serve as a universal translator of basic actions that drivers perform to get around.

When you step on the brake, the red light signals to the driver behind you that you are slowing down or coming to a stop. Similarly, using turn signals to indicate a change in direction or lane is also an important aspect of communication on the road. Without these signals, other drivers may not be aware of your intentions, leading to confusion and potential accidents.

By installing taillights and brake lights on your 48-volt golf cart, you are not only complying with state laws, but also ensuring the safety of yourself and others on the road. So, next time you plan to take a ride in the dark, make sure your lights are properly installed and functioning to communicate with other drivers.

How to wire lights

Lights can be installed by following the simple instructions outlined on the kit, which can be purchased online or in a store. But, make sure you put the light in the following order:

1. Select the appropriate lights

Choose a light kit that is appropriate for your golf cart. Kits are available at specialty golf equipment stores and websites. Open the kit and make sure you have everything you need. Read the kit instructions thoroughly to ensure that you completely understand what you need to accomplish.

Choose between a single and double battery.

In golf carts, there are two types of batteries: single and double. Single batteries are less expensive and lighter than double batteries, however they do not supply as much power. Two batteries are more expensive and heavier, but they deliver more power and last longer.

Consider how you will use your golf cart while deciding between a single and double battery. If you intend to use it for extended periods of time or for heavy-duty jobs, a dual battery is a better option. A single battery will be adequate if you only require it for light use or for brief periods of time.

2. Mark and locate the light installation area

Disconnect the battery and park the cart. Select where you want the lights to go in the car. When deciding where to put your headlights, keep in mind that they should be positioned so that they illuminate the road but do not shine in the eyes of oncoming cars.

3. Install your headlights

The first thing you’ll need to do is remove the headlights from the packaging and place them on the front of the golf cart. Any packaging will normally provide instructions on where to keep the card, but they should usually be set to light up the road ahead of you but not directly on approaching traffic.

Make sure their positions are visible to the driver of the car, so they know you’re there. Fixing them in position with screws that can be supplied in the set.

4. Connect the headlights

Connect the carriage to the mounting light. Depending on the equipment, you may need to drill holes to attach the mount, or if utilizing a tie-down accessory, you may need to secure a bumper or roll bar. Alternatively, simply connect the headlight wires to the vehicle’s main electrical system.

Typically, your headlamp set will contain a number of cables with a switch on one end that can be turned off and on when they are attached to the wheels.

The detailed instructions will show you where to maintain the light cords, which may differ depending on the model and make. Connect the connections on the wheel side to a power line. Run the cables through the motor, then tie them together with pliers and scissors.

5. Switch on the headlights

Attach the lights to your chosen mount and connect the cables to the golf cart’s electrical system according to the directions in the kit. Various lamp manufacturers advocate different methods of cable routing, and you should follow the manufacturer’s advice.

Attach the switch leads to the kit’s included switch connection. Connect the switch to the dashboard. Attach the battery and put the lights to the test. Turn on your headlights before you start driving to see if they function.

It works well at night and in dim lighting, allowing you to check the length and power of the beam. This is an excellent time to evaluate the light’s angle to ensure the driver’s safety.

Check out this video for more detailed instructions:

Is there any equipment required to install the lights on a golf cart

The kit you purchase will include all of the necessary parts to fix the lights, including the lights, 6-9-12 pin connections, lights, push-pull start button, etc. But in order to install or repair them, we do need some necessary tools, specifically:

• A socket of 10 millimeters.
• 13 millimeter socket.
• One and a half inch hole saw.
• A bit with t-15 and t30 torque.
• An erasable pen.
• A smaller tip and a 7/16 drill tip are two cordless drills.
• A measuring tape

Precautions to be taken when installing golf cart lights

Your car’s lights are absolutely necessary, not just so that you can see at night but also so that other drivers can see you. When installing and working with the lights, heed these warnings:

1. Clearly designate the spot where lights should be installed.

You have skulls in the rear of your car. They contain a number of lights of various colors, each of which indicates a distinct action you have just taken or are about to take. You must be conscious of installing them in the right position by which you can make the right indication for others to understand.

2. Prevent short circuits and other errors.

The light bulbs in your car are supported and fixed by tiny connectors or sockets, much like the ones in your home. They feature three cables or poles, unlike the ones in your home, because the bulbs they incorporate have two different intensities of illumination. To prevent short circuits, make sure not to tamper with the connectors and sockets.

3. Make the wires different

They contain 3 wires, and each of them is for a different voltage. In one, there is a negative voltage or ground, and in the other two, there are voltages that control how bright the bulb is or how intermittently it shines. You need to learn how to remove the old 3-pole focus connector from the skull, disconnect it, connect the new one, and then reinstall it while being careful to connect the 3 poles properly. If you don’t, you risk starting a short circuit.

FAQs

1. What voltage are the headlights on golf carts?

The answer to the question “what voltage are golf cart headlights?” is 12 volts. Golf cart headlights are made to function with 12-volt batteries, which are what the majority of them utilize. You might need to purchase a separate pair of headlights if the battery in your golf cart is a different voltage.

2. How are LED strip lights installed on a golf cart?

Anyone may easily install LED strip lights on a golf cart because to its simplicity. You can easily add more light to your cart with only a few simple tools and materials.

Gather the following stuff first:

• Strip LED lights
• The drill
• Screws
• Cutters for wire
• Wire cutters
• Electronic tape
• A pal (optional)

Now that you have everything you need, install your LED strip lights by following these instructions:

1. Decide where you want to mount the strip lights on golf cart. Good location is along the underside of the roof, as this will provide even illumination. Use a tape measure to determine the length of the LED strip needed.
2. Wire cutters are used to cut the strip light to size.
3. The LED strip should be mounted along the desired mounting point after removing the adhesive backing from it.
4. If necessary, use screws to secure the strip light in place.
5. Wire strippers are used to remove around 12 inch of insulation from the ends of two wires.
6. Twist each wire around a connector terminal on the LED strip light. Make sure that the stripped portion of the wire is wrapped tightly around the connector so that there is good contact between the wire and the connector.
7. Connect one end of each wire to an appropriate power source

3. How to check that the lights are working properly

You must examine the fuse box and replace any blown fuses if the lights on your golf cart are not functioning properly. Moreover, ensure sure the bulbs are not burned out by checking them. You’ll need to change the burned-out bulbs if there are any.

Conclusion

So, using these methods, you can quickly install the lights on your 48-volt golf cart without any technical expertise. Actually, there aren’t any predetermined requirements for installing the golf cart lights.

But, understanding some key electrical phrases might be helpful if you have a solid understanding of installation. Basic understanding of electronics and bodywork may be included in the information. Both headlights are included in the pricing comparison of lights. To install these headlights, any modifications that could be necessary. Etc.

But, there are many tutorials available online on installing golf cart lights; you can always check them. Always ensure to have a warranty and good quality in lights as it will long last be compared to others.