How to Remove the Armature From a Golf Cart

The armature on a golf cart drives the wheels inside the golf cart motor. It moves the wheels inside of the field coil as it is being supported on a series of ball bearings. If the armature is damaged or is not working correctly, you must remove the entire motor and have it inspected and replaced if it cannot be fixed. Although removing the motor can be slightly difficult, it can be done with a few tools at home. The process is generally the same no matter the age or brand of cart.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Insulated crescent wrench, 9/16-inch
  • Internal snap ring pliers
  • Socket wrench, 7/16-inch
  • Rubber mallet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Open the compartment where the engine is located. Remove portions of the golf cart starting with the roof supports and roof to make the engine more easily accessible. Unscrew each part with a screwdriver and set them aside. Mark each piece with a piece of paper to identify where it goes on the cart, so it can be easily reassembled. Depending on the model of golf cart, the seat and floor guards might also have to be removed.

    • 2

      Disconnect the battery cable from the terminal of the battery using a crescent wrench. Starting first with the negative cable, making sure all electrical power is cut to the engine. Remove all other wires leading to the motor.

    • 3

      Detach the brake cable from the brake itself using the crescent wrench. The cable should be clearly visible after removing the other wires from the motor, and is a thin cable leading from the brake assembly. Unfasten the snap ring on the speed sensor that is also connected to the motor. The speed sensor looks like a small, thin wire coming from the end of the cart's motor. Remove the speed sensor.

    • 4

      Unscrew the bolts using the socket wrench that hold the motor to the housing. Depending on the brand of golf cart, this could be three to six bolts. Slide the motor off the housing. Remove the motor carefully so it is not damaged. Set it aside.

    • 5

      Remove the bearing cap on the motor. The bearing cap is a small ring usually located on top of the motor. Unscrew the bolts holding down the cover on the motor, using the socket wrench. These bolts are toward the ends of the motor. Set these pieces aside.

    • 6

      Slide the cover off the motor, and remove the armature carefully. The armature assembly looks like a cylinder with a rod coming out of one end and weighs about 10 pounds. It will look similar in any model or age of golf cart.