Last updated on July 26th, 2023 at 05:47 pm
Golf carts come in a variety of frame types, with aluminum and steel being the most common. Aluminum, often considered the middle option, offers a plethora of advantages, making it a popular choice among golf cart enthusiasts.
In this article will discuss the aluminum frame golf carts, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and the manufacturers that favor this material.
Table of Article Contents
Aluminum Frames in Leading Golf Cart Brands
EZGO and Aluminum Frames
EZGO, a leading golf cart manufacturer, sets high standards with their carts. However, they don’t offer many aluminum frame options. Instead, they lean more towards steel carts, setting them apart from Yamaha and Club Car.
Club Car Preference for Aluminum Frames
Club Car, a strong competitor to EZGO, often focuses on aluminum frames coupled with elegant designs. They offer standard aluminum models for their carts, with steel options being a rarity. Therefore, if you’re in the market for an aluminum cart, Club Car is a manufacturer worth considering.
Yamaha’s Approach to Golf Cart Frames
Yamaha golf carts typically use steel frames, aligning more with EZGO than Club Car. However, Yamaha carts are known for their efficiency and energy conservation, which somewhat offsets the downsides of having a steel frame.
Identifying an Aluminum Frame Golf Cart
If you’re unsure whether your golf cart has an aluminum frame, there are several tests you can perform:
The Magnet Test
Place a small magnet on the exterior of the golf cart. If it sticks, the body is not made out of aluminum, as aluminum does not attract magnets like iron and other metals. If the magnet sticks to some parts and not others, you have a partial aluminum frame.
The Knock Test
Knock on the surface of the frame. If you hear an echo, there’s a good chance your cart has an aluminum frame. An iron frame won’t produce an echo due to its thickness.
The Weight Test
Try to lift one end of the golf cart. If it feels light enough that you could temporarily pick it up, your cart likely has an aluminum frame.
The Scratch Test
This test should only be performed if you own the cart and don’t mind making a small mark on its surface. Take a key or a small knife and scrape it underneath the frame where it’s not visible. If it leaves a scratch, you likely have an aluminum cart.
The Manufacturer Call Test
If all else fails, call the manufacturer of the cart and ask them about the material used for the frame. Sharing the serial number should provide all the information you need.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Aluminum Frames
Advantages:
Aluminum frame golf carts offer several advantages over their iron counterparts:
- Lightweight: Aluminum is a very lightweight metal, which makes aluminum frames much easier to transport and maneuver than heavier frames made from steel or other materials. This is especially beneficial for applications where weight is a major concern, such as golf carts and boats.
- Corrosion-resistant: Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant, which means that aluminum frames are less likely to rust or corrode than frames made from other materials. This is important for applications that are exposed to the elements, such as boats and outdoor furniture.
- Strong and durable: Despite being lightweight, aluminum is also a very strong and durable metal. This means that aluminum frames can withstand a lot of wear and tear without breaking or bending.
- Low-maintenance: Aluminum frames require very little maintenance, which can save you money in the long run.
Disadvantages:
More expensive: Aluminum frames are typically more expensive than frames made from other materials, such as steel. However, the higher upfront cost is often offset by the lower maintenance costs over the lifetime of the frame.
Not as strong as steel: While aluminum is a strong metal, it is not as strong as steel. This means that aluminum frames may not be as durable as steel frames in the event of a collision.
Not as recyclable as steel: Aluminum is recyclable, but it is not as recyclable as steel. This is because aluminum is more difficult to melt and recycle than steel.
Overall, aluminum-frame golf carts offer a number of advantages over traditional steel-framed carts. They are lighter, corrosion-resistant, strong, and low-maintenance. However, they are also more expensive. Ultimately, the best type of golf cart for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between aluminum and steel frames depends on your specific needs and preferences. While aluminum frames offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider their drawbacks before making a purchase.
Samantha Green is a golf expert who helps golfers improve their game by giving advice and suggestions on accessories.