1. Check that the rear wheels are on the ground.
All golf carts are rear-wheel drive and carts have very little chassis ground clearance; they can easily get stuck on uneven terrain. If the cart is partially in, partially out of a trap, or if the trap is on a slope, make sure the rear wheels are on the ground.
2. Attempt to push the cart onto the ground to obtain more traction.
The average cart weighs about 800 pounds, but two or three players should be able to push it forward or back enough so that the rear wheels will grab.
3. If you cannot get it onto solid ground, create traction.
The tire treads on golf carts are very shallow and will not provide much traction. Try piling sand or small stones around the wheel to increase traction, or place jackets and other clothing under the rear wheels. An empty, collapsible golf bag may also work.
4. Flag down a passing cart and ask for a tow. Tow the cart.
Secure a long, sturdy rope or chain to a tow hook on the chassis in the rear of the cart. If no hook is available, secure the rope or chain to the chassis using several good knots. Secure the other end of the rope to the rear of another cart, on the chassis. A single golf cart should be powerful enough to pull a disabled cart out of trouble. Use slow, steady acceleration to tow the cart until it has become dislodged and can be driven. If no other cart is available, three to five people may be necessary to push or pull the cart out.
Be Aware
- Golf carts use an open differential drive train: the power will go to the rear wheel that has the most traction.
- If the cart is stuck in a bunker on a hill, use caution when towing or driving out. If the hill is steep, do not attempt to drive the cart in a direction that is parallel to the slope of the terrain; you risk losing traction and slipping or possibly overturning. Golf carts are not designed to be used on hills with more than a 25-percent grade (14-degree slope). Be especially careful on wet grass.
