Planning an EZGO lift? This step-by-step guide explains install difficulty, the exact tools list, real-world costs, and ride changes so your golf cart upgrade is smooth.

Are golf cart lift kits easy to install?

It depends on the kit style, your wrenching experience, and whether you follow model-specific instructions. Difficulty tiers:

• Spindle lift (easiest): Replaces front spindles and often adds simple rear blocks. Minimal disassembly and alignment; great first DIY.
• A-arm / drop-axle (moderate): More parts and geometry changes. Plan extra time for steering linkage and camber/toe checks.
• Long-travel (advanced): Most comfortable and capable, but the most complex. Expect additional brackets, shock towers, and precise alignment.

Experienced DIYers can complete a spindle or A-arm kit in 2–5 hours; first-timers often take a weekend. Read the instructions fully, lay out hardware by step, and torque to spec.

What tools are needed to install a lift kit on an EZGO golf cart?

Exact sizes vary by model (TXT, RXV, etc.) and kit brand, but this checklist covers most installs:

• Lifting & safety: Floor jack (cart-rated), 2–4 jack stands, wheel chocks, safety glasses, gloves.
• Hand tools: Metric/SAE sockets and combination wrenches, breaker bar, torque wrench (ft-lb), Allen/hex keys.
• Suspension tools: Rubber mallet, pry bar, needle-nose pliers; ball-joint separator or pickle fork if required.
• Fastener care: Blue threadlocker, anti-seize for sleeves/spacers, new cotter pins as needed.
• Measuring & alignment: Tape measure, straightedge, magnetic angle finder/camber gauge, string line for toe.
• Wheels & tires: Lug socket or impact with correct socket, valve core tool, tire pressure gauge.
• Documentation: Your E-Z-GO service manual and the kit’s instructions for torque values and order of operations.

Step-by-step: installing a lift kit on an E-Z-GO

1. Prepare the workspace. Level ground, good lighting. Chock the rear wheels, remove the key, and disconnect pack power (negative first).
2. Lift and support. Jack under sturdy frame points and set jack stands. Remove wheels/tires.
3. Document OEM layout. Photograph steering links, brake cables, and spindle/arm orientation. This is a lifesaver at reassembly.
4. Remove front components. Per the instructions, detach tie-rods, spindles or A-arms/drop axle, and shocks. Keep hardware grouped by step.
5. Install front lift hardware. Fit new spindles or A-arms/drop axle. Lightly snug bolts first, then torque to spec in the order given. Reattach shocks.
6. Address steering geometry. Reconnect tie-rods at the provided points. Center the steering wheel and set a preliminary toe (slight toe-in).
7. Rear suspension. Support the axle, then install rear blocks/brackets or leaf changes specified by the kit. Ensure brake cables and wiring are not stretched.
8. Wheels & tires. Reinstall wheels. If upsizing tires, confirm the kit’s height supports your chosen diameter without rubbing at full lock/compression.
9. Initial alignment. Set cart on the ground. Use a string or alignment plates to set toe (often 1/16″–1/8″ in) and camber near neutral unless otherwise specified.
10. Torque & test. Torque all suspension and wheel lugs. Reconnect power, roll slowly, listen for interference, then test drive and re-torque after a few minutes.

How much does it cost to install a lift kit on a golf cart?

Prices vary by kit style, brand, and who does the labor. Typical ranges:

• Kit cost: Spindle $200–$450; A-arm/drop-axle $350–$800; long-travel $900–$2,000+.
• Wheels/tires (common add-on): $300–$800 for mounted sets sized to the lift (e.g., 22–23″ on a 6″ lift).
• Shop labor: $200–$600 (2–5 hours); complex long-travel installs can exceed this.
• Alignment: $50–$150 if performed by a shop.
• Upgrades: Heavy-duty rear leafs, fresh bushings, or new shocks for passenger/cargo loads: $60–$250.

DIY budget: As low as $200–$450 for a basic spindle kit using your current wheels/tires. All-in packages (lift + wheels/tires + labor) often land around $700–$1,600+.

Does a lift kit make a golf cart ride smoother?

Sometimes. The lift style and tire setup matter more than height alone:

• Long-travel kits: Usually the smoothest thanks to added suspension travel and improved shock geometry.
• Spindle/A-arm kits: Ride similar to stock; you gain clearance and stance but not necessarily plushness. Condition and quality of shocks matter.
• Tires & pressure: Taller/wider tires can soften chatter via extra sidewall. Avoid over-inflation; start around 12–18 psi and tune to load/terrain.
• Load handling: Rear seats or cargo may require heavy-duty springs or better shocks to reduce bottoming and porpoising.

Takeaway: For comfort, pair a quality long-travel kit with compliant tires and correct pressures; otherwise, expect ride quality close to stock.

Safety & setup essentials

• Torque discipline: Use a calibrated torque wrench on suspension, steering, and wheel lugs; re-torque after the first drive.
• Cable routing: Ensure brake cables, wiring, and pedal linkages have slack at full droop and full steering lock.
• Center of gravity: A lifted cart tips sooner. Slow down on off-camber ground and avoid abrupt steering inputs.
• Height checks: Verify garage/trailer clearance; a 6″ lift plus tall tires can add 8–10″ overall height.

Final word

If you’re comfortable with basic suspension work, an EZGO spindle or A-arm kit is a manageable DIY upgrade; long-travel kits reward extra effort with comfort. Budget for alignment, use the right tools, and re-torque after the shakedown. Done right, your lifted golf cart gains clearance, stance, and confidence on varied terrain.