High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet vs. Speed Code 4

High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet vs. Speed Code 4

Some golf cart owners try to increase speed by replacing the small speed sensor magnet on the end of the motor shaft with a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet. While this can boost speed, it’s not the best approach compared to Speed Code 4. Here’s a detailed comparison:

What Is a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet?

The High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet is a small aftermarket magnet that replaces the stock speed sensor magnet on the motor shaft of Club Car IQ systems with ADC motors (serial prefixes AQ, CE, FD, HD, PE, or PQ). It halves the pulse rate sent to the controller, tricking the system into doubling the speed for each setting, potentially increasing top speed from 14.8 MPH to 18-20 MPH, depending on the cart’s condition.

How to Install a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet

Installing a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet requires mechanical work. Here’s the detailed process:

• Step 1: Gather Tools: You’ll need a wrench, socket set, jack, jack stands, and the new High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet (available online for $20-$50).
• Step 2: Lift the Cart: Jack up the rear of your Club Car on the driver’s side and secure it with jack stands to access the motor.
• Step 3: Remove the Rear Wheel: Use a socket wrench (typically 3/4-inch) to remove the driver-side rear wheel, exposing the motor assembly.
• Step 4: Access the Motor Shaft: Locate the speed sensor magnet on the end of the motor shaft, near the differential—it’s a small magnet held by a clip or screw.
• Step 5: Replace the Magnet: Remove the stock magnet (use a small screwdriver to pop off the clip or unscrew it) and install the High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet in its place, ensuring it’s securely fastened.
• Step 6: Reassemble and Test: Reattach the wheel, torque the lug nuts to 50 ft-lbs, lower the cart, and test the speed on a flat surface. You may need to adjust the controller settings if surging occurs.

Tip: Take photos of the motor assembly before disassembling to ensure you can reassemble it correctly.

Drawbacks of the Half-Pulse Magnet

• Inconsistent Performance: Some users report surging—where the cart alternates between fast and slow at full speed—requiring a pedal reset to stabilize. This is often due to the controller misreading the halved pulse rate.
• Warranty Risk: This is an aftermarket mod, not a factory option, so it may void your Club Car warranty, unlike Speed Code 4.
• Regen Braking Issues: The magnet can weaken regenerative braking, making it less effective (sometimes reduced to half power) and potentially unsafe on hills. This happens because the controller relies on the pulse rate to manage braking.
• Battery Drain: Some users note faster battery depletion due to the altered speed dynamics, reducing range per charge by up to 20%.
• Variable Results: Speed gains depend on the cart’s condition—older batteries or worn motors may only see a 1-2 MPH increase (e.g., 14 MPH to 15-16 MPH).

Why Speed Code 4 Is Better

• Factory-Approved: Speed Code 4 is an official Club Car setting, ensuring it won’t void your warranty.
• Reliable Speed: Guarantees 19.6 MPH on flat terrain with stock tires, no surging or inconsistency.
• No Impact on Braking: Maintains full regenerative braking functionality for safety.
• Battery Efficiency: Designed to work within factory parameters, minimizing battery strain.
• Simpler Process: A 10-minute firmware tweak with a Curtis programmer—no need to jack up the cart, remove wheels, or swap parts.

Additional Considerations for Half-Pulse Magnet

Before opting for a High Speed Half-Pulse Magnet, consider these factors:

• Controller Compatibility: Not all Club Car controllers support the halved pulse rate—some older models may require a controller upgrade, costing $200-$400.
• Long-Term Durability: The increased speed can put more strain on the motor, potentially leading to overheating or premature wear over time.
• Alternative Upgrades: If the magnet doesn’t deliver the desired speed, you might need to combine it with larger tires or a motor upgrade, further increasing costs and complexity.

For a hassle-free upgrade, we recommend sticking with Speed Code 4, which offers consistent performance and factory support.