1991 EZGO 2 Cycle Won't Start

[SBL_788]

I have a 1991 EZGO Marathon 2 Cycle that won't start.
It has a switch key to activate the ignition system and runs normally when the gas pedal is depressed.
With the key in the on position, depressing the gas pedal only activates the solenoid (makes a lot of relay noise).
The engine does not rev up or has any sign of life.
It worked well a few days ago.
I've charged up the battery and changed to solenoid to a four terminal Ford solenoid.
Still no regular engine start up.
Thanks!

 

[Chevelle]

Starter doesnt turn the motor over at all?

Or the starter does turn it over but it just wont fire?

 

[SBL_788]

The engine does not start up.
Only thing clicking away is the solenoid.
Battery is fully charged.
Yes, typically, there is a slow rev of the motor before something engages and it moves forward or backwards.
This time, the engine doesn't fire up at all.
Thanks!

 

[HotRodCarts]

The Ford solenoid won't last long. You need a continuous duty golf cart solenoid. Usually if you just get clicking when you press the throttle it's either a weak battery or a bad connection.

 

[SBL_788]

Wow!
Didn't realize the difference in solenoid types.
Makes sense that a four stroke solenoid would be on momentarily for the initial start, then off the rest of the time.
For this two stroke with a no idle ignition, I guess the solenoid would be engaged continuously?
Would any of you know the link to the ignition schematic on this Marathon EZGO?
What starts up the motor since this is a no idle system?
Thanks!

 

[HotRodCarts]

You have a switch on the throttle that activates the solenoid. If the solenoid is clicking that switch is working. Jack the back of the cart up and try jumping the two large posts on the solenoid and see if it starts. Make sure the ground cables are clean and tight at the motor and frame. If the cart runs when you jump the solenoid you have a bad connection somewhere or a bad solenoid. It's possible you could have a bad starter/generator also.

There should be a wiring diagram in the EZGO resource forum...

 

[SBL_788]

You are right!
That part of the circuitry is working.
The solenoid for this cart is under the front seat next to the battery.
The reason for changing out the solenoid the first time was because I didn't get a 12V reading on the opposite solenoid post (the one that is not connected to the battery), after depressing the pedal and hearing the solenoid activating/clicking.
New to this Forum, could you please direct me to the schematic.
I searched "Forum" and revert back to this page.
Is there a specific archive for schematics on this site?
Looks like I need to get past the solenoid and to the rest of the ignition system for this one!
Thanks!

 

[SBL_788]

I remeasured the voltage after the solenoid (terminal going to starter/generator).
It didn't measure voltage while solenoid actively "clicking".
Disconnected the cable on that terminal post and the solenoid functioned properly with voltage on that terminal and no clicking, just one continuous engagement.
Yes, the solenoid is engaged continuously in normal operation.
At this point, I'm assuming it's the $250 starter/generator that is bad.
Any suggestions for reasonable online vendors for this part?
Thanks!