Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Gas-powered Golf Cart, golf cart sales, stop screw

Question
Hello Robert,

I know this may be a little bit different than what you normally work with, but I'm sure a gas-powered golf cart is similar to a riding mower. I'm afraid I don't have any model numbers or an engine manufacturing name to give you right now.  But I think this cart is about 10 years old or more.    

I work at a local hospital as a maintenance man, but I have very little experience in small engine repair.  The hospital Security dept. has a 'club car', which is basically a golf cart with a front and back seat.  It has a centrifugal clutch, and the engine starts when you press on the gas pedal.  

The problem is that when they slow down and come to a stop it dies.  Then when they try to start it back up it won't run.  But after it sits for awhile it will start and run until they come to a stop again.  Then the problem starts all over again.  What does this sound like to you?  The choke ?  The carburetor ? I am not familiar with this type of ignition in which the gas pedal works as both a starter and accelerator.   

There are no golf cart sales/repair places in my area, and the closest ones available are either in Lexington or Louisville Ky .  So at this point I am pretty desperate.  Can you help?  

Thanks,
Gary in WV  

Answer
Gary, it may be the engine needs a tune up  Or   The idle speed is a bit too low. On the carb there should be an adjustment screw to set the idle. Look for a stop screw that the throttle rests against ansd ajust it to increase engen speed.....Hope this helps....Bob