Which EZGO TXT AC Conversion Kit is Right for You? A Buyer's Guide

Why an EZGO TXT AC Conversion Changes Everything

An EZGO TXT AC conversion replaces your cart's stock DC motor and controller with a modern AC induction system, open uping major gains in speed, torque, and efficiency.

Key Benefits of AC Conversion:

• Speed Gains: Reach 25+ MPH, up from a stock 12-15 MPH.
• Torque Increase: Gain up to a 75% increase in torque.
• Efficiency: Enjoy longer run times per charge.
• Maintenance: Eliminate brush replacements with a brushless design.
• Features: Get regenerative braking, Bluetooth control, and programmable settings.

What's Required:

• A compatible Navitas TAC2 Controller + AC Motor kit.
• A model-year compatibility check (PDS vs. Series vs. TXT48).
• Supporting upgrades like a heavy-duty solenoid and upgraded wiring.
• A 48V battery system (lithium is highly recommended).

Choosing the right AC conversion kit is critical. A mismatched kit can lead to compatibility issues and subpar performance, while the correct one—custom to your EZGO TXT model and goals—open ups the full potential of an AC system. As one cart builder noted, "I am not cutting corners on the drive and power system."

This guide will help you select the right Navitas AC conversion kit for your EZGO TXT. We'll cover compatibility, power options (4kW vs. 5kW, 440A vs. 600A), and essential supporting upgrades. My name is Martin Davis, owner of Extreme Kartz, and I've helped hundreds of customers successfully complete their AC conversion projects. Let's ensure you get it right.

The AC Advantage: Why Convert Your EZGO TXT?

An EZGO TXT AC conversion is one of the most impactful upgrades for your golf cart. Switching from a DC to an AC system improves every aspect of performance and longevity. Here’s why AC motors are the future of golf cart performance:

• Increased Speed: Navitas AC kits can boost your cart's top speed to over25+ MPH, a significant jump from the stock 12-15 MPH. This allows you to maintain speed on inclines and keep up with neighborhood traffic.
• Superior Torque: AC motors deliver substantially more torque—up to a 75% increase—for climbing steep hills, hauling passengers, or navigating off-road terrain. This provides powerful acceleration and a smoother ride under demanding conditions.
• Higher Efficiency and Longer Run Times: AC systems are inherently more efficient, converting more battery energy into usable power. This translates to longer run times and more miles per charge, so you can ride longer without worrying about battery life.
• Reduced Maintenance: AC induction motors are brushless, eliminating the need to replace carbon brushes that wear out in DC motors. This design reduces maintenance, lowers ownership costs, and improves reliability.
• Regenerative Braking: Modern AC systems use regenerative braking to capture energy during deceleration and recharge the batteries. This feature improves range and provides a smoother braking experience, reducing wear on mechanical brakes.
• Best Product Life: The robust, brushless design of AC motors makes them more durable and less prone to wear than DC motors. This ensures your EZGO TXT AC conversion is a long-lasting investment.

These benefits make an EZGO TXT AC conversion a transformative upgrade. If you want to go deeper on getting the most from your cart, check out our guide on Six Proven Tips to Boost Your Golf Cart Performance.

Anatomy of a Navitas AC Conversion Kit

An EZGO TXT AC conversion involves a complete system engineered for seamless integration. A Navitas kit includes several key components that work together to deliver superior power and control.

• TAC2 Controller: The "brains" of the system, the Navitas TAC2 Controller (available in 440A or 600A) precisely manages power delivery to the AC motor. Its advanced technology enables features like regenerative braking and adjustable speed limits. The compact design allows for easy installation without modifying your cart's mounting plate. Learn more in our Golf Cart Controller Comparison.
• AC Induction Motor: The heart of the conversion, this brushless motor (typically 4kW or 5kW) generates the system's power and torque. It offers superior product life, efficiency, and performance over stock DC motors. A 5kW motor can produce over 110 Lb*ft of torque.
• On-The-Fly (OTF) Programmer: This dash-mounted device allows you to make live adjustments to speed, regenerative braking, and acceleration while driving. You can instantly tailor your cart's performance to match the terrain or your driving style.
• Bluetooth App Connectivity: Navitas kits feature Bluetooth connectivity, which pairs with a smartphone app for diagnostics and control. Monitor vehicle data, check motor temperature, view data logs, and adjust settings like speed limits and speedometer calibration right from your phone.
• Mounting Hardware and Wiring Harnesses: Each kit includes all necessary mounting brackets and model-specific wiring harnesses (e.g., for TXT models with a 16-pin connector) to ensure a secure, plug-and-play installation.

These components create an intelligent system that transforms your EZGO TXT. For more on controllers, see our guide on Golf Cart Speed Controllers: A Basic Understanding of Controllers.

Choosing the Right Navitas Kit for Your EZGO TXT AC Conversion

Selecting the right Navitas AC conversion kit is crucial for open uping your EZGO TXT's potential. The correct choice ensures optimal performance and a hassle-free experience. At Extreme Kartz, we focus on three key areas to help you decide: compatibility, desired performance, and supporting upgrades.

Let's break down these considerations.

Match the Kit to Your Cart: Compatibility is Key

The first and most critical step is ensuring the Navitas kit is compatible with your specific EZGO TXT model, as drive systems and wiring have changed over the years.

• EZGO TXT Model Year: Your cart's production year is vital, as it determines the factory-installed drive system and wiring.
• PDS vs. Series vs. TXT48: Understanding your cart's drive system is paramount.
  • TXT48 models, especially those with a 16-pin controller connector, are the most straightforward for a Navitas AC conversion, often allowing for a plug-and-play installation.
  • PDS (Precision Drive System) and Series carts typically require more adaptation. You may need a newer TXT48 wire harness and other parts to make the AC kit compatible. This is a common topic in this real-world compatibility discussion.
• Throttle Type (ITS): Navitas kits are designed to work with an ITS (Inductive Throttle Sensor) throttle. Confirming your cart has this throttle type is necessary for seamless integration.
• Wiring Harness Considerations: If you are upgrading an older 36V Series or DCS cart to a 48V AC system, you will likely need to replace the stock wiring harness with a newer 48V TXT harness. This decision also impacts your forward/reverse switch, as older carts use a mechanical lever while newer systems use a dash-mounted toggle switch compatible with the new controller.

We recommend contacting our experts if you're unsure about your EZGO TXT's compatibility. Our Controller Location Guide: EZGO Models can also help you identify your system.

Select Your Power: 4kW vs. 5kW and 440A vs. 600A

Next, choose a power level that matches your needs. Navitas kits are differentiated by motor wattage (4kW vs. 5kW) and controller amperage (440A vs. 600A).

• 440A Controller with 4kW Motor: An excellent upgrade for general use, like neighborhood cruising and light utility work. It provides a significant boost in speed, torque, and efficiency over stock systems.
• 600A Controller with 4kW Motor: The higher amperage controller delivers more aggressive acceleration and better performance on hills and with heavy loads.
• 600A Controller with 5kW Motor: This is the top-tier performance option for an EZGO TXT AC conversion. The combination of a high-amperage controller and a powerful 5kW motor delivers maximum speed and torque. This setup is ideal for:
  • Off-road use, steep inclines, and heavy loads.
  • Lifted carts with larger tires, which demand more power. See our Golf Cart Lift Kit Guide and Golf Cart Tires for Every Terrain guides.
  • Enthusiasts seeking the highest possible speed and acceleration.

Consider your primary use. For demanding applications like hills or rough terrain, a higher power option is recommended.

Essential Supporting Upgrades for Peak Performance

To maximize performance and ensure reliability, an EZGO TXT AC conversion requires supporting upgrades. The new system will draw more power than stock components can handle.

• Heavy-Duty Solenoid: A 400A (or higher) heavy-duty solenoid is essential to handle the increased current from the Navitas controller. A stock solenoid will fail under the load. Learn more in our How to Install a Heavy Duty 400A Solenoid for Your Golf Cart (Easy Step-by-Step Guide).
• 2-Gauge Battery Cables: Upgrade your battery cables to at least 2-gauge to handle the increased power flow. Thicker cables reduce resistance and heat buildup, preventing power loss and safety hazards.
• Lithium Batteries: We highly recommend upgrading to lithium batteries. While AC kits work with 48V lead-acid systems, lithium offers consistent power delivery, reduced weight, longer lifespan, faster charging, and increased range. This upgrade open ups the full potential of your AC system. Explore our guides on Upgrade to Lithium Golf Cart Batteries and Best Lithium Batteries for Navitas, Alltrax, Silverwolf Controllers: What You Need to Know.

These upgrades are crucial investments that protect your AC conversion and ensure you get the best performance and longevity.

Step-by-Step Installation Overview

An EZGO TXT AC conversion is a manageable project, as Navitas kits are designed for straightforward installation. This overview covers the general steps. Always disconnect your batteries before starting any electrical work.

1. Safety First: Place the cart in "tow" mode. Ensure the cart is on stable, level ground.
2. Remove Stock Components: Carefully remove the existing DC motor, controller, and associated wiring.
3. Prepare for Installation: Clean the mounting areas for the new controller and motor. Use the provided mounting plate for the controller.
4. Install the AC Motor: Position the new AC motor onto the axle, ensuring the splines align, and secure it with the provided bolts.
5. Install the TAC2 Controller: Apply thermal grease to the back of the controller, then secure it to its mounting plate.
6. Connect Wiring:
   • Connect the main battery and motor phase cables to the controller.
   • Plug the main wiring harness from the controller into your cart's loom.
   • Integrate the forward/reverse switch and connect the heavy-duty solenoid.
   • Secure all wiring away from moving parts or sharp edges.
7. Install the OTF Programmer: Mount the On-The-Fly programmer on your dashboard and connect it to the controller.
8. Final Checks: Double-check all connections, reconnect the batteries, and switch the cart to "run" mode.
9. Test and Customize: Test basic functions. Use the Navitas Bluetooth App to connect to the controller and customize settings like speed, acceleration, and regenerative braking. For a visual reference, see this video guide for TXT conversion.

Potential Challenges and How to Address Them:

• Wiring Harness Compatibility: Older Series or DCS models may require a new wiring harness to integrate with the 48V AC system. Verify compatibility before you begin.
• Throttle Compatibility: Ensure your cart's throttle is compatible with the Navitas controller.
• Troubleshooting: If issues arise, use the Navitas Bluetooth App for diagnostics. Our guide on How to Troubleshoot Common Golf Cart Electrical Issues can also help.

Following the instructions carefully makes an EZGO TXT AC conversion a rewarding project.

Frequently Asked Questions about the EZGO TXT AC Conversion

Here are answers to the most common questions we receive about the EZGO TXT AC conversion process.

What are the most common issues after an EZGO TXT AC conversion?

Most post-installation issues are minor and can be resolved using the Navitas app.

• Navitas App Error Codes: The app is your primary diagnostic tool. Check any error codes against the Navitas manual or contact our support team for help.
• Jerky Acceleration: This is often a calibration issue. Adjust the throttle input thresholds in the app for a smoother response.
• Speed Sensor Faults: Inconsistent speed or performance can be caused by a faulty or poorly connected speed sensor. Double-check the cable connection.
• Inaccurate Speedometer: After changing tire size, use the Navitas app to calibrate the speedometer by entering your tire size and axle ratio.

Our Golf Cart Controller Troubleshooting: Common Problems and How to Fix Them guide offers more solutions.

Do I need to upgrade my batteries for an EZGO TXT AC conversion?

While a Navitas kit can run on 48V lead-acid batteries, we strongly recommend upgrading to lithium.

• 48V System Requirement: All Navitas AC kits require a 48V system. If your cart is 36V, a battery upgrade is mandatory.
• Lead-Acid Limitations: Lead-acid batteries suffer from voltage sag under heavy loads, which limits the power, speed, and acceleration your new AC system can deliver.
• Lithium Battery Benefits: Lithium batteries open up the full potential of an AC conversion by providing consistent, high-current power. They are also lighter, charge faster, last longer, and increase your cart's range.

For more details, read our articles on Lithium vs. Lead-Acid: Are Lithium Batteries Better for Golf Carts? and Will Lithium Batteries Make My Golf Cart Faster?.

What maintenance does a Navitas AC system require?

A key benefit of an EZGO TXT AC conversion is its low maintenance.

• Brushless Motor Advantage: AC motors are brushless, so there are no carbon brushes to inspect or replace, unlike DC motors. This reduces mechanical wear and extends the motor's life.
• Check Electrical Connections: Periodically inspect all electrical connections (battery terminals, controller, motor cables) for tightness and corrosion.
• Keep Components Clean: Wiping down the controller and motor to keep them free of dirt and debris helps with cooling and performance.
• Software Updates: Keep the controller's software current by checking for updates via the Navitas Bluetooth app.

Conclusion

Starting on an EZGO TXT AC conversion is more than just an upgrade; it's a transformative step that redefines your golf cart's capabilities. We've seen how converting from a DC to an AC system open ups unparalleled speed, torque, efficiency, and a significantly longer product life. The benefits are clear: faster rides, more power for hills and loads, extended range, and reduced maintenance thanks to brushless motor technology.

Choosing the right Navitas kit is paramount. It's about understanding your specific EZGO TXT model's compatibility, selecting the appropriate power level (4kW vs. 5kW motors, 440A vs. 600A controllers) based on your usage, and pairing it with essential supporting upgrades like a heavy-duty solenoid, thicker wiring, and ideally, a robust lithium battery system. While installation involves several steps, Navitas kits are designed for straightforward integration, and the intuitive On-The-Fly Programmer and Bluetooth App put customization and diagnostics right at your fingertips.

At Extreme Kartz, we are dedicated to empowering golf cart owners with the knowledge and products to make informed decisions. We specialize in providing system-based solutions, ensuring that every component works in harmony to deliver the best performance for your specific cart and goals. Don't settle for mediocre. Release the full potential of your EZGO TXT.

Ready to transform your ride? Explore our complete Eco Power AC Conversion Kits and find the perfect match for your EZGO TXT. All kits ship in 1-2 business days. If you have any questions about compatibility or need guidance, our experts are always here to help you find the right kit.

Reach out to the Extreme Kartz team for help choosing the right EZGO TXT AC conversion kit and getting install support!