Golf Equipment Maintenance: Simple Tips to Keep Your Gear Running
Got a set of clubs you love? A cart that gets you around the course? Keeping that gear in good shape saves money and keeps your game smooth. Below are easy, no‑nonsense steps you can take right now to protect your equipment.
Basic Club Care
First off, clean your clubs after every round. A quick rinse with warm water and a soft brush removes dirt, sand, and grass that can dull the faces. Dry them with a towel – no need for a hair dryer, a simple wipe does the job.
Next, check the grips. If they feel slick or start to peel, it’s time for a replacement. A fresh grip gives you better control and prevents blisters. You can buy replacement grips at any golf shop; just follow the step‑by‑step video guide that comes with the kit.
Don't forget the shafts. Look for any signs of cracks or bends. Even a small nick can affect swing consistency. If you spot something, take the club to a professional fitter – they can re‑tip or replace the shaft without you having to buy a whole new set.
Finally, store clubs in a dry place. Humidity breeds rust on the metal heads, and wooden shafts can warp. A good club bag with a breathable liner works fine; avoid leaving clubs in a car trunk on a hot day.
Reviving a Dried Golf Cart Battery
Now, onto the cart. If your golf cart battery sat open and dried out, you might think it’s dead for good. Wrong! With the right steps, you can refill and bring it back to life.
Start by removing the battery caps and cleaning out any crusty residue with a damp cloth. Next, use a battery electrolyte solution or distilled water mixed with the proper amount of sulfuric acid – follow the safety instructions on the package. Pour the solution slowly into each cell until it reaches the recommended level (usually marked on the battery).
Once filled, re‑install the caps and let the battery sit for a few minutes. Then, charge it with a compatible charger for about 8‑10 hours. You’ll hear a faint hiss as the electrolyte settles; that’s normal.
After charging, test the voltage with a multimeter. You should see around 12.6 volts for a fully charged 12 V battery. If it reads lower, give it another hour of charge. When the voltage is right, the cart should start without a hitch.
Remember safety: wear gloves, goggles, and work in a well‑ventilated area. If the battery shows bulging, leaking, or a strong sulfur smell, it’s best to replace it instead of trying to refill.
Keeping your cart’s battery topped up and your clubs clean might feel like extra chores, but the payoff is a smoother round and fewer surprise breakdowns. Spend a few minutes each week on these tasks and you’ll notice better performance, longer equipment life, and more confidence on the course.
Got a specific maintenance question? Drop it in the comments – we love swapping tips with fellow golfers. Happy playing!