How to assemble and set up a new electric golf trolley

Unpack and check the contents

Lay everything out on a clean floor and check it against the parts list in the manual. A typical box includes the frame, two rear wheels, a front wheel or wheel assembly, an anti-tip wheel on some models, the battery, the charger, a battery cable or connector and accessories such as a scorecard or umbrella holder.

• Frame with handle and motor.
• Rear wheels and front wheel.
• Battery, charger and any connecting lead.
• Accessories and fittings.
• Manual and warranty card.

Unfold the frame and fit the wheels

Unfold the frame following the maker's steps until each joint clicks or locks. Most rear wheels push onto the axles and lock with a quick release button; push until you hear a click and pull to check they are secure. Some trolleys have a left and right wheel with a drive pin, so check the manual for which goes where. Fit the front wheel and any anti-tip wheel.

1. 1

   Unfold the frame on a flat surface until it locks.

2. 2

   Push each rear wheel onto its axle until it clicks.

3. 3

   Pull each wheel to check it is locked.

4. 4

   Fit the front wheel and anti-tip wheel if supplied.

5. 5

   Check the frame stands level and does not wobble.

Battery and first charge

Most makers recommend a full charge before first use. Charge the battery off the trolley, on a hard, dry surface, using only the supplied charger. Once charged, fit the battery to its tray or mount and connect the lead or plug.

If your trolley has a battery isolator switch, as described on some PowaKaddy models, switch it on. Our golf trolley lithium batteries explainer covers charging and care.

Note:Do not charge near flammable materials or leave a charging battery unattended for long periods. Use only the charger supplied with the battery, and stop if the battery or charger becomes very hot or damaged.

Fit the bag and set the handle

Place the base of the bag on the lower bag support and fit the top of the bag into the upper support or strap. On trolleys with an Easilock or similar system, use a compatible bag for a strap free fit. Tighten straps so the bag cannot twist. Set the handle height so your arm is relaxed and slightly bent when your hand is on the controls.

Fit accessories now, as described in how to fit golf trolley accessories.

Test before the first round

Test the trolley on flat ground away from people and cars. Start at the lowest speed, then try each speed setting. Test the stop, any pause and resume function, distance function and the parking brake. If your trolley has downhill control or electronic braking, test it on a gentle slope. See downhill control explained.

Practise the controls before you need them on a slope. Learn how to stop the trolley instantly, how to free wheel it if the battery runs flat and how the parking brake engages. On remote models, check the remote range and the emergency stop, and keep the remote on a lanyard or in a pocket where it will not be pressed by accident.

Fold and unfold the trolley once or twice so you know the sequence before you are in a car park. Check that the battery cable is not pinched when folded.

See electric trolleys compared →

If something does not work

If the trolley does not power on, check the battery is charged, connected and switched on at any isolator. If a wheel does not drive, check it is fully clicked onto the axle and on the correct side. If the trolley veers, adjust tracking where the model allows. Our electric golf trolley not working guide covers more faults. Contact the retailer or maker early if a part is missing or faulty, as most offer a set period to report problems.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to charge a new trolley battery first? Most makers recommend a full charge before first use. Check the manual.

Why does one wheel not drive? It may not be fully locked onto the axle or may be on the wrong side. Refit it until it clicks.

Can I use any golf bag? Most cart bags fit. Some trolleys work best with matching bags such as Motocaddy Easilock bags.