FAQ
KRAKEN Programmer FAQ
Everything you need to know about speeding up and optimizing your golf cart with KRAKEN Programmer
Getting Started
New to KRAKEN Programmer? Start here with the basics.
The KRAKEN Programmer is a professional-grade handheld device that connects to your golf cart's motor controller, allowing you to adjust speed settings, acceleration profiles, braking behavior, and diagnose fault codes. Think of it as a "tuning chip" or "performance programmer" for your golf cart.
What you can do with KRAKEN:
- Increase top speed (up to 25.5 MPH on compatible models)
- Customize acceleration and deceleration curves
- Enable or disable eco mode
- Silence annoying reverse buzzers
- Read and clear diagnostic fault codes
- Set lower "kid-safe" speeds for young drivers
- All changes are 100% reversible
Traditional speed upgrades require costly mechanical modifications like motor swaps, gear ratio changes, or controller replacements. KRAKEN takes a smarter approach by unlocking the performance already built into your cart's existing hardware.
KRAKEN Advantages:
- Non-invasive: No tools, no mechanical work, no permanent modifications
- Reversible: Return to factory settings anytime
- Cost-effective: $250-500 one-time cost vs. $1000+ for motor/controller upgrades
- Diagnostic capability: Reads fault codes like a dealer tool (saves $75-100 per diagnostic visit)
- Customizable: Fine-tune settings to your exact preferences
- Safe limits: Built-in protections prevent settings that could damage your cart
KRAKEN Programmer is legal to own and use on private property. However, usage regulations vary by location:
- Private property (your home, farm, ranch)
- Private golf courses (with permission)
- Gated communities (check HOA rules)
- Designated off-road areas
- Street-legal carts on public roads (speed limits apply)
- Public golf courses (typically have speed restrictions)
- Some states/cities have specific golf cart speed regulations
Always verify local regulations before operating a modified cart on public property. You're responsible for complying with applicable laws in your area.
Compatibility & Model Selection
Find out if KRAKEN works with your golf cart.
KRAKEN Programmer currently supports the following models:
- 48V AC motor system
- Lead-Acid batteries: Compatible
- Aftermarket Lithium: Compatible
- Max speed: 25.5 MPH
- Price: $250 (User) / $500 (Dealer)
- 48V AC motor system (newer controller)
- ALL battery types: Lead-Acid, Elite Lithium, Aftermarket Lithium
- Max speed: 25.5 MPH
- 4 acceleration modes, 4 deceleration modes
- Price: $250 (User) / $500 (Dealer)
- 48V DC motor system
- Lead-Acid and Aftermarket Lithium
- Max speed: 20 MPH
- Price: $250 (User) / $500 (Dealer)
- 48V system with Curtis 1515 controller
- Lead-Acid and Aftermarket Lithium ONLY (NOT factory lithium)
- Max speed: 20 MPH forward / 7 MPH reverse
- Price: $250 (User) / $500 (Dealer)
Selecting the correct KRAKEN model depends on your cart's brand, model, and year. Here's how to identify your cart:
Step 1: Identify Your Cart Brand & Model
- Check the manufacturer badge on your cart (usually on dash or body)
- Common brands: E-Z-GO, Club Car, Yamaha
- Model name: RXV, TXT, Tempo, etc.
Step 2: Determine Model Year
- E-Z-GO: Serial number on passenger side frame rail
- Club Car: Serial plate under driver's side dashboard
- Look for manufacturing date or model year code
Step 3: Check Battery Type
- Lead-Acid: Traditional wet-cell batteries (you can see water caps)
- Factory Lithium: Came from factory with lithium battery
- Aftermarket Lithium: You upgraded to lithium after purchase
KRAKEN offers two versions designed for different use cases:
- For: Individual cart owners
- Pairing: Pairs with ONE cart at a time
- Features: Full access to all speed, acceleration, and diagnostic features
- Switching carts: Must unpair from current cart before pairing to another
- Best for: Personal use, single cart ownership
- For: Golf cart shops, rental fleets, dealers
- Pairing: Works with UNLIMITED carts (no pairing/unpairing required)
- Features: All User features PLUS custom profile saving
- Profile management: Save customer-specific settings for quick future service
- ROI: Pays for itself in ~5 tune-ups (vs. $75-100 dealer charges)
- Best for: Businesses, multi-cart operations, professional installers
Bottom line: If you own one cart and want to customize it yourself, get User Version. If you service multiple carts or run a business, Dealer Version is essential.
Battery compatibility depends on your cart model and battery type:
- Lead-Acid: β Compatible
- Aftermarket Lithium conversions: β Compatible
- Factory Samsung Lithium (2025+ models): β Requires 2025+ programmer
- Lead-Acid: β Compatible
- Elite Lithium (factory): β Compatible
- Aftermarket Lithium: β Compatible
- Works with ALL battery configurations
- Lead-Acid: β Compatible
- Aftermarket Lithium: β Compatible
- Lead-Acid: β Compatible
- Aftermarket Lithium: β Compatible
- Factory Lithium: β NOT Compatible (different controller system)
Speed & Performance Tuning
Learn how to maximize your cart's speed and performance with KRAKEN.
Increasing your E-Z-GO RXV speed with KRAKEN is incredibly simple and takes under 2 minutes:
Quick Speed Increase Process:
- Connect: Plug KRAKEN into your RXV's diagnostic port (under the dash on passenger side)
- Power on: Turn cart's key to the "ON" position (don't need to drive)
- Pair: Device will show "Curtis Connected" - press "Pair" button, then "Flash"
- Adjust speed: When "Ready" appears, press "Forward Speed" button
- Select speed: Press again to cycle through speeds up to 25.5 MPH
- Save: Press "Flash" to save your new speed setting
- Done: Disconnect and enjoy your faster cart!
Speed Capabilities by Model:
- E-Z-GO RXV 2013-2024: Up to 25.5 MPH forward
- E-Z-GO RXV 2025+: Up to 25.5 MPH with 4 acceleration modes
- E-Z-GO TXT Elite: Up to 20 MPH forward
- Club Car Tempo: Up to 20 MPH forward / 7 MPH reverse
Increasing your Club Car Tempo speed with KRAKEN is quick and straightforward, taking under 2 minutes:
Quick Speed Increase Process for Club Car:
- Locate connector: Find the Curtis diagnostic port under the driver's side dash
- Connect: Plug KRAKEN into your Tempo's diagnostic port using the included cable
- Power on: Turn cart's key to the "ON" position
- Pair: Device will show "Curtis Connected" - press "Pair" button, then "Flash"
- Adjust speed: When "Ready" appears, press "Forward Speed" button
- Select speed: Press again to cycle through speeds up to 20 MPH
- Save: Press "Flash" to save your new speed setting
- Done: Disconnect and test your faster cart!
- Max Forward Speed: 20 MPH
- Max Reverse Speed: 7 MPH (also adjustable)
- Fast Acceleration: Toggle ON/OFF for aggressive starts
- Pedal Up Mode: Choose Coast, Mild, or Firm regenerative braking
- Excel Braking: Automatic downhill speed control
- Walkaway Deterrent: Prevent cart from rolling on inclines
Why Club Car owners love KRAKEN:
- Access dealer-only settings without paying $75-150 per visit
- Fine-tune acceleration behavior for your driving style
- Read diagnostic fault codes yourself
- Adjust regenerative braking to your preference
- All changes are 100% reversible
KRAKEN Programmer is hands-down the easiest way to increase golf cart speed. No mechanical skills, no tools, and no permanent modifications required.
Why KRAKEN is easier than other methods:
- 2-minute setup: Just plug in and program - that's it
- No tools needed: Everything works through software
- No mechanical work: No motor swaps, no gear changes, no controller replacements
- Fully reversible: Return to stock settings anytime with one button
- No expertise needed: If you can plug in a phone charger, you can use KRAKEN
- Works immediately: Changes take effect instantly
Compare to traditional methods:
- Motor swap: $500-1500 + hours of labor + permanent modification
- Controller upgrade: $400-800 + complex wiring + compatibility issues
- Gear ratio change: Requires removing motor, precision work, affects torque
- Magnet swap: Risky, can damage motor, voids warranty
Maximum achievable speed depends on your cart's model and motor system:
- Stock speed: ~15 MPH
- KRAKEN max: 25.5 MPH
- Speed increase: +10.5 MPH (~70% faster)
- Adjustable in 0.5 MPH increments
- Stock speed: ~15-17 MPH
- KRAKEN max: 25.5 MPH
- BONUS: 4 acceleration modes, 4 deceleration modes
- Eco mode control for efficiency
- Stock speed: ~12-14 MPH
- KRAKEN max: 20 MPH
- 48V DC motor system (different from RXV's AC motor)
- Stock speed: ~12-15 MPH
- KRAKEN max: 20 MPH forward / 7 MPH reverse
- Curtis 1515 controller
Real-world factors affecting speed:
- Battery charge: Lower battery charge = lower top speed
- Weight: Heavier loads reduce max speed slightly
- Terrain: Hills, grass, sand will affect performance
- Tire condition: Worn or under-inflated tires reduce speed
- Battery type: Lithium batteries maintain voltage better than lead-acid
Yes! KRAKEN lets you customize acceleration behavior beyond just top speed. Available options depend on your cart model:
- 4 Acceleration Modes: Choose from gentle to aggressive throttle response
- 4 Deceleration Modes: Control how the cart slows when you release the pedal
- Eco Mode Control: Toggle efficient vs. performance mode
- Reverse Buzzer: Enable or disable annoying beeping
- Acceleration tuning: Available through controller parameters
- Top speed: 0-25.5 MPH in 0.5 MPH increments
- Reverse buzzer control: Silence that annoying beep
- Fast Acceleration: ON/OFF toggle for aggressive starts
- Pedal Up Mode: Coast / Mild / Firm regenerative braking
- Excel Braking: Automatic downhill speed control
Why customize acceleration?
- Smooth ride: Gentle acceleration for passengers or cargo
- Sports car feel: Instant torque for spirited driving
- Battery efficiency: Moderate acceleration extends range
- Safety: Limit aggressive starts for young or inexperienced drivers
"Kid-Safe Mode" refers to the ability to set a low maximum speed on your golf cart, making it safe for young or inexperienced drivers to operate.
How to set up Kid-Safe Mode:
- Connect KRAKEN to your cart
- Navigate to Forward Speed setting
- Set a conservative speed like 5-10 MPH
- Save the setting with Flash button
- Cart is now limited to that slower "turtle speed"
- Easily increase speed later when adult is driving
Benefits of programmable speed limits:
- Teach responsible driving habits early
- Build confidence gradually
- Prevent accidents from excessive speed
- Switch between kid/adult modes in 30 seconds
- Peace of mind when kids are driving
Installation & Setup
Step-by-step guidance for getting your KRAKEN Programmer up and running.
KRAKEN installation is incredibly simple - if you can plug in a phone charger, you can install KRAKEN. No technical knowledge required.
Complete installation in 3 simple steps:
- Locate connector: Find your cart's diagnostic port (usually under the dash)
- Plug in cable: Connect KRAKEN using the included cable
- Turn on cart: Key to "ON" position - device powers from cart
That's it! The device will show "Curtis Connected" and you're ready to program.
- First-time setup: 2-5 minutes
- Future programming sessions: Under 2 minutes
- No tools needed
- No mechanical work
- No permanent modifications
What's included in the box:
- KRAKEN Programmer device
- Connector cable(s) for your cart model
- Professional carrying case
- Quick start guide
- Lifetime technical support access
The diagnostic connector on E-Z-GO RXV carts is located in a specific spot that's easy to access once you know where to look:
E-Z-GO RXV Connector Location:
- Location: Under the seat (passenger side area)
- Connector type: 4-pin Curtis Mini Fit Jr connector (square shape)
- Appearance: Small black plastic connector with 4 pins
- Access: Lift seat to access - connector is visible in the rear electronics area
Step-by-step to find it:
- Lift the seat on your RXV
- Look toward the rear of the cart in the electronics area
- You'll see a small black square connector with wires
- This is your diagnostic port - plug KRAKEN cable here
Detailed photos and video guides are available in our E-Z-GO RXV User Guide.
Club Car Tempo models with Curtis 1515 controllers have a diagnostic port in an easy-to-access location:
Club Car Tempo Connector Location:
- Location: Under the driver's side dashboard
- Connector type: Curtis diagnostic port (specific to Curtis 1515 controller)
- Appearance: Visible connector port on the controller or nearby wiring
How to locate:
- Remove the access panel under the driver's side dash (if present)
- Look for the Curtis motor controller (usually a metal box with cooling fins)
- The diagnostic port is on or near the controller
- Plug KRAKEN cable into this port
Full installation guide with photos: Club Car User Guide
No tools required! KRAKEN installation is completely tool-free.
Everything you need is included:
- β KRAKEN programmer device (no battery needed - powers from cart)
- β Correct cable(s) for your cart model
- β Protective carrying case
- β Quick start guide
What you DON'T need:
- β No screwdrivers or wrenches
- β No laptop or computer
- β No special software
- β No internet connection
- β No mechanical skills
- β No soldering or wiring
- Flashlight - helps see connector under dash
- That's literally it
Pairing is a one-time security handshake between your KRAKEN and your cart's controller. It ensures authorized access and prevents unauthorized modifications.
Pairing Process (User Version):
- Connect KRAKEN to your cart
- Turn cart key to "ON"
- Screen displays "Curtis Connected" with serial number
- You'll see "Press Pair to Marry"
- Press the "Pair" button
- Press "Flash" to confirm
- Screen shows "Pairing Success"
- Device now shows "Ready" - you can program
User vs. Dealer Pairing:
- User Version: Pairs to ONE cart. Must unpair before using on another cart.
- Dealer Version: NO pairing required. Works on unlimited carts instantly.
To switch carts (User Version):
- Connect to currently-paired cart
- Select "Unpair" option
- Press "Flash" to confirm
- Cart reverts to factory settings
- KRAKEN is now free to pair with a different cart
Features & Functions
Explore everything KRAKEN Programmer can do beyond just speed.
Yes! KRAKEN functions as a professional diagnostic tool, reading the same fault codes that dealers charge $75-100 to scan.
Fault Code Features:
- Real-time scanning: KRAKEN actively monitors for fault codes while connected
- View active faults: See current error codes displayed on screen
- Fault descriptions: Device shows what the fault code means
- Auto-refresh: When a fault is resolved, it automatically disappears from the display
- Same data as dealer: Access to the same Curtis controller diagnostics
How to check fault codes:
- Connect KRAKEN to your cart
- Wait for "Ready" on screen
- Press "Fault" button
- View any active fault codes
- Use this info to diagnose issues yourself or show your mechanic
Common fault codes you might see:
- Motor temperature: Motor overheating issues
- Battery voltage: Low voltage or charging problems
- Controller faults: Communication or sensor errors
- Throttle issues: Accelerator pedal problems
Yes, absolutely! One of the most popular KRAKEN features is the ability to disable that ear-piercing reverse beeper.
Available on these models:
- β E-Z-GO RXV 2013-2024
- β E-Z-GO RXV 2025+
- β E-Z-GO TXT Elite (does not have reverse buzzer control)
- β Club Car Tempo (does not have reverse buzzer control)
How to disable reverse buzzer:
- Connect KRAKEN to cart
- Navigate to reverse buzzer setting
- Toggle to "OFF"
- Press "Flash" to save
- Enjoy peaceful reverse operation!
Why people love this feature:
- Eliminates annoying noise in neighborhoods
- More pleasant for passengers
- Doesn't disturb wildlife on properties
- Professional appearance for commercial use
- Can always re-enable if needed
Acceleration and deceleration modes control how your cart responds to throttle input, giving you fine-tuned control over the driving experience.
Acceleration Modes (E-Z-GO RXV 2025+):
- Mode 1 - Gentle: Smooth, gradual acceleration - perfect for passengers or cargo
- Mode 2 - Standard: Balanced acceleration for everyday driving
- Mode 3 - Sport: Quick, responsive acceleration for spirited driving
- Mode 4 - Aggressive: Maximum acceleration - sports car feel
Deceleration Modes (How cart slows when you release pedal):
- Coast: Cart coasts freely with minimal braking
- Mild: Light regenerative braking applied
- Moderate: Noticeable slowing when pedal released
- Firm: Strong regenerative braking - cart slows quickly
- Golf course: Gentle acceleration + mild deceleration
- Neighborhood cruising: Sport acceleration + moderate deceleration
- Hilly terrain: Standard acceleration + firm deceleration
- Racing/fun: Aggressive acceleration + coast deceleration
Club Car Options (Different terminology):
- Fast Acceleration: ON/OFF toggle
- Pedal Up Mode: Coast / Mild / Firm regenerative braking
- Excel Braking: Automatic downhill speed limiting
Eco Mode (available on E-Z-GO RXV models) optimizes your cart for maximum battery efficiency at the expense of some performance.
Eco Mode ON:
- β Extended battery range (10-20% more distance per charge)
- β Reduced power consumption
- β Gentler acceleration curves
- β Lower heat generation in motor/controller
- β Slightly reduced top-end performance
Eco Mode OFF:
- β Maximum performance and acceleration
- β Full power delivery
- β Best for spirited driving or challenging terrain
- β Shorter range per charge
- β Higher battery drain
When to use Eco Mode:
- Use Eco Mode: Long golf rounds, low battery charge, flat terrain, efficient cruising
- Disable Eco Mode: Hilly areas, hauling cargo, maximum speed needed, fully charged battery
Yes, 100% reversible! This is one of KRAKEN's biggest advantages over mechanical modifications.
How to return to factory settings:
- Connect KRAKEN to your cart
- Navigate to "Unpair" option (User Version) or manual factory reset
- Press "Flash" to confirm
- Device automatically restores all original factory parameters
- Cart returns to stock speed, acceleration, and behavior
Why reversibility matters:
- Warranty concerns: Return to stock before dealer service
- Selling your cart: Restore factory settings for new owner
- Testing different setups: Try various configurations risk-free
- Temporary changes: Slow down for specific users, then speed back up
- No permanent modifications: Unlike motor swaps or controller replacements
What happens when you unpair (User Version):
- Cart: Returns to 100% factory default settings
- KRAKEN: Frees device to pair with another cart
- Memory: No memory of previous settings remains on cart
Troubleshooting & Support
Solutions to common issues and how to get help.
Connection issues are usually simple to fix. Follow these troubleshooting steps:
Step 1: Check Physical Connection
- Ensure cable is fully seated in cart's diagnostic port
- Verify cable is firmly connected to KRAKEN device
- Try unplugging and reconnecting both ends
- Check for bent pins or debris in connector
Step 2: Verify Cart Power
- Turn cart key to "ON" position (ignition)
- KRAKEN powers from the cart - cart must be on
- Check that cart's main battery switch is ON
- Ensure batteries are charged (low voltage can cause issues)
Step 3: Confirm Correct Cable
- E-Z-GO and Club Car use different cables
- Verify you're using the correct cable for your cart model
- Check cable for any damage or loose connections
Step 4: Check Compatibility
- Confirm your cart model/year is compatible with your KRAKEN version
- E-Z-GO RXV 2025+ requires different programmer than 2013-2024
- Club Car factory lithium models are NOT compatible
- Cart brand, model, and year
- Battery type (lead-acid, lithium, etc.)
- Photo of your cart's serial number
- Description of what happens when you try to connect
If you programmed a higher speed but don't feel any difference, try these solutions:
Most Common Cause: Didn't Press "Flash"
- When you change a setting, you MUST press "Flash" button to save
- Settings are NOT saved automatically
- After pressing Flash, wait for confirmation message
- Then disconnect and test drive
Check Your Test Environment:
- Battery charge: Low batteries = lower top speed regardless of programming
- Terrain: Uphill testing won't show true top speed
- Weight: Extra passengers/cargo reduces speed
- Test surface: Try on smooth, flat pavement for accurate results
Verify Programming Took Effect:
- Reconnect KRAKEN to cart
- Navigate to Forward Speed setting
- Press button to VIEW current speed setting
- Does it show the speed you programmed?
- If not, reprogram and make sure to press Flash
Other Potential Issues:
- Tire pressure: Under-inflated tires reduce top speed
- Brake drag: Brake not fully releasing can limit speed
- Motor issues: Existing motor problems won't be fixed by programming
KRAKEN has built-in safety limits to prevent dangerous settings, but there are some important things to understand:
- Cannot exceed safe voltage ranges
- Cannot program settings outside controller's physical capabilities
- Speed limits are within motor's rated specifications
- Controller will protect itself from over-temperature
- Higher speeds = more component wear: Faster speeds mean more stress on motor, controller, drivetrain
- Aggressive acceleration = higher current draw: Can generate more heat in motor/controller
- Battery considerations: High performance modes drain batteries faster
- Tire wear: Increased speeds wear tires faster
Best Practices:
- Start with moderate speed increases (18-20 MPH) and work up
- Monitor motor/controller temperature during initial high-speed runs
- Allow motor to cool between extended high-speed sessions
- Keep up with regular maintenance (brakes, tires, bearings)
- Don't expect stock parts to last as long at max performance
KRAKEN Programmer includes lifetime technical support. Here's how to get help:
Support Resources:
- User Guides: Detailed step-by-step guides with photos for each cart model
- Video Tutorials: Visual installation and programming walkthroughs
- FAQ Page: You're reading it! Answers to common questions
- Email Support: Contact Support
When contacting support, include:
-
Cart information:
- Brand (E-Z-GO, Club Car, etc.)
- Model (RXV, TXT, Tempo, etc.)
- Year
- Battery type (lead-acid, lithium)
- KRAKEN version: User or Dealer
-
Photos if applicable:
- Serial number plate
- Connection point
- KRAKEN screen (if showing error)
- Detailed description: What you tried, what happened, any error messages
Model-Specific User Guides:
Every KRAKEN Programmer includes a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects and hardware failures.
What's Covered:
- Defective hardware components
- Screen malfunctions not caused by physical damage
- Button failures under normal use
- Cable defects (fraying, connection issues)
- Device stops powering on due to internal failure
What's NOT Covered:
- Physical damage (drops, impacts, crushing)
- Water damage or liquid exposure
- Normal wear and tear
- Damage from improper use or misuse
- Damage to your golf cart (covered under liability disclaimer)
- Lost or stolen devices
- Contact Support with issue description and photos
- We'll troubleshoot to determine if warranty replacement is needed
- If approved, we'll send replacement device
- Return defective unit using provided shipping label
Beyond Warranty:
- Lifetime technical support: Software help, settings guidance, troubleshooting
- Software updates: Free firmware updates if released
- Out-of-warranty repairs: Available for reasonable fees
Pricing, Ordering & Shipping
KRAKEN Programmer pricing is straightforward with two versions available:
- For individual cart owners
- Pairs to one cart at a time
- All programming features included
- Lifetime technical support
- 1-year warranty
- FREE shipping in USA
- For shops, dealers, rental fleets
- Works on unlimited carts
- Save custom profiles
- Priority technical support
- 1-year warranty
- FREE shipping in USA
- ROI in ~5 tune-ups vs. dealer charges
What's Included (Both Versions):
- KRAKEN Programmer device
- Model-specific connection cable(s)
- Professional carrying case
- Quick start guide
- Digital user manual access
- Lifetime technical support
- Dealer tune-up: $75-150 per visit
- Motor upgrade: $500-1500
- Controller replacement: $400-800
- Diagnostic scans: $75-100 per scan
Currently, we only ship within the United States:
- FREE standard shipping to all 50 states
- 3-7 business day delivery
- Tracking provided for all orders
International Orders: We do not currently offer international shipping. KRAKEN Programmer is only available for delivery within the United States at this time.
We want you to be completely satisfied with your KRAKEN Programmer purchase.
Return Policy:
- 30-day return window: Return within 30 days of delivery
- Must be unused: Device must be in new, unused condition
- Original packaging: Return in original box with all accessories
- Restocking fee: May apply to opened returns
- Return shipping: Customer responsible for return shipping costs
- If you order the wrong programmer for your cart, you'll be responsible for return shipping both ways
- Please verify compatibility BEFORE ordering
- Contact us with your cart info if unsure which model to order
Defective Units:
- Defective products covered under 1-year warranty
- We provide prepaid return label for warranty returns
- Replacement shipped at no cost
To initiate a return:
- Contact Support
- Include order number and reason for return
- We'll provide return authorization and instructions
- Ship item back with tracking
- Refund processed within 5-7 days of receiving return
Ready to Unlock Your Cart's Full Potential?
Join thousands of satisfied customers who've transformed their golf cart experience. Professional-grade performance tuning in under 2 minutes. No tools, no mechanical work, 100% reversible.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find what you're looking for? Our team is here to help with any questions about compatibility, installation, or features.
Contact Support Team