Maintenance Centre
Electric Golf Buggy Battery Charging
Charging batteries correctly requires administering the right amount of current at the right voltage. Most charging equipment automatically regulates these values. The original instructions for your charging equipment should also be referenced for proper charging. Here is list of helpful items to remember and ensure correct charging procedure.
- Become familiar with and follow the instructions issued by the charger manufacturer.
- Batteries should be charged after each period of use.
- Lead acid batteries do not develop a memory and need not be fully discharged before recharging.
- Charge only in well-ventilated area. Keep sparks or flames away from a charging battery.
- Verify charger voltage settings are correct.
- Check water levels (see the Watering section).
- Tighten all vent caps before charging.
- Prevent overcharging the batteries. Overcharging causes excessive gassing (water breakdown), heat build up, and battery aging.
- Prevent undercharging the batteries. Undercharging causes stratification.
- Do not charge a frozen battery.
- Avoid charging at temperatures above 120° F; 48C.
Correct Charging Procedure
- Verify charger condition by plugging into the wall receptacle and by inserting the charger handle into the vehicle . LED lights will flash red or green depending upon charger type, or the ammeter will indicate 21 amps based on depth of discharge.
- Allow the charger to complete the charge process by turning off on its own.
- Short charging will promote unbalanced batteries and needless battery replacement.
- Equalization charges are recommended monthly. Equalization is an overcharge performed on flooded lead-acid batteries after they have been fully charged. It helps eliminate stratification and sulphation, two conditions that can reduce the overall performance of a battery.
! WARNING !
Overcharging could cause damage to the vehicle batteries and result in extreme overheating. The charger should be checked after 24 hours and unplugged after the charge cycle is complete.
Daily Charging Cycle
- Before charging the batteries, inspect the plug of the battery charger and vehicle receptacle housing for dirt or debris.
- Charge the batteries after each day’s use, overnight or 8 hours minimum.
- Inspect vehicle and charger for proper operating conditions before charging.
- Verify charge has been completed before putting vehicle in to service.
Monthly Charging Cycle
- Inspect all wiring for fraying, loose terminals, corrosion or deterioration of insulation.
- Check that the electrolyte level is correct and add distilled water as required.
- Clean the batteries and wire terminals.
- Torque battery terminal nuts to 95 - 105 in. lbs.
- Coat battery terminals with commercially available protectant.
- Check electrolyte levels more frequently for high usage golf buggies.
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