how to maintain 4 volt batteries in a golf cart

Keep Golf Cart Battery Cells Full Fill battery cells with distilled water one quarter to one half inch above the plates. Do not use tap water.

Full Answer

How long do the batteries last on a golf cart?

• Charge after every use: Golf cart batteries are not like cell phones, they need to be charged after every use, even short drives.
• Water Regularly: Use only distilled water. ...
• Keep terminals and connections clean: A wire brush or terminal cleaner will do the trick. ...

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How to rejuvenate your old golf cart batteries?

Step-by-Step Guide: Golf Cart Battery Reconditioning

• Safety goggles
• Rubber gloves
• Apron
• Distilled water
• Epsom salt
• Bucket
• Baking soda
• Flathead screw
• Wrench
• Battery Reconditioning Chargers

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How often should you charge golf cart batteries?

• Check the condition of your battery cable. It should be tight, clean, and corrosion-free.
• Ensure the batteries are clean. Never store your battery in a dirty condition before storage; this could destroy the terminals.
• Check the water level and state of the electrolyte. ...
• Fully charged. ...
• Disengage the brake. ...
• TOW Position. ...

How to make your golf cart batteries last longer?

What can affect your golf cart batteries’ lifespan?

1. Overcharging the Batteries / Battery Maintenance Number one on the list of what not to do is to not overcharge your batteries. ...
2. Battery Brand / Quality It also matters, needless to say, what brand of batteries you choose to purchase. ...
3. Golf Cart Features

Do golf cart batteries need maintenance?

Most golf carts use deep-cycle batteries, which are made to be slowly drained and recharged on a level not required by cars. Deep-cycle batteries are similar to car batteries in that they contain an electrolyte solution made of acid and water, but they need much more maintenance in the form of watering and cleaning.

How often should you fill golf cart batteries with water?

You'll want to add water to 1/2 inch from the top of the battery. 2) We recommend service once or twice a year. 3) Always use distilled water so you don't add additional minerals into your battery.

Should I leave my golf cart charging all the time?

Manufacturers suggest leaving your golf cart plugged in all of the time while using an auto battery charger, as it will keep the batteries fully charged and always available. If batteries are not charged for prolonged storage, they may damage over time and deliver less capacity.

How do I prolong the life of my golf cart batteries?

Although golf cart batteries are designed to be deeply discharged and re-charged the battery life is improved if they are charged at about 50% discharge. Keep your golf cart battery in the top 50% of charge so that it takes less time to re-charge it.

What happens if you don't use distilled water in golf cart batteries?

Distilled water is recommended but tap water works just fine if distilled water is unavailable. Once filled, a battery will only need water added periodically. Common Golf Cart Battery Mistakes Undercharging: • Leaving the golf car inactive for over 2 months will reduce the battery life.

How do I know if my golf cart batteries need water?

According to most battery experts, your golf cart water should be about one-quarter inch below the top of the fill well. Another way to gauge this level is to make sure the water covers your battery cell plates but doesn't go too high above them. It should just cover them up without making them disappear.

Can you use a trickle charger on golf cart batteries?

If you tend to use the golf cart during the warmer months and store it during the winter, pick a trickle charger to make the battery last longer. These chargers connect to the battery over weeks or months at a time. They provide enough power to the battery to keep it charged but without harming the internal components.

Can you overcharge golf cart batteries?

Overcharging your golf cart batteries may damage them. It is best to use an automatic charger that turns itself off when a battery is fully charged. Some older models lack this important feature. If you must use a manual charger, don't forget to turn it off.

How do you winterize golf cart batteries?

The best place to store any golf-cart batteries is by looking for a cool and dry area. It shouldn't be cold, such as an exposed area to the elements, but cool. Cool temperatures will slow the battery's discharge rate. You want a slow discharge so that the battery maintains its charge.

How often should you charge your golf cart batteries?

4) To keep your golf car batteries at maximum capacity, use golf cart batteries often. Always remember to do a refresh charge every 45 to 60 days, and even more frequently in hotter climates.

Can I put Epsom salt in my golf cart batteries?

Mix 4 ounces of Epsom salts into a quart of warm distilled water and stir. Using a turkey baster fill each battery cell slightly over the lead plates. Do this for a cycle of 4 charges so the Epsom Salts remove the deposits on the battery plates.

Does aspirin help golf cart batteries?

the battery. It is a reasonably safe approach and usually good for one more engine turn. Be warned that adding aspirin will shorten the battery life, as the aspirin will react with the sulfuric acid to form acetic acid. Good for a boost, but bad for the innards of the battery.

How often do you need to add water to a battery?

A battery should only be watered after it is completely charged. But, you should always check the water level before charging. Before charging, make sure there is just enough water to cover any exposed plates (rectangular metal parts visible when you look inside a battery).

What happens if you put too much water in your golf cart batteries?

Over watering is just as bad. As you operate an electric golf car, the electrolyte level in the cells will drop. This is a normal occurrence in the chemical reaction to produce the electrical current. When you charge the batteries the chemical reaction is reversed and the electrolyte level in each cell will rise.

Why do golf cart batteries lose water?

Using your cart creates heat, and charging also creates heat; heat could cause your battery water to evaporate. Thus, the frequency of use and recharging could cause the water level to reduce. Therefore, if you recharge your golf cart batteries regularly, chances are you will need to refill often.

What happens if a battery runs out of water?

An increase in specific gravity of electrolyte with plates not fully immersed in electrolyte results in heating up of cell on charge. The battery can get damaged since corrosion of internal components used in battery manufacturing is accelerated in the acidic electrolyte at elevated temperatures.

How many batteries are in a golf cart?

Most golf carts utilize 4 to 8 batteries stored under the front seat. Each battery needs to be refilled with water and scrubbed clean on occasion. Set up a schedule so you remember to inspect and take care of your batteries at least once a month.

How to get rid of chemicals in golf cart batteries?

Turn off the golf cart and unplug the charger. Then, push against the vent caps on the batteries to make sure they are tightly in place. Leave the vent caps in place to avoid letting any chemicals get into the batteries. ...

How to protect yourself from battery acid?

1. Put on acid-proof gloves and glasses. Although you likely won’t come into contact with battery acid, taking precautions is always a good idea. Wear eye protection and long-sleeved clothing. Slip on a pair of gloves to protect your hands . Take off any jewelry.

What to wear when you have acid in your battery?

Wear safety gloves and glasses. Acid leaks out of batteries over time, collecting on the terminals. Take safety precautions to avoid coming into contact with it. Wear long clothing and put away any jewelry as well.

Can acid ruin a golf cart battery?

Not only can the acid ruin your expensive ring, but the metal can ruin the battery. You can purchase chemical-resistant rubber gloves at many general and home improvement stores. Open the vent caps on the batteries. Make sure your golf cart is turned off and unplugged before you touch the batteries.

Choosing The Right Battery Charger

Choosing the right battery for your golf cart is crucial to keeping your battery running smoothly. The first thing you’ll want in a battery charger, is to make sure that the charger has an automatic cut-off when the battery is fully charged.

Cleaning Your Batteries

Batteries need loving too. It’s always smart to keep your battery clean, and the best way to do this, is by cleaning your terminals at least once a month.

Keep Driving Distances Down

Like most vehicles, the more you drive it, the more power or gas is getting used. If you don’t hit the ball tee to green every time, then your golf cart is going to get a lot more use. Believe it or not, a golf cart can use quite a bit of juice for 18 holes of golf.

Watering The Batteries

After your round of golf, chances are, the battery is going to need a drink just as much as you. No, we’re not talking about whiskey, we’re talking about distilled water.

Using Your Golf Cart

Your golf cart wants to do exactly what it was built for, riding around! Your batteries are going to run better when you use them regularly. Charging after use is also a great way to keep your battery running optimally.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your batteries is the most important thing you can do for your custom golf cart. The batteries are what power the vehicle, so keeping those healthy is crucial.

How to maintain a golf cart battery?

For your Golf Cart Battery Maintenance you must check the batteries on a regular basis to identify and correct potential problems before they can cause harm. It’s a good idea to start Golf Cart Battery Maintenance habits when you start using the battery.#N#For example, there is a typical warning which is not to over tighten the terminals. The over tightening can lead to breakage or even fire.#N#Batteries attract dust, dirt, and grime. Keeping them clean will help you identify symptoms if they appear and avoid problems.

Why do electric golf carts need batteries?

Electric golf carts and gas golf carts need different batteries because they offer different things. Gas powered golf carts batteries purpose is to start the engine. Consequently, you want to make sure that the curve has a decent amplifier to get it started. Moreover, you can’t use the same battery in an electric cart, as it is not suitable for deep cycle use.#N#Electric golf carts batteries are a deep cycle and connect in series. As a rule, electric golf carts have between four and eight cells, which are available in sizes 6, 8 and 12 volts. Indeed, to establish a common voltage between 36 and 48 volts you can configure the 6-8-12v to the needs. Typically, you must replace these batteries every 3-5 years, so it is essential to make sure you take the right decisions when it comes to the purchase, and maybe getting a bit more expensive batteries.

What is the best 36V golf cart battery charger?

If you are looking for the best 36v Golf cart battery charger on the market for your Golf Cart Battery Maintenance, then look no further than the Schauer 36 volt Golf charger for the cart. You can use this charger with lead-acid batteries and AGM batteries.

What type of batteries are used in golf carts?

Lead-acid batteries are often in electric golf carts. It is a reliable and affordable type of cell. Some lead-acid batteries will require you to make some Golf Cart Battery Maintenance. For example, you will need to make sure that the electrolyte level is correct and add water to the array if it is not.#N#The term lead-acid refers to flooded batteries, gel batteries, and AGM batteries. With flooded batteries, you need to check the electrolyte level, as they are not sealed batteries. Nonetheless, they tend to be cheaper. Gel batteries are a better option to handle the electrolytes if the cell stops moving. Finally, AGM batteries are great for golf carts because they are quite reliable and have the bonus of charging quickly. This option is great when you need to get on the field for the game.#N#Flooded lead-acid batteries (FLA) is the most affordable kind of battery, but they need Golf Cart Battery Maintenance. Flooded batteries use a standard liquid electrode, which must remain acceptable to work correctly. These batteries are dry and come with removable lids so that you can fill the chamber with distilled water.#N#You should check the fluid level on a monthly basis. In the end, flooded lead-acid batteries are liquid so they you must store them in an upright position to prevent leakage of the acidic solution of the electrode. They also have valves for Gas. Flooded lead-acid batteries release hazardous and toxic gases, so you need to ventilate them.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of lithium ion batteries?

Lithium-ion designs have a sturdy weight, power, volume. There ‘s even a lithium-ion battery with a significant surge capability as lead-acid batteries. However, they one big drawback is that they are costly. Some advantages and disadvantages of the two cells are that they are cheaper than Li-ion, have a good life cycle since usually lasts 150-250 times.#N#The golf battery industry is in continuous change. On the one hand, golf cart manufacturers notice that the lithium-ion batteries have the best performance power comparing to lead-acid batteries. On the other hand, some users question the high cost of lithium golf cart batteries and rely more on lead-acid batteries.#N#The demand for Golf car battery increased by more than four percent each year. Lead-acid batteries take approximately 80% of the market, at the moment. Nonetheless, more and more people are asking to runs golf carts on lithium power.

How to prevent a golf cart battery from corroding?

In order to prevent this, coat its wire lugs, terminals, nuts, and bolts with any quality non-hardening sealant.

What type of battery does a golf cart use?

Most golf carts run on lead-acid batteries ( although this is changing ), much like other normal vehicles do. However, the difference is that a battery for a golf cart is usually of 6, 8, or 12 volt deep-cycle lead acid battery, whereas a normal vehicle uses a 12-volt starter or ignition battery. Moreover, the battery for a cart does not recharge ...

How long do golf cart batteries last?

Cheaper batteries have much shorter life spans compared to quality golf cart batteries that cost more. The latter may last up to 10 years if maintained properly. So, you end up gaining in the long run even if your initial investment is high. Also, be on the lookout for tax cuts from time to time.

How to maintain a battery?

1. Always Use Distilled Water. Battery maintenance is best done in a well-ventilated area on a plain and level surface. After removing the battery cells’ plastic caps, top off each cell’s reservoirs with distilled water. Never use plain or tap water. Also, never allow the cell’s fluid level to dip below its plates.

Does a cart battery recharge itself?

Moreover, the battery for a cart does not recharge itself as the vehicle runs like batteries in cars do (cars have alternators). Therefore, regular use will drain the battery which, in turn, may shorten its life. That being said….

Do golf cart batteries work?

Though vehicular batteries are made similarly and out of similar materials, when used in golf carts, the way they are used is different. The maintenance of golf batteries will be somewhat similar to maintaining other batteries. However a couple of things are different. Follow the above mentioned tips to keep your golf cart batteries, in turn your golf cart, in prime working condition.

How Long Do Golf Cart Batteries Last?

A golf cart battery will typically last between four to six years if you charge it regularly and keep it stored properly. If you find that it's taking noticeably longer to charge or that it's having trouble holding a charge for the full length of the course, it might be time to consider replacing it.

What is the Best Golf Cart Battery Replacement?

If your old battery is dead, now might be the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a better battery. Today we'll be discussing two basic types of batteries used in golf carts: flooded and AGM. Flooded batteries are the more affordable of the two, however, they require regular maintenance in order to keep them functioning properly.

Keep Your Golf Cart Battery Charged

The single most important thing you can do to maintain your battery is to keep it charged to the proper voltage. If you allow the charge to drop too low, you can damage your battery and shorten its overall lifespan significantly. A good rule of thumb is to charge your battery every time it drops to 50% of its total capacity.

Maintain Your Battery's Electrolyte

If you have a flooded battery, it's very important that you regularly top off the electrolyte inside it with distilled water. If the liquid drops below the tops of the plates it can cause irreparable harm to your battery. You should also be sure not to overfill the battery as this can dilute the electrolytes, hurting your battery's performance.

Keep Your Battery Terminals Clean

Another thing you'll want to do is keep an eye on your battery's terminals. If you start to notice a build-up of corrosion, clean it off right away using a mixture of baking soda and water. A battery terminal brush is another handy tool for getting rid of corrosion.

How long does a golf cart battery last?

The battery ideally should last 5 or more years. Although all of these tips will help ensure your battery has a long life, eventually you will require a new one or some maintenance that is difficult to perform at home. If you have any questions regarding your golf cart or golf cart batteries, don't hesitate to give us a call! ...

What is the best golf cart battery?

Trojan golf cart batteries are the best golf cart batteries on the market. If you've purchased a golf cart from us in the past, it's very likely your golf cart is equipped with a set of Trojan batteries. One of the most helpful things you can do to keep your golf cart running at its best is to maintain the Trojan golf cart battery that keeps it moving. Your Trojan battery is a high quality battery that needs proper maintenance to be kept in excellent condition.

How to keep a golf cart running?

One of the most helpful things you can do to keep your golf cart running at its best is to maintain the Trojan golf cart battery that keeps it moving. Your Trojan battery is a high quality battery that needs proper maintenance to be kept in excellent condition.

How to make sure you don't overcharge a battery?

The best way to ensure you don’t overcharge is to use an automatic battery charger. If you don’t have an automatic charger, be vigilant and make sure you turn the charger off as soon as your battery is fully charged. Additionally, don’t charge a frozen battery and don’t charge a battery when it is over 120 degrees.

How to clean a battery?

To clean the battery, wear eye protection and rubber gloves. Use a bristle brush and a solution of baking soda and water. Use an anti-corrosive spray for the cables to prevent corrosion and rust. Make sure all connections are solid and remove any rust and corrosion.

Can you use a golf cart battery while away?

If you don’t use your golf cart as frequently as you would like, you can use a golf cart battery with an advanced storage mode feature which gives an automatic refresh charge while you are away.