Full Answer
What size battery cables do I need for my DIY golf cart?
DIY Golf Cart shows you how to replace your factory battery cables with heavy duty 4 gauge ones that allow for better performance. This video not only shows ... DIY Golf Cart shows you how to replace your factory battery cables with heavy duty 4 gauge ones that allow for better performance.
What is a “golf cart cable”?
Golf cart cables do not refer to the small gauge control wiring in your vehicle. But rather, to the heavier gauge cables to conduct power from the batteries through your electrical components to the motor.
How do you maintain a golf cart battery?
You’ll find that regular maintenance of your battery’s cables will ensure that there isn’t a premature burnout. Use your charger correctly. Charge your golf cart battery between 8 and 10 hours with the proper charger and plug. Try not to allow your battery to drop below 20% capacity, especially for lead-acid batteries.
Do I need special cables for a golf cart starter motor?
For gas powered carts, the cables need only be of sufficient size to operate the starter motor, which is only for a few seconds at a time. So that answer is no, the originally installed cables are plenty sufficient in size. For those of us who have the more plentiful, battery powered carts, the answer is somewhat more complicated.
Are bigger battery cables better?
There is science behind this, and the simple thought is that a larger cable equals easier current flow. Six-volt systems have half the electrical potential (think of this as the “push”) of 12-volt systems, so the easier you can make the journey from one connector to another, the better the system will function.
What gauge should golf cart battery cables be?
Most cart manufacturers use 6 AWG cables. The finest cables we have found so far are made by MaxiLink.com, which are super flexible and made for extreme duty electric vehicle use.
How can I improve the performance of my golf cart batteries?
Here are 6 Tips to Making Your Golf Cart Batteries Last Longer.Always Use Distilled Water. Battery maintenance is best done in a well-ventilated area on a plain and level surface. ... Use a Proper Battery Charger. ... Trickle Charge the Battery. ... Prevent Corrosion. ... Pay More to Last More. ... Use Anti-Corrosion Lubricants. ... Final Note.
What is the difference between 4 gauge and 6 gauge battery cables?
6 AWG Gauge battery cable has an amperage capacity of 50 amps at a cable length of 11.8 feet. 6 gauge battery cable i... 4 Gauge AWG Battery Cable has an amperage capacity of 100 amps at a cable length of 9.4 feet.
What gauge is battery cable?
Ideally, a 6 gauge cable is the best option for a 12-volt power supply. This automotive wire can sustain a maximum of 60 volts and is ideal for 12-volt electrical systems.
What is #6 wire?
Considered a general purpose gauge of wire by the National Electrical Code, 6 AWG wire is used in everything from lighting installations to hot tubs.
Should I charge my golf cart after every use?
Should you charge new golf cart batteries? Yes. New golf cart batteries should be charged every time they are used as this will extend their lifespan, help them retain their capacity for longer, and prevent discharge. It is vitally important to charge new golf cart batteries, even after their first use.
How often should you add water to golf cart batteries?
about once every 30 daysAlways fill the batteries after charging. The typical schedule is about once every 30 days, but this may vary by several days depending on your specific situation. When filling the batteries, add just enough water to bring it 1/4 inch to 1/8 inch shy of the indicator ring to prevent overfilling.
Does aspirin help golf cart batteries?
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.
What gauge wire should be used with 12 volt battery?
The correct wire size for a 150W 12V circuit is the 16 AWG with 17A ampacity.
What gauge wire should I use?
Choosing Electrical Wire Size 16-gauge are used for light-duty extension cords supporting 13 amps. 14-gauge are usedfor light fixtures, lamps, lighting circuits with 15 amps. 12-gauge are used in kitchen, bathroom, outdoor receptacles, and 120-volt air conditioners supporting 20 amps.
How do you determine wire size?
How do I calculate wire size for motors?Multiply the resistivity (Ω•m) of the conductor material by the peak motor current (A), the number 1.25, and the total length of the cable (m).Divide the result by the voltage drop from the power source to the motor.Multiply by 1,000,000 to get the result in mm2.
What does resistance mean in golf carts?
Resistance means heat. This is because where ever there is resistance it will generate heat but also severely limit the performance of your golf carts electric system. Picture a beautiful natural fresh water mountain stream. Come Spring time it is flowing well as the snow in the mountains above starts to melt.
What to do if your golf cart connectors are cracked?
If you notice your original golf cart cables are cracked or showing exposed wire during your usual inspections they should be replaced immediately. If your connectors are showing signs of corrosion they should be cleaned and protected immediately with a product like BatteryPete’s Corrosion Block or Preventative.
What causes a battery connector to melt?
A loose wire under a load (such as you holding the gas pedal to the floor for a few minutes) will cause a battery connector to melt straight through to the plastic battery case, which will require a battery replacement or repair. Both can be expensive!
