Some golf cart owners think, or assume, that the batteries that operate their golf carts are maintenance-free. A lack of knowledge about basic golf cart battery maintenance can lead to all kinds of problems. However, the key to achieving optimum performance and long life is a solid golf cart battery maintenance program.
It is recommended that you obtain following equipment for use in golf cart battery care and maintenance:
A wrench; distilled water; a voltmeter (an instrument used for measuring the voltage between two points in an electric circuit); a hydrometer (a tool used to measure the specific gravity of the electrolyte solution); a post cleaner; some baking soda; petroleum jelly and possibly the most of all – goggles and gloves.
You should always wear acid proof gloves, protective clothing and goggles when handling lead acid batteries and remove all jewellery. It’s important to have lots of water and baking soda nearby as this will neutralise any acid spills from battery refilling and prevent further corrosive damage. Remember, the electrolyte is a solution of acid and water, so skin contact should be avoided and, do not smoke near batteries and never add acid to a battery.
Remember, do not fill the water all the way up to the cap and do not allow the plates to be exposed to air. Do not use water with a high mineral content. Only use distilled or deionised water.
Water should only be added after fully charging the battery. There should be enough water to cover the plates, prior to charging. The water level should be above the plates If the battery has been discharged (partially or fully).
You should check water levels in each cell of each battery weekly to ensure that the leaded plates in the battery are submerged in liquid. Don’t fill the cell all the way up — add just enough water to cover the plates.
For additional information on golf cart batteries including how lead acid batteries work; how to use a hydrometer; changing batteries and troubleshooting golf cart batteries, please visit:
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